Essential Tips to Start a Stress-Free Maui Vacation

Congratulations, you’re almost in Maui! Before your feet even touch the sand, there are a few things you can do to make your arrival stress-free and smooth. For a truly stress-free Maui vacation, it’s all about convenience and keeping everyone fed on time and on a predictable routine. These tips will help you navigate your first hours on island and ensure your time and energy is spent settling in, not darting around to half a dozen different places to get what you need for your stay.

1. Order Groceries from Whole Foods in Kahului

One of the easiest ways to save time and money is by pre-ordering groceries from Whole Foods in Kahului. Located just minutes from the airport (OGG), it’s the perfect pit stop to grab all your essentials before heading to your accommodation. While many people opt for Safeway in Kihei, Whole Foods offers much cheaper options on many items, especially organic produce. It can get chaotic in there, especially in the afternoon. Spare yourself the hassle! You can place an order days ahead of your trip, so everything will be ready for pick up when you land. This will greatly contribute to a stress-free Maui vacation.

2. Schedule Target Curbside Pickup for Last-Minute Essentials

Forgot your sunscreen or need some quick snacks for the road? No worries! Target, also conveniently located in Kahului, offers curbside pickup. Before landing, you can place an order for reef-friendly sunscreen, toiletries, and snacks. Avoid the hassle of stopping at multiple stores and enjoy peace of mind knowing your essentials are just a quick stop away. Such plans can ensure a stress-free Maui vacation right from the start.

3. Fuel Up with Coffee at Akamai Drive-Thru

Craving a caffeine fix after a long flight? Swing by Akamai Coffee’s drive-thru, located right behind Home Depot in Kahului. It’s a local favorite and an easy stop on your way to your hotel. No need to hunt for a café in unfamiliar territory; just grab your coffee and hit the road. For Starbucks enthusiasts, you’ll find one in the Kahului baggage retrieval area. There’s a convenient location on Dairy Road that tends to be less busy for drive-through, or check the location next to Fork and Salad and Target and kill the hungry and undercaffeinated birds with one stone. Small comforts like this can be the cornerstone of a stress-free Maui vacation.

4. Order Ahead at Tin Roof

If you’re already feeling the hanger after the flight, Tin Roof in Kahului is a great place to grab a delicious, quick meal. Owned by Chef Sheldon Simeon, Tin Roof is known for its flavorful local plates. The lines can get long, so order ahead while you’re still on the plane and your food will be ready to pick up. Alternatively, download the Hopper Maui app for easy ordering from various local restaurants, so you can relax and dine wherever you are. Getting food quickly and easily will contribute significantly to a stress-free Maui vacation.

5. Schedule Costco Delivery via Instacart

If you’re staying in Kihei or Wailea, save yourself another stop by placing a Co

stco order through Instacart. You can have everything from bulk snacks to beverages delivered straight to your door. Just make sure your accommodation is within their service area before ordering. This way, you’ll have all your essentials without having to navigate the busy Costco aisles. Having deliveries like this makes for a more stress-free Maui vacation.

6. Book a Last-Minute Portrait Session!

Capture the beauty of your Maui vacation with a professional photoshoot! Before you land, visit Love and Water Photography to book a last-minute portrait session. Whether it’s a family photo on the beach or a couples’ sunset shoot, you’ll want to document these special moments.

With these easy tips, you’ll glide into your Maui vacation with everything you need—no stress! Welcome to the island!