Maui on a Budget

Most people don't think "budget" when they think of Maui, and it certainly can be pricey. However, there are some reasonably priced hotels, inexpensive restaurants, and free things to do, if you know where to look. There are places you can sample Hawaii's traditional foods without paying tourist prices. Most of Maui's natural wonders don't cost a penny, just the price of gas to get there.

Lahaina Shores is the only high rise hotel in Lahainatown. What's nice about it is that you can walk to pretty much anywhere in town, and it has a pool, a jacuzzi and beach access. There are a couple of reasonable restaurants right next door. My mom always stayed here when she came to visit.
At Aloha Mixed Plate you can taste delicious Hawaiian fare, while enjoying incredible views, all at low prices. The mixed plate came from the Hawaiian, Chinese, Japanese, Filipino and Korean plantation workers all sampling each other's recipes. My favorite is the kalua pork, a traditional Hawaiian dish.
The Haleakala summit is quite a drive, especially from West Maui, but the views are spectacular.
Penne Pasta is one of the most reasonable restaurants in Lahaina. The staff is relaxed and friendly. The food is tasty and economical. I like the Fettucine Alfredo and the Caesar salad, and be sure to try the roasted butternut squash. Delicious!
The Haleakala summit is quite a drive, especially from West Maui, but the views are spectacular. Some people like to go for sunrise, but you have to leave VERY early in the morning, and it can be foggy. The entrance fee to the National Park is only $10, and it is valid for 3 days, and will also get you into Kipahulu, the 7 Pools area... More >
The Haleakala summit is quite a drive, especially from West Maui, but the views are spectacular. Some people like to go for sunrise, but you have to leave VERY early in the morning, and it can be foggy. The entrance fee to the National Park is only $10, and it is valid for 3 days, and will also get you into Kipahulu, the 7 Pools area, just past Hana.
Commonly known as the "Seven Sacred Pools, Oheo Gulch is the essence of Hawaii. The air is cool and balmy. There are stunning waterfalls, pools to swim in, and miles of hiking trails through lush jungle terrain. Be sure to save your receipt from Haleakala, because you can use it to get in to Oheo Gulch within 3 days. The Pipiwai Tr... More >
Commonly known as the "Seven Sacred Pools, Oheo Gulch is the essence of Hawaii. The air is cool and balmy. There are stunning waterfalls, pools to swim in, and miles of hiking trails through lush jungle terrain. Be sure to save your receipt from Haleakala, because you can use it to get in to Oheo Gulch within 3 days. The Pipiwai Trail is one of the best hikes. It is 4 miles round-trip. If you have young children, you can do the shorter hike up to the overlook. PLEASE BE CAREFUL: OBSERVE ALL POSTED SIGNS AND VERBAL WARNINGS FROM PARK RANGERS. FLASH FLOODS DO OCCUR!!
The mixed plate came from the Hawaiian, Chinese, Japanese, Filipino and Korean plantation workers all sampling each other's recipes.
ALL beaches in Hawaii are public, so you don't have to be staying in one of the ritzy hotels in Ka'anapali to enjoy beautiful Ka'anapali Beach. The snorkeling at Black Rock (at the North end of the beach) is some of the best on the island. We almost always see green sea turtles here. Head to Whalers' Village for lunch. For the strictest budgets, go downstairs to the food court. More
ALL beaches in Hawaii are public, so you don't have to be staying in one of the ritzy hotels in Ka'anapali to enjoy beautiful Ka'anapali Beach. The snorkeling at Black Rock (at the North end of the beach) is some of the best on the island. We almost always see green sea turtles here. Head to Whalers' Village for lunch. For the strictest budgets, go downstairs to the food court.
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