As part of my decision to travel somewhere every month, I went with three girlfriends for a week on the Island of Maui, Hawaii, in late January. These are the photos and tales of my Hawaiian island adventures—and my budget-friendly Maui food recommendations. Let me introduce you to my maui hawaii travel tips!
Despite the abundance of incredible fresh produce, food in Maui can be expensive. Many products have to trek a long way to get to the islands, making non-local items pricey both in dollars and in environmental cost. Hell-bent on enjoying an affordable Maui vacation, my friends and I scoured blogs, relied on friends’ travel tips, and turned to Yelp! to find the best cheap eats on the island. These are my favorite restaurants, coffee shops, fruit stands, DIY cheats, and other budget-friendly Maui travel tips that will help you feed yourself well for under $20 a day while experiencing all that Maui has to offer.
THE BIG CITY: Food Around Kihei, Maui Travel Guide
Eskimo Candy Inc.
2665 Wai Wai Pl, Kihei, HI 96753, USA
This little neighborhood favorite looks like the home of a particularly tacky middle-aged fisherman, but don’t let that fool you. Eskimo Candy serves freshly caught local fish to go. Tucked alongside garages and garden centers, this no-frills spot in South Maui became a gem once we timed our visit right. The tuna-and-salmon mixed poké bowl, topped with spicy mayo and seaweed salad, was some of the best poké I’ve ever had—under $10 and bursting with Hawaiian flavors. When you visit Maui, don't miss out on this cheap, local treasure.
808 Grindz Cafe
225 Piikea Ave, Kihei, HI 96753, USA
Stumbling across 808 Grindz Cafe on our first morning in Maui was pure luck. This unassuming spot in a strip mall serves up an incredible seafood omelette packed with fresh crab meat. Paired with perfectly seasoned potatoes, this breakfast cost around $10 and was completely gluten-free. If you’re planning a trip to Maui, this is the type of budget-friendly, hearty breakfast that will fuel your adventures, from whale watching in Lahaina to hiking the West Maui Mountains.
Akamai Coffee
1325 S Kihei Rd Suite 100, Kihei, HI 96753, USA
If you’re visiting Maui and looking for a place to relax and sip on a good cup of coffee, Akamai Coffee is a must. This #instaworthy spot offers fresh, fruity cold brew and is the perfect spot to recharge after snorkeling at Molokini or hiking Haleakala. While in South Maui, we spent a relaxing afternoon here, enjoying the hipster vibes and local brew. It's a great place to catch your breath between Maui snorkel trips or after exploring the island’s beaches.
Surfing Goat Dairy
3651 Omaopio Rd, Kula, HI 96790, USA
Located in Upcountry Maui, Surfing Goat Dairy is an affordable treat for those wanting to experience farm tours on the island. The goats here don’t surf, but they’re as cute as can be. Try the goat cheese flight, and if you’re planning a trip to Maui, consider bringing some back as a souvenir (if you have checked luggage). This is one of those local gems you’ll find off the beaten path, far from the tourist-heavy areas of West Maui.
THE SCENIC ROUTE: Food on the Road to Hana in East Maui
Braddah Hutts
5305 Hana Hwy, Hana, HI 96713, USA
Food trucks are common on the famous Road to Hana, but Braddah Hutts does tacos like no one else. The sauces were mouthwatering, and the flavors hit just right after a long drive along the scenic coast. It’s one of the best places to stop on your way to explore Maui’s lush East Maui landscapes, offering tasty food at an unbeatable price.
Hana Harvest
800 Hana Hwy, Hana, HI 96713, USA
Along the Road to Hana, Hana Harvest offers a charming fairy-light-strewn backyard for guests to enjoy local Hawaiian treats. The food is pricier, but entirely sourced from the island of Maui. If you’re looking for the best place to relax after visiting waterfalls or hiking trails, this is a must. Treat yourself to their affogato—it’s a slice of heaven on the Valley Isle.
Fruit Stands
As you drive the Road to Hana, you’ll come across countless fruit stands along the way. From citrus to avocados, these local offerings are on the honor system. Be sure to stop and grab some fresh snacks for your Maui trip, but pay with aloha! This is one of the best Maui travel tips I can offer: supporting local families while experiencing fresh, seasonal produce is a win-win.
STOCKING UP Maui Travel Tips: How to Feed Yourself Anywhere on the Island
CostCo
540 Haleakala Hwy, Kahului, HI 96732, USA
One of the biggest Maui travel tips for budget-conscious visitors on their trip to Hawaii is to head to CostCo near Kahului Airport. Stock up on local fish, affordable meat, and liquor to make the most of your stay. Whether you’re staying in West Maui or exploring the Haleakala National Park area, having a cooler filled with budget-friendly food will help you survive on less than $20 a day.
Times Supermarket
1310 S Kihei Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, USA
Times Supermarket in Kihei is a solid option for those looking to try Hawaiian poke on their hawaii vacation without the high prices of restaurants. The poke bar offers diverse preparations and a chance to sample local fish. Before heading out to explore Wailea, grab a quick meal or plan your next beach day trip to Big Beach in South Maui.
For more of more Hawaii, Maui travel tips and guides and Things to Do on Maui:
Read about my Maui day one, a day filled with avocado and passionfruit tuna carpaccio. On day two, we were surprised by the perfect cup of Maui estate coffee - truly a unique experience. For more hawaii tips, tricks, and adventures, read about day three, day four, and the final day of my wonderful trip!
More North American Adventures
Though quite a far flight away, if you find yourself in Quebec, Canada, looking for a wonderful day trip, indulge in the Montreal cider route! Or check out the scariest haunted houses across America.
