Things to do in Maui: A guide for repeat visitors and second-home owners

Where to stay in Maui for water lovers If your perfect day starts with a sunrise paddle and ends with a sunset sail, deciding where to stay in Maui comes down to easy access to calm coves, launch points and charter hubs. Along with highlighting Wailea, Makena, Kapalua and the North Shore, this guide shares some of the best things to do in Maui and tips for choosing a polished home base that keeps boards, fins and family beach bags within reach—plus how Pacaso co-ownership can elevate every water day. South Maui for gentle mornings on the water For travelers deciding where to stay in Maui, Wailea’s placid shoreline sets the tone for relaxed snorkeling and stand up paddling, with quick access to Molokini, a crescent shaped islet known for clear visibility and marine life. Nearby Kapalua for sheltered coves and sunset paddles Set within Kapalua Resort, With ownership at North Shore for advanced downwind paddling Experienced paddlers target the Prefer easy days? Keep North Shore time to scenic beach walks and watch downwinders from shore, then return to calmer pockets in Wailea, Makena or Kapalua—some of the most relaxing things to do in Maui when you’re not chasing swells. For more context on aligning frequent trips with ownership, explore how co-ownership works in this overview of Choose a home base that fits your water routine Pacaso co ownership keeps your Maui rituals consistent. Your beautifully furnished space is ready for early starts, with indoor outdoor flow that makes gearing up simple and lanai living for post session downtime. If your list of things to do in Maui revolves around paddling, snorkeling and sailing, a well located home base turns spontaneous sessions into your default plan. Plan your Maui water season If you’re exploring where to stay in Maui for water-focused living, browse current homes across the islands and pinpoint the shoreline that matches your daily rhythm. This guide helps you decide not just where to stay in Maui, but also how to make it fit your lifestyle—starting with

B Maui rewards early risers and shoreline seekers with quiet stretches of sand, lava-rock coves, and reef-lined bays. To make the most of the best beaches in Maui, pair your days with a nearby base that lets you slip out for sunrise swims, midday snorkeling, and sunset walks without the drive. Maui luxury homes place you close to the coast, so those perfect windows of light and tide become part of your daily rhythm. A short list of the best beaches in Maui to find quiet Why a well-placed home elevates every shoreline moment The simplest way to enjoy the best beaches in Maui is to stay close. With a coastal base, you can time your outing to tides and trade winds, then return for an unrushed lunch on the lanai before heading out again for a late-afternoon swim. If you want to understand how co-ownership works, start with Pacaso’s primer on the model in Kapalua coves and an effortless launch point West Maui makes it easy to pair calm mornings with snorkel-ready coves. Mokuleia Beach sits just below the cliffs near Kapalua, while East Maui escapes that reward the journey The Beach etiquette and access notes for a smoother day Plan your Maui retreat with Pacaso Ready to make quiet coves part of your daily routine These guides and listings can help you take the next step. Explore West and South Maui from a refined home base, and see how co-ownership streamlines the experience. Start browsing

The Valley Isle of Maui boasts 120 miles of gorgeous coastline, lush inland landscapes and epic sunsets. It’s also quite the foodie destination, with an abundance of fresh seafood, tropical produce and local fare. Sample it all at the same time when you enjoy a meal at one of Maui’s most scenic restaurants.     Duke’s Beach House  Located just north of Kaanapali Beach at the Honua Kai Resort, Star Noodle  Chef Abby Ferrer’s Kimo’s   The oceanfront deck at Tin Roof  Sometimes, the best view is on the beach itself. Located in Kahului, Monkeypod Kitchen Mama’s Fish House  No list of Maui restaurants is complete without Be the chef in your local vacation home  Sure, restaurant dining is a nice treat, but there’s nothing like cooking for friends and family members in the kitchen of your luxury second home in Maui.

Few places capture Hawaii’s beauty and laid-back lifestyle quite like the Big Island. With rugged lava beds, crystal-clear waters, and quaint beach towns, it offers a slower, more grounded pace than its glamorous sister islands of Oahu and Maui. This itinerary brings all the luxury and adventure of Hawaii, without the rush of island-hopping. Here’s how to make the most of three days in paradise. When to visit Winter (December – March) The Big Island is buzzing with activity in the winter months, when travelers come from near and far to trade snow for sand and the chill for warm tropical breezes. It’s peak season, so be sure to book accommodations and excursions well in advance, especially if you only have three days to explore. Winter also marks the arrival of humpback whales. Witness these gentle giants migrate thousands of miles to Hawaii’s warm, protected waters. It’s one of the most breathtaking sights the island has to offer. Spring (April – June) Spring has that perfect balance of pleasant weather and calmer crowds. It’s a much slower pace following the rush of the holidays and an ideal time for exploring the many things to do on the Big Island like Kona’s coffee farms, snorkeling, or taking scenic drives without the hustle and bustle of peak season. Summer (July – early September) Summer brings warm days, higher humidity, and plenty of families on summer vacation. While busier than spring or fall, the Big Island still feels more spacious than the other Hawaiian Islands. The waters are especially calm and clear, perfect for snorkeling, diving, paddleboarding, or simply soaking in the sunshine. Fall (late September – November) The Big Island’s shoulder season has the best of both worlds—ideal weather and lighter crowds. Expect warm days, gentle trade winds, and a more relaxed pace, great for travelers seeking serenity between the summer rush and winter influx. Where to stay on the Big Island: Kona vs. Hilo While the Big Island offers countless places to rest your head, most visitors gravitate toward two main hubs: Kona on the west coast and Hilo on the east. Each has its own distinct vibe, geography, and appeal—and choosing the right base can shape your entire experience. Kona: Sun, sand, and sophistication Kona is where the island’s sunshine, luxury resorts, and sparkling beaches converge. Located on the west coast, the shoreline is dotted with high-end resorts, five-star amenities, white-sand beaches, and both casual and upscale cuisine. Beyond the resorts, you’ll find some of the best things to do on the Big Island like picturesque beach bars, coffee farms, and easy access to snorkeling, boating, and cultural sites. Hilo: Rainforests and laid-back beach days Hilo sits on the island’s lush east coast, full of waterfalls and tropical forests. The town is less polished but full of authenticity with farmers markets, art galleries, and small inns and boutique hotels that replace big resorts. It’s also the gateway to Hawai‘i Volcanoes National Park, making it perfectly situated for those wanting to explore the island’s dramatic natural beauty up close. The verdict With only 72 hours to visit, where to stay on the Big Island can make all the difference. For a short getaway, Kona is the better choice. It puts you close to the best beaches, restaurants, and upscale resorts. Hilo, on the other hand, is better suited for a day trip or a scenic stop if you have more time to explore the island’s lush east side. However, for those seeking a more luxurious retreat, the Kohala Coast north of Kona stands out. This area boasts some of the island’s most luxurious resorts and offers a vacation that blends luxury, privacy, and proximity to Hawaii's natural wonders. Popular things to do on the Big Island Hawaii’s Big Island is a playground for adventure, culture, and luxury. With diverse landscapes, quaint beach towns, luxurious resorts, and endless shorelines, there’s something for every interest. Here are some top experiences: Hawaii’s Big Island itinerary Day 1 – Welcome to Hawaii: snorkel + Kona + sunset sail Morning Ease into island life by connecting with nature and the ocean on a morning snorkel. Thanks to a coastline dotted with gentle coves, calm waves, and thriving coral reefs, there’s plenty of locations to choose from. After your snorkel, head into downtown Kona for a leisurely stroll and a late morning snack. Stop by Afternoon When hunger strikes, try the award-winning Evening After a sun-soaked day, set sail on a dinner cruise or sunset catamaran from Kailua Pier. Drift along the coastline as the sky turns shades of pink and gold, cocktail in hand, and let the gentle trade winds carry you into the evening. For those with energy to spare, book a night snorkel with manta rays, one of the most enchanting things to do on the Big Island. Watching these graceful creatures glide through illuminated waters beneath the stars is nothing short of mesmerizing. Day 2 – Hilo + sky-high adventure Morning Start early and set out on a day trip across the island to Hilo, a lush, tropical contrast to Kona’s sun-kissed coast. The drive along Saddle Road has breathtaking views of rolling pastures, lava fields, and the slopes of Mauna Kea. Once you arrive, fuel up with a fresh juice or local coffee at From here, the real adventure begins. Board a helicopter tour to witness the Big Island’s diverse ecosystems and volcanic power from above. Companies like Afternoon After your flight, spend a little time exploring Hilo’s natural beauty. Visit Rainbow Falls, or stroll through Begin your return in the late afternoon, retracing your route along Saddle Road. If you prefer to take it slow, detour to Evening Toast to your day’s adventure with sunset cocktails at Day 3 – R&R + luau finale Morning After two adventure-filled days, slow things down and savor the Big Island's luxurious side. Begin your morning at one of the area's premier golf courses— Afternoon After a leisurely lunch at the resort, head north to Kua Bay (Manini‘owali Beach), one of the Big Island’s most breathtaking stretches of white sand. The waters here are impossibly clear, ideal for swimming or simply basking in the sun with a good book. It’s a beautiful final stop before saying aloha to the island. Evening Wrap up your 72-hour Big Island itinerary with a traditional Hawaiian luau, complete with oceanfront seating, torchlight, and a captivating show of Polynesian music and hula. There are several options in Kona and the surrounding areas that all offer an energetic (and delicious) cultural experience. It’s the perfect finale to your Big Island escape. Aloha for now Three days on the Big Island is just enough to fall under its spell. You could come back year after year and still find new things to do on the Big Island. Between the sunlit shores, volcanic vistas, and the island’s unmistakable spirit of aloha, you’ll leave knowing one thing for sure: this won’t be your last visit to Hawaii's Big Island.

Luxury beach homes for winter on the coast Cooler months are prime time to enjoy luxury beach homes in three standout destinations: Maui, San Diego and Kiawah Island. From cultural festivals to holiday celebrations and championship golf, winter calendars fill up fast. Pacaso co-ownership gives you a refined base to settle in, host with ease and be minutes from the venues you care about most. Luxury beach homes near Maui winter festivals Maui’s winter season blends oceanfront calm with marquee events. In early November, the Maui's prime shoreline real estate underscores the appeal of being close to the action. Keawakapu Beachfront Estate spans 7,244 square feet, while residences at Wailea Beach Villas often range from roughly 1,900 to over 3,000 square feet. Communities like Moana Estates in South Kihei place owners near beach parks and local amenities. On the island's northwest coast, Kapalua offers resort living steps from championship golf. San Diego winter by the beach San Diego luxury homes position you steps from bayside lights and coastal celebrations. To keep evenings social and relaxed after a full day at the parks, prioritize outdoor living, bay access and multiple decks. Kiawah Island celebrations and coastal comfort Kiawah Island’s holiday calendar pairs Lowcountry charm with festive energy. Seasonal happenings include a Jingle Bell Brunch Buffet on December 24, a Holiday Sporting Clays Tournament from December 26 to 30, and a New Year’s Eve Bash on December 31 at the River Course. Many cultural events also unfold nearby in Charleston, roughly a 40-minute drive, including the For winter getaways to your luxury beach home, look for spacious gathering areas, pools for warm afternoons and quick access to Charleston's venues. Why co-ownership fits winter on the coast Pacaso co-ownership aligns with how many owners use their beach homes in the winter. Plan your winter retreat Set your calendar around the experiences you want most, and let your home do the rest. Explore winter-ready Pacaso listings in

Buying a second home for romantic getaways Couples trips feel different when you have a place that is truly yours. If you are thinking about buying a second home, consider destinations that set the tone for connection and ease. Napa brings vineyard views and candlelit dinners, Maui offers warm water and pastel sunsets, Aspen delivers alpine charm, and Kiawah Island pairs wide beaches with quiet mornings. Pacaso co-ownership gives you access to a beautifully designed home in sought-after locations, so the weekend you want is always within reach. Napa for wine country romance Napa rewards an unhurried pace. Start with a late brunch, wander through tasting rooms, and end with a private soak under the stars. Many Napa vacation homes make outdoor living the focus, with dining terraces, fire features and space to open a favorite bottle after a day among the vines. For an intimate Napa home base, consider Maui for oceanfront seclusion Maui luxury homes put you close to sunrise swims, coastal drives and quiet dinners on the lanai. Wailea and Kapalua offer sheltered coves and golden sand, while upcountry drives lead to cool breezes and sweeping vistas. For two-person retreats, look for a private lanai, direct beach access or a calm neighborhood with easy paths to the shoreline. Settle into Lani, where indoor outdoor flow leads to a private yard at dusk and sweeping coastal scenery. It is a soothing spot to slow down after beach days. Explore Aspen for alpine romance Aspen luxury homes balance mountain energy with quiet interiors. Whether you prefer a bluebird ski day or a summer hike to a creekside picnic, the town’s walkable core and fine dining make date nights simple. Seek views of Shadow Mountain or a private hot tub to turn a crisp evening into a memorable night for two. Set in Aspen, Kiawah Island for coastal calm Wide beaches, winding bike paths and quiet mornings define Kiawah Island vacation homes. Days here move easily from a beach walk to poolside reading, with time left for an oyster bar dinner and a twilight ride along the lagoon’s edge. Look for outdoor lounges and quick paths to the sand for a smooth, two-person rhythm. How buying a second home elevates your time together The right home turns quick trips into a ritual. By buying a second home, you gain a ready-to-enjoy setting with design, location and comforts dialed in. Pacaso’s co-ownership model gives you a refined home in a world-class market without the full-time hassle, so more of your energy goes to shared experiences. If you love regular wine country weekends, powder days or beach escapes, buying a second home through Pacaso means the drive or flight ends at a front door that already feels familiar. Start your couples escape with Pacaso Choose the setting that fits your style, then explore Pacaso listings to make it yours. Browse