Maui is a dream location for many (myself included). The tropical island is a perfect winter escape; sun, sand, ocean, cocktails, delicious unique food, and aloha living friendly locals. What more could you ask for?
What you don’t want on vacation is stress – am I right? If you’re visiting Maui in 2021 (even from the mainland) you’ll require a bit more planning than usual due to COVID19 restrictions. Everything from car rentals to restaurant reservations is nearly required on Maui.
Before my trip, I struggled to find recent and accurate information. I spent 3 weeks on this beautiful island and there was a lot of winging it and hoping for the best. While that can be fun for some, for others it leaves them totally stressed out. Here are all the things I wish I knew and had prepared for before visiting Maui. These tips will help save you time, stress, and money!
Best time to go
While there is never really bad weather in Maui, April-May and September-November are the times to go for the ultimate best weather and “less” crowds. If you want to go whale watching, visit December-April.
Climate
Maui has various climates on the island, from tropical to dry and mountainous.
Language
English is the predominant language but you will definitely hear Hawaiian phrases or words. Most commonly Aloha (greeting for hello and goodbye and an affectionate expression) and Mahalo (thank you)!
Money
US Dollar ($USD). ATMs are spread throughout the island and most businesses accept all major credit cards.
Airport
OGG (Kahului Airport) is an international airport located on Maui.
Areas to Visit
Kihei, Hana, Upcountry, North Shore, and West Maui
Quick Guide to a Road Trip on the Road to Hana!
Where to Stay
Kihei:
The Maui Banyan Airbnb is the perfect place to stay if you are a solo traveler or couple. If you have a larger family, this 2-bedroom condo with ocean views is perfect!
Lahaina:
The oceanfront Honua Kai Resort and Spa is absolutely stunning with multiple pools (and a slide!) and Dukes Beach House Maui on location.
Kapalua
Napili Point Resort offers oceanfront views with sea turtles in the cove and steps away from the famous breakfast spot Gazebo.
Hana
Camping is an incredible experience on the Road to Hana, so I’d suggest checking out sites or camper vans on Hipcamp and Outdoorsy.
If you’re looking for camping gear (they also offer mobility, beach, golf, fishing, etc.) at a reasonable price Maui Vacation Equipment Rentals has a large variety and offers contactless pickup at their storage locker.
Transportation
Maui is not really the most convenient to get around without a car. However, there are public transportation and various options available.
Car Rental:
In 2020, many rental car establishments sold off 50-80% of their fleet to maintain business. With travel opening back up and tens of thousands of people flocking to the tropical island of Maui in 2021, there has been a shortage of rental cars.
DO NOT EXPECT TO ARRIVE AND BOOK A CAR! Book your rental car 2-3 months in advance and even further in advance if you are looking for something specific such as a convertible or jeep.
The best local and most affordable place to book a car rental in advance is at Aloha Rents Cars Maui here. For luxury car rentals check out Maui Roadsters for their seek and sporty fleet of 1957 Porche cars!
Bus:
The buses on Maui are pretty nice and only cost $2 one way or $4 for the day. Here is the 2021 Maui Bus Schedule.
Uber/Lyft:
Both ride-sharing services are available on Maui but sometimes it’s hard to find a driver. I found the best way to secure a driver was to “schedule a ride” even if it was 15 minutes in advance. If you meet a driver you like and trust, ask them for their contact information to call for a ride later. It can be easier than using the APP and all the locals are super friendly. It’s a great way to support small businesses and locals.
Hire a Driver:
This goes back to asking your Uber or Lyft driver if they offer driver-for-hire services. I met Sandy (my Lyft driver) from Maui Custom Tours and used her for a private driver one day. Contact her at 808-280-1214 or 800-808-4144. She has been on the island for 25+ years (she’s basically a local) and will share so much history and tips about the island while you’re driving around. Her car is set up as COVID-19 safe with the same requirements as Uber/Lyft because she drives for both of them.
Scooter/Moped:
There are tons of places around the island to rent from like 808 Mopeds in Lahaina and Maui Scooter Shack in Kihei. Rentals start at about $35 per day and they offer a free lesson upon arrival. Just remember you’ll need a driver’s license and it’s best to book online in advance.
Passport
US Citizens do not need a passport as it’s one of the 50 states. Travelers from other countries need to check with their embassy and COVID-19 travel restrictions to Maui in 2021.
COVID-19 Restrictions
The Hawaiian Islands’ travel restrictions are much more strict than most of the United States. Before arriving, you’ll need to create an account with State of Hawaii Safe Travels. This is where you’ll enter your travel information including arrival and departure flights, accommodation address and phone number, and your contact information.
72 hours before departure, you’ll need to get a COVID-19 test at one of the approved travel partners which you can find a list of here https://hawaiicovid19.com/travel-partners. Most places will only allow you to make an appointment a week in advance, so you’ll need to set a reminder and book an appointment. Make sure you book the right test (NAAT) which ensures a 24-hour turnaround time. You’ll receive your test results at the email you registered with and you’ll need to save your negative test results and upload them to your account.
24 hours before your departure, log in and fill out the health questionnaire. Upon submitting, you’ll immediately receive a QR code. Save this to your phone, you’ll need it when checking in for your flight.
If you’ve received your COVID-19 vaccine, upload your vaccine card to your account and bring your card with you. When you arrive in Hawaii, this will allow you to bypass the second COVID-19 test you’re now required to take upon arrival in Maui in 2021.
Are you traveling to Maui and have other questions? Leave a comment or shoot me a DM!
