The Perfect 3-Day Maui Beach Itinerary
If you’re dreaming of soft white sand, turquoise water, and warm Hawaiian sunshine—but only have a few days to spare—don’t worry. This 3-day Maui beach itinerary is the perfect way to experience some of the best beaches, relaxing swim spots, and a little island flavor without overthinking your plans.
I’ve been visiting Maui every year since 2006, typically staying for 2 to 4 weeks at a time. This gives me nearly two decades of firsthand experience with the island’s beaches, hidden gems, local eats, and must-do adventures. It is my happy place, and I want to share it with you!
This itinerary is designed for what I call the Laid-Back Beach Bum traveler—you want the best places to go, but you also want time to breathe, float, nap in a beach chair, or spot sea turtles from the shore. You’re in the right place.
A laid-back plan for beach lovers with limited time on the Valley Isle
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Essential Maui Travel Tips (Especially for First-Time Visitors)
Before we jump into the day-by-day plan, here are a few helpful things to know:
1. You’ll want a rental car. Maui doesn’t have the kind of public transportation that works well for beach hopping. Plus, parking is easier than expected, especially if you look for the blue “Beach Access Parking” signs.
2. All beaches in Maui are public. Yep, even the ones in front of luxury resorts like the Grand Wailea Maui or Hilton Grand Vacations. Just use the public access paths and park in designated spots.
3. Bring or rent your snorkel gear. We always rent from Auntie Snorkel in Lahaina. Great prices, super friendly staff, and quality gear.
4. Safety first. Maui’s ocean is beautiful, but it can be powerful.
- Don’t turn your back on the waves, especially at spots with stronger surf like Big Beach.
- Watch kids closely in the water.
- Never snorkel alone, and avoid going out if the visibility is poor or currents are strong.
- Heed warning flags and signs—they’re there for a reason.
- Respect the wildlife. Keep a safe distance from them and DO NOT TOUCH.
- Check The Snorkel Store snorkeling conditions report to know the area’s conditions.
5. Want to save on excursions? Swing by the gift card section at Costco near the Kahului Airport. They often have discounted gift cards for things like a sunset sail or a snorkel tour to Molokini Crater. They also have the cheapest gas on the island.
6. Pack Reef Safe Sunscreen. Hawaii bans sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate. Pack reef-safe options to protect marine life and avoid fines.
Day 1: West Maui Beaches & Sunset Vibes
You’ll be starting your trip on Maui’s west coast, home to some of the most gorgeous beaches and stunning coastal views on the island. It’s a great place to ease into your vacation, especially if this is your first trip to the Hawaiian Islands.
Breakfast at The Gazebo
Grab banana macadamia nut pancakes or fried rice with an ocean view. This tiny spot near Napili is one of Maui’s most popular places, so get there early (they open at 7:30am).
Snorkeling at Honolua Bay
Located past mile marker 32, Honolua is part of a marine preserve. It’s one of the best ways to see tropical marine life like parrotfish, butterflyfish, and sometimes even sea turtles. Bring sturdy sandals—a short walk through a forested path to the rocky bay.
Lunch: Fish Market Maui or Napili Market Poke
Both spots are nearby and delicious. If you’re planning to picnic, Napili Market has everything you need to build a fresh poke bowl.
Afternoon at Airport Beach (Kahekili Beach Park)
This beach has easy access, plenty of picnic tables, and free parking. It’s a solid place for snorkeling and sunbathing, especially in the early afternoon when the water is still calm.
Dinner at Duke’s with Sunset Views
Relax with a cocktail and fish tacos while you watch the sky turn gold over Kaʻanapali Beach. If you’re lucky, you might even spot a few humpback whales breaching offshore (during the winter season).
Day 2: South Maui’s Beach Bliss
Time to explore South Maui, home to gentle bays and a few local favorites.
Breakfast from Nalu’s South Shore Grill (Kihei)
Super casual, super tasty. You can even take your breakfast and eat it at the beachside.
Maluaka Beach or Polo Beach
Both are calm, family-friendly, and less crowded than other beaches. They are great for floating, snorkeling, or reading under a tree.
Optional: Big Beach (Makena)
If you’ve got a little adventure, head farther south to Big Beach, known for its dramatic shoreline and powerful shore break. It’s not great for swimming, but wow, it is stunning. Just be careful—those waves don’t play around.
Lunch: Coconuts Fish Cafe or Paia Fish Market (Kihei location)
Both are casual and consistently delicious. Their fish tacos are a must-try.
Dinner at Maui Brewing Co.
Good beer, good food, and often live music in the evening. A fun, easy way to end your second day on the island.
Day 3: On the Water & Wind Down
This final day is your chance to get out on the Pacific Ocean for an unforgettable experience.
Morning: Whale Watching or Snorkel Trip
Choose a guided tour to Molokini Crater and Turtle Town or Lanai Island for clear waters and abundant marine life. A whale watching cruise is truly magical if you’re visiting during the best time for whales (December to April).
Lunch at Aloha Mixed Plate
Laid-back, oceanfront dining just north of Lahaina. Their kalua pork and macaroni salad hit the spot after a morning at sea.
Afternoon at Kaʻanapali Beach / Black Rock
Set up near Black Rock, a lava outcropping great for snorkeling and cliff diving. It’s also a perfect place to relax with a good book and listen to the waves.
Alt Option for Winter:
If you’re visiting during peak whale season, consider bringing beach chairs and a cooler and spending the afternoon watching whales from shore. It’s one of the best things about visiting Maui in the winter.
Dinner at Monkeypod Kitchen
Order the Mai Tai with lilikoi foam (trust me), and toast to your short time in paradise. The fresh island menu is the perfect way to wrap up your trip.
Have Extra Time?
If you’re staying longer, here are a few bonus day trip ideas:
- Haleakalā National Park: Watch sunrise from the dormant volcano (just plan for an early morning and dress for higher elevations)
- Hana Highway: Take a scenic drive along the east coast, stopping at Twin Falls, bamboo forests, lava tubes, and Waianapanapa State Park with its famous black sand beach
- Kapalua Coastal Trail: Great walk along the shore, perfect for catching sunset on a short walk
Where to Stay on Maui
Trying to decide where to stay on the island of Maui? You can’t go wrong, but most travelers choose between South Maui and West Maui—each offers a different flavor of island life, depending on the beach vacation you’re after.
South Maui (Wailea & Kihei)
Wailea is calling your name if you’re dreaming of luxury resorts and pampered relaxation. This area has world-class hotels, upscale shopping, and some truly gorgeous beaches. It’s polished, peaceful, and postcard-perfect.
Do you prefer something more laid-back and budget-friendly? Kihei is a fun, sunny spot with many vacation rentals, quick beach access, and tasty food trucks. It’s great for families or travelers who want to be close to the beach without the luxury price tag.
Top Picks in South Maui:
- Sugar Beach Resort, Kihei – Best Choice
- Wailea Grand Champions, Wailea – Best Value
- Grand Wailea, Wailea – Luxury
West Maui (Ka’anapali, Napili & Kapalua)
If you’re wondering where we love to stay, West Maui is our happy place—especially around Kaʻanapali Beach. You’ll find a mix of full-service resorts, boutique condos, and some of the best beaches on the island right outside your door.
Ka’anapali is ideal for a classic resort experience with beachfront paths, shops, restaurants, and even nightly cliff diving at Black Rock. Napili is more peaceful and low-key, perfect for a slower pace and a cozy beach steps from your door. Kapalua is about luxury and natural beauty, with dramatic coastal views and a quiet, upscale vibe.
Top Picks in West Maui:
- Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas – Best Choice
- Napili Shores Maui by Outrigger – Best Value
- Montage Kapalua Bay – Luxury
No matter where you stay, you’ll be surrounded by gorgeous beaches, Hawaiian culture, and scenery that reminds you you’re far from the mainland United States.
Recommended Restaurants on Maui
Whether you’re fueling up for a full day of beach hopping or capping off your day with oceanfront cocktails, here are some of our favorite local eats across the island.
Breakfast & Brunch
Start your day with something delicious (and ideally, a view of the Pacific Ocean):
- The Gazebo (Napili) – An Iconic spot for banana mac nut pancakes. Get there early.
- Castaway Cafe (Lahaina) – Casual, beachy, Bloody Marys, and great coffee.
- Nalu’s South Shore Grill (Kihei) – Great for hearty, local-style breakfasts.
- Duke’s Beach House (Ka’anapali) – Classic breakfast with beach views.
- Aloha Mixed Plate (Lahaina) – Island-style plates with a shady oceanfront view.
- Kula Lodge (Upcountry) – Stop here after a Haleakalā sunrise for epic views.
- Sea House (Napili) – Peaceful spot steps from the sand.
Casual Favorites
When you want delicious food without the fuss, these are solid picks:
- The Fish Market (Lahaina) – Fresh catch to-go or casual dine-in.
- Coconuts Fish Cafe (Kihei) – Famous for fish tacos and friendly vibes.
- Tin Roof (Kahului) – Local comfort food with big flavor.
- Burger Shack (Kapalua) – Epic views and juicy burgers.
- Like Poke? Food Truck (Kahului) – A must for poke lovers.
- Maui Brewing Co. (Kihei & Ka’anapali) – Great beer, fun scene.
- Paia Fish Market (Paia & Kihei) – Always fresh, always good.
Dinner & Date Night
Whether you’re celebrating your first visit or your fifth return, these restaurants are worth dressing up (a little) for:
- Monkeypod Kitchen (Ka’anapali & Wailea) – The lilikoi foam Mai Tai is legendary.
- Mama’s Fish House (Paia) – Pricey, but unforgettable. Book ahead.
- Hula Grill (Ka’anapali) – Great setting for sunset and happy hour, right near the sand.
- Star Noodle (Lahaina) – Asian fusion with bold flavors.
- Sansei (Kapalua) – Sushi with a creative twist.
- Merriman’s (Kapalua) – Upscale with incredible ocean views.
- Mala Ocean Tavern (Lahaina) – Oceanfront seating with a creative menu.
- Tiffany’s Bar & Grill (Wailuku) – Low-key local favorite with great Hawaiian / Korean food.
Sweet Treats
Island life isn’t complete without dessert, and these spots will hit the sweet spot:
- Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop (Lahaina) – Get the banana cream pie. Thank me later.
- Ululani’s Shave Ice (Kihei) – Smooth, flavorful, and the best way to cool off.
- Lorraine’s Shave Ice & Banana Bread (Kaenae Peninsula) – Great roadside stop if you’re taking a day trip along the Honoapiilani Highway (Highway 30).
- Hula Pie – Find it at Duke’s, Hula Grill, or Leilani’s.
- Strawberry Cream Pie at Monkeypod – Save room for it.
👉 For more food tips and hidden gems, check out our Best Restaurants in West Maui blog post.
Final Thoughts
Three days may not feel like a long time, but on this beautiful island, it’s just the perfect amount of time to reset, recharge, and fall in love with Maui. Whether it’s your first day or your fifth visit, there’s always something new to discover.
You’ll leave salty, sun-kissed, and already dreaming of your next return. And when you do come back? I’ll be here, updating my guides with all the new gems I find along the way.
Want more trip-planning help? Check out the Flexible Itinerary Kit for even more personalized tips and tools—so you spend less time googling and more time soaking up the natural beauty of Maui.
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