The Perfect 3-Day Maui Itinerary

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If you’re dreaming of golden beaches, lush valleys, and epic adventures, this 3-Day Maui Itinerary is exactly what you need! Maui, often called The Valley Isle, is the perfect blend of laid-back island vibes and jaw-dropping natural beauty. From snorkeling with sea turtles to watching the sunrise above the clouds at Haleakalā, this island is packed with unforgettable experiences!

This itinerary was part of my epic 2-week island-hopping adventure through Hawaii, and I promise it’ll show you the very best of what Maui has to offer! Let’s jump in and start planning your island escape.

Epic 3-Day Maui Itinerary

Day 1: Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery

As soon as you grab your rental car, make your way to Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery. It’s just a quick 15-minute drive from the airport, making it the perfect first stop to ease into Maui vibes.

Taking a tour here? Absolutely essential! Not only will you learn about their ultra-thoughtful production process (yes, even the bottles have a story!), but you’ll also get to sip on some seriously good spirits.

Tours run daily, starting at 11 AM, with the last one at 5 PM—we made it just in time for the final tour and it was so worth it. For around $20, you get a guided tour, tastings of vodka, rum, and gin, plus a souvenir shot glass. Feeling fancy? For an extra fee, try their exclusive BRUM, a bourbon barrel-aged rum that’s as unique as Maui itself.

Fun fact: their Ocean Vodka is made using deep mineral water sourced from 3,000 feet below the Kona Coast. This water is packed with over 70 minerals like magnesium, potassium, and calcium—so obviously, those shots count as my daily dose of vitamins, right?

Before you leave, dinner at their Café at The Point is a non-negotiable. They incorporate fresh ingredients straight from the farm into their dishes and cocktails, and let me tell you—it’s a flavor explosion. The kimchee-hoo pizza was unlike anything I’ve ever tasted!

We also devoured a poke bowl, banana pops, banana bread, and more. Pro tip: If it’s a weekend evening and you’re still figuring out dinner plans, this is the spot to soak up epic sunset views while indulging in farm-fresh deliciousness.

Not to mention the views are unreal! The farm sits on a hillside with panoramic sights that will have you whipping out your camera every two seconds. We loved this spot so much that we stopped by again on our way out of Maui!

Afterward, we checked into our accommodations and hit the hay early—because Day 2 is going to be a big one!

Day 2: Road to Hana + Mama’s Fish House

Coffee + Breakfast

Before hitting the road, fuel up with some caffeine and breakfast. Akamai Coffee is a darling little drive-thru spot that got us caffeinated and ready for the adventure ahead.

Road to Hana

If there’s one thing you have to experience during your 3 days in Maui, it’s the Road to Hana—it’s basically the Beyoncé of Hawaiian adventures. This iconic 64.4-mile journey is packed with jaw-dropping waterfalls, hidden swimming holes, lush hikes, and even some unforgettable local eats.

But let’s be real: planning your Road to Hana trip can feel overwhelming. Which route should you take? What stops are actually worth it? How do you fit it all into one day? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered!

Which Route Should You Take?

You’ve got three main options:

• Classic Route: Start in Pa’ia Town, and make your way to Hana. If you choose this route I recommend driving straight to Hana without stopping and then work your way back. Many of the stops closer to Hana close around 4 or 5 PM. PLUS this can help you beat a little of the crowd!
• Loop Route: Start in Pa’ia Town, but instead of backtracking, continue through the entire 65-mile loop around the island.
• Reverse Route: Start at the “end” of the Road to Hana and work your way backward toward Pa’ia Town. This is what we did, and starting early (4:30 AM!) meant we had many stops practically to ourselves—even on a Saturday!

No matter which route you choose, plan to dedicate a full day to this adventure, and definitely start early to maximize your experience. This will be your most jam-packed day out of the Maui 3-day itinerary.

Shaka Guide App

Want a stress-free Road to Hana experience? Download the Shaka Guide App for less than $20 and thank me later. It’s like having your own personal tour guide! The app works offline, syncs with your GPS, and tells you everything from can’t-miss stops to spots you might skip if you’re pressed for time.

This took away so much of the overwhelm for us, and we felt like we got a deeper understanding of the places we were stopping at.

If you take the reverse route like we did, be aware that the backside roads can be a little rough, especially if it’s been raining. We didn’t have 4-wheel drive and managed fine, but use your best judgment. And, of course, check the weather beforehand—heavy rain can make those less-traveled roads dicey.

They have an app for each island, as well as Utah, Arizona, and Nevada!

Which stops do you make?

If you’re following the Shaka Guide, it’ll point out some incredible stops, but here are a few of my absolute favorites:

• Wailua Falls: A beautiful 80-foot waterfall where you can snap photos from the car or stop for a refreshing swim.
• Venus Pools: A short trail leads you to these gorgeous pools perfect for cliff jumping or just cooling off. Don’t forget bug spray!
• Secret Lava Tube Cave: A quick, fascinating stop. If you have extra time, check out the nearby Hana Lava Tube too.
• Black Sand Beach at Waianapanapa State Park: This may have been my favorite of all! You’ll need to reserve ahead of time (up to 14 days in advance) and pay $10 for parking and $5 per person. Worth. Every. Penny.

• Huli Huli Chicken: Located 20 minutes outside Hana, this spot serves the juiciest, most tender chicken ever! They do sell out early, so plan accordingly. We shared one order between the three of us because we knew we wanted to hit some spots in Hana too.
• Poke Bobs + Ae’s Thai Kitchen: Located in a cute food truck court in Hana, we tried the poke bowl and a pumpkin curry special—both were phenomenal. Thai food in Hawaii is something else!

Other Notable Stops we didn’t have time for, but you may

• Twin Falls: A moderately challenging 1.8-mile out-and-back trail that leads to a stunning swimming hole.
• Seven Sacred Pools: A popular spot in Haleakalā National Park (entry fee: $30 unless you have an America the Beautiful Pass). Swimming isn’t allowed anymore, but it’s still scenic.
• Waimoku Falls: Located at the end of the Pipiwai Trail in Haleakalā National Park. It’s beautiful if there’s been rain, but if it’s been dry, you might want to skip it.
• Red Sand Beach: We didn’t make it here, but I’ve heard it’s worth the adventure if you’re up for a slightly hazardous trail. This post gives a good idea of what you can expect.

What to Pack

Be prepared for anything! Here’s what we brought:

• Bug spray
• Change of clothes (we wore swimsuits under our outfits)
• Cash (some spots are cash-only)
• Sunscreen
• Towels
• Hiking boots and sandals
• Water and snacks
• Phone chargers
• America the Beautiful Pass
• GoPros and cameras
• Sunglasses
• Headlamps or flashlights for lava tubes
• Snacks (there are long stretches without food or restaurants)

Check out my other Hawaii packing list recommendations for your trip!

Important Tips

• Fill up your gas tank before starting the trip.
• Drive responsibly and respect the locals.
• Avoid parking illegally (there are signs for a reason!).
• Check the weather before you go.
• Start early.
• Reserve your Black Sand Beach spot ahead of time.
• Bring cash.
• Download maps and guides ahead of time.
• Pack snacks and plenty of water.
• Bug spray is your best friend.

Mama’s Fish House

After an epic day of adventuring, head to Mama’s Fish House for a well-deserved dinner. It’s a splurge, but the food, ambiance, and oceanfront views are out of this world.

We didn’t have a reservation (they’re booked months in advance!), but we lucked out and snagged seats at the bar. Even without a full table, the experience was magical. We shared the macadamia nut crab cakes, shrimp wontons, and a salad—everything was fresh, flavorful, and beautifully prepared.

For drinks, I loved the Pau Hana (with mezcal instead of gin—highly recommend!), and Casie’s mai tai was one of the best we’ve ever had. To top it all off, they sent us home with a piece of Maui dark mango chocolate that was chef’s kiss.

Mama’s Fish House is a little pricey, but the quality and ambiance make it worth every penny. If you can, book a reservation early—this is a Maui experience you don’t want to miss!

Day 3: Brunch, Snorkel, + Explore Lahaina

Coffee + Brunch

Start your morning off strong with a visit to Badass Coffee—trust me, the name says it all! Not only is the coffee top-notch, but the energy here is unmatched.

Once you’re caffeinated, head to Lahaina for brunch at the iconic Down the Hatch. Known for its lively atmosphere and mouthwatering dishes, this spot is a favorite for a reason. Don’t skip the breakfast burrito (the lava lava sauce is a game-changer) or the huevos rancheros Montana, and if you’re feeling fancy, grab a $12 carafe of Lahaina Sunrise—perfect for sharing or not!

UPDATE: Down the Hatch is currently closed due to the Lahaina fires, here’s hoping they rebuild soon because this place is a true gem worth experiencing.

Snorkeling at Kapalua Bay

Snorkeling in Maui is a must, and Kapalua Bay is a total dream spot for it! There are several great snorkel spots on the island, and Kapalua Bay is one of the best!

Picture a huge coral reef packed with colorful fish, adorable turtles (seriously, so many turtles!), and maybe even a dolphin or two if you’re lucky. It’s hands-down the best snorkeling I’ve ever done without needing a boat!

Parking here is free, but the early bird gets the worm (or, in this case, the spot). Get there early to snag a good one!

Some other good snorkel spots include: Olowalu, Black Rock Beach, Honokeana Bay, and. Maluaka Beach.

Dinner + Drinks in Lahaina

After snorkeling all day, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite. Head to Whalers Village for some amazing dinner options. We went on a Sunday evening and didn’t have reservations, so we aimed for happy hour to dodge the crowds (and score some awesome deals).

First stop: Monkeypod, where happy hour runs from 3:30-5 PM daily. Their mai tais are $4 off and trust me, it’s one of the best I’ve had in Hawaii! The specials are too good to miss—half-off apps (except poke nachos and lobster deviled eggs), $12 pizzas, and discounted drinks. It’s a total steal!

Still hungry? You’ve got to try Hula Grill‘s coconut-crusted calamari—it’s thick, tender, and mind-blowingly good, even if you’re not a fried calamari fan. And if you’ve got a sweet tooth, don’t skip Hula Pie. It’s a macadamia nut ice cream dream on a chocolate crust, topped with whipped cream, fudge, and toasted mac nuts. If you want your dessert in drink form, their lava flow is a must-try!

Alternatives for Your Maui 3-Day Itinerary

Haleakalā National Park

Wondering how a 3-day Maui itinerary skips the Haleakalā? Trust me, I’m bummed too. We couldn’t snag reservations, and after all that Road to Hana driving, we just couldn’t rally for a sunset trip. But if you can fit it in, you absolutely should—this place is magical!

Towering 10,023 feet above sea level, Haleakalā Crater is an iconic Maui must-see. It’s a haven for endangered species (more than any other U.S. national park!) and steeped in Hawaiian culture and history.

The best time to visit is sunrise—but you’ll need a reservation. These open 60 days ahead, with a limited number released 48 hours before the day at 7:00 AM (set your alarm!). If mornings aren’t your thing, don’t worry—sunset is just as stunning, and no reservations are needed after sunrise.

Entry costs $30 per vehicle unless you have an America the Beautiful Pass. At $80 for unlimited entry to over 2,000 U.S. parks for a year, it’s worth every penny if you plan on visiting other National Parks! If you’re heading up for sunrise, pack layers—it’s freezing at the summit.

Set on going for sunrise, but couldn’t secure a reservation? Consider this Haleakalā Sunrise Tour—they handle the booking and even include breakfast, transportation, and guide narration. Easy peasy!

Snorkel Molokini Crater

Off Maui’s south coast lies the crescent-shaped Molokini Crater, formed by a volcanic eruption roughly 230,000 years ago. Over time, this cinder cone evolved into a thriving habitat for birds, marine life, and even humans.

Whether you’re into scuba diving, snorkeling, or snuba (snorkeling’s cooler cousin), Molokini Crater is a must-visit for underwater explorers. Check out this 5-hour all-inclusive snorkeling tour that includes breakfast, lunch, and a 20-foot waterslide for the most epic day!

Where to Stay on Maui

Choosing where to stay on Maui depends on what kind of vibe you’re after! West Maui, including Lahaina, Kaanapali, and Kapalua, is the island’s most popular area to stay. It offers stunning beaches, local shopping, and plenty of dining options. While this area can get a bit crowded and is farther from spots like Haleakala and the Road to Hana, we loved staying here for the convenience and beauty!

Here are a few budget-friendly(ish) options in West Maui:

• Aston Kaanapali Shores— Located on Kaanapali Beach, this spot has an oceanfront pool, on-site restaurants, a garden pool with evening lights, and even free ukulele and lessons!
• Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows— Offering three pools, a hot tub, flower lei and puka shell-making classes, and a shuttle to Whaler’s Village, this resort is a great pick. Bonus: an ice cream parlor and coffee shop on-site!
• Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas— The top-rated choice, with free parking, private balconies, and two adult pools set on 11 acres of lush tropical gardens.

If you’re tackling the Road to Hana, consider spending a night in Hana to soak in the experience without rushing. Options here are limited, so book early!

• Hana-Maui Resort by Hyatt Residence— Seems to have the most availability if you are waiting to book and offers a serene escape.
• Heavenly Hana Paradise— A slightly cheaper option with stellar reviews.

Are you ready for an epic 3 days on Maui?

Three days in Maui might not feel like enough (spoiler: it never is!), but with this 3-day itinerary, you’ll get a taste of everything that makes the island so special—breathtaking landscapes, vibrant marine life, incredible food, and, of course, that laid-back Hawaiian charm. Whether you’re snorkeling alongside sea turtles, cruising the Road to Hana, or enjoying hula pie by the beach, your time on Maui is bound to be unforgettable!

Before you go, be sure to follow me on Insta @guidedbydestiny and check out some of my other Hawaii blog posts:

3 days in Kauai

4 day Big Island Itinerary

Free things to do in Oahu