Why Staying at a Hostel Is the Best Way to Experience Maui
What’s a hostel?
A hostel is a budget-friendly accommodation that offers travelers a more social, authentic, and fun experience than a traditional hotel. Most hostels have a mix of shared dorms and private rooms, along with common spaces and kitchens where guests can socialize, relax, and cook. Whether you're traveling solo, with friends, or as a couple, staying at a hostel is a great way to save money, make new connections, and experience your destination with fellow travelers.
Hostels Save money.
Maui has the most expensive hotel rates and rental car rates in Hawaii. Hostels offer an affordable alternative, with dorm beds starting at around $40 per night. They also include tons of amenities like complimentary breakfast, fully equipped kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and common areas where travelers can relax and connect. Having access to a kitchen also makes it easy to prepare your own meals instead of eating out for every breakfast, lunch, and dinner, helping you save hundreds of dollars over the course of your trip. In addition, the social aspect of hostels makes it easy to find people to carpool with, meaning you can save on renting a car.
Free Daily Activities.
A Road to Hana tour can run you over $300. Hostels like the Banana Bungalow offer complementary tours for their guests each day, including the Road to Hana and Haleakala National Park. You can experience the highlights of Maui, without needing to plan your own outings or rent a car. Instead, you can sign up for a free tour and go on an adventure with interesting people from around the world.
Views from our Road to Hana Tour
4. Local Knowledge You Can't Get at a Resort
Instead of generic concierge advice, guests can get recommendations from travelers who actually live on Maui. Hostel staff members tend to be adventurous backpackers themselves, and are excited to share their favorite beaches and hikes. You can count on hostel staff-members to point you in the direction of the best restaurants and off-the-beaten path adventures.
5. The Best Place for Solo Travelers
Travelers aren’t just looking to sight-see, they’re looking to make lifelong connections with people from around the world. Hostels make this easy, by offering daily group activities and hosting evening parties. The large, comfortable common areas make it easy to mingle with fellow travelers. Hostels aren’t just a place to sleep, they’re an experience.