Things to do on Maui

Maui splits into six workable regions, not one walkable resort strip: west Maui around Lahaina and Kaanapali, south Maui from Kihei to Wailea and Makena, the central isthmus around Kahului airport (OGG), upcountry on the slopes of Haleakala, the windward run out to Hana, and island-wide trips to Molokini or a neighbouring island by air.

No interstate crosses the island; the connecting roads are coastal and mountain highways, so a rental car is close to mandatory once you leave your base. Driving times give the real shape of it: Kahului to Lahaina runs about 45 minutes, Kahului to Wailea about 30 minutes, and Kahului up to the Haleakala summit around 2 hours.

Molokini boat trips leave earliest from Maalaea, and most day tours start with a pickup in whichever region you're staying.