Brewery and Beach Cruise in a Vintage VW Bus

Brewery and Beach Cruise in a Vintage VW Bus: A Quirky Maui Adventure

If you’re looking to combine a scenic Maui experience with a touch of nostalgia, the Brewery and Beach Cruise in a Vintage VW Bus might just be your cup of Kona coffee. For $179, this roughly 3-hour tour takes you through South Maui’s stunning coastlines, a visit to Maui Brewing Co., and a peaceful stop at the Secret Beach — all in an eye-catching, restored vintage Volkswagen van.

What we really love about this tour is the personalized vibe it offers. The vintage VW buses are charming and nostalgic, making for some memorable photos, and the stop at Maui Brewing Co. delivers both good food and local craft beers in a lively atmosphere. The secluded secret beach provides a peaceful retreat with beautiful photo opportunities.

One possible drawback? The tour’s duration of around three hours might feel a bit rushed if you’re keen on exploring Maui at a more leisurely pace. Also, alcoholic beverages aren’t included, so if you’re hoping for tastings, you’ll need to budget accordingly.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy quirky, small-group outings, love local food and craft beer, and want a fun, scenic ride rather than a full-day adventure. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate authentic, off-the-beaten-path moments and photo-worthy scenery.

Key Points

• Unique Vintage Transportation: Travel in restored Volkswagen buses that add charm and fun to your Maui experience.
• Flavorful Food and Drinks: Enjoy a delicious lunch with options accommodating dietary restrictions, paired with local beer flights at Maui Brewing Co.
• Stunning Natural Beauty: Relax at the Secret Beach, a tranquil spot perfect for photos and quiet reflection.
• Balanced Itinerary: Combines scenic drives, great food, and peaceful beach time in a compact 3-hour tour.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Flexible Cancellation Policy: Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, offering peace of mind.

If you’re visiting Maui and craving a combination of local flavor, scenic beauty, and a splash of nostalgia, this tour could be a real highlight. You’ll start your adventure at The Shops at Wailea, where your friendly guide greets you and provides an overview of what’s ahead. From there, the journey begins in a restored vintage VW bus, setting the tone for a relaxed, fun ride through some of South Maui’s most appealing spots.

The Vintage VW Bus Experience

Traveling in these classic buses is a big part of the charm. They’re not just transportation; they’re conversation starters and photo props. As we moved along, we loved the way the open-air feel of the bus allowed us to soak in Maui’s warm breeze and the scenic views. The driver, who is often noted in reviews as knowledgeable and welcoming, adds a personal touch, sharing tidbits about the island’s history and local culture.

Visiting Maui Brewing Co.

The heart of the tour is the stop at Maui Brewing Co., Hawaii’s premier brewery. Here, you get to sample a signature beer flight featuring local brews, which is a treat for anyone interested in craft beers. The brewery atmosphere is lively but relaxed, with plenty of space for cornhole and strolling around the grounds.

Lunch options are straightforward yet satisfying: a MBC Burger or Fish Tacos. The fact that dietary restrictions are taken into account is a plus, ensuring everyone can enjoy a good meal. Reviewers have mentioned the meal as “delicious” and the environment as “laid-back,” making it a perfect spot to unwind and indulge.

The Secret Beach: A Hidden Gem

After refueling, the tour heads to Pa’ako Beach (Secret Cove), a secluded stretch of sand enclosed by lava rocks and lush greenery. This spot is praised for its breathtaking scenery and tranquil ambiance. The guide will help you navigate a short walk to the beach, where you can take photos, relax, or just enjoy the peaceful surroundings. One reviewer shared, “the scenery was breathtaking,” underscoring how special this tucked-away spot is.

Because the beach is accessible via a guided walk, it feels like a genuine escape from typical tourist spots, making it a favorite among those who like authentic, quiet natural spaces.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides snacks like Maui Chips, a lunch with options for various diets, and bottled water. However, alcoholic beverages are not included, so if you’re a beer enthusiast, you might want to purchase additional tastings at Maui Brewing Co. or bring your own.

Practical Details and Group Size

With a maximum of 10 travelers, the tour remains intimate, allowing for personalized interactions — an advantage over larger, more generic tours. The meeting point at Wailea is easy to access, and the tour is designed to be about three hours, including travel time, which makes it manageable even for those with tight schedules.

Authentic Moments and Genuine Reviews

One traveler shared, “We had an amazing time on the Brewery & Beach Cruise. Our driver Jay made us feel welcome from the moment he arrived,” highlighting the friendly, knowledgeable guides. The restored VW buses are kept in pristine condition, adding a nostalgic charm that many travelers appreciate.

In terms of value, the tour balances the cost with memorable experiences — beautiful scenery, good food, and a chance to relax in a less crowded environment. It’s especially suited for those seeking a small-group vibe, unique transportation, and a taste of local Maui flavors.

This tour is best suited for adventurers with a sense of curiosity, those who enjoy quirky transportation, and anyone craving a relaxed yet engaging Maui outing. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who appreciate local craft beer, scenic photo ops, and quiet beaches.

It’s less ideal for travelers looking for a full-day adventure or those seeking intense sightseeing—this experience emphasizes comfort, authenticity, and a touch of fun in a limited timeframe.

The Brewery and Beach Cruise in a Vintage VW Bus offers a charming slice of Maui in a small-group setting. The combination of nostalgic transportation, delicious local food, and hidden natural beauty makes it an appealing choice for those wanting to blend scenic drives with relaxed, authentic experiences.

While it might feel a bit quick for some, the tour’s focus on personalized service and unique stops ensures you’ll leave with memorable photos and stories to tell. It’s a great way to add a touch of vintage charm to your Maui trip, especially if you’re a fan of craft beer and peaceful beaches.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, including families, especially those who enjoy small-group outings and scenic rides. However, keep in mind the walking involved at the Secret Beach.

How long does the tour last?
The total duration is approximately three hours, including travel time, making it manageable for most schedules.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated during lunch?
Yes, the tour staff happily accommodate dietary restrictions for the lunch options, which include the MBC Burger and Fish Tacos.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring your camera for photos, sunscreen, and a hat for sunny weather. Since alcoholic beverages aren’t included, you might want to bring some if you’re interested in tastings at the brewery.

Is transportation in the vintage VW bus comfortable?
Yes, although the buses are vintage, they are restored and maintained well, providing a fun, nostalgic ride rather than a formal transportation service.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

In the end, this tour offers a charming way to see Maui in a relaxed, fun setting — perfect for those who enjoy good food, craft beer, and scenic quiet beaches, all wrapped in vintage style.