Nicknamed “The Valley Isle” because of its unique geography and lush, tropical forests, Maui is the crown jewel of the Hawaiian Islands. Renowned for its world-famous beaches, incredible farm-to-fork cuisine, and abundance of outdoor attractions set against a backdrop of blue skies and beautiful landscapes, it’s a Pacific paradise that has long attracted nature lovers, foodies, families, and anyone seeking a little beachside rest and relaxation.
Condé Nast Traveler has named Maui one of the “Best Islands in the World” for more than 20 years, and once you’ve visited, it’s easy to see why. Surrounded by 120-miles of stunning coastline and divided into five regions, each with its own distinct history and personality, it’s a playground of possibilities. From the sunny shores and shopping districts of West Maui, to the green hills and farmland of Upcountry and Central Maui, the upscale resort communities on the southern end, and the rainforests and waterfalls to the east, the island offers something for just about every interest.
We recently asked our expert Maui Residence Manager to share her ideal itinerary for three perfect days on the island. Good food, adventure, and fun in the sun awaits. Aloha!
DAY 1: Beach Day
Awaken to morning light streaming in through the home’s many windows and sliding doors, and enjoy a leisurely breakfast with incredible ocean and garden views on the covered lanai. Your Local Host will make sure the kitchen is fully stocked with your favorite foods before you arrive to make morning meal time quick and easy.
After breakfast, pack up snacks, sunscreen, and beach gear—chairs, cooler, wagon, and towels are provided in your vacation home—and make the short drive to Wailea Beach, just five minutes away. Rated one of the best beaches on Maui and one of the top beaches in the world, it’s the perfect spot to kick off a grand Hawaiian vacation.
Wailea can be a little crowded during busy seasons, so once you’ve claimed your spot on the golden sand, prepare to settle in for the day. Kick back and relax with a good book and cold drink; get your feet wet with a walk along the shore; or head out into water for some fun. Boogie boarding in the gentle surf is a popular pastime, but snorkeling just off-shore and around the reefs and rocky outcroppings at the southern end of the beach is a must-do. The clear water makes for great viewing of the local marine life, and depending on the time of year, you may see butterfly fish, puffers, parrotfish, sea cucumbers, and even a few turtles during your swim.
For lunch, shake off the salt and sand and take a stroll along Wailea’s paved beach path to pick up a grab-and-go fresh sandwich or poke bowl at the Four Seasons Resort’s open-air Beachwalk Café. In addition to light lunch items, they also offer cold brew coffee and café lattes for an afternoon caffeine boost, and cocktails, wine, and beer to be enjoyed on-site. Save room at the end for one of their fantastic Maui-style shave ices (the coconut flavor is especially delicious!) for a sweet taste of the island.
Post-lunch, head back to your spot on the beach for afternoon R&R or go back to your Ho’olei villa for a refreshing swim in the community’s luxurious private pool.
That night, we’ll have reservations for you at Kō, Fairmont Kea Lani’s upscale, award-winning Hawaiian-fusion restaurant serving an incredible menu showcasing local, seasonal ingredients in a beautiful, contemporary space. Try the coconut curry soup, papaya salad, or pork belly buns to start, then dig into the unbelievably good fresh-catch seafood lau lau or flat iron Kobe beef specialties—both highly recommended.
DAY 2: Adventure Time
Wake early to make the 6am boat departure time for an unforgettable two-tank dive at the famed Molokini Crater with the expert crew from Maui Dive Shop. This thrilling half-day excursion is perfect for experienced divers as well as beginners—as long as you are certified and at least 13 years old. Your small group will moor on one of the inside corners of the crater, where you’ll have the opportunity to dive to depths of up to 90 feet and view the amazing ocean life on and around this protected volcanic atoll. It’s not uncommon for divers to see octopus, sharks, moray eels, and hundreds of species of fish during their time underwater.
For those who aren’t certified divers, an equally thrilling three-hour snorkel tour for all levels is available. These family-friendly half-day trips take you by boat onto the crystal-clear waters around the crater as well as to several other premier snorkeling spots around the island for an up-close look at Maui’s colorful coral reefs and marine life.
Following your morning out on the water, pay a visit to the super cool Kihei Food Truck Park for a laid-back (and totally delicious) outdoor lunch. Set within a blocked-off, gravel-lot area behind the Azeka Shopping Center, with a few palm trees and potted plants adding to the tropical feel, you’ll find about a half dozen dining options to choose from and plenty of covered (and not-covered) picnic tables to go around. Definitely try the amazing brisket sandwich or smoked ribs from Sol Brothers BBQ or the mouth-watering buttermilk chicken and kalua pork bao buns (with a side of sloppy tots) at Suns Out Buns Out if you get the chance.
In the afternoon, road-trip over to the NorthShore Zipline park for more adventure—this time in the air instead of on the water—soaring through canopies of eucalyptus trees, walking across tree-to-tree suspension bridges, and taking in the most incredible panoramic jungle and ocean views along the way. Their seven-line, two-hour freestyle course is ideal for both kids and adults, whether you’re an experienced thrill-seeker or new to ziplining, and is an exhilarating way to spend the afternoon.
After a full day out, treat yourself to a fabulous dinner in the indoor/outdoor, thatched-roof dining room at Grand Wailea’s HumuHumu restaurant, located next to a beachfront lagoon with stunning views of the ocean and some of the best seafood on the island. Start with a Cane Guava Cooler or Mai Kai craft cocktail from the bar alongside one of their popular seafood towers; opt for the rich and creamy lobster coconut curry or bone-in swordfish as your main; and complete the meal with local wild mushrooms, sweet potato mash, and the ultra-decadent caramelized pineapple cake.
DAY 3: Golf, Spa, and Hawaiin Luau
Start with a relaxed morning tee time at the beautiful and award-winning Wailea Golf Club. Featuring three excellent courses—including the Gold Course (named one of the 100 best resort courses in America), the Emerald Course (boasting expansive ocean views and a couples-friendly layout), and the classic Blue Course (winding through the heart of Wailea)—the hardest part will be choosing which one to play.
Extend your time at the club by visiting the full-service pro shops or picking up a few pointers at the Wailea Golf Academy—private sessions, group sessions, and workshops are just a few of the things they offer. Then take a break for lunch at Gather on Maui (formerly Gannon’s), a fresh and friendly open-air restaurant (with gorgeous views, of course) conveniently located on the Gold and Emerald courses.
They serve up an amazing crispy Brussels sprouts starter, large-enough-for-a-meal salads made with local greens, and fantastic fish tacos. You can also round out your meal with a specialty drink, local beer, or glass of wine from the bar and one of the chef’s selection tropical sorbets for a perfect mid-day treat.
That afternoon, walk over to the luxurious Kilolani Spa at the Grand Wailea Resort and let yourself be pampered with a signature massage, special body treatments, or a two-hour al fresco bathhouse experience in their rejuvenating hydrotherapy gardens. Follow that bliss with another swim in Ho’olei’s community pool, a walk on the beach, or a short nap on your home’s lanai before going out to dinner.
Wrap up your incredible Hawaiian vacation with a quintessential Hawaiian experience—the Grand Luau feast and show on the beach at Grand Wailea. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the island with a full buffet of local dishes—poke, poi, mahi-mahi, kalua pig, and more—traditional music, and dazzling performances that tell the story of Maui’s history and legends. A perfect ending to a perfect three days on Hawaii’s stunning Valley Isle.
At Home on Maui with Equity Estates
Our gorgeous three-bedroom island home in Maui’s prestigious enclave of Ho’olei boasts resort amenities, luxurious décor, and stunning ocean and garden views, as well as a spacious-yet-cozy floorplan that seamlessly blends indoor/outdoor living for a true Hawaiian feel.
Have breakfast or cocktails on the villa’s covered lanai. Step out into the private garden and lush, tropical landscaping off the master bedroom. Open doors and windows for fresh ocean breezes. Gather in the family room or make yourself at home in the gourmet kitchen for quality time together. And enjoy the community’s large private pool and fitness center as well as proximity to one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It’s the perfect destination for a family vacation, couple’s getaway, or trip with friends.
Your Residence Manager will work with you to plan your itinerary before you arrive and make sure your stay is effortless. Leave the details to us and arrive to a fully stocked kitchen and bar with groceries of your choice. With Equity Estates, comfort and luxury are yours.
Travel with Equity Estates for a unique and memorable experience. If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or click to schedule a call. Your unforgettable Maui Island getaway awaits!
