There’s never been a doubt in our minds but now it’s official: Maui has been named one of National Geographic’s Best of the World 2026 destinations! The annual list celebrates 25 of the most awe-inspiring and meaningful places on Earth. As MauiNow reports, Maui earned its place thanks to its stunning red, white, and black sand beaches, its incredible Haleakalā Volcano, and its deep cultural and natural diversity that makes every visit unforgettable.
According to National Geographic’s announcement, Maui was recognized as “a beautiful example of the diversity of our world that travelers should visit in a sustainable way so it can be enjoyed for decades to come.” That balance between preservation and pleasure is exactly what makes Maui so special. Visitors can explore breathtaking natural landscapes while also supporting local communities and traditions that have thrived here for generations.
As National Geographic writer Meghan Miner Murray beautifully describes, “Self-reliant and self-assured, rural-chic Maui packs dreamy surfer seascapes, untamed jungles, rugged locavore farms, and world-class creature comforts into its 728 square miles. This is so much more than a beach vacation.” Whether you’re swimming beneath cascading waterfalls, kayaking alongside humpback whales, hiking through lush valleys, or learning the art of authentic hula, Maui offers experiences that go far beyond the typical tropical escape.
From the vibrant upcountry where Hawaiian cowboys still keep traditions alive, to the island’s thriving food scene filled with farm-to-table eateries and fresh papaya bowls in sleepy surf towns, Maui embodies the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and comfort. It’s a place where you can start your morning snorkeling with sea turtles, spend your afternoon exploring artisan markets, and end your day watching the sun melt into the Pacific… all in one unforgettable day.
At Napili Point Resort Rentals, we see this magic every day. Our guests experience Maui’s beauty from oceanfront lanais overlooking Honokeana Bay, where dolphins play and rainbows stretch across the sky. Maui isn’t just a destination, it’s a feeling, a way of life, and a reminder to slow down and embrace the world’s natural wonders with aloha.
So here’s to Maui—recognized by National Geographic as one of the Best of the World, and forever the best in our hearts.
Read more on National Geographic and MauiNow.
