Everything You Need to Pack for a Beach Vacation

Outwear for Cooler Spots:

• Warm Jacket for Haleakala: Planning to catch that breathtaking sunrise at Haleakala National Park? Just a heads up—it can get pretty chilly! The temperature drops about 3 degrees for every 1,000 feet, and since Haleakala is at 10,023 feet, it could be around 30 degrees colder than what you’re used to at the beach! Got enough room in your bag? Toss in a scarf or some gloves to keep cozy!
• Light Layers: Pack a sweater or light jacket for dining outdoors from December to April, as the ocean breeze can get chilly once the sun sets. Even in summer, a light layer comes in handy for air-conditioned restaurants.

Footwear Must-Haves:

• Sneakers: Wear these on the plane to save space and keep warm on those chilly flights. After days of flip-flops, your feet will appreciate the support for longer walks or casual hikes. Plus, you’ll be thankful you have them when you spot the pickleball courts if you’re staying at Makena Surf C-107!
• Flip-Flops: Perfect for beach days, casual outings, and evening strolls. For extra support, try OluKai sandals.
• Teva Type Sandals: Great for beach hikes and snorkeling spots like Honolua Bay. Water-friendly and sturdy, they’re ideal for navigating Maui’s trails or lava fields.
• Shoes for Dinner: Maui’s casual vibe extends to dinner—relaxed strappy sandals or comfy loafers are perfect. And yes, flip-flops are welcome in most places!

What Clothing to Pack

• Swimsuits: Maui can be pretty humid, so pack a few bathing suits to switch up while the others dry. Beach adventures can get sand in your suit, and darker colors do a better job of hiding it. If you have a favorite suit, save it for lounging by the pool!
• Light, Breezy Clothing: Breathable fabrics like cotton and linen are perfect for Maui’s warm, laid-back vibe. Leave formal clothes and heels at home!
• Dinner Outfits: Maui’s evening vibe calls for relaxed yet stylish looks. For women, think flowy sundresses, strappy sandals, and a cute straw bag. Men, go for lightweight button-ups or comfy T-shirts paired with nice shorts. And for that true Hawaiian touch, a Reyn Spooner shirt never fails!

Lara and Dennis Pro Tip: Planning a special dinner? Check the restaurant’s Instagram tagged photos to get a sense of the dress code. Explore our favorite places here.

What to Bring in the Winter vs. Summer Months in Maui

Maui’s tropical climate is warm year-round, but there are seasonal differences to consider:

• Summer (April-October): Expect warm, sunny days with a high UV index. Lightweight clothing, extra reef-safe sunscreen, sun hats, and swimwear are must-haves. You may want a light sweater for air-conditioned restaurants, but otherwise, focus on breathable, casual attire.
• Winter (November-March): While it’s still warm, Maui sees occasional rain and cooler evenings. Pack a light jacket or hoodie for evenings, especially when dining outdoors or planning a sunset cruise. Winter is also whale-watching season, so choose a hat with a strap. The boats move quickly, and you don’t want your new favorite hat flying off into Maui’s waters!

Items You Didn’t Know You Needed for Maui

• Reusable Shopping Bags & Insulated Cooler Bag: Handy for groceries, and you may also want to bring a cooler bag. It can keep your snacks and drinks cold for your trip to the beach.
• Portable Charger & Waterproof Phone Case: A portable charger keeps your phone ready for sunset photos, and a waterproof phone case protects your phone on beach days. Better yet, choose one that is made for going underwater to capture your snorkel adventures!
• First-Aid Kit & Tweezers: Coral scrapes happen! A small kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers will be a lifesaver for any minor mishaps.
• Travel-Size Laundry Detergent: For quick sink washes after sandy beach days. If you’re staying at our condo, laundry essentials are already provided!
• Bug Spray & Anti-Itch Cream: Essential around waterfalls and rainforests to keep pesky bites at bay.
• Mini Flashlight or Headlamp: If you’re venturing out for early morning hikes, a flashlight is handy when the trails are dark.
• Seasickness Meds: Stay steady on sunset cruises or whale-watching tours with Dramamine or motion sickness bands. 

Kid-Friendly Essentials for Your Maui Adventure

• Foldable Baby Tent: Keep your newborn shaded, safe, and comfortable with a pop-up baby tent offering UPF 50+ protection and a mosquito net. These lightweight tents are perfect for naps long days in the sun. You can either bring one along, like this convenient option, or pick one up after you land.
• Foldable Scooter: If you’ve got the space in your suitcase, bring a compact scooter to save those little legs during walks to restaurants or along the beach. Trust us you’ll be so glad you won’t have to hear, “How much farther? My legs hurt!”
• Swim Gear & Beach Toys: Many condos provide sand toys, but if not, stores around Maui have affordable options. Grab swim goggles, too—they’ll love seeing underwater!
• Plan a Target or Walmart Stop: Located 10 minutes from the Kahului airport, Target or Walmart are great for picking up snacks, drinks, diapers, and swim essentials, so you’re stocked for the week.
• Baby Powder or Cornstarch: Sprinkle some on after the beach to easily brush off dry sand from little legs and feet—saves time and fuss!

What to Pack for Kids on the Long-Haul Flight:

Long flights can be tough for kids, so a mix of activities, snacks, and comforts makes all the difference. Variety keeps them engaged and happy, making the journey smoother for everyone!

• Window Clings: Perfect for keeping toddler hands busy if you have a window seat.
• iPad & Headphones: Fully charged with a backup power bank.
• Activity Books & Coloring Pages: Add washable markers for mess-free fun.
• Snacks (LOTS!): Variety is key—think of multiple types, kinds, and flavors for longer attention. Also, did we say lots of snacks? 
• Surprise Eggs: Fun to unwrap and keeps your kiddos occupied.
• Magnetic Games: Prevents lost pieces on the plane.
• Play-Dough: Small sets are perfect for travel.
• Inflatable Footrest: Creates a comfy bed for napping. Find one here.
• Favorite Stuffed Animal: For comfort and better sleep on board.

Lara and Dennis Pro Tip: The return flight home can be chilly, so pack a cozy hoodie and warm socks for your little ones.

What to Leave Behind When Staying at Makena Surf C-107

Packing just got easier! When you stay with us, we’ve got all your beach essentials covered.

• Beach Gear: We provide 8 beach towels, 2 coolers, a beach wagon, 6 beach chairs, and 4 umbrellas—everything you need for those fun beach days.
  Sporting Equipment: Our resort has pickleball paddles and tennis racquets ready for you.
• For Families: We’ve got you covered with a high chair and a Pak n Play for your little ones.
• Hairdryer: No need to pack one; each bathroom comes with a hairdryer.
  By staying with us, you’ll have everything you need to fully enjoy Maui’s stunning beaches and activities, leaving more room in your bags for souvenirs and less stress about what to bring!

Traveling to Maui from Canada?

If you’re visiting Maui from Canada, don’t miss our Canadian Traveler’s Guide to Maui, with essential travel tips and local resources to make your trip smoother.

Embrace the Aloha Spirit

When you land, remember to take a breath and enjoy the slower pace. Maui has a way of welcoming you to relax, go with the flow, and live with “aloha”—a Hawaiian philosophy of love, peace, and respect. If you forget something, chances are you’ll find what you need on the island or realize you didn’t need it after all.

Enjoy a beach-front property with all the essentials of travel covered. Book Makena Surf-C-107 today.