We're supporting hosts and travelers during COVID-19. Learn More

family vacations Hot Deals Resorts Travel

Beyond the Beach: 72 Hours of Hidden Gems in Maui & St Maarten

When most travelers picture Maui and St. Maarten, they imagine sun-soaked beaches, turquoise water, and not much else on the agenda. And honestly? That’s a perfectly respectable plan. But if you’ve got 72 hours and a curious streak, both islands reward travelers who wander just a little beyond the shoreline.

KOALA - Jan 30, 2026

Whether you’re settling into a stay at Hilton Vacation Club Ka‘anapali or Hilton Vacation Club Flamingo Beach St. Maarten, these easy-to-reach hidden gems turn a great beach getaway into a truly memorable island experience—no overplanning required.

Maui: 72 Hours Beyond the Shore

Day 1: Upcountry Calm & Coastal Curiosity

Start your Maui stay by heading inland. Upcountry Maui offers cooler air, rolling hills, and a slower pace that feels worlds away from the coast. Visit a local farm or botanical garden, where you can sample fresh fruit and learn how Maui’s fertile volcanic soil shapes its food culture.

Later, ease into the afternoon with a walk along a lesser-known coastal trail. These quieter paths deliver dramatic ocean views without the crowds—and remind you that Maui’s beauty doesn’t need a spotlight.

Day 2: Waterfalls, History & Local Plates

Maui’s famous road trips often steal the show, but tucked-away waterfalls and historic towns provide just as much magic with less windshield time. Explore a small heritage site or museum to learn how Native Hawaiian culture and plantation history shaped the island you see today.

When hunger strikes, skip the resort buffet for one meal and seek out a locally owned spot. Maui’s food scene thrives on fresh ingredients and unfussy flavors—proof that sometimes the best meals come with plastic chairs and unforgettable stories.

Day 3: Sunrise Stillness & Ocean Reset

Rise early on your final day and chase a quiet sunrise from a lookout or scenic overlook. It’s a moment that feels both grounding and expansive—the kind travelers remember long after the tan fades.

Back near Ka‘anapali, wind down with a final ocean dip or paddle session before returning to your stay. At Hilton Vacation Club Ka‘anapali, having space to relax, recharge, and spread out makes those last hours feel unhurried—exactly how Maui should.

Resort Spotlight: Hilton Vacation Club Ka’anapali Beach

St. Maarten: 72 Hours of Island Contrast

Day 1: Dutch Charm Meets Caribbean Color

St. Maarten’s dual personality is part of its magic. Begin on the Dutch side with a stroll through Philipsburg, where pastel buildings, historic forts, and waterfront boardwalks create an easygoing introduction to the island.

From there, duck into smaller neighborhoods where local shops and cafés reveal everyday island life. Staying at Hilton Vacation Club Flamingo Beach St. Maarten puts you close to it all, without sacrificing peace and privacy when the day winds down.

Day 2: Hidden Beaches & Cultural Flavor

Yes, St. Maarten has famous beaches—but the quieter coves are where the island really shines. Ask a local for a recommendation and you’ll likely end up at a sandy stretch where the soundtrack is waves and laughter, not jet skis.

In the afternoon, head to the French side for a dose of culture and cuisine. A casual bakery stop or open-air market visit offers a delicious reminder of why this island is known for its food scene.

Day 3: Hilltop Views & Saltwater Calm

Wrap up your stay with a scenic drive to a hilltop viewpoint. From above, you’ll see just how compact—and wildly beautiful—this island really is. Spend your final hours floating in calm water or relaxing back at your stay. With room to unwind and space for everyone, timeshare-style stays make it easy to savor the final moments instead of packing in a rush.

Resort Spotlight: Hilton Vacation Club Flamingo Beach St. Maarten

Why Stay-Sharing Makes the Difference

Exploring beyond the beach is easier when your stay works for you. At KOALA, we believe travel should feel flexible, comfortable, and refreshingly human. Our stay-sharing marketplace connects travelers with high-quality timeshare stays – like Hilton Vacation Club Ka‘anapali and Hilton Vacation Club Flamingo Beach St. Maarten – so you can enjoy resort-level amenities without paying resort-level prices.

More room. More freedom. More island stories worth telling.

Because the best vacations don’t just happen on the sand – they happen everywhere you’re willing to wander.

See all Hot Deals

Join the World’s Fastest Growing Community of

Timeshare Owners and Vacationers!

Join For Free
Resort stays up to 70% off? That’s something to chew on! Subscribe now for exclusive deals straight to your inbox

*KOALA will never sell or share your email address.