What to Do in Maui
What to Do in Maui
The sights, sounds and flavours of Maui
October 25–27, 2024Festivals of Aloha
Four Seasons Maui hosts Festivals of Aloha, presenting a rich tapestry of music, art and storytelling that captures the essence of Maui’s time-honoured traditions. Ask our Concierge for a weekend schedule of events you won't want to miss.
Road to Hana
Experience the awe-inspiring natural beauty of Maui’s northeast coast on the Road to Hana. The 64-mile (103-kilometre) long Hana Highway features 617 hairpin turns and 54 one-lane bridges that lead to hidden waterfalls, scenic overlooks and lush rainforests. This iconic Hawaiian drive is a thrilling testament to the engineering feats of the past, promising unforgettable views of crystal-clear waters and stunning landscapes.
Insider tip: For a truly local experience, be sure to try Aunty Sandy’s banana bread. From Hana Highway, take a left at mile marker 16.
Haleakala National Park
A protected area on Maui, Haleakala National Park is a prime spot to enjoy a range of outdoor adventures, hike nature trails and engage in authentic cultural activities. Explore the dormant volcano, spot endangered Hawaiian geese, or trek the rugged trails, meandering past cinder cones and dormant lava flows as you take in sweeping views of the West Maui Mountains from the 7,000-foot (2,134-metre) summit.
Insider tip: Viewing the summit at sunrise can be a breathtaking experience, but it can be cold in the morning at that height. We’ll provide you with blankets, hot chocolate, coffee and tea for the trek.
Wailea Beach
Discover the paradise of Wailea Beach on Maui’s south shore, with its golden sands, breaking waves and activities such as surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking and snorkelling. The beach offers convenient amenities, including restrooms, outdoor showers and parking, making it easy to spend a full day soaking up the sun. The Wailea Coastal Walk flanks the beach for more than three miles (4.8 kilometres) round trip and provides a pleasant morning stroll.
Insider tip: Be sure to grab a snack or beverage at Beachwalk Café.
Whale-watching
Witness one of the most awe-inspiring sights from the island – the humpback whale. From November to May, the majestic creatures migrate to the warm waters between Maui, Lanai and Kahoolawe. Experience these gentle giants from your lounge chair above Wailea Beach. Or, join one of the many whale-watching tours, ranging from private, intimate outings to larger vessel voyages with onboard amenities. Expert naturalist guides will provide insight into the whales’ behaviour and biology.
Insider tip: Our concierge team urges responsible tourism practices to protect the environment and marine life.
Seven Sacred Pools
Don’t miss this stunning natural wonder on Maui’s eastern side. Easily accessible by car from the Road to Hana, the crystal-clear pools and cascading waterfalls provide the perfect setting for swimming and taking in the lush tropical landscape. Explore the surrounding forest, which is home to rare plant and animal species that make it ideal for hiking and photography.
Insider tip: Be mindful of safety precautions when visiting the pools, as the water can be dangerous during periods of high rainfall. The pools also have significant cultural and spiritual importance to the Hawaiian people and should be treated with respect.
POI
Get a taste of traditional Polynesian cuisine with poi, a creamy paste made from taro root that has been a staple food in Hawaii and Pacific Island cultures for centuries. Poi can be served fresh or fermented as a side dish or snack. Sample the delicacy at local grocery stores, farmers markets and traditional Hawaiian restaurants. Head to the Maui Swap Meet or Upcountry Farmers Market for a taste, or try local restaurants such as Da Kitchen and Aloha Mixed Plate.
Insider tip: Although poi is not on the menu at any of our Resort’s restaurants, ask any of our people where you can find the best, and you’ll get a variety of answers. Poi is popular with locals, and everyone has their favourite.
AHI POKE
Ahi poke is a traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw, cubed ahi tuna mixed with soy sauce, sesame oil, onions and seasonings. Enjoy it as an appetizer or light meal with fresh ingredients such as avocado, seaweed and cucumber. Find ahi poke at local fish markets, specialty food stores and restaurants throughout Maui.
Insider tip: Poke recipes can go back generations, and everyone has their own secret ingredients. The poke at Spago is revered by many and is served in a savoury cone with a touch of wasabi.
LOMI SALMON
Explore the taste of Hawaii with lomi salmon, a traditional dish made with raw salted salmon, tomatoes, onions and chillies. With a salty, tangy and slightly spicy flavour, it’s a staple of Hawaiian cuisine that’s perfect as a side dish or appetizer.
Insider tip: Several restaurants and local grocery stores serve this delicacy. Opt for nearby Tamura’s or Takamiya markets, where we can arrange pickup and delivery.
SHAVE ICE
Enjoy fluffy, fine ice shavings in a cup, flavoured with syrups and topped with fresh fruit or condensed milk. With its intense taste and soft texture, it’s the perfect treat on a hot day. Cool down with Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice, the most famous in Maui.
Insider tip: If you want to fit in with the locals, call it “shave” ice, not “shaved” ice. Some of the best shave ice on the island can also be found at our Resort’s Beachwalk Café.
LAU LAU
Looking for an authentic taste of Hawaiian cuisine? Look no further than lau lau, a traditional dish made from pork or butterfish wrapped in taro leaves and steamed to perfection. Served with rice and other sides like lomi salmon or macaroni salad, this dish has been a beloved part of Hawaiian culture for centuries and is often served for special occasions and at celebrations.
Insider tip: Taro leaves are more than just garnish – they’re a tasty, antioxidant-rich delight. Don't toss them aside.
KALUA PUA’A
Get a taste of authentic Hawaiian cuisine with kalua pua’a, a dish made by slow roasting a leaf-wrapped whole pig with salt in an underground oven. The flavourful meat is shredded or chopped and served with traditional Hawaiian sides. Kalua pua’a is a must-try when visiting Hawaii.
Insider tip: Kalua Pua’a is a staple at every luau.
Resort Restaurants
Spago
Indulge in a culinary experience at Spago, Wolfgang Puck’s Forbes Four-Star restaurant nestled within our Resort. The menu features a fusion of traditional Hawaiian flavours, locally sourced ingredients and Puck’s California style with a touch of Asian influence. Enjoy classic dishes from the celebrated chef as you take in panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from the chic bar and lounge area. Quench your thirst with creative handcrafted Hawaiian cocktails in our stylish and relaxing restaurant.
Insider tip: Ask the sushi chef to prepare an omakase (chef’s choice) sushi platter for an evening you won’t forget.
Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante
Indulge in a romantic dinner or celebrate a special occasion at Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante, the only open-air oceanfront restaurant in Wailea. The contemporary Italian cuisine showcases handcrafted pasta, wood-fired artisan pizzas made from locally sourced ingredients and the freshest catch from the Maui waters. The charming dining-under-the-stars concept will elevate your dining experience.
Insider tip: Ask one of our 20 sommeliers for the perfect wine pairing to complement your dinner.
DUO Steak and Seafood
Join us at DUO Steak and Seafood for an unforgettable dining experience, where our skilled butchers dry age our steaks for 28 days, and our fresh seafood is caught right off the coast of Maui. Enjoy Duo’s casual open-air setting with ocean and resort views, perfect for relaxing and taking in Hawaii’s beauty. Let our staff recommend the perfect wine to complement your meal.
Insider tip: Our chefs work with more than 50 local farmers and fishermen to ensure every dish has the freshest and most flavourful ingredients.
Beachwalk Café
Welcome to Beachwalk Café, your go-to spot for takeaway food and drinks on the scenic Wailea Coastal Walk. Our menu features a variety of options to satisfy any appetite, including grab-and-go sandwiches, salads and beverages. Don’t forget to check out our collection of logo items and sundries to commemorate your time in Wailea.
Insider tip: Don’t miss our house-made gelato and sorbet, or the local shave ice in a variety of flavours.
Lobby Lounge
Experience the ultimate in relaxation and entertainment at our Lobby Lounge. Watch the sunset during our nightly torch lighting and hula show as you enjoy live contemporary music. Our lounge offers creative cocktails and delicious pupus, including handmade sushi with the freshest ingredients. The Lobby Lounge is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of adventures.
Insider tip: Join us on Friday and Saturday nights for Dim Sum Night, where we bring in fresh dim sum from Chinatown.
Local Restaurants
Paia Fish Market
Welcome to Paia Fish Market, a beloved seafood restaurant nestled in the vibrant village of Paia. Offering an impressive selection of locally sourced seafood dishes in a relaxed, friendly environment, this popular outpost has a deep commitment to sustainability and ocean conservation. Paia Fish Market also offers a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free options. Stop by for an authentic Hawaiian dining experience, where you can indulge in delicious seafood and soak up the culture of the unique community.
Insider tip: To avoid long waits, arriving either before or after the typical lunch or dinner rush. You can visit during off-peak hours, such as late afternoon or early evening, to secure a table without much hassle.
Monkeypod Kitchen
Looking for a place to unwind and enjoy a meal? Look no further than Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman. With a welcoming atmosphere and a wide selection of on-tap beers, the restaurant is a go-to destination for foodies, beer lovers and families. The menu features a variety of dishes made with locally sourced ingredients and has something for everyone. Discover why Monkeypod Kitchen is a top destination in Maui’s culinary scene.
Insider tip: Monkeypod offers 36 craft beers on tap, served at the perfect 29 degrees.
Mama’s Fish House
For an authentic Hawaiian dining experience, head to Mama’s Fish House on the north shore of Maui. This famed restaurant is renowned for serving up some of the freshest seafood on the island, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The warm and inviting Polynesian décor provides the perfect ambiance for diners, and the eatery’s commitment to quality is evident in every dish served. See for yourself why Mama’s Fish House has been a popular destination since 1973.
Insider tip: Three-month advance reservations are recommended.
Koiso Sushi Bar
For an unparalleled sushi experience, head to Koiso Sushi Bar, one of Maui’s best-kept secrets. You won’t be disappointed by the island’s freshest and highest-quality sushi and sashimi. With its cosy and welcoming atmosphere, simple décor and excellent service, Koiso Sushi Bar is a must-visit dining spot. Be sure to try the popular omakase multi-course tasting menu for a bespoke culinary adventure.
Insider tip: With only 15 seats, reservations are highly recommended.