Maui on a Budget
Maui, Hawaii
At over 700 square miles, the island of Maui is the second largest of the Hawaiian islands with a small population of just over 140,000 people. The island enjoys approximately two seasons a year with a mild climate just about everywhere. Rough living, right?
Voted "Best Island in the World" by many in the travel industry, Maui is the center for whale watching, relaxing on the beach, snorkeling, and the home of a large and lush rainforest.
Sights
If you want to see just about everything there is to see in Maui, then travel the Road to Hana. With over 600 twists and turns, this roller coaster of a ride includes waterfalls, cliffs and jungle scenery. This journey is full of detours for swimming, strolling and exploring the hidden wonders of the island.If the Road to Hana left you wanting more there's always the mystical rainforests of 'Iao Valley State Park, the Makena State Park covered in one can only call the epitome of beaches, or you can watch thousands of humpback whales along the coasts - if you dip your head under water you may just hear them singing!
If you're looking for more of spiritual trek, you can enjoy the beauty of a sunrise over the crater floor of Halaekala National Park. Just before dawn, tourists wrap themselves up and settle in for a sight like no other. Then you can always head over to the Pi'ilanihale Heiau - Hawaii's largest temple. This five story high building is a sacred space meant for peace and inner reflection as you stroll the surrounding Polynesian gardens.
And of course, you can't go to Maui and not relax on the beach. Many of the beaches in Maui are absolutely gorgeous. A few black sand beaches can be found around Maui, such as Honokalani beach. These beaches are black because of the geological history of the islands and make for a fun experience. It's no surprise that so many visitors come here to experience the many things to do on Maui.
Activities
You can never go wrong with simply enjoying the beach life in Hawaii. Grab a chair, soak up some sun, catch up on a good book and maybe spend an afternoon trying your hand at windsurfing. No one can deny that the beaches are the biggest draw for tourists in Hawaii.For the more engaged adventurer, however, there are so many things to get up and do in Maui. Go make friends with the giant sea turtles in Malu'aka as you dive deep. Follow the tour boats to "Turtle Beach" for the most amazing underwater journey.
If fish are more your thing, you'll find more than 250 colorful species in the shallow waters of the Molokini Crater. Three miles from the Maui coast, this crescent shaped rock houses breathtaking coral that is legendary among divers. This isn't the only spot for fish-gazing, however. There's the cove of south Black Rock, Hanakao'o Beach, Kamaole Beach Park and Ulua Beach.
For a taste of the local flair, attend the Old Lahaina Luau. Doused in history and culture, this is the most authentic luau on the island and they'll happily share delicious meals and drinks with all of their guests.
If you've come to Hawaii to finally try out your surfing talents, you'll want to hit Ho'okipa Beach, but for the windsurfing crowd, Kanaha Beach is where the action is.
Food and Dining
With resorts, five star restaurants and hole-in-the-wall dining spots everywhere you look, finding a life-changing meal is not hard in Maui. Try to fill your plate with the best of the local foods: fish, onions, avocados, cabbage, broccoli, asparagus, hydroponic tomatoes, myriad herbs, salad greens, bananas, papaya, guava, coconut, mangoes, strawberries and, of course, Maui pineapple.When browsing the menu, there are certain dishes you'll definitely want to try including lomilomi (salmon), laulua, poi, Portuguese bean soup, kalbi ribs and katsu.
However, you can venture away from the tablecloths and candlelight for some cheaper local delights. Roadside stands sell the island's favorites. Plenty of food truck are around the island, and here is a list of the best food trucks in Maui. Don't think twice - just buy some. Coconut candies, fresh smoothies and fruit are just some of the treats Maui has to offer.
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.