Hey fam 👋 If you’ve been following me for a while, you already know Maui has a special place in my heart. I’ve been back and forth to the island more times than I can count, and every single trip teaches me something new.
The beaches? Unreal.
The sunsets? Basically therapy.
But the logistics? They can get tricky if you’re not prepared.
So I wanted to share a few of my must-know tips—especially if you’re planning your first or second trip to Maui—to make sure your beach days are smooth, fun, and actually relaxing (instead of chaotic and sweaty, like my first time 😅).
Don’t Wing It on Beach Gear
Let’s get this one out of the way: DO NOT wait until you land to start thinking about beach chairs, umbrellas, or snorkel gear. Trust me.
The first time I went, I was all, “Oh, I’ll just grab some stuff at the resort or stop by a shop.” Rookie move. Not only was everything overpriced, but most of it was either cheap quality or totally picked over. I ended up with a broken beach chair and a sunburn because I couldn’t find an umbrella anywhere on the island that week. 🙃
Now, I always pre-book with a local company that does Maui beach gear rentals and Maui beach equipment rentals. They’ll literally deliver everything you need right to your hotel, Airbnb, or even to the beach itself. Game. Changer.
I usually get:
- 2 reclining beach chairs
- 1 oversized beach umbrella
- A cooler (essential for drinks + snacks)
- And sometimes a little beach cart to haul it all
The best part? They come pick it all up when you’re done. No stress. No mess.
Snorkel Gear: Don’t Go Cheap on This
Okay, let’s talk snorkel gear.
I used to rent the cheap plastic stuff at random kiosks—and wondered why my mask leaked every time I tried to breathe 😩.
If you’re even thinking about snorkeling (and you should—it’s unreal in Maui), go with a legit snorkel rental in Maui from a company that actually specializes in good gear. Like, anti-fog masks, dry snorkels, and fins that actually fit. Bonus points if they deliver it to you and let you rent for the whole week.
My favorite snorkel spots:
- Honolua Bay (go early, it gets busy)
- Black Rock in Ka’anapali
- Ahihi-Kinau Reserve (seriously magical)
Bring a GoPro if you’ve got one—you’ll thank me later.
Boogie Boards = Instant Fun (But Only if They’re the Right Size)
If you’re bringing kids, teens, or honestly just want to feel like a kid again, grab a boogie board rental in Maui. But don’t just grab one from a gift shop that sells sunscreen and ukuleles. The ones they sell are often too thin and snap real quick in stronger waves.
A solid local rental shop will have better boards that actually float you—and won’t fold in half if the surf gets spicy 🌊
Best beaches for boogie boarding:
- DT Fleming Beach (Northwest side, great waves)
- Kamaole III (family-friendly, South Maui)
- Napili Bay (calmer but still fun for smaller rides)
Food Delivery in Maui Is a Life-Saver
Hear me out: after a long day in the sun, the last thing you want to do is get dressed and wait in line for dinner. Especially if you’ve got kids, friends, or hangry people in your crew.
I started using food delivery in Maui from small, local services (not just the big apps), and it’s honestly the move. You can grab sandwiches, fresh fruit, Hawaiian plates—delivered right to your hotel or even the beach. Major chill vibes.
Early Mornings Win
This one’s for my “I’ll sleep in on vacation” crew: don’t.
Maui mornings are magic. The light is perfect. The beaches are empty. The wind hasn’t picked up yet. And you’ll actually find parking at places like Makena or Kapalua.
Get up at 6:30 or 7, grab your pre-packed beach gear, and head out before the crowds. Trust me—you’ll nap harder later.
Support Local, Always
Some of the best experiences I’ve had in Maui didn’t come from big tourist companies. They came from small, locally owned businesses—people who live there, love the island, and want to make your trip unforgettable.
So when you’re booking your Maui beach equipment rentals, snorkel gear, boogie boards, or even food delivery, look for those independent businesses. You’ll get better service, better prices, and the good karma of keeping your dollars on the island
Final Thoughts
Every time I go back to Maui, I try to do a little less—and enjoy it more. That’s the secret, I think. Prep what matters (gear, food, and timing), then let the island take care of the rest.
So if you’re planning your trip soon, remember:
✅ Book your beach chair rentals in Maui ahead of time
✅ Get real snorkel rental gear
✅ Don’t cheap out on your boogie board rental
✅ Use local food delivery in Maui
✅ Get up early and claim your spot
You’ll thank me later. Or better yet, tag me in your beach pics 🌺
#MauiVibes #TravelSmarter #IslandLife