US · beach
Maui, Hawaii
United States
Whales, waterfalls, Road to Hana — Pacific paradise within the US
Mild year-round (70-85°F). Best Apr-May and Sept-Oct (less rain, fewer crowds). Winter rainy on north shore but warmest US escape.
When to visit
Award flights from the US
Economy
Alaska Mileage Plan
+ $30 taxes
Alaska miles, JFK-OGG via SEA — best US-Hawaii sweet spot
American AAdvantage
+ $30 taxes
AA economy via LAX or DFW
Business / First
American AAdvantage
+ $60 taxes
AA business via DFW or LAX (Hawaiian/JAL partner)
Alaska Mileage Plan
+ $50 taxes
Alaska partner award via SEA
Cash equivalent: economy ~$700 · business ~$2,500 roundtrip from NYC
Award hotels
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
Hyatt
Cat 7 peak; off-peak 35K. Hyatt flagship in Hawaii.
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa
Hyatt
Cat 5 — large family resort with pools and waterslides.
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Marriott Bonvoy
Dynamic, off-peak 70K. Northern Maui golf resort.
What to see & do
Road to Hana
64-mile coastal drive with waterfalls, beaches, and rainforest. Allow a full day; rental car required.
Haleakalā Sunrise
Watch sunrise above the clouds from 10,000 ft volcano summit. Reservations required.
Snorkeling at Molokini Crater
Half-day boat trips to crescent-shaped marine reserve — turtles and tropical fish.
Lahaina Town
Historic whaling town with galleries and oceanfront dining. Recovery ongoing after 2023 fires.
Iao Valley State Park
Lush valley with iconic 1,200-ft Iao Needle. Short hikes, great photos.
Mama's Fish House
Legendary Pacific Rim seafood right on Kuau Cove. Book months in advance.
Monthly weather
Best cards for this trip
Open World of Hyatt (60K bonus + free Cat 1-4 night cert) + Chase Sapphire Preferred (75K UR transfers to Hyatt + flights). Covers RT flight + 3-4 hotel nights at Andaz Maui.
Plan your Maui, Hawaii trip
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