Getting Around Maui in Style
Getting Around Maui in Style
The shutdown of 2020 prompted an unknown future for the visitor industry on Maui and many local transportation companies to ship portions of their rental fleets off-island. As a result, Maui visitors are now faced with vacation planning challenges. Rental cars are in high demand, selling out months in advance for well above average rates. Luckily, rental cars aren’t the only option for sightseeing during your Maui vacation. Read on for our list of the top 10 best ways to get around Maui in style.
Local Rental Cars
1. Maui Roadsters is our number one suggestion for good reason. Turn heads and relinquish any classic car fantasies in a reproduction of the 1957 Porsche 356 Speedster convertible. One of automotive history’s most iconic sports cars, this is a romantic and nostalgic option for sightseeing on Maui. Think big sunglasses and a scarf covering the hair as you take a tour of one of the most scenic islands on earth with the one you adore. Delivery to your vacation rental or resort is available and rates are less than you might expect.
2. Turo
Blend in with more a unique vehicle while supporting local residents by renting through Turo.com. Depending on your vacation style, there are a variety of rental cars to suit your group and preference. Off-road in a fully equipped 4×4 Jeep or Tacoma. Car camp under the stars with a rooftop tent. Save gas money and test drive a Tesla. Feel the wind in your hair as you zip along the coast in a three-wheel Polaris Slingshot.
Many rental cars include or offer additional hire of beach gear, surfboards or camping supplies. Owners can deliver to the airport or your vacation rental.
Sightseeing Tours
3. Group Tours
Leave the driving to the professionals and less rental cars on the road to Hana. The Hana Highway features 620 curves and 59 bridges leading through lush rainforest, past plunging waterfalls and dramatic seascapes. The drive can be challenging and parking recently became limited to encourage traffic flow on the narrow roadways. Small group luxury tours to Hana include stops at all the best sights and viewpoints, as well as meals. No need to plan, or purchase the sightseeing CD, just sit back, relax and enjoy the view.
Does a full-day tour on a winding road sound like too much to stomach, but you don’t want to miss out on the sights? Travel the road to Hana in a small group limo van and hop a helicopter for the trip back! Take in the stunning waterfalls and jungles from land and air, while maximizing your sightseeing time during the flight back over the incredible Mars-like environment of Haleakala Crater.
Another excursion worth considering is the Haleakala and Iao Needle guided day tour. Hotel or vacation rental pickup is provided and the tour stops in historic and funky Wailuku town where local art and culture thrive.
Driver Services
4. Shuttle
Most resorts offer complimentary shuttle service from the airport. Hotel and airport transfers are also available 24/7 through private shuttle services. Choose from a luxury sedan, a sport utility vehicle or a larger van. Vehicles through this shuttle service feature classy and spacious interiors. You will be met and escorted by a professional chauffeur.
5. Private Drivers
Maui Town Car offers stylish and comfortable rides suited to your vacation needs. Airport transportation, a night out at one of Maui’s many five-star restaurants or even a custom sightseeing tour can be arranged with your private driver.
6. Uber & Lyft Ride Service
While the number of drivers are not as plentiful as mainland cities, ride services do exist on Maui. Plan ahead and allow sufficient time to locate a driver.
By Air
Step into your exclusive cabin, suitable for up to three passengers, and take in the views as you fly above the 5 islands of Maui County on a private flight. See landmarks like Nakalele Blowhole, Molokini Crater and Makena State Park from above while listening to live commentary from your pilot during this personalized experience.
8. Helicopter
There is simply no better way to view the otherwise unreachable peaks and valleys of these volcanic islands than from the air. The world’s highest sea cliffs are located on the island of Molokai, as is the historic and isolated Kalaupapa Peninsula. Fly by both and above gorgeous coral reef systems that line the island’s perimeter. Cut down on travel time and tour Hana, Haleakala and the West Maui mountains all in one exhilarating afternoon, no rental cars required.
By Sea
9. Private Sailing Tour
Is there anything more romantic than a sunset sail in paradise? Skip the crowded snorkeling tours and charter your own boat to the horseshoe-shaped crater island of Molokini, the gorgeous marine sanctuary of Honolua Bay or in search of Spinner dolphins off the island of Lanai.
Scoot or Cycle
10. Scooters, electric bicycles, mountain bikes and beach cruisers are all fun and adventurous ways to get around during daytime hours. Whether you want to experience the Haleakala sunrise followed by a 10,000 foot descent on two wheels or leisurely beach hop through Kihei, bicycles can be a great way to explore small sections of the island and get some exercise. Looking for a little more speed and less leg power? Electric bikes have become very popular as of late. Try a self-guided electric bike tour of historic Lahaina town, once the capital city of Hawaii and a bustling whaling port.
There are plenty of ways to get around Maui in style. Find the perfect Maui Vacation Rental at Maui Paradise Properties and let your dream vacation begin.
