Maui is the second largest island of theHawaiian archipelago in the Central Pacific. It is home to two volcanoes, waterfalls, varied landscapes and most swimming beaches.
Not only can one relax, but the coastline's depths allow for interesting diving, snorkelling and other activities, all accompanied by a mild and pleasant climate all year round! What more could you wish for? Because of this, it is one of the most popular destinations for tourists from all over the world.
If you too are planning an unforgettable holiday in Maui, let's find out all the useful information about it together.
Informed travel: useful info
Inhabitants: 144,444
Capital: Kahlui
Languages: Hawaiian language, Anglo-American
Local currency: US dollar (€1.00=1.15 USD)
Climate: tropical climate / average minimum temperature 25°C, max 28°C
Vaccinations: no compulsory vaccinations. Health insurance recommended.
Entry requirements: passport, return ticket, ESTA (electronic system for travel authorisation). Visa not necessary for Italian citizens for stays of less than 180 days
Distance from Italy: 13,026 km (18-20 hours flight time)
Location
Maui is the county seat of Maui County and part of the United States of America. It is formed by two volcanoes and is the second largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, located in the Pacific Ocean.
How to get there
From Milan orRome: either from Milan or Rome one has to make at least one stopover, usually in Los Angeles (flight time about 12 hours). From Los Angeles, you arrive at Kahlui (Maui) airport in about 6 hours.
Flights fromRome from €778.00 - Flights from Milan from €820.00From themain European capitals: from Paris there is a stopover in Los Angeles with American, Air France, Delta, as well as from London (with Virgin Atlantic, Delta, Air Canada, United). From Berlin there are two stopovers, generally flying to Amsterdam or Paris, then from there as above.
When to go? Info on climate and best time
Month | Average temperatures (min/max) | Precipitation (days/mm) |
|---|---|---|
January | 24 / 26° | 4 days / 28 mm |
February | 24 / 26° | 5 days / 39 mm |
March | 24 / 26° | 7 days / 39 mm |
April | 24 / 27° | 5 days / 46 mm |
May | 26 / 28° | 4 days / 18 mm |
June | 26 / 29° | 2 days / 9 mm |
July | 27 / 30° | 2 days / 9 mm |
August | 27 / 31° | 3 days / 28 mm |
September | 27 / 31° | 3 days / 13 mm |
October | 27 / 30° | 3 days / 21 mm |
November | 26 / 28° | 4 days / 21 mm |
December | 25 / 27° | 6 days / 53 mm |
Climate: the climate is tropical, with a hot season from June to October and a relatively cool season from December to March. The climate is influenced, depending on exposure, by trade winds (constant north-easterly winds). Temperatures fluctuate little over the course of the year (2-3 °C), ranging from average lows of 24-25 °C to highs of 28 °C, with peaks of 31/32 °C. Rainfall varies according to winds and areas: the north side has strong winds and moderate rainfall, while the leeward area is drier and rainfall is intermittent. In the winter period (December to March), rainfall is more frequent and can sometimes last several days.
The sea water is warm all year round, averaging 26-27 °C, and only drops to 24 °C in February and March.Best period: May to June. Temperatures are high, but the heat is bearable thanks to the trade winds.
Period to avoid: theoretically the cyclone season is from June to November, but in reality this island, and Hawaii in general, is not affected by this kind of atmospheric phenomena (it is thought that the presence of the imposing volcanoes acts as protection in this respect). You can therefore go to Maui all year round.
Tips: as regards clothing, in winter (December to March) bring light clothes, a scarf for the breeze, a sweatshirt or jacket for the evening; mackintosh or umbrella. In summer (June to October) light, breathable clothes, a hat for the sun, a scarf, a light sweatshirt for the evening, mackintosh or umbrella for exposed slopes. Don't forget year-round snorkelling equipment, swimming costume, water shoes or rubber-soled shoes for the reef. A backpack is useful, especially if you plan to go hiking.
10 things to see: beaches and places of interest
Lahaina, a pretty little town with a 19th century atmosphere, with its Hawaiian charm combined with the old whaling tradition. You can wander the streets, admire beautiful views of the ocean and visit the Plantation Museum.
Kaanapali beach, with white sand and crystal-clear water, is one of Maui's most beautiful beaches. To the north lies Black Rock, a rocky area perfect for snorkelling and diving, and the small community of Kapalua, known for its five bays and three beaches.
Wailuku, Hawaii's third largest city. Sea lovers will appreciate the Maui Ocean Centre, where one can admire wonderful Pacific live corals. Also, there are the Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens, a public park that honours the cultures that contributed to modern Maui.
Kahului, Maui's most populous town. Here one can admire the Maui Nui Botanical Gardens with Hawaiian and Polynesian plants. For ornithology lovers, there is the Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary, with numerous water birds. Finally, between Kahului Bay and Spreckelsville Beach is Kahana Beach Park, which offers an excellent view of the West Maui Mountains.
Haleakala Volcano, is the symbol of Maui. It is such an enormous dormant volcano that its territory extends all the way to the coast. It can be reached by a well-maintained winding road and you can enjoy bike tours or horseback riding around the crater.
Napili Bay, one of the most visited beaches on Maui Island. The golden sand overlooks a turquoise sea and there is a large coral reef, making this a great place for swimming and snorkelling.
Kahekili Beach is the natural extension of Ka'anapali Beach, located to the north. It consists of fine white sand, the reef is just a few steps from the shore and allows you to dive while observing a wide range of fish and green sea turtles.
Black SandBeach is a wonderful black sand beach and is part of Waianapanapa State Park, a beautiful nature park. On sunny days, the contrast of the illuminated waters with the black volcanic rocks is extraordinary. The coral reef is just beyond the entrance to the water, so you can snorkel.
Iao Valley State Park, a park where Maui's landmark, the famous Iao Needle (rock formation), stands 365 metres high. You can hike on more or less strenuous trails and take interesting hikes through the rainforest.
Molokini Crater, a crescent moon-shaped crater formed by ancient volcanic eruptions. It is home to thousands of tropical fish, often rare, and is a favourite destination for divers and snorkellers. If you want to see Molokini at its best, join one of the tours that depart from Maalaea Harbour.
What to do in Maui: excursions and tours
How much does a holiday on Maui cost? Prices, offers and tips
The best time to visit Maui in terms of cost is between April and May. There is usually a drop in prices as tourists have finished their holidays. Also remember that the quietest Maui is on the east coast, where prices are also slightly lower.
As far asflight costs are concerned, it must be specified that there are no direct flights from Italy and you have to make at least one stopover. By making 2 stopovers you will save money, but the journey could even become 40 hours! In the high season (June-early September / December-February), a return flight can cost around €1,000.00 while in the low season (February-June / late September-November) around €800.00/840.00. Internal flights to the various islands cost on average €120.00/200.00 in the high season.
Rooms cost around €100-150 per night, but if you search well in advance, you may be able to pick up some offers at a slightly lower cost. Staying in flats and holiday homes will save you a lot of money!
Withrespect to food, you will spend $6-10 (€5.00-9.00) for breakfast, $15-20 (€13.00-18.00) for lunch and $30-35 (€26.00-30.00) upwards for dinner.
If you want to rent a car for a week, in low season, prices range from almost €300.00 to €450.00, in high season they can double.
For organised activities and tours, costs range from €60.00 for a boat ride to €250.00 for a helicopter flight.
If you buy flight+hotel together, you can save money: for 7 days for two we are around €2,000.00, more or less.
All in all, a week-long trip for two, including everything, costs around €5,000.00.
Where to stay: Hotels and B&Bs from €80.00 per room - see offers
Low cost flights: from €778.00 - look at the offers
