tourist spot in maui hawaii

16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Maui

Written by Meagan Drillinger Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Meagan Drillinger explored the sights of Maui in January 2023.

Ask anyone what their favorite Hawaiian island is, and chances are they are going to say Maui. The island of Maui offers a little bit of everything of all the Hawaiian islands , all served up in a neat, impossibly gorgeous package.

Maui truly has it all: beautiful beaches , surfing, dramatic scenery, hiking, and a wonderful climate. It has volcanic desert landscapes like the Big Island , the lush, jungle-covered peaks of Kauai , the restaurants and luxury hotels of Oahu, the remote villages like Molokai , plus many other places to visit that make Maui entirely its own.

Maui is west of the Big Island of Hawaii, separated by the Alenuihaha Channel . It is the second-largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago, covering 694 square miles. Within that space are many of Hawaii's most popular landmarks, beaches, and attractions.

If you're planning your sightseeing trip to Maui, start with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Maui.

See also: Where to Stay on Maui

1. Haleakala National Park

2. experience a traditional hawaiian luau in lahaina, 3. drive or ride the road to hana, 4. visit the maui ocean center, 5. take a helicopter tour, 6. iao valley state monument, 7. lahaina and kaanapali beach, 8. scuba diving and snorkeling, 9. waianapanapa state park, 11. makena beach, 12. learn to surf with the masters, 13. visit lanai island, 14. golf in paradise, 15. stop by the nakalele blowhole, 16. walk the king's highway lava fields, where to stay on maui for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to maui.

The 10,023-foot Haleakala Volcano is, without a doubt, the symbol of the island of Maui. The now-dormant volcano covers nearly 25,000 acres and is the focal point of the national park that bears its same name. This is one of the most visited attractions on Maui, and one of the most spectacularly beautiful.

The best thing to do within the park is gaze out over the massive dormant crater. It's an otherworldly experience, to say the least, looking out across the gaping crater, whose colors span nearly every shade of the rainbow. The Martian-esque landscape has rusty reds, pale yellows, purples, and browns.

The road heading up towards the summit climbs well above the clouds, so much of the drive offers a blanket of puffy white. Many visitors come to Haleakala to see the sunrise . Haleakala translates to "House of the Rising Sun" in Hawaiian. This activity is one of the most popular on the island, so reservations are required . But even if you don't go for the sunrise show, Haleakala will take your breath away.

On the other side of the park, closer to the village of Hana, is a completely different tropical landscape. Here visitors come to explore the Seven Sacred Pools or to hike the Pipiwai Trail to the Makahika and Waimoku Waterfalls .

Birders will enjoy the short trail at Hosmer Grove , where some of the original species of Hawaiian birds are seen.

A full-day guided tour of Haleakala National Park and Central Maui is an excellent way to enjoy the area's amazing scenery while hearing about the island's history and culture from a professional guide. The tour includes hotel or resort pickup; a visit to the top of the Haleakala Crater; scenic drives; and a stop in historic Wailuku, where you can enjoy shopping at a variety of locally-owned shops.

No visit to Hawaii is complete without attending a Lūʻau, a massive feast accompanied by traditional dance and music. More than just a dinner show, luaus offer tourists the opportunity to taste authentic native foods while watching brightly adorned hula dancers tell stories through their performances.

Tourists can find luaus hosted by several of the island's major resorts, as well as the Maui Ocean Center in Wailuku. Most luaus last two to three hours and typically include all food and beverages, including plenty of vegetarian options.

The most popular place to go for a luau on Maui is the Old Lāhainā Lūʻau on the west coast of the island. It's held right on the shore. Guests can enjoy the sunset as they settle in, receiving freshly picked orchid leis to start the evening.

As the sun sets, torches are lit, and the multi-course meal begins, featuring traditional dishes made from local ingredients, including roasts cooked in an underground imu oven. Dancers take the stage with the setting sun as a backdrop and proceed to tell the story of Hawaii through dance, music, and narration.

Address: 1251 Front Street, Lāhainā, Hawaii

Hana is a remote village in one of the most thinly-populated districts in the entire state of Hawaii. Its isolated position has enabled the town to maintain an image of the Hawaii that existed before the invasion of mass tourism. It is idyllic, with lush fields and gardens, thanks to the plentiful rains characteristic of the east coasts of all the Hawaiian islands.

One of the main attractions for visitors coming to Hana is the drive to the village. The Road to Hana on the eastern Windward side of Maui starts at the town of Pa'ia and traverses rainforest with waterfalls, making it a stark contrast to the almost desert conditions found everywhere else on the coasts.

While the distance between Pa'ia and Hana is roughly 64 miles, the fact that the road follows a scenic curving coastline with single-lane bridges means that a round trip takes at least four hours of driving. It's best to allow for a full day, so you have plenty of time to stop for photos at the scenic vistas, explore the town of Hana, and check out the villages along the way.

An excellent way to see Hana Road and visit its numerous attractions is on the Small-Group Road to Hana Luxury Tour, which features a maximum of eight passengers to ensure a personalized experience. The nine-hour tour includes narration by an expert guide as you enjoy the scenic views and sites, making plenty of stops along the way for photo-ops, as well as lunch and snacks. Destinations include the village of Ke'anae, Kaumahina State Park , Ho'okipa , Waikani Falls , and the town of Hana, where you will get an exclusive tour of the Hana Tropical Gardens .

The Maui Ocean Center houses a collection of Hawaiian reef fish, corals, green turtles, and stingrays in a series of well-designed aquariums. Its most impressive exhibit is the Living Reef, home to more than 40 species of coral native to Hawaii. The reef is fed by water directly from Mā'alaea Bay and is home to a variety of fish that thrive in the reef environment.

Another highlight is the Open Ocean tank, a 750,000-gallon tank featuring a 53-foot acrylic tunnel that allows visitors to see sharks, rays, and fish up close and all around.

Other exhibits include Turtle Lagoon, where visitors can learn more about the native green sea turtles, and a whale exhibit that explains the life cycles of the humpback whales, which migrate to Hawaii from December to March. Visitors can get an in-depth look at the aquarium's operations on a behind-the-scenes tour of the facility, a tour that allows guests to watch feedings and ask the staff naturalist questions about animal care.

Other exhibits explore the relationship that early Polynesian settlers had with the sea, as well as the environmental impact that humans have had on the islands and surrounding aquatic life. The center also displays many pieces of original Hawaiian art. The store on the grounds sells a range of gifts, including original works of art of exceptional quality for the serious collector.

Address: 192 Māʻalaea Road, Wailuku, Hawaii

Experiencing the Hawaiian landscape from the air provides a unique perspective, allowing tourists to see untouched expanses and appreciate the stunning natural beauty of the islands.

This bird's-eye view truly gives visitors a new appreciation for the beauty of the lush forests and dramatic landscape of the island below. Passengers can also get glimpses of the islanders' aquatic neighbors from the sky, including pods of dolphins or migrating whales.

The West Maui and Molokai Helicopter Tour is an exclusive 45-minute adventure, which gives you the chance to see remote areas of western Maui, including the forests and waterfalls of the West Maui Mountains and the 4,000-foot cliffs on the coast of neighboring Molokai. The tour is fully narrated by the pilot.

Iao Valley lies west of Wailuku . Traditionally, Hawaiians would undertake pilgrimages to such places in honor of their gods. Today, several well-maintained paths lead from the parking area to this beautiful valley. It is a popular place to visit; however, tourists should be aware that parts of the park may be closed due to flooding and other weather-related hazards.

In the middle of the valley stands Iao Needle , a pointed lump of basalt, reaching 2,215 feet above sea level. This unique overgrown rock was apparently used as an altar in prehistoric times. A legend surrounds Iao Needle's origin. It is said that the demi-god Maui took captive an unwanted suitor, the water sprite Puukamoua, of his beautiful daughter, Iao, and wanted to kill him. But Pele, the fire goddess, ordered Maui to turn him to stone. Hence the needle.

The valley is said to be full of the ghosts of Hawaiian gods, known as manas. On the left-hand side of the path to Iao Needle is Pali Ele'ele , a dark black cliff.

The three-mile-long Kaanapali Beach is Maui's finest beach. It lies in western Maui and is part of the town of Lahaina. One of the most popular things to do at Kaanapali Beach is to watch the daily cliff-diving ceremony from Black Rock, traditionally known as Puu Kekaa. This is also where some of the island's best hotels and resorts can be found.

As a result, the area is full of activities and things to see and do, including world-class golf; a variety of restaurants; tons of shopping; and a zipline course, which affords great views of the coastline. Whalers Village is a prominent open-air shopping center with a good variety of stores and dining options. Other attractions include a whaling museum and traditional Hawaiian entertainment.

Off the shores of Maui are some of the most remarkable reefs and marine habitats, making this island a top place to visit for snorkeling and scuba diving . Tourists can find equipment rental shops near most of the top beaches, and there are several places that offer scuba lessons for those who would like to try it for the first time. As always, those venturing into the water should be aware of current conditions.

The Marine Life Conservation District of Honolua Bay , located on the northwestern end of the island, is one of the top snorkeling and diving spots. The bay, which is isolated by rocky cliffs, has calm, quiet water and is home to a wide variety of reef fish, including parrot fish, surgeon fish, wrasse, and Humuhumunukunukuapua'a (also known as the Rectangular Triggerfish). Tourists should note that there are no facilities or lifeguards at this location.

Another popular place for snorkeling and diving is Molokini , a volcanic atoll that sits just off the southern coast of Maui. Also a designated conservation district, it is a top destination for snorkeling tours due to its picturesque setting and wide variety of marine life, from rarer species of reef fish to dolphins and turtles.

The Molokini Sail and Snorkel Adventure is a good choice for those who want the option of viewing the spectacular sea life without getting wet, thanks to the glass-bottom section of the catamaran, which affords views deep under the clear water. Those who want to dive right in can spend their time in the pristine reefs or making a splash on the waterslide. The cruise includes breakfast and lunch and lasts approximately five hours.

Waianapanapa State Park is a remote area on the Hana Coast with beaches, a rugged coastline, hiking, camping facilities, and lodging options. This is a good spot to simply enjoy nature. The black lava beach at Paiola Bay in the park is worth visiting; however, those unfamiliar with the surf conditions should refrain from swimming in the strong waves.

Hiking trails can be challenging but rewarding, and the Ke Ala Loa O Maui/Piilani Trail is one of the most popular for its views of Haleakala and the Hana Coast . Other highlights include natural stone formations like arches and sea stacks, blow holes, caves, and heiau, an old temple.

In southern Maui, the coastal area of Wailea has become a top tourist destination and resort area thanks to its five gorgeous beaches and wide range of things to do. Wailea Beach is the best known and home to some of the more exclusive resorts on Maui, while Polo Beach is popular with swimmers and snorkelers and Ulua Beach Park is the perfect place for a romantic sunset walk.

Outrigger tours are very popular from Wailea Beach, as this is one of the top spots in all of Hawaii where humpback whales come to give birth during the winter months. The calm waters between Maui, Lanai, and Kaho'olawe in particular tend to have teeming populations of whales between November and May.

Wailea is also known for its championship golf courses, consisting of the Wailea Gold , Wailea Blue , and Wailea Emerald . Another top attraction is the Shops at Wailea , a shopping, dining, and entertainment complex, which will keep tourists occupied indefinitely.

Wailea is also host to both the Maui Film Festival and Whale Week festivities each February, as well as its wide selection of spas. Nearby natural attractions include the lava fields of Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve , an area also known for its snorkeling, and La Perouse Bay , which is home to the scenic Hoapili Trail .

Makena Beach, also known simply as "Big Beach," is one of the longest undeveloped beaches on the island. It sits south of Kihei in the village of Makena , a great alternative to the more crowded Wailea beaches . Tourists should be aware of beach warnings, as this beach is known for having rougher conditions at times, and should never swim here when the lifeguards are off-duty.

This is an excellent spot for a romantic stroll, and the shore affords lovely views of Kahoolawe and Molokini islands . For an even more secluded spot, couples can venture to the park's much smaller "Little Beach," which does not have lifeguards or facilities.

Makena Beach is in the Makena State Park, so parking is ample. On weekends, however, the spots do tend to fill up, so many people opt to park along the road. Just off the parking lot is a sandy pullout where food trucks like to set up shop.

Surfing is nearly synonymous with Hawaii, and no visit to Maui is complete without at least watching the local pros in action. But why just watch when there are so many skilled surfers ready to teach you how to have a tubular time yourself?

One of the top surf schools is Kaanapali Surf School, located on Ka'anapali Beach. Students have the choice of private, semi-private, and small-group lessons, with options for all skill levels. Beginners start with the basics on the beach before hitting the waves, and then head to the water for practice; experienced surfers can hone their skills with one-on-one training.

The folks over at Maui Surfer Girls are a great option for beginners, and with mostly female instructors, it's often a good fit for women trying the sport out for the first time. All group lessons are small groups; lessons are held just south of Lahaina at Ukumehame Beach Park , which is also known for being a great place to spot whales.

The island of Lanai sits nine miles off the west coast of Maui, offering tourists a combination of high-end luxury resorts and nearly untouched wilderness. It is the smallest of Hawaii's inhabited islands, and a nature-lover's paradise. While there are only about 30 miles of paved roads on Lanai, there are over 400 miles of off-roading trails perfect for exploring the lush forests.

The coastline of Lanai is about 18 miles, including several excellent beaches. The southern coast is the best place on Lanai for swimming, home to its most popular beaches. Those who want to go snorkeling or swimming should head to Hulopoe Beach Park , located in Hulopoe Bay. While in the area, be sure to hike over to admire Puu Pehe , an 80-foot rock formation that is named for a Hawaiian legend.

Polihua Beach on the northern coast isn't safe for swimming, but it's a beautiful place for sunbathing and strolling that is rarely occupied by more than a few other beachcombers.

Another great spot along the northern side of the island is Kaiolohia ( Shipwreck Beach ). The water here is also dangerous, and the specter of a massive wrecked oil tanker looms just offshore as a reminder. Visitors will also find Poiawa, or petroglyphs, on rocks near the beach and can enjoy great views of the island of Maui from here.

There are also many excellent hikes in the island's interior, including established trails at the Kanepuu Preserve and the Munro Trai near Lanai City , which leads to the highest point on the island for stunning views. Visitors will find several local places that offer guided tours, ATV and 4-Wheel-Drive rentals, as well as opportunities to go horseback riding along the trails and the beaches.

Tourists should be aware that many of the dirt roads are unmarked, and all can be subject to flooding and mud, so be sure to plan ahead and utilize a guide if unsure. The island can be accessed most easily via the Maui-Lanai Passenger Ferry, which departs from Lahaina.

Maui is home to over a dozen golf courses, several of which host international competitions and tournaments.

One of the top picks is the Plantation Course at Kapalua Bay , which hosts a PGA tournament annually. In addition to offering a challenging 7,411-yard course, it sits elevated on the West Maui Mountains, overlooking the ocean, for incredible vistas every step of the way. Also on the slopes of these mountains, golfers will love the private club at King Kamehameha , with a course that sits at an elevation of 750 feet.

Another top pick is the Bay Course at Kapalua , a par-72 course designed by Francis Duane and Arnold Palmer. It offers 6,600 yards with excellent views of the Island of Molokai and has been host to numerous professional tournaments.

The Wailea Golf Club offers three courses, with the 7,000-yard Gold Course as its most difficult and also most popular. If you are looking for something more laid-back, Ka'anapali Kai Course on the western tip of the island offers stunning views over the water.

Along the northwestern coast of Maui is one of its coolest natural attractions — the Nakalele Blowhole. At the base of a rocky hill, where the ocean meets the black volcanic rock, is a manhole-sized hole that is fed seawater through an old lava tube. The result is a natural geyser-like eruption that shoots a stream of water straight up into the air.

The blowhole is one of the most popular natural tourist attractions on Maui . The trail to the blowhole is a short one, at less than a mile, but it is a steep scramble down the hill. Be aware of the signs posted that warn you from getting too close to the blowhole. Waves can be unpredictable and have washed people away.

Standing a safe distance from the blowhole will still ensure awesome views, though. It's a quick stop along your sightseeing tour of Maui and will certainly get you a few good photo ops .

If you travel past Wailea and continue along the southeastern coast of Maui, you'll end up at La Perouse Bay, where you'll discover a section of the ancient King's Highway. Centuries ago, the trail, which originally circumnavigated the entire island, was a path to transport royalty around the island. Today it's one of the most rugged and starkly beautiful hiking trails on the island.

The trail takes travelers through the most recent lava flow on the island, which dates back to the 19th century. The path, while flat, is a bit of a clunky one, as it travels up and over the chunks of lava rock. The entire trail is exposed, too, so it can get quite hot.

Still, this is a veritable trip back in time as the path continues along the coastline for several miles, allowing you to absorb both the ancient geological history of Maui, as well as its much more recent cultural past.

All around the King's Highway are several pullouts where you can park your car and have a picnic lunch or take a dip into the crystal-clear water.

We recommend these highly rated hotels and beachfront resorts on the beautiful island of Maui:

• Montage Kapalua Bay : This luxury beachfront resort offers sublime ocean views from its guest rooms, and also offers sea-view condos with kitchens and lanais. The grounds are home to beautiful gardens, and property amenities include multiple pools with a dedicated adult-only pool, private beach space, tennis courts, and a fitness center with group classes. The resort is home to a top-rate spa and multiple restaurants; there is also a kids' club and on-site babysitting.
• Napili Kai Beach Resort : This mid-range beach resort is convenient to airports and just steps from the Kapulua Coastal Trail, offering ocean-view rooms and suites right on Kapalua Beach. This family-friendly resort has four pools, including a kids' pool where the little ones can work off their energy; guests can also enjoy on-site shopping and dining, as well as activities like shuffleboard, bocce ball, and a putting green.
• Maui Seaside Hotel : This budget hotel is near the airport in Kahului, offering rooms with views of the mountains and the beach. The hotel has an inviting pool with ocean views and plenty of lounging space and is situated next to Ho'aloha Park and the beach, with several restaurants within only a few minutes' walk.
• Volcanic Sunrise: Early birds will get the unique opportunity to watch the sunrise from atop one of the world's largest dormant volcanoes, the Haleakala Crater. The Maui Haleakala Sunrise Bike Tour brings you to the summit to witness the breathtaking reds, oranges, and yellows of the sunrise from over 10,000 feet above sea level. After riding part-way down the slope, you are then provided with bicycles and safety gear and will pedal downhill through Haleakala Ranch, Paia, and Makawao to Paia Bay Beach Park.
• Snorkeling Excursion : Tourists looking for a chance to explore two of the top snorkeling spots in Hawaii will want to take the Molokini and Turtle Arches Snorkeling Trip , a five-hour excursion from Ma'alaea Harbor on the catamaran Ocean Odyssey. The tour includes professionally fitted equipment and snorkeling instruction for those who need it, and a certified naturalist will provide details about the area's unique marine ecosystems. The tour includes stops at both Molokini and Turtle Arches, complimentary non-alcoholic beverages all day, and lunch.
• Rainforest Hike : If you would like to fully appreciate the tropical beauty of the Hana region but aren't comfortable bounding off into the forest alone, the Small Group Waterfall and Rainforest Hiking Adventure on Maui is a great option. This half-day tour offers the opportunity to explore the lush rainforests with a knowledgeable guide through the interior of eastern Maui, its most densely forested region. The group will make stops along the way for photos, lunch, and swimming at the pools beneath the falls while learning about the surrounding ecosystem.
• Bird's-Eye View : Adventure-seekers will love this 8-Line Jungle Zipline Tour on Maui , a two-hour canopy excursion. The tour is guided by experts who will ensure safety while providing fascinating information about the area's geology, wildlife, and plants. The course of eight ziplines traverses deep ravines and the canopy of tropical forests, providing amazing views of Lanai and Molokini for an unforgettable experience.

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The Big Island: Maui sits northwest of the Island of Hawaii (the Big Island), and is the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands. The Big Island is home to some of the state's top tourist attractions and natural wonders, including Volcanoes National Park and the Kailua-Kona region, which produces world-famous coffee.

Exploring Oahu: Just under 70 miles northwest of Maui, Oahu is home to the state capital of Honolulu, which draws visitors year-round for its many things to see and do. Of the island's many beautiful beaches , Honolulu's Waikiki is among the most popular. Waikiki is popular with swimmers and surfers for its excellent conditions and offers a huge variety of things to do locally, including shopping, dining, and entertainment.

Waikiki is also home to several of Oahu's best resorts and the majority of Honolulu's resorts. Oahu is also home to the most significant World War II site on U.S. soil, Pearl Harbor , which contains several landmarks and historic sights.

More on Hawaii

Maui   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Mike Andrew Photography | Getty Images

25 Best Things to Do in Maui

As a top destination for everyone from honeymooners to multigenerational families, Maui's diverse landscape and outdoor activities cater to just about every interest. Ocean and animal lovers will enjoy visiting the stunning beaches with green,

• All Things To Do

Haleakala National Park Haleakala National Park

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you're looking for a unique adventure, consider camping inside the crater. There are three wilderness cabins accessible via a minimum 3.7-mile hike from the summit. Advanced reservations are required, and fill up quickly. –  Sharael Kolberg

As a top attraction on Maui, Haleakala National Park is home to a dormant volcano crater with its desert-like landscape, sacred sites and a waterfall-laden tropical oasis near the coastline. Its name means "house of sun" and the entire park occupies 30,000 acres of land on Maui, though most visitors focus on a few specific areas of the park. Of course, there's the volcano: Haleakala's summit stands more than 10,000 feet above sea level (in fact, you can see three different islands from its peak on a clear day). For a once-in-lifetime experience plan your visit to the summit to see the sunrise (keep in mind visitors have to make reservations online in advance and a small fee is required). A winding, sometimes steep road (Route 378) takes visitors to the top. At 10,000 feet the air is thin and chilly, according to park rangers, so layers are advised.  

Road to Hana Road to Hana free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  If you're driving yourself, there are several downloadable audio guides, such as those offered by Shaka Guide, that will point out sights to see and places to stop along the way. – Sharael Kolberg

Topping many Maui visitor's to-do list is driving the Road to Hana. Sounding like a mythical journey, Hana is an actual town on the scenic highway (Highway 360). Traveling along Maui's beautiful coastline, travelers are met with a road that includes about 600 curves, more than 50 bridges and 60 cascading waterfalls that line the island's lush eastern shore. The Road to Hana might seem short at 52 miles, but the journey will most likely take all day given the number of scenic lookouts and other places to stop. If you'd rather let someone else do the driving, there are several tour companies that offer tours in luxury vans, including Valley Isle Excursions and Temptation Tours . Though pricier than driving yourself, taking a tour allows you to focus on the incredible scenery while someone else navigates the winding curves. Plus, most tours are guided.

Ka'anapali Beach Ka'anapali Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Snorkeling around Black Rock is some of the best on the island. On the other end of the beach, if you're staying at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa , ask about the hidden cave in the pool. –  Sharael Kolberg

As one of Maui's most popular strips of white sand, Ka'anapali Beach stretches across 3 miles of the island's northwest coast, offering plenty of space to surf and sunbathe. The coveted sand is just one of this beach's many highlights: Ka'anapali was Hawaii's first planned resort area, and today it features several notable hotels and restaurants, two golf courses and the lively Whalers Village, an open-air shopping center. Another highlight of a visit to Ka'anapali Beach is the daily sunset cliff dive at Pu'u Keka'a (Black Rock), which pays tribute to King Kahekili, Maui's last independent king who ruled in the 18th century. Additionally, a few whale watching  and snorkeling  excursions depart from this area and some of the best zip lines on Maui are nearby.

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Maui Snorkeling Tours Maui Snorkeling Tours

It can be easy to become mesmerized by Maui's multicolored beaches, verdant hiking trails and breathtaking sunsets, but don't forget about the world that lives beneath the surrounding Pacific Ocean floor. Located off the western shore of Maui, the top locations for snorkeling are close to beaches, or visitors can take a snorkeling tour. In fact, many of the island's top hotels will offer guests complimentary use of snorkeling equipment; some, such as The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua , will even arrange boat tours for their guests. With equipment in hand, visitors can explore well-known spots, such as Ka'anapali Beach , Kapalua Bay and Honolua Bay, from the shore. Many of the top tours visit crescent-shaped Molokini , which is located off Maui's southwestern coast and is home to 250 species of fish. Lana'i is another top snorkeling tour destination as it's home to the Hulopo'e Marine Preserve.

According to travelers, setting aside a morning or afternoon to explore Maui's underwater creatures is an unforgettable experience. And most enjoyed their day on the water, including the boat ride to the snorkeling spots, saying the scenery added to their experience. Most tour operators offered efficient services and the amenities onboard were well received.

Maui Helicopter Tours Maui Helicopter Tours

After seeing Maui through the eyes of a fish on a snorkeling tour , many consider getting a bird's perspective on a helicopter tour. While flying over destinations like Haleakala National Park , along the Road to Hana or a complete circumnavigational tour of Maui, passengers will see all the top sights in about an hour (and without the land-based traffic). No matter which route you choose, you'll be rewarded with stunning vistas of Maui's waterfalls, craters, cliffs and valleys.

Recent travelers describe this experience as a "splurge" (most tour prices start at around $300 per person), though they also concede that seeing Maui from the air is an incredible sight. Most described the experience as exciting and the pilots as accommodating and professional. Even first-time helicopter passengers felt safe and enjoyed their excursion.

'Ohe'o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) 'Ohe'o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools)

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Tent camping is available at Kipahulu campground, located on the bluffs overlooking the ocean and a short walk to 'Ohe'o Gulch. –  Sharael Kolberg

Within the Kipahulu District of the Haleakala National Park , hikers will find the Seven Sacred Pools, or the Pools of 'Ohe'o in 'Ohe'o Gulch. Though often mislabeled, the area boasts more than seven pools; each is fed by a small waterfall flowing down the gulch. To reach the area, visitors need to take a half-mile hike on the Kuloa Point Trail from the visitor center. Hikers will enjoy sightings of the pools, along with ocean views and archeological sites. Keep in mind that you'll only be able to view the pools from the trail; swimming in the pools is not allowed.

'Iao Valley State Monument 'Iao Valley State Monument

Like Haleakala National Park , 'Iao Valley State Park offers visitors the chance to admire something other than the beach. This 4,000-acre, 10-mile-long park in Central Maui boasts a verdant landscape and striking rock features – the most famous of which is the 'Iao Needle. Rising roughly 1,200 feet into the air, the 'Iao Needle was formed by erosion and is now dressed in the island's tropical foliage. The most popular hiking trail is the 0.6-mile 'Iao Needle Lookout Trail and Ethnobotanical Loop, a paved walkway that leads straight to the iconic rock formation and through a botanical garden.

In addition to the stunning landscape, 'Iao Valley visitors will learn about the park's legendary history. It was here that Maui's tribal army lost to the forces of King Kamehameha I during the Battle of Kepaniwai in 1790. It was the victory at this battle that helped pave the way for King Kamehameha to eventually unite the entire Hawaiian archipelago under his rule.

Napili Bay Beach Napili Bay Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  It's worth waiting in line at The Gazebo restaurant (which sits within walking distance of the beach) for the best macadamia nut pancakes, coconut syrup and spectacular ocean views. –  Sharael Kolberg

Though not nearly as expansive as Wailea or Ka'anapali , crescent-shaped Napili Bay Beach is particularly popular with families. Napili's waters are much calmer than those at other Maui beaches, so kids and adults alike can take to the seas for swimming, paddleboarding and boogie boarding. Plus, Napili Bay Beach provides a quiet, laid-back atmosphere that sunbathers love with views of Molokai and Lana'i .

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Wailea Beach Wailea Beach free

You visit Ho'okipa to see Maui's daredevils hang 10, and you head to Kaihalulu or Wai'anapanapa for multicolored sands. So, which beach do you go to just to swim and relax? This crescent-shaped beach caters to the sun-seeking guests from several of the nearby luxury resorts , including the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea . Wailea feels much less rugged than some of Maui's other beaches: The sand is lined by palm trees and visitors will find a paved walkway connecting the shoreline to the area's hotels, shops and restaurants. What's more, visitors to this beach will have access to water sports equipment rentals and an umbrella service. And because the waters here are relatively calm, Wailea Beach is great for those looking to swim or snorkel . During the winter, whales can be spotted.

Recent visitors said the surrounding resorts do a great job keeping the Wailea Beach clean. Other visitors appreciated the services offered by the resorts like rentals and restaurant access. Families enjoyed the calm waters of the area that allowed for swimming and snorkeling.

Makena Beach State Park Makena Beach State Park

Located about 5 miles south of Wailea, Makena Beach State Park is billed as "one of the largest, undeveloped beaches" on the island by Hawaii's tourism board. This beach is perfect for travelers in search of the more untouched shorelines of Maui. Upon arriving, beachgoers will see white sand and not much else, with a notable absence of hotels, shops and restaurants nearby.

Within its 165 acres, Makena Beach State Park offers two beaches along with a dormant cinder cone known as Pu'u Olai. Big Beach (or Oneloa Beach) stretches for 1.5 miles and is 100 feet wide. Aptly named Little Beach features 660 feet of sand. Though nudity is prohibited on state park beaches, the rules tend to be lax at Little Beach, so you may see topless sunbathers. Little Beach also doesn't offer the lifeguards or amenities that Big Beach does. To travel from one beach to the other, beachgoers traverse a small trail located on the volcanic land mass that separates the shorelines from each other; it takes about five minutes, according to recent visitors. Aside from their size, both beaches are backed by lush tropical vegetation and feature views of Molokini and Kaho'olawe.

Maui Golf Courses Maui Golf Courses

Travelers who prefer greens to beaches will find plenty of places to put their clubs to good use. Maui is home to 14 highly acclaimed golf courses, some of them conceived by such pro designers as Arnold Palmer and Ben Crenshaw. Some of the more popular courses include the Gold, Emerald and Old Blue courses at Wailea Golf Club and the Bay and Plantation courses at Kapalua Resort. Architecture buffs might want to the check out the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed clubhouse at King Kamehameha Golf Club. No matter the course, golfers will find fantastic views of Maui's coastline or volcanic formations.

Kapalua's Plantation Course is a favorite among reviewers for its spectacular setting and excellent amenities, though serious golfers complain that it's slow to play. Other infrequent golfers complained of the wind and the price tag. The top-ranked Wailea Golf Club earned more consistently high marks, with golfers enjoying everything from rented clubs to the golf carts to the pros.

Wai'anapanapa State Park Wai'anapanapa State Park

In Hawaiian, "Wai'anapanapa" means "glistening waters." But it's not the ocean that draws travelers to Wai'anapanapa State Park – it's the jet black sands . The shoreline here is composed of volcanic sediment, which acts as a stark contrast to the bright blue waves and verdant jungle.

For those with reservations, this is a highlight near the end of the Road to Hana , but there's more to see than the beach. Those who hike along the park's primary trail (which traces the coast past the black sand beach) will discover Wai'anapanapa's two freshwater caves. According to Hawaiian legend, these caves were the site of the grisly murder of princess Popo'alaea who, along with her attendant, was murdered by her cruel husband, Chief Ka'akea. Today, visitors can enter the caves and even swim in the pools. Those who prefer to stay dry can visit the wealth of sites that line the coastal hiking trail, including a religious temple, natural blow holes, sea stacks and more.

Maui Ocean Center Maui Ocean Center

For visitors in love with the ocean, or those dealt a rainy day on the island, consider spending some time at the Maui Ocean Center. This facility helps visitors learn about Hawaii's underwater ecosystems and offers a variety of ways to get up close and personal with the island's marine life. The 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit houses hundreds of fish, rays and sharks, and features a 53-foot-long acrylic tunnel that allows you to observe the animals swimming overhead. Visitors can learn about the popular green sea turtles at the Turtle Lagoon for an above and below water look. Meanwhile, the Humpbacks of Hawai'i Exhibit and Sphere, which debuted in 2019, penetrates the deep ocean and allows visitors to virtually experience the underwater world of humpback whales with a 3D showing every half-hour. For those visitors wanting to get closer to the marine life, the Maui Ocean Center offers a cage-free shark dive in its Open Ocean exhibit, which is home to more than 20 sharks (note that a SCUBA certification is required and additional fees starting at $350 per person apply).

Recent visitors described the aquarium as small, but charming. Several mentioned it was a great indoor activity. Many travelers were especially impressed with the Open Ocean tunnel and the 3D humpback whale virtual experience. And for reviewers who had snorkeled around the island, the aquarium provided a more in-depth education into the animals they had spotted underneath the water's surface. However, more than a few reviewers warned of high prices for the on-site restaurant and cafe and suggest eating elsewhere.

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Kapalua Coastal Trail Kapalua Coastal Trail free

Those who want to explore Maui by foot, but don't want to tackle the difficult hiking trails of Haleakala National Park will love the Kapalua Coastal Trail. This trail encompasses the larger Kapalua resort community, which includes Montage Kapalua Bay and The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua , both of which are some of the best hotels in Hawaii . The 1.76-mile one-way trail is mostly paved and almost completely flat, snaking along Maui's northwestern coast. Along the way, visitors will get an eyeful of the glistening waters of the Pacific. Walkable in either direction, entry points are found at Kapalua Bay, Namalu Bay, Oneloa Bay and Honokahua Bay, the latter of which contains D.T. Fleming Beach Park. For those interested in going farther, hikers can continue following the trail to the more strenuous 20-mile Mahana Ridge Trail, which detours inland and features spectacular views of neighboring Molokai from its ridge. 

Recent visitors loved the Kapalua Coastal Trail for its scenery and easy terrain (parents say the path is very kid-friendly). In addition to the beautiful ocean views, travelers also enjoyed exploring the rock formations that live in between the bays. For visitors hiking during whale watching season (December to March), they may be able to spot whales from the shore. Visitors also noted that because of this trail's popularity, it's best to start your walk early, especially since the parking lots are small. Others advised planning a visit at sunset. And while the trail is largely flat and mostly paved, some travelers said sturdy shoes are beneficial for the parts that aren't. 

Turtle Town Turtle Town

For snorkelers who don't want to stray too far from Maui, Turtle Town is a great spot. You'll find this area near Maluaka Beach, which sits between Nahuna Point and Black Sand Beach in southwestern Maui. The area earned its name from the large population of Hawaiian green sea turtles that call it home. This reef area is protected from the island's trade winds by Haleakala, making for relatively calm waters. Turtle Town is a popular add-on destination to many Molokini Crater snorkeling and diving excursions, but it's also known as an ideal sea kayaking spot.

According to recent visitors who opted for kayak and snorkel tours, they thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Many commented that they saw and swam with the green sea turtles and felt confident with their guides.

Pipiwai Trail Pipiwai Trail

One of Maui's most popular hiking trails is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Located along the Road to Hana , the Pipiwai Trail is part of the exceptionally scenic Kipahulu District in Haleakala National Park . Along the approximately 4-mile round-trip trail, hikers pass over footbridges and across boardwalks through lush tropical vegetation, a bamboo forest and past two waterfalls, including Makahiku Falls, 400-foot Waimoku Falls and 'Ohe'o Stream Gulch , also known as the "Seven Scared Pools." The Pipiwai Trail is considered moderately difficult, features an 800-foot elevation gain and can take up to three hours to complete.

Recent travelers described the trail as beautiful. Many loved the waterfalls, but visitors were also keen to point out the tranquility of the bamboo forest. Reviewers warned that while the scenery was outstanding, the hike was not easy. A few travelers said they were warned by National Park Service rangers that the NPS locks the parking gate at the end of the day, regardless if cars are still inside. Reviewers also recommend wearing sturdy shoes as parts of the trail can get slippery depending on how much it has rained.

Kama'ole Beach Parks Kama'ole Beach Parks free

Kama'ole Beach Parks are a series of three beaches that offer a great option for vacationing families thanks to their consistently calm waters and plentiful amenities – two things that aren't always guaranteed at other Maui beaches. The first two beaches (known as Kama'ole 1 and Kama'ole 2) offer the largest beach areas, and are considered to be some of the best beaches in Maui for swimming. The third (Kama'ole 3) is the smallest beach and features regular shore breaks, perfect for bodyboarding. While that may not be suitable for the little ones, the third beach boasts a large grassy park that's perfect for a picnic. Other amenities in this area include restrooms, showers, lifeguards, parking, picnic tables, volleyball courts, an accessible sand chair and playgrounds.

Recent visitors appreciated all the available amenities, as well as the safe swimming conditions. Travelers enjoyed all the activities available here, from taking a stroll along the water to snorkeling. Others reported being able to spot whales off the coast, along with sea turtles. A handful of travelers were delighted that, despite these beaches' popularity, they weren't overcrowded. Another visitor commented the parking was plentiful on the street.

Ho'okipa Beach Park Ho'okipa Beach Park free

The wintertime waves at Ho'okipa Beach are so white and frothy that hardcore surfers and windsurfers can't stay away (waves can reach as high as 30 feet). The water is definitely too rough for swimming, but visitors flock here to see the locals surf. Those on the Road to Hana can stop at Mile 9 to take in the action at this stretch coastline near Pa'ia in Upcountry Maui. For those who consider themselves professional surfers, it's best to have a local guide.

Recent travelers advised it was worth a stop even if you're not one for water sports, saying that the photo opportunities alone are worth it. What's more, the beach is also home to sea turtles, who come ashore and blend in with the lava rocks. Others commented that swimming wasn't suggested, though wading is fun, especially near the tidepools. Travelers suggested buying some food from nearby eateries and parking yourself at one of these benches to watch the action.

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Molokini Crater Molokini Crater

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The boat ride back from Molokini tends to get very windy and bumpy, which might not be suitable for those prone to seasickness. If you can't handle the boat trip, you'll find there are plenty of amazing snorkeling options closer to shore. –  Sharael Kolberg

Situated about 3 miles off of Maui's southwestern coast, Molokini is a tiny island known as one of the top snorkeling and diving spots in the Hawaiian Islands. A crescent-shaped volcano crater that is partially submerged, Molokini doesn't feature sandbars, meaning the water clarity is superior to some of the other snorkeling spots around the island. The crater is home to 250 varieties of tropical fish, along with 38 types of hard coral. Because it's protected by the Molokini Shoal Marine Life Conservation District, the island is only accessible by boat on a snorkeling tour . On a tour, visitors can explore the underwater area by snorkel, SCUBA and even SNUBA (a hybrid between snorkeling and SCUBA that doesn't require certification). Most tours pair a visit to Molokini with a stop at Turtle Town , another coral reef that's best known for its population of turtles.

Old Lahaina Lu'au Old Lahaina Lu'au

The Old Lahaina Lu'au is one of the most popular things to do for first-time Maui visitors. Guests are greeted with a fresh orchid lei, then escorted to private tables, either low mat style seating or standard. The musicians at Old Lahaina Lu'au serenade their guests while the sun sets over the Pacific Ocean. While diners admire the performers' hula skills, servers share Hawaiian specialties, such as pua'a kalua  (pork roasted in an underground oven), fresh ahi poke (raw yellowfin tuna with green and Maui onions) and poi (mashed taro plant). The drinks are free-flowing at the Old Lahaina Lu'au for those 21 and older, and the meal is topped off with a selection of desserts featuring mango and coconut. Aside from the food and drinks, the Old Lahaina Lu'au is also a great place to learn about the culture of Hawaii. Stories about Hawiian legends, gods and royalty are told through dance and chants.

Though some reviewers described the experience as overpriced, others praised the attentive service, plentiful food and the talented performers. Reviewers also said this a valuable educational experience that helps visitors understand Hawaiian culture.

Garden of Eden Arboretum & Botanical Garden Garden of Eden Arboretum & Botanical Garden

While on the long and winding Road to Hana , consider stopping for a break at the Garden of Eden Arboretum & Botanical Garden, home to 26 acres of trails. Located near mile marker 10.5, this tropical oasis features several picturesque overlooks, a waterfall, a banana patch, a duck pond, expansive ocean views and an art gallery. Along the paths, you'll encounter exotic plants and trees, including Hawaii native and indigenous species. "Jurassic Park" fans may recognize the garden from the opening scene of the film.

Previous visitors praised the gardens as a scenic place to take photos. Reviewers also said it's a wonderful place to stop for a picnic lunch and reported spending about an hour here. Others remarked on the colorful peacocks that roam the property. Some felt the entrance fee was too steep, given that you can enjoy the same views along the Road to Hana for free.

Maui Pineapple Tour Maui Pineapple Tour

Fresh pineapple is so sweet, you could eat it for dessert. At the Maui Gold Pineapple Farm, visitors learn how pineapples grow (in the ground, not on palm trees, as some tourists think) and how they're harvested. Along the approximately 1 1/2-hour tour, you'll travel via an air-conditioned bus into the fields. You'll also get a chance to get off the bus for a look at the packing plant. The best part is that you get to take a fresh pineapple home with you.

Tourgoers praised the informative and entertaining guides and the tasty pineapple samples. The tour is an especially fun outing for kids, according to reviewers.

O'o Farm O'o Farm

More than 20 years ago, a pair of surf buddies decided to branch into farming. They bought a parcel of land with some fruit trees and coffee plants and it expanded from there. Now the 8.5-acre O'o Farm provides produce to several farm-to-table restaurants in the area. Visitors interested in agritourism, coffee enthusiasts or those wanting to understand more about Maui, can arrange a tour of the farm.

The first tour of the day starts with a cup of locally grown and roasted coffee, followed by a tour of the growing operations that focuses on the bean-to-cup coffee process. Following the morning tour, the lunch tour walks the growing fields to learn about the unique climate of the Upcountry region of Maui. Visitors will experience bicoastal views on a clear day from the farm's elevation, about 3,500 feet above sea level. They will see a variety of vegetables, leafy greens, herbs, as well as some fruit, coffee and even edible flowers. Menu items are seasonal, though breakfast can include dishes like a farm egg frittata flavored with local produce along with coffee cherry flavored honey buns. For lunch, the farm offers a fresh catch of the day with Maui onions, along with chicken dressed with a coffee and allspice rub.

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Hana Lava Tube (Ka'eleku Caverns) Hana Lava Tube (Ka'eleku Caverns)

For a unique adventure along the Road to Hana , stop for a self-guided tour of the Hana Lava Tube, which can be found near mile marker 31. It takes no more than 40 minutes to explore about 1/3-mile of the accessible underground landscape with stalagmites and stalactites. The cave was supposedly formed about 960 years ago, from hot lava that cooled to form a top layer, and then once the lava stopped flowing it created a tube. Don't worry, there are no bats or mosquitos.

Many past visitors raved about this one-of-a-kind experience, saying that the stairs and uneven ground were relatively easy to navigate.

Nakalele Blowhole Nakalele Blowhole free

For visitors looking for the perfect photo of a whitecapped ocean lapping over the rocky shoreline while a geyser of misty water pops in the foreground, northwestern Maui's Nakalele Blowhole is the destination. The blowhole, which is a natural geyser formed from an underwater lava tube, can spray water up to 100 feet in the air, depending on the strength of the wind and surf.

Recent visitors admitted the blowhole is located a bit off the beaten path, though most said it was worth the effort to get to the tip of Maui. More than one reviewer said the scenery was dramatic and beautiful. Most enjoyed climbing around the rock formations watching for the blast of seawater. One recent visitor urged caution when parking after their rental was broken into. Several others reminded visitors to stay mindful of the ocean and to wear appropriate hiking footwear as the path is not smooth and requires walking over uneven rocks.

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14 of the best things to do in Maui: soothe your soul with surf, nature and culture

Dec 1, 2021 • 9 min read

From sailing in an outrigger to hiking through a national park, here are the best things to do in Maui © drewsulockcreations / Getty Images

Maui  serves up an appealing mix of adventure, beauty and urban fun. Add in intriguing historic sites and soul-stirring cultural attractions, and it’s easy to see why the Valley Isle consistently ranks as a top global destination.

Highlights include the beaches, where you can sunbathe, snorkel and surf, and Haleakalā National Park, home to a stark crater plus a swath of lush coastal acreage. Adventuring is best complemented with local food and an evening immersed in the island’s many cultural offerings. Here are our 12 picks for the best things to do. 

Paddle an outrigger canoe along the coast

You’ll see them packed tight on beaches across Maui: long, narrow canoes with lateral support floats. Known as outrigger canoes, these colorful watercraft are the descendants of the cargo-filled canoes used by Polynesian explorers thousands of years ago to reach and eventually settle the Hawaiian Islands. These early settlers paddled more than 2400 miles! The canoes were subsequently used for fishing, transport and carrying cargo. Today, outrigger canoe clubs hold races and keep the outrigger tradition alive. Hawaiian Sailing Canoe Adventures in Wailea and Hawaiian Paddle Sports in Makena offer guided outrigger canoe tours, sharing cultural insights as you paddle along the coast. 

Learn about the lives of missionaries and whalers in Lahaina

Everything starts at the banyan tree. Planted in 1873, this leafy Lahaina landmark has 16 trunks and scores of shade-providing branches. Learn the history of the city at the adjacent Lahaina Heritage Museum inside the Old Lahaina Courthouse . Pop into the visitor center here for a walking-tour brochure. Whalers and missionaries crossed paths in Lahaina beginning in the 1820s – often acrimoniously. Home to a missionary doctor, the 1834–35 Baldwin House is the oldest surviving Western-style building in Lahaina. Drunken sailors were held nearby at Hale Pa'ahao Prison . On Front St, storefronts that once housed saloons, dance halls, and brothels now teem with galleries, shops, and restaurants. There are also still plenty of watering holes – The Pioneer Inn Bar celebrates the sailor’s life with whaling-era decor. 

Step into the past on the Road to Hana

Carving a narrow path between the ocean and lush tropical slopes, the Road to Hana is famed for its wild waterfalls and zen-like pools. And yes, you should stop at a few along the way. But it’s the unique historic sites that may linger in your memory longest. Standing beside Polynesia’s largest temple – five stories high – it’s impossible not to feel dwarfed by the scale of  Pi’ilanihale Heiau . Its construction likely began in the 13th century, and it is probably the most significant stop on the entire Road to Hana. Tours explore the extraordinary relationship between the ancient Hawaiians and their environment. It’s possible to drive this route yourself , but due to overcrowding and traffic concerns, we recommend visitors join an organized tour. 

Another worthwile stop on the Road to Hana is the Piʻilani Trail at nearby Waiʻanapanapa State Park , which follows an ancient footpath known as the King’s Trail that once circled the island. Some of its worn stepping stones date from the time of Piʻilani, a king who ruled Maui in the 16th century.

Snorkel in Turtle Town at Maluʻaka Beach

Graceful honu (green sea turtles) inhabit Maui’s coastal waters, and they are regularly seen feeding in shallow coves and bays. Adults can grow to more than 3ft – an awesome sight when one swims past you just a few feet away. The reef-filled coast of Maluʻaka Beach , also known as Turtle Town, in Makena is a popular spot for snorkelers eager to spot the animals, which are native to Hawaii. You’ll find terrific coral about 100 yards out, and the best snorkeling action is at the southern end of the beach. Remember that sea turtles are an endangered species in the US, and it is a federal offense to harm, harass or touch them. 

Explore the mesmerizing volcanic valley at Haleakalā

A volcanic valley layered with cinder cones and old lava flows, the yawning mouth of Haleakalā is a geographic stunner. It’s also a visual feast, home to a stark landscape that dances with the light and tugs you in for a closer look: multi-hued cones; luminous silverswords; crumbly red slopes – the appeal borders on the mystical. You won't be alone at the summit for the sunrise – and reservations are required by the national park – but the majestic pre-dawn performance is one to be shared, with a cottony blanket of clouds giving way to rich tones of amber and ocher blazing across the crater floor below. Afterwards, hike down the Keoneheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands) Trail to the crater floor. What will surprise you most? The profound silence, interrupted only by the sound of volcanic cinders crunching beneath your feet.

Sample Maui’s bounty on an Upcountry farm tour 

Farmers in the Upcountry grow crops in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors. But these growers all have one thing in common: an appreciation for the land that they want to share with others. On the morning coffee tour at Oʻo Farm you'll stroll the coffee fields, sip French-press coffee and savor a garden frittata. Late risers may prefer the gourmet lunch tour, where visitors harvest their own produce for a chef-prepared meal. Baby goats frolic near samples of fresh chèvre at Surfing Goat Dairy , where child-friendly tours explore the workings of a dairy farm. Tours end with samples of vodka sipped beside sugarcane stalks at Hawaii Sea Spirits Organic Farm & Distillery , where the flagship Ocean Vodka is made with deep-ocean mineral water sourced off the coast of the Big Island.

Hike through tropical splendor on the Pipiwai Trail

Your shoes will get muddy on the walk up the Pipiwai Trail , which runs alongside the ʻOheʻo Gulch streambed in the Kipahulu section of Haleakalā National Park. But jungle conditions are half the fun on this four-mile round trip hike in East Maui, which features mango and guava trees, gnarled banyan trees and a postcard view of Makahiku Falls powering down basalt cliffs smothered in lush greenery. This artistic scene is later complemented by the sounds of bamboo stalks knocking gracefully overhead in the thick Bamboo Forest. The trail ends at 400ft-tall Waimoku Falls dropping over a soaring cliff face.

Watch for whales from a kayak, catamaran or trail

With their tail slaps, head lunges and spy hops, humpback whales know how to enthrall crowds off the west and southern shores of Maui. Each winter (December to March are the best times) , about 12,000 of these leviathans come to the shallow waters off the Hawaiian Islands to breed and give birth. A whale might breach heart-stoppingly close to your kayak on a paddle-snorkel tour with Aloha Kayaks in Makena Bay. Couples can scan the seas while sipping wine on a sunset catamaran tour off the coast of Kaʻanapali with Teralani Sailing . Do-it-yourselfers can simply keep watch from coastal trails in Kihei and Wailea. Papawai Point is a roadside pull-off overlooking Maʻalaea Harbor, a favored nursing ground. Staffers from the Pacific Whale Foundation may be on-site to answer questions. 

Dig into local food

Day-to-day eats reflect Maui’s multicultural heritage, with Asian, Portuguese, and Native Hawaiian influences the most immediately evident. Cheap, tasty, and diet-busting local food is also the stuff of cravings. The classic example is the plate lunch, which includes a protein, mac-and-cheese and two scoops of white rice. Loco moco is a hearty dish of rice, fried egg and a hamburger patty topped with gravy. Try it at Kihei Caffe . Poke is raw fish marinated in shōyu (soy sauce), oil, chili peppers, green onions, and seaweed. For a delicious variety of poke, stop by the Foodland grocery seafood counter. Sample the world's most spectacular snow cone: finely shaved ice packed into a paper cone and drenched with colorful fruit-flavored syrups. Add Kauaʻi cream, azuki beans and ice cream for added decadence. Ululani's does them oh-so-right.

Watch the pros ride the waves at Hoʻokipa Beach 

Someone is always checking out the wave-riding action from the Hoʻokipa Beach overlook. But spectators are no surprise. This North Shore beach reigns supreme as the world’s premier windsurfing beach, with strong currents, consistent winds, dangerous shore breaks and razor-sharp coral offering the ultimate challenge. This is also one of Maui’s prime surfing spots. While the action in the water is usually only suitable for pros, intermediate surfers can enjoy tamer days. The lookout point is on the eastern side of the park, and it offers a great bird’s-eye view. The beach here is a good spot to see green turtles, too.

Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture

The best sensory experiences in Maui reflect the creativity of its diverse inhabitants. Native Hawaiian song and dance are always powerful, embracing a deep aloha ʻaina (respect for the land). Subsequent ethnic groups added significant contributions. Hula dancing was a solemn ritual in ancient Hawaii as well as light-hearted entertainment. The dancing is captivating at the Old Lahaina Luau , where authentic Hawaiian history, culture, and cuisine are the focus. Spanish and Mexican cowboys introduced the guitar to the islands in the 1830s. The steel guitar eventually became popular and is often played here today with slack-key tuning – a simultaneous playing of bass and melody. Check it out at the weekly Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Concert in Napili.

Stake your claim on Maui’s wildest beach

A short walk through a thick tangle of kiawe trees drops you on Big Beach (Oneloa) in Makena State Park . What will you see? Conjure up the idyllic Hawaiian beach – an endless expanse of gleaming sands, no development in sight, unbelievably blue water, and bodysurfers riding the powerful waves. If one beach captures the spirit of Maui, this is it: wild, vast, and in a completely natural state. But unvisited? No. This is where Mauians come to celebrate Maui the way it used to be. Join them. Worship the waves. Applaud the sunsets. Big Beach is big enough for everyone.

Go diving in the Molokini Crater

Hawaiian legend says  Molokini  was a beautiful woman turned to stone by a jealous Pele, the goddess of fire and volcanoes. Today Molokini is the stuff of legends in the diving community. The crescent-shaped rock, which sits about three miles from the South Maui coast , is the rim of a volcanic crater. The shallow waters cradled within are a hospitable spot for coral and a calling card for more than 250 fish species. For an iconic Hawaiian dive, this is the place.

Set your eyes on the glorious ‘Iao Needle in ‘Iao Valley State Park

Nowhere is Maui’s verdant, moody beauty better captured than at  ʻIao Valley , where the ʻIao Needle – a phallic-shaped, emerald-green pinnacle – shoots straight up from the valley floor. The pinnacle is the centerpiece of this mystical state park. Snuggled into deep folds of lush rainforested mountains, ʻIao is such a sumptuous sight it’s easy to understand why Hawaiian kings placed a kapu (taboo) on the valley, forbidding commoners from laying eyes on it. Luckily for you, the kapu has been lifted. You brought your camera, right?

You might also like: How to get around Maui with or without a car: travel on island time    These stunning Maui hikes visit waterfalls, rainforests and volcanoes    The best time to visit Maui for whale watching, hitting the beach or avoiding crowds   

This article was first published July 2019 and updated December 2021

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32 BEST Things to Do in Maui (2024 Bucket List!)

Looking for the best things to do in Maui, Hawaii? From enjoying sunrise at the top of the Haleakala crater to chasing waterfalls on the scenic drive to Hana and strolling on black sand beaches, Maui offers much to see and do.

Known as the Valley Isle, Maui is the second-largest Hawaiian island, and it’s big compared to neighboring Oahu or the even smaller Kauai .

One of the most popular honeymoon destinations on the planet, Maui is also a beloved getaway for families, with many excellent resorts on its leeward side from which to choose. In fact, Maui has something for everyone.

Snorkel with turtles in Turtle Town. Swim under waterfalls on the Road to Hana. Go whale watching in the winter. Hike through a bamboo forest on the Pipiwai Trail. Stand above the clouds at the top of the Haleakala volcano. Dine on the freshest seafood.

In the tropical paradise of Maui, you can do all these things, and much more!

We’ve visited Maui several times now, and it’s our favorite Hawaiian island after Kauai. It also makes for the perfect combination Hawaii trip with Kauai, Oahu, or the Big Island.

In this article, we’ve rounded up the essential things to do in Maui. Know that a few of Maui’s popular destinations now require advance reservations, so plan your itinerary well ahead!

Hey, by the way! Snorkeling is probably at the top of your Maui itinerary — check out our guides to the best tours to Molokini Crater and Turtle Town , two of the top snorkel spots on Maui!

And now, let’s get started discovering the best things to do in Maui!

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The Best Things to Do in Maui

Drive the road to hana.

Possibly the most scenic driving route in Hawaii, the Road to Hana is high on the wish-list of almost every first-time visitor to Maui.

Featuring spectacular views for much of its length, the sinuous Road to Hana winds its way for 64 miles from Kahului to Kipahulu (just beyond Hana Town), with more than 600 switchbacks and close to four dozen one-lane bridges.

Along the way, you’ll be treated to expansive views of the captivating coastline, plunging waterfalls, rainbow eucalyptus, and lush rainforest.

Some of the best stops along the Road to Hana include Twin Falls (where one of Maui’s easy hikes leads you to the waterfalls), the black sand Honokalani beach, Upper Waikani Falls, and the Garden of Eden Arboretum.

And you have to stop at one of the banana bread stands for the fresh-baked flavorful treat or some local fruit!

While traffic along the popular route (and parking at sights on the way) can often be frustrating, the scenery along the road is well worth the patience required to drive it.

We think a guided Road to Hana tour is the most hassle-free way to experience the drive for the first time. You’ll stop at a few chosen places, and enjoy the views on the drive without stressing about the white-knuckle portions and the need to find parking.

>> Check pricing and availability for this highly-rated Road to Hana tour now!

If you plan to drive the Road to Hana on your own, an audio driving tour is super helpful!

Visit the Black Sand Beach at Wai’anapanapa State Park

Maui has more than one black sand beach, but Pa’iloa Beach, also known as Honokalani Beach, is the most famous black sand beach on Maui.

This beach is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Hawaii .

Located in Wai’anapanapa State Park, Maui’s black sand beach requires advance reservations to visit, unless you plan to join a guided Road to Hana tour .

The picture postcard beach is small, so you can’t really stroll along the black sand. But it’s large enough to enjoy the sensational setting. There’s also a cool cave to explore, on the right side as you face the ocean.

Formed by the grinding down of volcanic rock by the waves, the black sand Honokalani Beach has a backdrop of lava cliffs and palm trees.

While you’ll likely see folks in the water, know that the currents can be strong and swimming isn’t advised.

Apart from admiring the beauty of the black sand beach, you can hike the coastal trail above the beach at Wai’anapanapa State Park (the trail extends in both directions, and if you go south, you’ll see one of the best blowholes in Hawaii !)

Plan your visit with our detailed guide to Maui’s black sand beach !

>> Book these 5-star rated, highly popular, Maui Tours now!

Experience Sunrise at Haleakala

The Haleakala crater stands tall over the island of Maui.

Sunrise at the summit of the 10,023-foot-tall Haleakala is a bucket-list Maui experience that’s worth an incredibly early wake-up call on vacation.

Whether you drive up to the summit on your own or you join a Haleakala sunrise guided tour , you’ll watch in awe as the golden orb emerges above the clouds and its golden glow spreads across the Martian landscape of the crater.

For the full experience, you should drive up while it’s still dark and be in position at dawn. On a good weather day, the pinks and oranges of the sky just before sunrise make for gorgeous photos.

While the Haleakala Visitor Center is the most coveted spot at the summit at sunrise, you can also enjoy sunrise at Haleakala from other places at the summit.

The Haleakala sunrise experience is so popular that Haleakala National Park now requires you to reserve a parking spot in advance if you plan to drive to the top.

Our Haleakala sunrise guide is the perfect resource to help you plan your visit.

>> Check pricing and availability for a Haleakala sunrise tour now!

Go Whale Watching (in the Winter)!

Planning a winter trip to Maui? Put whale watching on your itinerary for the island!

Every winter, thousands of humpback whales migrate to the warm waters on Maui’s leeward side, creating a dense population that makes for epic whale watching. No wonder whale watching in Maui is such a popular winter activity in Hawaii!

Whales spend the winter months in Maui mating, giving birth, and caring for the young calves.

You can see the majestic creatures spout, fluke, spyhop, or slap their tails or flippers. You may even seen one breach, propelling its gigantic body out of the water. If you are VERY lucky, you may even see a mom and calf breaching the waters together!

November through May is considered whale-watching season in Maui, with the whale population usually peaking in February.

While you can see whales from the shore in Maui (the McGregor Point lookout is a popular spot), by far the best whale watching experience on Maui is on a boat tour . And if you are up for the adventure, a raft tour allows for eye-level whale watching!

You’ll find many whale-watching excursions on Maui from which to pick.

Whale watching tours currently depart from several locations on Maui’s leeward side, such as Lahaina, Ma’alaea Harbor, or Kaanapali Beach.

>> Check pricing and availability for a Maui whale watching tour now!

Hike the Pipiwai Trail

One of the best Maui hikes to put on your itinerary, the Pipiwai Trail is a big bang-for-your-buck hike in the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park.

The moderately difficult trail leads to the dramatic 400-foot Waimoku Falls, one of Maui’s most beautiful waterfalls (and one of the tallest). Framed by black lava rock and lush greenery, the waterfall plunges straight down the rock face into the plunge pool below.

But the Pipiwai Trail is as much about the route as it is about the payoff, even though Waimoku Falls by itself is enough reason to undertake the 4-mile round trip hike.

You’ll hike through stunning rainforest and, along the way, pass a gigantic banyan tree, the 200-foot Makahiku Falls, and, best of all, a beautiful bamboo forest.

Even if you cannot or do not want to hike all the way to Waimoku Falls, the trail is worth doing up to the boardwalk stretch through the towering stalks of bamboo. It’s an experience you’ll remember!

If it’s breezy when you’re hiking the Pipiwai Trail, stop to listen to the bamboo stalks “chime” as they hit up against one another.

Needless to say, the photo ops along the Pipiwai Trail are superb, and you’ll see many Hawaiian plants as you hike.

Wear bug spray and proper hiking shoes that you don’t mind getting muddy and wet.

>> Book these 5-star rated, highly popular, Maui Tours now!

Snorkel at Molokini Crater

Snorkeling at Molokini , the crescent-shaped islet in the Pacific Ocean lying just offshore, is one of the most exciting things to do in Maui.

The islet is all that remains of a cinder cone that was created when an eruption occurred here thousands of years ago.

Today Molokini is protected as a Marine Life Conservation District, and you can visit on a boat tour.

Snorkeling at Molokini (and Turtle Town) is one of the most fun things to do in Maui with kids.

Snorkeling, snuba diving, and scuba diving are popular Molokini activities. It is also a great place to do some birdwatching.

The waters at Molokini are crystal clear and relatively calm. Visibility can be as deep as 150 feet! Look for sea turtles and a variety of tropical fish.

Scuba divers will be excited to learn that the back of the crater offers a dive that drops several hundred feet. You have to be certified to go scuba diving at Molokini, but snuba diving is an alternative for visitors that are not certified.

>> Check pricing and availability for a Molokini snorkel tour now!

Explore Haleakala National Park

One of only two national parks in Hawaii, Haleakala National Park protects some of the most spectacular parts of the island.

The park is divided into two distinctly different districts: the Summit District protects the area at the top of the Haleakala crater, while the Kipahulu District is located a little ways past Hana Town and features coast and rainforest.

Each district has to be visited separately, since there is no road that connects the two.

Among the many things to do in Haleakala National Park , standing at the very tip of the 10,023-foot summit is a bucket list item for many visitors.

While sunrise at Haleakala is hugely popular, sunset is also a wonderful time to visit, and, if you don’t mind driving down in the dark, you can stay on to stargaze as well.

Also in the Summit District, look for the endangered Hawaiian silversword, take in the views from the Kalahaku and Leleiwi Overlooks, hike into the crater, and stroll though the Hosmer Grove to spot Hawaiian birds like the ‘i’iwi.

Bundle up when you visit the Haleakala summit: the temperature at the top can be 20 to 30 degrees cooler than on the floor of the island.

In the Kipahulu District, the Pipiwai Trail is the star attraction, but you can also hike the pleasant Kuloa Point Trail to view the Pools of O’heo, also called the Seven Sacred Pools.

Entrance to the park is $30.00 per vehicle, which is valid for three days.

Bike down Haleakala

One of the coolest experiences adventure-loving visitors can have on Maui is a thrilling bike ride down Haleakala.

You are taken up to the start point in a tour vehicle, from where you make your way down the slopes of the volcano at your own pace. The start point is usually a staging area at 6,500 feet above sea level.

You can stop to explore the little town of Makawao. A historic little town in the heart of cowboy country, Makawao has little shops and galleries to browse and eateries where you can get a bite to eat or a drink.

If you are okay with a really early wake-up call, you can combine the downhill Haleakala bike ride with a sunrise at the summit.

>> Check pricing and availability for a Haleakala sunrise and downhill bike ride now!

If you prefer a later wake-up, you can opt for this highly-rated dedicated biking excursion that starts and ends in the delightful town of Paia.

Note that local legislation limits bicycling between mile marker 3 and mile marker 9.5 on the Haleakala Highway, so you will be transported by van through this section, or ride the upper slopes twice, depending on the tour.

Watch Sunset at Kaanapali Beach

You’d be hard pressed to find a prettier beach on Maui than Kaanapali Beach. It’s one of the most beautiful places in Maui!

West-facing Kaanapali Beach is a spectacular sunset-watching spot, and a sunset stroll here is one of the best free things to do in Maui!

Strolling Kaanapali Beach at sunset is also one of the most romantic things to do in Maui for couples.

With three gorgeous miles of soft golden sand and crystal clear waters, Kaanapali Beach is lined with resorts, making it convenient to get food and drink while you enjoy the beach.

Kaanapali Beach is lifeguarded, and you can swim or snorkel in the clear waters when conditions permit. The sandy beach is perfect for strolling or getting your Hawaii suntan.

At the north end of Kaanapali Beach, Black Rock, a lava cliff, is a popular jumping spot. The area is also great for snorkeling.

Be at the north end of the beach at sunset to experience the traditional Black Rock torch ceremony.

A chant and blowing of the conch heralds the arrival of the diver, who heads up the cliff, lighting torches along the way. At the top, he offers his torch and a lei to the ocean before gracefully plunging into the waters below.

It’s a lovely way to end your evening at Kaanapali Beach!

Snorkel with Turtles at Turtle Town

Turtle Town in Maui is the stretch of coastline between Nahuna Point and Oneuli Beach in the Makena area of southwest Maui.

Between these two spots lies Maluaka Beach , one of the best beaches in South Maui for turtle spotting. The south end of this beach is where you’ll go to find honu , Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Hawaiian green sea turtles are on the endangered list, but their population has seen a robust growth in recent years, and it is very likely you’ll get to swim with turtles at Turtle Town Maui.

Maluaka Beach is one of the best snorkeling spots on Maui, and you should snorkel here to not only see the green sea turtles, but also a variety of tropical fish, eels, and octopus.

Turtle Town, and Maluaka Beach, are not signed, but we have a detailed guide to snorkeling in Turtle Town Maui that tells you how to get there, where to rent snorkeling gear and more.

Many Maui snorkeling tours also call at Turtle Town. This highly-rated half-day excursion combines Turtle Town Maui with Molokini for the ultimate Maui snorkeling tour.

If you prefer a shorter excursion, consider this 90-minute tour that only goes to Turtle Town. Groups are small, and the gear provided is topnotch.

>> Check price and availability for this Turtle Town snorkeling excursion now!

Enjoy Twin Falls

One of the first stops you’ll make on the drive to Hana, Twin Falls is very popular because it’s the very first set of easy-to-access waterfalls and pools on the famous route.

Head out early in the day to arrive at opening time, or you will not find a parking spot. Or, if you are planning a longer visit to Maui, spend a day in the Paia area, and visit Twin Falls late in the afternoon, when the crowds abate.

The waterfalls are located on private land owned by Wailele Farm. The lower falls are close to the parking area and easy to access.

A hike through the rainforest, mostly along the Ho’olawa Stream, leads to more pretty waterfalls.

The popular Caveman Falls is accessed by taking the left fork at about the half-mile mark on your hike. This waterfall is gorgeous, with the water spilling over a cave fringed with lush greenery, and a lovely plunge pool.

Taking the right fork leads you to even more waterfalls, so if you have the time, you can hike further.

After you are done hiking and swimming, stop by the farm stand to pick up some local fruit!

Note that there’s a $10.00 parking fee if you are not a Hawaii resident. Twin Falls also has some residents-only days, so check their website before you go.

Hike the Sliding Sands Trail at the Summit of Haleakala

While there are several hiking trails in Haleakala National Park , possibly the most epic trail is the Sliding Sands Trail at the summit of the crater.

Also called the Keonehe’ehe’e Trail, this hike takes you down into the heart of the Haleakala Crater.

You can hike the Sliding Sands Trail as a loop (about 13 miles), or point to point in conjunction with the Halemau’u Trail (about 11 miles). You can also just go down to the first viewpoint, about 0.5 mile down, and back up, for a quick experience.

As you hike, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Martian landscape of Haleakala. Colorful Pele’s Paint Pot, so called because of the multi-colored cinder deposits, is a particularly gorgeous photo spot.

Look for the endangered Haleakala silversword, a plant that only grows here, and the chukar partridge, a bird that was introduced to Hawaii in the 1920s.

Wear sunscreen, and bring plenty of drinking water to stay hydrated.

Take a Helicopter Tour Over Maui

Seeing Maui from the air is a bucket-list experience you’ll treasure!

A whole island helicopter tour covers both east and west Maui, and you’ll see the Haleakala Crater from above, as well as dense tropical forests, waterfalls, and the green West Maui mountains.

For a super scenic flight, consider a helicopter tour that combines the west side of Maui with the island of Molokai . This is our favorite Maui helicopter experience!

You’ll fly through the West Maui mountains, going deep over a rugged landscape where there aren’t even any trails. It’s a remote and incredibly scenic part of the island, with jewel-green valleys and waterfalls a-plenty.

Then you’ll cross the channel over to neighboring Molokai, which has a landscape that’s just made to be seen from the air, like Kauai.

The vertical green cliffs of Molokai rise 4,000 feet into the air right next to the deep blue ocean, making for picture-postcard views.

>> Check pricing and availability for a West Maui-Molokai helicopter tour now!

Admire the Waves at Ho’okipa Beach Park

Known for its giant waves in the winter, Ho’okipa Beach is a mecca for surfers and windsurfers.

The long white sand beach has a beautiful setting, and you’ll find outdoor showers and restrooms.

Even if you aren’t planning to ride the waves, it’s worthwhile visiting just to watch the massive walls of water roll in, and to see pro surfers and windsurfers in action.

An overlook at the upper parking lot that affords a great view over Ho’okipa Beach is a popular stop on the Road to Hana.

But if you plan to spend a day in Paia, you’ll want to drive to Ho’okipa Beach Park, so you can access the beach itself, because this beach is a popular haunt for Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Evening, around sunset, is the best time of day to see lots of turtles on the beach here, but you will likely see some during the day as well.

If you have binoculars, you can see the turtles from the lookout above, or see them bobbing in the water by the reef. Look carefully, because on the beach they look just like boulders!

Have Dinner at Mama’s Fish House

Arguably the best restaurant on Maui, Mama’s Fish House is on the wish-list of most foodies visiting the island.

Located in Paia, along Maui’s scenic north shore, Mama’s Fish House is worth the drive from the west side if you do snag reservations.

With its own family of fisherfolk, and fresh seasonal bounty from local farmers, the restaurant offers incredibly well-crafted dishes that will delight you.

We’ve had the pan seared ono here, and the grilled ahi, and both dishes were superb. The bouillabaisse is a great choice if you want a mix of fresh seafood.

Be sure to leave room for dessert: for me, it was the best part of the meal both times we’ve dined here. Try the Polynesian Black Pearl if you are enjoy chocolate!

Relax on a Sunset Cruise

One of the most relaxing things to do in Maui is enjoy a sunset cruise on the west side. You can choose a dinner cruise or a cruise with just an open bar.

Cruising the ocean in the evening, with a breeze keeping you cool as you enjoy the sublime views, is heaven.

Look for the nearby islands of Lanai, Molokai, and Kahoolawe from your boat, and keep your eyes peeled for dolphins cavorting in the water.

This popular sunset cruise leaves from Kaanapali Beach and offers an open bar so you can watch an epic Maui sunset whilst sipping a handcrafted cocktail. The catamaran loads right on the beach.

>> Check price and availability for this Maui sunset cruise from Kaanapali Beach now!

There’s also a dinner cruise you can take from Kaanapali Beach.

If you’d rather board at a harbor, consider this luau dinner sunset cruise that departs from Ma’alaea Harbor. The 2-hour excursion includes an open bar and a buffet dinner.

Snap a Photo of the Iao Needle

Visiting the ʻIao Valley State Monument  to take in the lush scenery is one of the best things to do in Maui, but if you are an out-of-state visitor, you need to make reservations in advance.

A paved path leads from the parking area to a viewpoint where you can enjoy views of the magnificent ‘Iao Needle, a natural rock formation that juts up 1,200 feet into the sky.

You can also wander a planted area to learn about the plants brought by the Hawaiians that settled the ‘Iao Valley long ago.

The valley is not only beautiful, it is also a place of historical significance: it was here that the battle of Kepaniwai occurred in 1790, where the army of Kamehameha I conquered the Maui forces.

Entry costs $5.00 per person and parking $10.00 per vehicle for visitors that are not residents of Hawaii.

Hike the Kapalua Coastal Trail

One of the most popular hikes on Maui, the Kapalua Coastal Trail connects Kapalua Bay with D. T. Fleming Beach. There’s parking at both ends, plus you can access the trail at points en route as well.

The Kapalua Coastal Trail is one of the best free things to do in Maui for active families.

The Kapalua Coastal Trail is classed as easy, and is perfect for families. It runs along the waterfront at the Ritz-Carlton Resort and the Montage Kapalua Bay.

Although you’ll get spectacular water views for much of the route, our favorite part is Makaluapuna Point, where you can see the Dragon’s Teeth rock formation. You’ll also find the Kapalua Labyrinth here.

Hawea Point is another especially scenic section, where you can explore tidepools and look for seabirds.

The Kapalua Coastal Trail is particularly scenic at sunset, although we’ve seen some colorful sunrise skies here as well.

Drive the Kahekili Highway

If you are an experienced driver and an adventure-loving visitor, the Kahekili Highway is a somewhat hair-raising but scenic drive in the north of the island.

In its narrowest parts, the narrow one-lane road hugs the cliff on one side and featutres sheer drop-offs on the other, with no guard rail.

The drive features many lookouts with spectacular ocean views. We suggest driving clockwise from Kapalua to Wailuku, so you are hugging the cliff as you drive. watch for falling rocks, though.

Stop to watch surfers ride the waves at Honolua Bay . Be sure to also stop at the Nakalele Blowhole, where the water spurts dozens of feet into the air.

The Ohai Loop Trail is a short walk at the coast through native vegetation. Get some tasty banana bread at Julia’s, and shop for art at the Kaukini Gallery.

Do the drive in daylight on a clear bright day, start with a full tank of gas, and go slow. Let faster drivers pass when you can.

You’ll find the narrow parts easier in a smaller car. If you’d rather not do the white-knuckle portion, go until the end of the two-line highway and then turn back.

Learn to Surf in Maui!

If you are a beginner surfer, Maui is a great place to take lessons.

Of all the Hawaii islands, Maui is best for beginners in that the waves don’t generally get huge like on the north shore of Oahu or the north shore of Kauai.

The vibe in the water is also not as competitive or “local,” especially if you head for known beginner spots, of which there are many.

The Cove, at Kalama Beach in Kihei, is a super popular learners’ area. Kaanapali Beach, Puamana Beach Park, Olowalu, and Paia Bay are other good spots.

You can take private or group lessons to get started.

Consider this highly-rated 2-hour group lesson in Kihei (each group is limited to just six students), or this private 2-hour surfing lesson in Lahaina .

Enjoy a Family Beach Day at Napili Beach

A gorgeous crescent-shaped beach in northwest Maui, Napili Bay Beach is a splendid spot for a family beach day on Maui.

The swathe of golden sloping sand is large, and fringed at the back by palms. From the beach, you can see the offshore islands of Lanai and Molokai.

Spending time at a Beach like Napili Beach is one of the top Maui activities to consider if you are on a budget.

Napili Bay is great for swimming and snorkeling , with usually calm conditions. It’s considered one of the calmest beaches in West Maui. There isn’t a lifeguard on duty, though, so always assess the risk before getting into the water.

Stroll the sandy beach, or lay down your towel and work on your Hawaii sun tan.

There’s street parking, but you have to arrive early to find a spot. The beach is popular with residents as well as visitors!

Sea House Restaurant is a great place to eat with a view of the water.

Visit the Maui Ocean Center

The Maui Ocean Center is the definitive place to go to learn more about Hawaii’s marine life. Visiting the center is a must-do Maui activity if you want to learn more about the marine life here.

The multi-sensory aquarium features a living reef, where you can see more than three dozen species of live Pacific corals. The corals provide a habitat for many species of colorful fish.

At the Turtle Lagoon, you can see Hawaiian green sea turtles. They are received as little babies and nurtured here until ready to be released into the wild.

The Open Ocean exhibit lets you walk through a tunnel as sharks and stingrays swim in the waters above.

Other exhibits offer more fascinating insights into Hawaiian marine life and marine plants.

The center is open daily from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m., and general adult admission is $44.95 per person for non-residents, with discounts for seniors and kids. Hawaii residents and US military personnel get substantial discounts. Buy tickets online .

Take in the Scenery at Big Beach (Makena Beach)

Maui has many beautiful beaches, and soaking in the sun on a sandy beach is one of the best things to do in Maui.

But many of Maui’s beaches are developed, with resorts or condos at the back.

To experience a large undeveloped beach in Maui, head to the southwest part of the island, where Makena Beach is a must visit for its spectacular setting.

Makena Beach State Park is actually home to three beaches, Big Beach , Little Beach , and Oneuli Beach. Big Beach features a vast expanse of golden sand, but even so, it can get crowded on the weekends.

With lava outcroppings on both ends, picturesque Big Beach offers great views of Kahoʻolawe.

Sunbathing and strolling on the beach are popular activities. There are lifeguards on duty, but the shorebreak can be rough and currents dangerous, so if in doubt, do not enter the water.

Makena State Park charges an entrance fee of $5.00 per person and a parking fee of $10.00 per vehicle for visitors that aren’t Hawaii residents.

Enjoy Sunset at the Black Sand Oneuli Beach

To the north of Big Beach and Little Beach in Makena State Park you will find Oneuli Beach, one of Maui’s black sand beaches.

Oneuli actually means “dark sand” in Hawaiian, so it’s an apt name.

Oneuli Black Sand Beach is known for its snorkeling and diving, but it isn’t the ideal swimming beach, because while the beach is black sand, the sand gives way to a lava rock reef where it meets the water.

Look for Hawaiian green sea turtles and many varieties of colorful tropical fish if you choose to snorkel at Oneuli Beach.

This beautiful beach is a great place to be at sunset! The reflection of the sky colors in the pools on the lava reef makes for spectacular sunset photos.

Explore Upcountry Maui

If you are planning a longer trip to the island, one of the relaxing things to do on Maui, away from the beaches, is exploring Upcountry Maui .

Kula is an agricultural community in upcountry Maui, with fertile fields. Here you can visit Kula Botanical Garden, a small garden with a surprising variety of tropical plants like proteas and birds of paradise.

Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm is a must-visit if you are here during lavender bloom season, but we had a fun time even on a December visit. The shop here sells lots of items featuring fragrant lavender.

Shim Farm in Kula offers spectacular views. They grow coffee, aromatherapy plants, and other Hawaiian plants.

Maui Pineapple in Makawao offers tours of their pineapple plantation! This very popular upcountry excursion allows you to sample the fruit at various stages and includes one sweet Maui Gold pineapple to take way!

>> Check pricing and availability for the Maui Pineapple Tour now!

Take a Day Trip to Lanai

One of the islands you see from Maui is the small island of Lanai, which is just a 45-minute ferry ride from Lahaina Harbor in Maui.

Called the Pineapple Island, Lanai is largely owned by Larry Ellison, the Oracle tech billionaire, but the public is welcome to visit.

In fact, Lanai is home to more than one resort, making it a multi-day Hawaiian destination for some visitors.

If you are planning a longer visit to Maui, it’s worth taking a day to explore Lanai on a day trip! Its beautiful beaches and rugged landscapes will delight you.

Once on Lanai, you’ll need a rental car to explore the island, or you can join a guided tour. Get a 4WD if you want to go offroading, and book well ahead of your visit.

Visit Hulopoe Bay, where you can hike to the Puupehe Overlook to see Sweetheart Rock, a famous offshore islet. Lanai Adventure Park, in Lanai City, offers a zipline and e-bike tours.

Keahiakawelo is a must-visit offroad site. Also called Garden of the Gods, this area features a Martian red landscape strewn with boulders. Great for photography!

If you can’t do a day trip to Lanai, consider a snorkel excursion that doesn’t land on the island but takes you close, with a good chance of seeing dolphins!

>> Check pricing and availability for the Lanai dolphin and snorkel excursion now!

Go Ziplining in Maui!

Ziplining over Maui’s tropical landscapes is an exhilarating experience if you’re up for the adventure!

There are zipline adventures to be had all over Maui, so whether you want to soar over the lush jungles of Hana, the coastal landscape of Kaanapali, or near the Haleakala volcano, you’ll find a guided tour to suit.

We enjoyed this popular experience at Camp Maui, a historic WWII base on the north shore of the island. There are several ziplines of varying lengths, allowing you to try “obstacle” challenges.

You’ll glide over the treetops for amazing views of the forests and the Pacific Ocean, and learn about local history and culture from your guide.

>> Check pricing and availability for this Maui zipline adventure now!

Hike the Waihee Ridge Trail

One of Maui’s most epic hikes, the Waihee Ridge Trail allows you to explore the lush West Maui mountains.

Featuring spectacular views (think mist-laden mountains, deep mysterious valleys, and lush green forests, and of course the ocean!), the ridge-line Waihee hike is considered a challenging route.

Look for waterfalls and enjoy the native plants and birds along the way.

Four miles out and back, the Waihee Ridge Trail is steep, gaining close to 1.500 feet in elevation.

You can hike a part of the trail if you wish: we’ve sometimes hiked the first mile or so and then turned around. You’ll still get some great views.

The trail tends to be muddy, especially after rains. Wear hiking shoes. Trekking poles are great to bring along as well.

Plan to do this scenic hike? Be sure to read our complete guide to the Waihee Ridge Trail !

Enjoy a Thrilling ATV Adventure

Want to hit some of the more rugged landscapes on Maui in an offroading adventure?

This popular excursion from Lahaina offers two itinerary options: a beachside trail or a ride through a wetland preserve.

You’ll go on an exhilarating tour along winding trails. You may even get to plant a tree to rejuvenate a rainforest, depending on the tour you choose.

The vehicles are four-seaters, so this is a great family activity to enjoy in Maui! The two-hour excursion is easy to fit into even shorter Maui itineraries.

You may get muddy, so wear clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting dirty.

>> Check pricing and availability for the Maui ATV adventure now!

Eating is one of the best things to do in Maui, and you will find great restaurants all over the island.

We’ve already talked about Mama’s Fish House as a Maui must-have dining experience, but there are plenty of other eateries to try as well.

We love eating at Merriman restaurants in Hawaii, and Monkeypod Kitchen in Maui is one of our favorites. We’ve eaten at both the Wailea and the Kaanapali locations several times!

The casual eatery is a great option for lunch or dinner. You can’t go wrong with any of the pizzas and their mai tais are famous.

Merriman’s Kapalua has great seafood — the wok-charred ahi is wonderful — but the vegetarian main dish of taro cakes is also delicious. Save room for the pineapple-macadamia nut bread pudding!

If you’re like us and “will drive for food,” then make the drive from your base in West Maui to the upscale Hali’imaile General Store restaurant in Makawao, or cap off a day in Upcountry Maui with dinner here.

Their Sashimi Napoleon is magnificent, and we love the coconut seafood curry.

Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop is a great place for lunch, with loads of sandwich options. And the pies are to-die-for good! Try the coconut cream pie or the chocolate mac nut pie: they are both addictive.

Enjoy Ululani’s Shave Ice

Ululani’s Shave Ice is arguably the most popular shave ice in Maui. The first Ululani’s on Maui opened in Lahaina in 2008. Sadly, the Lahaina location was lost in the devastating 2023 fire that decimated the town.

You can still enjoy Ululani’s Shave Ice at other locations in Maui: Kihei, Kahului, Maui Lani, or Paia.

Ululani’s Shave Ice comes in many flavors, and our favorite flavors include passion fruit, mango, and pineapple. Top your shave ice with a snow cap and toasted coconut: delicious!

Other popular Maui shave ice places include Surfing Monkey Hawaiian Shave Ice and Gus’ Hawaiian Shave Ice.

Attend a Luau

Attending a Hawaiian luau is one of the most fun things to do in Maui, with many options from which to choose.

Apart from sampling traditional Hawaiian delicacies from kalua pork to huli huli chicken and poi, you will also be treated to a Hawaiian music, dance, and storytelling show, often ending in an exciting display of fire knife dancing.

The Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton Resort has an oceanfront setting in Kaanapali. The 3-hour experience includes a buffet at sunset and a Polynesian dance show.

>> Check price and availability for the Maui Nui Luau now!

The Te Au Moana Luau at the Wailea Marriott is also hugely popular. You’ll enjoy Hawaiian dishes at a buffet, followed by a music and dance show that includes a fire knife show!

>> Check price and availability for the Te Au Moana Luau now!

The historic town of Lahaina, located on the west side of Maui and arguably the most popular tourist destination on the island, was destroyed in a devastating fire in 2023.

It will be a while before it is rebuilt, but we hope that it will rise from the ashes into a strong community again.

Until then, some of the most popular things to do in Maui, such as walking the historic trail in Lahaina town, shopping at the many stores and galleries on Front Street, and dining in Lahaina, will not be available.

The Lahaina Banyan Tree has already put out an impressive amount of new growth, so it’s likely to be a great photo opportunity again!

The Old Lahaina Luau is now open, as are a couple of eateries. So if you were looking forward to booking this famous Maui luau, go for it!

The Best Maui Tours

Have you booked these top-rated Maui guided adventures yet?

Small-group Road to Hana tour so everyone in your group can sit back and enjoy the views without worrying about negotiating hairpin bends or finding parking at popular stops!

A Haleakala sunrise tour so you can experience the bucket-list sunrise atop the volcano without the need to reserve a parking spot or drive up in the dark!

A Maui whale watching raft tour , which will let you see the massive humpback whales at eye level! (You can also opt for a more sedate boat whale watching tour .) A MUST winter Maui activity!

A Maui snorkeling excursion that combines the Molokini Crater with Turtle Town, the two most epic snorkeling destinations on the island!

A 7-line Maui zipline experience where you can glide over the forests on the north shore of Maui. Enjoy ocean views and navigate obstacle course challenges!

An oceanfront luau in Wailea where you can enjoy a sunset buffet and traditional Polynesian entertainment. You can also opt for a Kaanapali oceanfront luau .

Renting a Car in Maui

The best things to do in Maui are located all over the island.

Public transport options on Maui are minimal to non-existent, so if you want to explore the island beyond your base, you’ll want to book a rental car for your Maui trip.

We always use Discover Cars to book Maui car rentals . They search across a variety of rental car companies, both budget and brand, to offer you the best deals, AND they offer free cancellations. Plus, there are no hidden fees.

>> Check availability and prices on Maui car rentals now!

Where to Stay in Maui

Depending on whether you want a vacation rental with more room and the option to cook some of your meals, or you want a resort or hotel experience, and depending on which part of Maui you want to choose as your base, you have a variety of options.

By far the majority of visitors to Maui choose to base on the west side, where there is a large selection of accommodations available, from resorts and hotels to vacation rentals.

We suggest starting your search for Maui accommodations by browsing vacation rentals on VRBO . You can filter to choose a specific area, such as Kihei, Kapalua, or Wailea.

We have stayed in VRBO rentals in Kihei and Kapalua and find that the choice and quality are generally great.

>> Look for a Maui vacation rental on VRBO now!

More Maui Travel Inspiration

If you are considering a trip to Maui, read some of our other comprehensive guides to craft the ultimate Maui itinerary!

If you are a first-time visitor to Maui, start by reading our article on the best things to do in Maui. From beautiful beaches and lush rainforest to Maui’s volcanic crater, our round-up captures the most iconic Maui experiences and activities.

If you are dreaming of a winter getaway to a tropical paradise, read our guide on why you should visit Maui in winter !

And if you are planning a brief first visit to Maui, here’s our 3-day Maui itinerary to help you flesh out your own trip!

Driving the Road to Hana is one of Maui’s bucket-list experiences. We have a comprehensive guide to the best stops on the Road to Hana , including waterfalls and short hikes on the way.

One of the top stops on the route is Wai’anapanapa State Park, which requires reservations. Read our full guide to Maui’s black sand beach in this popular state park!

Maui boasts one of only two national parks in Hawaii. Read our round-up of the best things to do in Haleakala National Park . We also have the ultimate guide to sunrise at Haleakala .

We also have a guide to the best hikes in Haleakala National Park , and in-depth hiking guides to the two most epic hikes in the park: the Sliding Sands Trail and the Pipiwai Trail .

Speaking of hiking, also be sure to check out our round-up of the best Maui hikes , from easy to challenging. Plus, peruse our complete guides to hiking the popular Kapalua Coastal Trail in northwest Maui, and the Waihee Ridge Trail for astounding views!

We also have a round-up of the best waterfalls in Maui , from the 400-foot Waimoku Falls to Upper Waikani Falls near Hana. Some Maui waterfalls can be seen from viewpoints whereas others require hiking.

Water activities are plentiful in Maui! Check out our epic guide to whale watching in Maui , and our guide to the best Molokini snorkeling tours and the best Turtle Town snorkeling .

If you’d rather snorkel from shore, read our round-up of the best snorkel spots in West Maui .

Every Maui itinerary should have plenty of beach time: there are so many beautiful beaches in Maui that you are spoiled for choice. We have a round-up of the best beaches in South Maui , plus a detailed guide to Wailea Beach in southwest Maui, and one for Maluaka Beach along the Turtle Town stretch of coast.

We also have articles on the much-visited Kaanapali Beach , the popular Napili Beach and local favorite Keawakapu Beach . Along the northwest side, Honolua Bay is a famous surfing spot, and Ho’okipa Beach , near Paia, is a windsurfing mecca.

If you are looking to experience a different side of Maui, plan a visit to the Iao Valley State Monument . The lush landscapes and serene ambience will wow you! Also read our guide to Maui’s state parks , which include popular Makena State Park, home to Big Beach and Little Beach .

Spend a day exploring Upcountry Maui. Some of the best things to do in Upcountry Maui include touring farms and gardens. Help milk goats, tour a tea farm, go wine tasting and much more.

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SV Travel Media LLC makes no representations or warranties regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information provided here, and readers should use their own discretion and judgement, and seek advice from professionals where needed.

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Maui Beaches Guide

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Maui Sights Guide

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Maui Travel Guide

Visitor information on where to stay, best maui things to do, and more....

Maui Vacation Guide

Visitor info & top things to do on maui, essential tips for the ultimate maui vacation experience.

Maui has been a favorite tourist destination for decades because it represents the quintessential tropical getaway. With its beautiful coastal views, eclectic volcanoes, wildlife sanctuaries nearby, and a wide majority of the island left wild and free from rampant development, there are countless things to do in Maui that will leave you authentically charmed!

Maui has a lot going for it, especially for such a small island. It combines some of the best food, shopping, and entertainment choices from several of the other Hawaiian islands while emphasizing outdoor fun rather than a late-night party scene, like Oahu, which makes plenty of regular visitors happy.

Maui has several small towns, especially along the coast, giving much of the island a small but not rural vibe. Maui is not as large or varied in terrain as the Big Island or as weathered and verdant as Kauai. Still, its 10,000+ foot volcano Haleakala, combined with the incredible coastline views along the Road to Hana, and unique places like the 'Iao Valley and Wai'anapanapa Black Sand Beach make Maui a unique and special place to visit all on its own

— article continued below —

Wailua Falls beyond Hana town

FREE Maui Summary Guidesheet

Updated with a new summary map of Maui  with estimated driving times from popular starting points.

Includes the top  must-see & do  Maui attractions,  best times to visit ,  where to stay  briefing, Maui  airports detail , a monthly  weather summary , and where to find the most  noteworthy local ono 'grindz'  (best eats) on Maui.

Download Guidesheet Now

Often called the " Playground of the Wealthy ," Maui definitely caters to those looking for more expensive accommodations yet is spared the crowds of Oahu. But don't fret if top-notch accommodations aren't in your plans - Maui caters to all types, including the budget-conscious. The island has a reputation for being a playground for all tourists, not just the super-rich. Whether you're looking for the best Maui beach, a great bed & breakfast, or even a bamboo forest hike, we've assembled all the Maui essentials here.

Everything you need to know about Maui is here in one convenient place:

• Maui travel tips & information - everything you need to know about Maui
• Determine when to travel to Maui - which time of year is the best?
• Discover the perfect Maui hotels & accommodations or our excellent selection of Maui tours & activities
• Explore Maui's landmarks & attractions

Pipiwai Trail at the Oheo Gulch

Summary of Maui topics covered on this page.

• Maui Blog, Recent News, and current Maui Events
• Maui Weather, Climate, & Current Forecast
• When to Visit Maui - which month is the best?
• Maui Map Packet
• Where to Stay on Maui - our accommodations guide
• Maui Regions & Destinations Guide
• Top 10 Maui Attractions to See & Do
• Maui Trip Itineraries for Planning 1-7 Day Trips
• Top Maui Sights
• Top Maui Beaches
• Top Maui Hiking Trails

Geologic History of 'Maui Nui'

• Maui Popular Tours & Activities
• Maui Visitor Information & Articles

When to Visit Maui?

The best months to visit.

Wondering when is the best time to visit Maui? If you've already narrowed down your choices of islands and Maui is the winner, you're probably wondering what time of year to visit the island.

The  best time  to visit Maui, taking into consideration the weather, demand for accommodations, and how crowded, or not, the island is, are the month(s) of April, May, August, September, and early October.  Some call these Maui's 'off-season periods' or the 'shoulder months.' If you're coming specifically to see the whales, a popular attraction on Maui in particular, try to visit in January near their peak migration period.

There's more to cover on this topic before you make a final decision. In this article we cover visitor arrivals, Maui's weather and climate, accommodations, rates, and what to expect on a visit during each season on Maui.

Maui Estimated Visitor Arrivals (click to enlarge)

Upper Waikani Falls

Where to Stay on Maui

Whether you consider yourself the luxury seeker, beach bum, shoestring backpacker, a couple on a romantic getaway, or a family, look no further than Maui for the perfect lodging for your vacation. As you review each location of Maui, pay attention to the pros and cons.

Overview of Staying in Maui 

Beginning with the basics - Maui isn’t a vast island. The Island spans about 48 miles long and 26 miles wide. If you decide to visit the whole Island in a day, it will take a solid half day. Maui divides into several significant regions across its 728 square miles: West Maui, South Maui, East Maui (Hana Highway), Central Maui, and Upcountry Maui.

Maui is a destination that attracts a unique mix of tourists from all over the world. There are resorts and hotels all over the island, but there are also many free-standing hotels and vacation rentals, which give you the option to choose from a wide range of accommodations. In this article, we provide a list of these favorable destinations according to popularity.

Maui Weather 

Weather & climate on maui.

Maui weather patterns change dramatically depending on where you are on the island, as Maui hosts a large number of microclimates. Within a few miles, the average rainfall on Maui can change by several inches very quickly. In this article, we take a closer look at what areas of Maui are the driest and wettest, as this will help you decide where to stay during your Maui vacation or trip.

"Great weather" is often defined as sunny and warm - and if so, Maui is definitely  the  place for great weather. As a bonus, the majority of the accommodations on Maui are located in very dry and sunny areas. Other locations, especially along the northeast coastline, are very wet and lush. Depending on your personal preferences, one location should be easy to select over another.

First, we should point out that even in the wettest locations on Maui, rain is hit and miss. One minute it may be raining, and the next the sun is back out - usually with a beautiful rainbow to boot! It's hard to say the wet areas are less desirable than the drier ones because, in our opinion, the lushness is something we WANT to be around; so we tend to select wetter locations on purpose. However, other visitors may prefer sunny and dry weather.

Maui Weather

*Climate Notes: Weather and Climate numbers are aggregated from trusted weather sources providing the monthly temperature and precipitation figures for Maui's primary airport in Kahului. These climate summaries, specific to the airport location, should therefore not be taken as a "whole-island" forecast. Weather conditions can change dramatically on Maui due to the diverse topography, changes in elevation, the trade winds, and other unique island conditions. Temperatures are provided in Fahrenheit and Precipitation in Inches.

Maui Average Monthly Temperatures

Maui Average Precipitation

Maui Weather Forecast

Maui transportation.

Transportation on Maui is diverse, allowing visitors to choose based on their preferences and the nature of their itinerary.

• Car Rentals : Renting a car is a popular choice (we recommend Discount Hawaii Car Rental ), allowing you to explore the island at your own pace. Maui's attractions are spread out, making a car a convenient choice.
• Public Buses : Maui Bus operates a public transit system that covers various parts of the island. It's an economical choice, though it may be less convenient due to its schedule and route limitations.
• Shuttle Services : Some resorts offer shuttle services to popular destinations, providing a hassle-free option for guests.
• Bicycling : Maui's picturesque landscapes make biking a delightful experience, and bike rentals are available in several areas.
• Taxis and Ride-Shares : Taxis and ride-share services like Uber and Lyft operate on Maui, offering a convenient option for short distances or if you prefer not to drive.
• Walking : In more compact areas like Ka'anapali and Wailea, walking is a feasible way to get around, enjoy the scenery, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.

Considering the transportation options in advance can help visitors make the most of their Maui experience, whether they prefer the flexibility of a rental car, the eco-friendliness of biking, or the convenience of public transit.

Haleakala National Park - Sliding Sands Trail

2024 Maui Visitor Guides

Download your copy of one of our Maui Visitor Guides today  and take advantage of our  destination expert's Maui insights . We've just updated and released our latest Maui Highlights & Essentials Guides for 2024.

These updated Maui packets contain nearly  20 visual pages (in the Intro/Highlights Guide) and almost 40 visual pages (in the Essentials Guide) of pertinent Hawaii travel information to assist in planning your perfect Hawaii trip. There's lots of good Maui information + maps, weather charts, hotel pricing graphics, and more - ideal for those who are just getting started planning their trip to Maui.

There are also  NO advertisements  or paid product placements within these packets.

Maui Regions

Popular destinations on the valley isle.

With its resorts along the coastline, picturesque beaches, majestic palm trees, and rich agriculture, it's no wonder that people from all over the world flock to this verdant island to get a taste of what Hawaii is really all about.

Maui is renowned worldwide for many things: its beauty, its atmosphere, its history, and its never-ending supply of pristine beaches , waterfalls , and gardens - to name a few.

Wondering which parts of the island to visit? Maui comprises two major volcanic areas , the older and extinct West Maui Mountains and a very expansive volcano named  Haleakala  on the eastern side of the island. In between the two is a valley filled with deposits. The center of the island is where Maui earns its nickname, the " Valley Isle ." The isthmus stretching from Haleakala to the West Maui mountains is likely where you'll begin your journey- at the Kahului airport. No region is quite like another on the Valley Isle. Explore each of Maui's regions below to learn about the many things to do, the sights, and the diverse attractions you'll find in each area.

Ka'anapali | West Maui | Hana Highway | Upcountry & Haleakala | Kihei & Wailea | Central Maui

West Maui Destinations

Ka'anapali Region

Ka'anapali Beach, Whaler's Village, and more

The resort areas of  Ka'anapali , famous for three-mile-long Ka'anapali Beach , grace the shores of the western-most coastline. While technically inside our  West Maui  region, we've dedicated a unique section here, for each of the major attractions located within this popular area.

With plenty of sunshine and great weather year-round, this stretch of coastline has become the playground of visitors from around the world and is a popular location for taking a snorkel cruise, and doing some window shopping.

West Maui Region

Napili, kapalua, nakalele, waihee valley, and more.

With plenty of sunshine and an abundance of rainfall (as much as 390 inches a year), West Maui was once a major Hawaiian population center and the proverbial playground of royalty (the ali'i) in old Hawaii. Today, West Maui has become the playground of visitors from around the world.

Along the shores of this region, you'll find the resort area of  Kapalua  (northwest),  Kahana  and  Honokowai  (mid-way), visitor community of  Napili , and while technically located within this area, our  Kaanapali  region (located in the southwest of this region) has been devoted a section unto itself.

Ultimately, this region is one of the more developed portions of the island, with several resorts and small towns. The most north-western portion of this region is almost completely undeveloped and is raw and somewhat barren terrain.

East Maui Destinations

Hana highway region, featuring the road to hana.

Hana Highway (northeast and parts of southeast Maui), ranges from  Pa'ia town  to the community of  Hana  (Haa-na) on the northeastern tip of the island and is renowned for great windsurfing, lush rural scenery, and, of course, the famous  Road To Hana  (Hana Hwy - 360) drive that curves along the coastline toward Hana town. 

Known often as the windward side, it is largely undeveloped, and much of the narrow Hana Highway winds along the island's beautiful northern coastline.

Upcountry Maui & Haleakala Region

Haleakala National Park, Kula, Polipoli area, and more

The term  Upcountry Maui  refers to the towns, ranches, vineyards, parks, farmlands, and visitor attractions on the upper slopes of  Haleakala  volcano, including  Haleakala National Park . Enchanting and rural, Maui's Upcountry is the heart of the island's agricultural industry, as well as a thriving artists' community.

Many compare the beautiful landscape of Upcountry Maui to the countryside in Scotland. You'll also be sure to discover several unique floral gardens in this part of the island. Plus, some of the best views of the South Pacific anywhere on the island can be found from the high elevations of the upcountry.

Kihei & Wailea Region

South Maui Shoreline, La Perouse Bay, and more

South Maui is best known for its miles of white sandy  beaches , spectacular coastal areas, snorkeling on its reefs, and expansive lava fields like  La Perouse Bay .

Sheltered on the leeward side of Haleakala volcano, this side of the island is quite drier and sunnier than the rest of the island. South Maui includes the coastal communities of  Ma'alaea  and  Kihei  and the growing resort communities of  Wailea  and  Makena . There's also a good deal of Wailea real estate and Wailea condos available on this part of the island.

Central & North Maui Destinations

Central maui region, kahului, 'iao valley access, and more.

The proverbial 'heart' of the island, Central Maui, is the isthmus that connects the island's two volcanoes. Your visit to the 'Valley Isle' likely began here at the airport in  Kahului . 

Today, Central Maui includes residential communities, sugar and pineapple plantations, county and state government offices, and various visitor attractions including the  Kahului Airport  (OGG), the Maui Tropical Plantation , golf courses, parks, shopping areas, and more.

We've also included the  'Iao Valley State Park  in this area since it's accessible only through the central region.

Garden of Eden - Road to Hana

Maui Travel Map Packet

Updated to include maui beaches + road to hana.

Updated with a new printable high-resolution map of Maui. Includes most major attractions, all major routes, airports, and a chart with estimated driving times.

PDF packet now additionally includes both a Beaches Map + our Road to Hana Map .

-File is a print-ready PDF document

Maui Blog & Travel News

Timely maui headlines, events, and announcements.

We are your go-to Maui source for all the latest news, local events, and announcements from the Valley Isle. Whether you're a resident or a visitor, you can find all the information you need to make the most of your time on Maui.

We'll be covering everything from the best places to visit, to the most exciting festivals and events, to the most interesting attractions and landmarks. We'll also be providing updates on any major news stories or developments that impact visitors, so you can stay informed on the go.

Waimoku Falls at end of Pipiwai Trail

Maui Top Attractions

Top 10 maui things to see & do.

All of Maui is incredible. However, some attractions are wildly popular because they offer an experience that embodies the essence of the island. Breathtaking, Must-See, Best of... no matter what you call them, you entirely must witness these attractions first-hand. From the West Maui Mountains to the beautiful remote town of Hana, you'll enjoy the many options of  things to do  on the Valley Isle. Below we've covered some of the top attractions on the island of Maui, click any tile to learn more.

The island of Maui additionally features an abundance of  beaches , especially along the West Coast. Sun is abundant here, too, as the volcanoes in the center of the island block the majority of precipitation from ever reaching the leeward sides of the island where the bulk of lodging is located. While portions of Maui's west coast are often dry and barren, the eastern portions of the island are a lush and green paradise boasting waterfalls in numerous valleys. Many visitors enjoy the Road to Hana (aka the Hana Highway) as is winds its way along the cost to the sleepy town of Hana in the bay.

Top 10 Attractions on Maui

• Road to Hana - Hana Highway

Haleakala National Park

Oheo Gulch at Kipahulu

• Big Beach in South Maui

Ka'anapali Beach

• 'Iao Valley Monument & Needle

Napili Bay Beach

Hamoa Beach

Wailua Falls

• Wai'anapanapa State Park & Black Sand Beach

Hana Highway - 'Road to Hana'

#1 rated in sights to see on maui.

The scenic Road to Hana is the undisputed top attraction on the island. When it comes to driving the Hana Highway on Maui,  it's the journey, not the destination , that is the main attraction.

There are few words that can describe the beauty of this drive with its cliffs cloaked in green and lush valleys bursting with waterfalls. Curves hug the coast and gaze over an ocean that stretches uninterrupted all the way to the Alaskan coastline.

Couple that with black, red, and white sand beaches, a multitude of trails, and beautiful gardens and you've discovered the highway to heaven itself.

Road to Hana

Upcountry & Haleakala Region

#2 rated in sights to see on maui.

To say Haleakala National Park is impressive would do it a great injustice. Spanning a huge swath of land across Maui’s southeastern region, Haleakala is home to the highest peak on Maui, at 10,023 feet. If that weren’t enough, it also holds the world record for climbing to the highest elevation in the shortest distance- a mere 38 miles!

And not only is it one of the most popular sights in Hawaii, but it’s also home to five distinctly different climate zones, breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, stunning views, otherworldly landscapes, and flora and fauna that are found nowhere else in the world.

#3 Rated in Sights to See on Maui

The Oheo Gulch, technically part of Haleakala National Park, is located about 15 minutes past Hana town, near mile marker 42 on the Hana Highway (Road to Hana) after it turns into Hwy. 31.

We've split this attraction off from Haleakala National Park because of its geographic location and separation from the Summit portion of the park; what visitors typically think of when they hear 'Haleakala NP.' The Oheo Gulch side, also known as the Kipahulu Area, and can be accessed via Hwy. 360, the Hana Highway or Road to Hana.

The Oheo Gulch region is home to lush green landscapes, waterfalls, pools, and more - it's well worth a visit.

Oheo Gulch Kipahulu

Makena 'Big' Beach

Kihei & wailea (south maui) region, #1 rated beach on maui.

Also known as Oneloa Beach (its true Hawaiian name) or Makena Beach*, Big Beach is probably one of the prettiest beaches on the island, and certainly within the south region. It is nearly 2/3 miles long and over 100 feet wide. The gorgeous sand and pristine waters attract snorkelers, swimmers, and sunbathers.

This beach, like many, closes in the evenings and the gate is locked. Makena Beach is accessible via a short road at mile marker 4 on Makena Alanui Road and another access just past mile marker 4 in South Maui. Big Beach is connected on the right by a small path over the hill and lava to  Little Beach , which is a favorite spot for 'clothing optional' sunbathers.

Big Beach (Oneloa or Makena)

Kaanapali Region

#2 rated beach on maui.

Nearly all of the seaside resorts in the Kaanapali area back up to Ka'anapali Beach, a three-mile stretch of sand suitable for frolicking with a sidewalk that runs the entire length by the hotels to Black Rock.

Black Rock  slices across the beach and is a popular spot for snorkelers and scuba divers. Those in search of their scuba certification on this part of the island will likely do your first dive at Black Rock.

There are also plenty more opportunities to whet your appetite for water sports such as parasailing, windsurfing, and jet skis.

Kaanapali Beach

Iao Valley & Needle

#4 rated in sights to see on maui.

Nestled in the lush greenery of the 'Iao Valley is the natural rock formation called the 'Iao Needle. The green-covered stone protruding from the valley floor is actually an old basaltic core (volcano remnant). The 'Iao Needle is 2,250 feet above sea level, or 1200 feet tall from the valley floor.

The name 'Iao is pronounced "EE-ow." The 'Iao Needle is surrounded by a very lovely walkway and a garden of lush tropical plants.

Surrounded on all sides by the Pu'u Kukui Crater, it was the site of one of the most famous battles in Hawaiian history. In 1790 King Kamehameha I defeated the Maui army here in his quest to unite the Hawaiian Islands.

As of May 1, 2023, a  new  reservation system  is now being implemented  to reduce congestion and diffuse parking and crowding issues.

Iao Valley State Park

#3 Rated Beach on Maui

Located in the northwest tip of the island, between the towns of Kapalua and Honokowai is Napili Bay and Beach, a beautiful, scenic, and popular beach along this stretch of coastline on Maui. The white sloping sand and turquoise waters of Napili Bay and Beach make it one of the most popular beaches on the island and for good reason.

Typically, Napili Bay has crowded parking along the road, but the beach itself is typically less frequented by beachgoers than some other popular beaches on the Northwest coastline of the island. Napili is regarded as a less crowded and quieter resort-front beach that's suitable for families. The beach and bay can be accessed from the Honoapiilani Highway (Hwy 30). Visiting early in the day is recommended for the best opportunities for good parking.

#4 Rated Beach on Maui

Hamoa Beach is located about 2.5 miles outside of  Hana town  traveling south. The access road is located just south of a large cinder cone. There is a small white sign pointing the way to the beaches along this section of the road.

There are several beaches in the area, Hamoa being the safest and most beautiful. Turn down the access road and follow it around until you reach the beaches about 1.5 miles down the road. There's a bus pull off on the seaward side of the road, the beach is just below the overlook.

There is no parking next to the beach, park on the road above and take the stairs down to the shore. Proceed down the walkway steps to the beach.

#6 Rated in Sights to See on Maui

Technically this stop, like a few others, is also on the Hana Highway (which is later on this list). But, in our opinion, it's too good not to include on its own. Just beyond mile marker 45 on the Hana Highway after it turns into Highway 31 you'll reach one of the most gorgeous falls in all of Hawai'i, Wailua Falls.

Wailua Falls gracefully cascades 80 feet through a lush setting in the surrounding vegetation just feet from the road. There is a short path to the base of the falls, but it can be tricky so use caution.

The water flow varies but is usually pretty at any rate throughout the year.

Waianapanapa State Park & Beach

#5 rated beach on maui.

A visitors draw ever closer to Hana Town there is one last major stop at mile marker 32 on the  Road to Hana . On the makai side of the highway, you should see a gravel road leading down to Wai'anapanapa (Why-Ah-naa-paa-naa-paa) State Park. There should also be a road sign informing you of the location.

Head down the road and look for the main parking area (to the left), near the cabins. From here a trail will lead you down to  Honokalani black sand beach , located in Pa'iloa Bay. The black sand beach isn't the only attraction at Wai'anapanapa though. Wai'anapanapa also features sculpted lava rocks, wind twisted foliage, a sea arch, lava caves and tubes, and even a blowhole in the lava rocks near the shoreline.

As of March 1, 2021,  reservations  (up to two weeks in advance) for  all visiting tourists  and commercial vehicles will be required for entry to Maui’s Waianapanapa State Park. No same-day reservations will be accepted. Parking for out-of-state visitors will be $10.

Waianapanapa State Park

Maui Itinerary Suggestions

Valley isle itineraries.

As the second-largest island in Hawaii, Maui is home to many beautiful splendors. Its natural beauties, warm and inviting beaches, and endless activities make it the place to be. Maui is the perfect island to explore if you enjoy snorkeling, hiking, basking in the sun, and observing nature’s handiwork.

Ultimately, we’ve designed our itineraries around a set number of on-island days: offering  one ,  two ,  three ,  four ,  five ,  six , and  seven-day  itineraries for exploring the island, soaking in the best sights, and ensuring your precious time (and potentially money) on Maui are used wisely. We’ve tried to balance our itineraries between those who seek adventure and those looking to find a good beach and relax. Overall, we want your experience to be exactly what you’ve dreamed of when planning your trip.

For each island we’ve attempted to split up the itinerary days by sorting attractions according to their geographic proximity; i.e., on West Maui day, you’d explore the best of the island's western region attractions, beaches, and activities. Our itineraries are not meant to be followed consecutively necessarily, which would probably be exhausting, but instead as a  grab-and-go resource  for ‘mapping’ your trip - think of us as a  Wayfinder’s guide to Maui .

For nearly 20 years now, we've been visiting the 'Valley Isle' and making detailed notes about what Maui's highlights are and what visitors like yourself simply must-see based on the limited time you've allocated for each Hawaiian Island.

It isn't easy and can even be overwhelming to start planning a trip to Hawaii. One quick look on our website, and you'll soon discover there are hundreds of possibilities; a variety of sights to see, a plethora of beautiful beaches to choose from, and a diverse set of incredible trails that criss-cross each of the islands. Honestly, you could spend months on the island and not see and do it all. Having a reliable guide, that's key. We'd genuinely love to be your guide to the island of Maui during your stay, and we hope you find our itineraries resourceful while planning your trip.

View Our Maui Itineraries

Maui tours & activities, popular tours & activities on maui.

For many visitors, a Maui tour may be the perfect way to experience parts of Maui that you'd otherwise never get to see. We've hand-selected these top-4 Maui tours below due to their popularity and high ratings with visitors like yourself!

Haleakala Sunrise Tour

Starting at $219.00/person **Get $10 off when you book online

Experience perhaps the most beautiful sunrise on earth with our professional, local guides on Valley Isle Excursions' Haleakalā Sunrise Tour.

• Island-style full breakfast (after sunrise)
• We provide all-weather hooded volcano blankets for use at the summit (please dress for winter weather).
• USB seat ports, Overhead storage, 3 Point seat-belts, ADA options (wheelchair lift)
• Professionally trained, knowledgeable, safe (and fun) guides/drivers)
• Clean & well-maintained bathroom stops

Molokini Snorkel Tour

Starting at $199.00/person **Get $10 off when you book online

On this tour, you'll snorkel in the extinct volcanic crater of Molokini on a thrilling adventure in Maui.

• Be one of the  first boats in the morning to snorkel Molokini Crater,  where visibility often exceeds 180ft.
• Snorkel the back wall of Molokini , a place very few visitors see.
• Stop at La Perouse Bay to search for the Hawaiian spinner dolphins that call the bay home.
• We conclude our tour with an up close and personal encounter in the water with the  protected Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle.
• World famous Maui cinnamon rolls and fresh fruit for breakfast.
• Delicious deli sandwiches and pasta salad for lunch.
• Be Prepared for Fun!

Maui Whale Watching Tour

Starting at $99.99/person

Get the Royal treatment on our Ali'i VIP Whale Tour! We limit this tour to a maximum of 12 guests, so you have more opportunities to view the Humpback whales, and other sea life, in the most comfort possible. Our vessels are USCG rated to carry 27 guests, but this tour is all about you and your experience and is limited to 12 guests.

• Our Whale tours average 1 hour and 45 minutes.
• This tour is for ages 4 and older.
• Please arrive 20 minutes before the departure time. Look for crew members with bright blue or red shirts.

Road to Hana Tour

Starting at $180.00-$210.00/person

If driving the Road to Hana doesn't sound like something you'd like to try on your own, but you don't want to miss out on the many amazing sights along the Hana Highway, then this tour is for you. Experience the tropical rainforests, fantastic vistas, and cascading waterfalls of Maui's east coast on a guided sightseeing tour.

• Learn about the history and legends of Hawaii from your local guide
• Go for a swim at a beach or waterfall
• Drive along the winding road to Hana
• See lush rainforests, winding roads, and breathtaking beaches

Best Beaches on Maui

Valley isle beach guide.

Maui has some of the best beaches in all of Hawaii, as well as some of the most diverse. In this section, we'll cover each of the island's best beaches.

Whether you're looking for a romantic stroll for two, a family-friendly day in the sun, or the ideal snorkeling location, the 'Valley Isle' has the spot for you.

Snorkeling, swimming, and other water activities are always popular at Maui's top beaches. Check out our Maui Beach Guide for more information about all of the island's top beaches.

Maui Beaches

Best Things to See on Maui

Valley isle sights guide.

The island has some of the most diverse scenery and attractions in the world. Our Maui Things to See Guide will help you identify which attractions to visit and which to skip.

It's also home to the most scenic road in all of Hawaii- the Hana Highway. Beyond Hana, there is the gorgeous Oheo Gulch (also known as the 7 Sacred Pools).

Upcountry, Haleakala awaits you as one of the largest dormant volcanoes in the world.  In the western & central region, there is the mysterious Iao Valley nestled among the rugged West Maui Mountains.

Things to See on Maui

Best Hikes on Maui

Valley isle hiking trails guide.

Maui hiking is a popular activity when visiting the island.

In fact hiking on the island is a great family activity plus an excellent way to spend the day regardless of whether you're hiking with a group or by yourself.

The 'Valley Isle' has some absolutely fantastic trails - hikers surely won't be disappointed. In our Maui Hiking Guide , we'll cover some of the best hikes you can find on the island.

Maui Nui (Credit: Wikipedia)

Maui Nui or ' Greater Maui ' is the geologic name given to a prehistoric Hawaiian Island built from seven shield volcanoes. Nui means "great/large" in the Hawaiian language.

A little over a million years ago, the island was significantly large than the island we think of as Maui today. They didn't separate until around 200,000 years ago, partially due to sea levels rising due to glacial melting. Once encompassing the islands of modern-day Maui, Moloka'i, Lana'i, Kaho'olawe the ancient shield volcanoes slowly settled into the Pacific Ocean seafloor by subsidence, and the volcanoes were additionally weathered by erosion to slowly separate into the distinctly different islands as they appear today.

At their largest, the islands of Maui Nui were a combined 5,600 square miles in size (14,600 sq km) - giving them a land area over 40% larger than the Big Island today.

On the corresponding graphic, 'Ma' is an abbreviation for mega-anna, millions of years ago. The light and dark shading show the extent of land during low and high sea stands of glacial cycles.

Maui Visitor Information

Our top valley isle travel tips.

Maui is the second-most-visited island in Hawaii with around 2.7 to 2.9 million visitors each year . Tourism greatly affects the character of the island and it boasts a very wide assortment of accommodation & activity choices available across the island.

Maui is also the second-largest landmass in the Hawaiian island chain, which consists of eight major islands and 124 islets. The archipelago is made up of numerous volcanic islands in the central Pacific Ocean stretching in a 1,500-mile crescent from Kure Island in the northwest to the Big Island of Hawaii in the east, encompassing an area of 6,459 square miles. The eight major islands at the eastern end of the chain are, from west to east, Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Kahoolawe,  Maui , and the Big Island of Hawaii.

Popular Maui Travel Articles

Maui vacation guide, explore the valley isle by topic.

The ' Valley Isle ,' is an incredible place for a Hawaiian vacation. There aren't a whole lot of places in the world you can go and experience all you can on the small island of Maui.

Here we'll cover the best beaches, things to do, the top trails, and offer plenty of local insider information and advice to make your Hawaiian vacation wonderful- from first-time vacationers to Valley Isle veterans. 

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Pride of Maui Local Travel Blog

Your guide to the best things to do on your vacation in Maui and Hawaii

Top 50 Maui Activities & Things To Do

#prideofmaui

• Attractions
• Food & Drink

Snorkel Trip to Molokini

Road to hana, whale watching tours, sunrise at mt. haleakala, maui ocean center, sunset luau dinner cruise, hawaii mermaid adventures, maui ocean vodka tour, visit historic paia town & the north shore, helicopter tours, leilani farm sanctuary, jaws surf break (pe’ahi), ohe’o gulch (the seven sacred pools), ali’i kula lavender farm, spearfishing, makena state park, stand up paddling, kapalua golf resort, visit lana’i, pwf ocean camps, ultimate air trampoline park, iao valley state park, bailey house & museum, ho’okipa beach park, see the dolphins at la perouse, wai’anapanapa state park, maui arts & cultural center, kihei triangle, maui zip n’ dip tours, upcountry farmers market, feast at lele, maui brewing company tours, kula botanical gardens, historic iao theater, honolua bay, rappel waterfalls tour, explore upcountry maui, charles lindbergh’s grave, alexander & baldwin sugar museum, horseback riding tours, hawaiian islands humpback whale national marine sanctuary, maui pineapple tours, parasailing, hawaii nature center, maui chocolate tasting, maui escape rooms.

We are excited to provide our readers with our list of the best things to do and see in Maui . Whether you are a first-time visitor, a repeat guest, or a resident of Hawaii, this article will give you all of the most up-to-date information about each unique attraction and activity on Maui. We urge you to visit Maui and explore all of the best she has to offer! Make the best of your Hawaiian Island experience and make some vacation memories that you will cherish forever.

Discover things to do on Maui

Learn all about some of the most popular things to do on Maui , and savor every moment of your vacation with your kids, family, and friends. Enjoy full days of adventure in paradise, and create lasting vacation memories.

You know the saying, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do?” When on Maui, do as the Mauians do and go snorkeling! Snorkeling is a must-do activity and one that your family and friends will totally love.

The Island of Maui is home to one of the few volcanic islets in the world, the Molokini Crater. Just under 3 miles from the South Maui shore, this Marine Life Conservation District is one of the most popular places to snorkel in all of Hawaii (and the world!).

If you have plans to snorkel while in Maui, booking a snorkel tour to Molokini should not be missed. While snorkeling at Molokini Crater , guests can expect to see a vast array of Maui’s marine life. There are sea urchins and huge schools of many types of tropical fish. It’s also common to see Manta Rays and Hawaiian green sea turtles. This site hosts over 100 types of algae, 35 species of coral, Yellow Tang, Parrotfish, Moorish Idols, Raccoon Butterfly Fish, and so much more.

Since Molokini is a partially-submerged volcanic cone, there is no sand surrounding this snorkel site. That means the ocean depth here allows for clear underwater visibility, up to 150 feet.

Guests can visit Molokini on both morning and afternoon Maui snorkel tours . Make sure to book this Maui activity for your next trip to the Valley Isle!

Pride of Maui Molokini snorkel tour

Discover amazing undersea life

Leilani Molokini snorkel tour

Memories not soon forgotten

Heading from the North Shore towards East Maui on the Road to Hana is one of the most incredible things you could do on a perfect day in Hawaii. If you have never been, you should make sure to do this at least once in your lifetime.

The Road to Hana is one of the most popular things to do on Maui for many reasons. There is so much gorgeous scenery, and many stops where you can see waterfalls and check out some of the best, less-frequented areas. Most importantly, the Road to Hana is a chance to have a rare glimpse into Old Hawaii. Visit some of the awe-inspiring natural wonders on the way and see local Hawaiian culture firsthand.

Some visitors here choose to explore the Road to Hana as part of a tour. That’s a great idea, but we suggest that you rent a vehicle, plan out your ideal Hana itinerary , and set out on your own personal adventure. Many guidebooks and websites direct tourist traffic down the Road to Hana but fail to mention that some of the sights are on private property or adjacent protected lands. The first and foremost rule for traveling down the Road to Hana is to show respect. Do not litter, do not trespass, and please do not be rude to Maui’s local community. Share the aloha!

When you plan out your trip to Hana, make sure to start at Paia Town. Try to arrive in Paia by 7:30 am to avoid the Hana Highway traffic and get the most out of your day. Gas up your car, grab some coffee, water, snacks, and a picnic lunch at Kuau Store, and you’ll be good to go!

There are so many great places to check out along the Hana Highway. Still, we have a few stops that we suggest for first-timers. Twin Falls at Mile Marker 2 is perfect for a light hike to a waterfall and a refreshing smoothie or fresh coconut. Nahiku Marketplace at Mile Marker 29 is a prime place to go for some yummy treats and gifts. Last but not least, make a stop at Wai’anapanapa State Park at Mile Marker 32 to see a black sand beach, a gorgeous coastline, and a rare glimpse into Old Hawaii. In Hana Town, check out Hana Bay, the art galleries, and the farmer’s markets. Just past Hana, guests can spend the day at Hamoa Beach or travel on towards Kipahulu to see the Seven Sacred Pools of Ohe’o. After that, you can backtrack to Paia Town or continue on the back route that will bring you to Upcountry Maui.

A Maui Whale Watching tour is one of the best things to do on Maui, hands down. Seeing the North Pacific humpback whales grace Maui’s oceans during their annual Winter migration is one of the most exciting experiences you could ever have!

There have been recorded sightings of whales since the days when the ancient Polynesian cultures first came to the shores of Hawaii. These god-like, majestic mammals have been traveling from North Alaskan waters down to Hawaii’s oceans since at least 1300 AD.

Year after year, these glorious ocean creatures come to the waters of Maui to give birth to their baby calves and to lay low for the winter months. As guests get to witness this endangered and protected species in action, they can expect to see a display of whale behaviors. They breach and perform tail slaps, while the newborns frolic and play on the ocean surface.

On average, mature Humpback Whales are roughly 40-feet in length and 40-tons in weight. As such, it is pretty hard to miss these massive ocean dwellers, and it’s a breathtaking experience every time you see them.

Maui’s whale season can start as early as November and end as late as May. The peak time for whale watching on Maui is roughly December 15th-March 31st, and it is best experienced aboard an ocean vessel. Although people can spot the tremendous Humpback Whales from the shoreline, a Maui Whale Watching Tour is a much more up-close experience.

Pride of Maui Whale Watching Tour

More than exciting.

Venture up to 10,000 feet above sea level and take in a glorious Maui sunrise from the summit of Mt. Haleakala. This Maui activity will leave you with a jaw-dropped grin, and there will be many oohs and awes from the crowd!

There’s nothing quite like a Maui sunrise, except maybe a Maui sunset! You will have more than one chance to take it all in while on the island.

The best time to see the sunrise at Mt. Haleakala is during your first morning on Maui. Not only will it set the pace for your perfect Maui vacation, but it could be just what you need to avoid some jet-lag-induced tossing and turning in the early morning hours. Please note that you now must make reservations to visit Haleakala Crater .

When you plan to do this Maui activity, please consider that it will take about 1.5 hours to drive to the summit of Mt. Haleakala from Kahului. Depending on which part of the Island you are staying, check with your concierge or the closest local and ask them how long it takes to get to Kahului from where you are. Next, check the local sunrise time, and plan to reach the Haleakala Visitor Center about 30 minutes before then to get set up for the best view.

When you venture out to Haleakala, keep in mind that the weather will be much cooler at a higher elevation, so be sure to bring a hoodie and blanket for some snuggle time. Fill up your gas tank, grab some coffee and snacks, your camera and smartphone, and you will be ready to go.

Taking in the sunrise from Mt. Haleakala is truly a thrilling experience. To see the sun emerge from the clouds for another fabulous Maui day is almost sacred. It’s like watching a watercolor painting unfold right before your eyes. As cheesy as this may sound, it’s truly heartwarming, literally and figuratively. Soak up the sun and savor this awe-inspiring Maui activity!

Enjoy an afternoon with your family and friends and visit the only aquarium in the world that is dedicated to displaying and preserving Hawaiian marine life. The Maui Ocean Center offers full exploration for all visitors, adults or children. It’s also one of the top things to do in Maui with kids !

The Maui Ocean Center exhibits Hawaiian sea life and has educational displays about ocean ecology, whale life, and Hawaiian culture. Guests here will love their rare attractions, like the turtle lagoon and the Humpbacks of Hawaii exhibit and sphere. This aquarium is also well known for its 35-foot open ocean tunnel that opens up to a 750,000-gallon tank that houses Hammerhead Sharks, Tiger Sharks, White Tips, Grey Tips, Sting Rays, and a variety of deep-sea fish.

Golfing in Hawaii is heaven on earth for all golf enthusiasts! From golf students to golf professionals, the Hawaiian Islands offer a perfect golf experience for everyone. The golf community on Maui ranges from public courses to the private and elite golf locales only available to the rare few.

At all of the golf resorts in the State of Hawaii, golfers and their friends will lavish in the luxury of immaculate conditions. Take in the warm sunshine, pristine greens, a luxurious atmosphere, privacy, and fabulous 360-degree panoramic views.

Explore the Island of Maui in early January and attend the PGA’s Annual Sentry Tournament of Champions at the Kapalua Resort. Visit any time throughout the year for a true 5-star golfing experience. Here, guests can rub elbows with some of the best golf pros in the world while basking in the magical views of West Maui.

In South Maui, golfers can refine their skills at David Leadbetter’s Golf Academy. They can also spend some long days on the greens at the famous Wailea Golf Resort’s Gold, Emerald, and Old Blue courses.

The Island of Maui is known the world over for its golf resorts . No matter what your skill level is, there’s a course for everyone!

Surprise your loved ones with a special evening on a Pride of Maui Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise . This must-do Maui activity features Polynesian dancers, luau cuisine, and a premium open bar. It’s the best way to explore the Island of Maui with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the outer islands of Moloka’i and Lana’i, and the West Maui Mountains. This Maui activity also provides the ideal place from which to take in a magical Maui sunset!

Depending on the time of year that you visit, this Maui tour is perfect for watching the Humpback Whales frolic on the ocean surface in the early evening.

A Pride of Maui Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise is one of the best ocean activities in all of Hawaii. Only onboard the famously stable Pride of Maui can guests make the most beautiful, everlasting vacation memories! Like viewing a watercolor painting but with a cocktail in hand, guests will be in awe of the true beauty of the Magic Isle.

From the sounds of the rolling waves to the scent of fresh sea air, this activity is no ka oi (the best). Do not miss out on an amazing opportunity and life experience with Pride of Maui.

There’s an entire ocean full of things to do on Maui! An experience with Hawaii Mermaid Adventures is probably one of the coolest, most memorable, and unique things to do on Maui.

With Hawaii Mermaid Adventures, guests can learn how to swim just like a mermaid in the ocean or a resort pool. They can even purchase their very own mermaid tail! Maui mermaid swimming lessons are offered for all children, women, and men between 50-220 lb. All aspiring mermaids and mermen are encouraged to swim and learn about Maui’s oceans and myths while wearing a mermaid tail.

The instructors at Hawaii Mermaid Adventures are lifeguard/CPR certified, and they’re certified naturalists. Mermaid swimming lessons start out with safety information first. They then continue with practice swims, feedback, tips and tricks, Maui marine information, and learning about how to protect Maui’s coral reefs.

Mermaid swim classes are available both in South Maui and West Maui. Guests can book a swim class at a Maui resort swimming pool or in the ocean. All of the courses include GoPro photography taken by the instructor, and if guests would like to book a professional photo shoot add-on, they can do so at the time of booking.

This is an excellent adventure for families on vacation in Maui or for couples on their honeymoon. It’s also a fabulous idea for friends traveling to Maui for a break in paradise.

If you love vodka and are interested in organic farming, then the Maui Ocean Vodka Organic Farm & Distillery Tour is perfect for you. Maui Ocean Vodka is an award-winning spirit made right here on Maui.

Guests at this family-run vodka distillery will be blown away by the spectacular location. Make sure to bring your camera to this gorgeous 80-acre property. Take in the sights of the majestic Mt. Haleakala as your backdrop, the West Maui Mountains below, and unobstructed views of the ocean all around. The opportunities for great photos are countless here.

The tour starts with an overview of the process involved in growing sugar cane. More than 30 varieties of Polynesian sugar cane are needed to produce Maui Ocean Vodka. Guests will learn all about the sustainable farming and organic practices used in the growing and harvesting of sugar cane. Next, they will see how Ocean Vodka is distilled. In addition to the sugar cane juice, they use Hawaiian sea minerals that are found 3,000 feet under the ocean’s surface, hence the name, “Ocean Vodka.”

Of course, the best part of the tour is tasting it for yourself. All guests who are at least 21 years of age are invited to sample this amazingly smooth, 100% USDA organic vodka. Once you taste the distinct and unique flavor of Maui Ocean Vodka, you will understand why it’s so popular.

While you’re on Maui, do not miss out on a chance to check out the Historic Town of Paia and the North Shore area. This can easily be a day-long outing, so make sure that you plan for the time to explore. On the North Shore, you can explore beaches and scenic areas, peruse boutiques and art galleries, and dine at many first-rate restaurants.

Paia and the North Shore areas are, to say the least, unique communities in Hawaii. Paia Town has earned the name “The Coolest Little Town on Maui” for so many reasons. The town was once the hub of the bustling sugarcane business that would dominate Maui’s North Shore areas during the 1870s. In 1896, the Town of Paia was declared a U.S. Census-designated Hawaii township.

Once a place full of plantation workers, Paia and the North Shore are now home to a funky hybrid of residents. The true heartbeat is the host of locals who were born and raised in Maui. Over time, West Coast hippies migrated over during the CounterCulture Revolution. Next came the water sports athletes and New Agers. Now in Paia, you’ll see a blend of residents from all over the world who are all drawn to the North Shore for its bohemian charm and excellent ocean conditions for surfing and water sports.

Plan for an out-of-this-world spa day on your next vacation to the fabulous Island of Maui. Guests will love this experience thanks to a host of first-class Maui spas available at your fingertips. Maui spa menus are full of healing services for your body, mind, and soul.

Nestled in West Maui, the Ritz-Carlton Spa in Kapalua is one of the best, hands down. Their menu highlights healing therapies that draw from ancient Hawaiian healing remedies.

The menu is split up into massages, facials, a men’s specific menu, beauty services, and enhancements. Among the spa facilities at the Maui Ritz-Carlton Spa are many private relaxation areas. They have volcanic stone grottos, women’s and men’s private relaxation lounges, Cedar saunas, Eucalyptus-infused steam rooms, private and co-ed indoor heated whirlpools, and a 24-hour fitness center.

The first Western written account of surfing in Hawaii was in 1779 by Lieutenant James King. He colorfully described the Native Hawaiians riding planks of wood on the ocean swells of the Big Island’s Kealakekua Bay.

In the ancient Hawaiian language, surfing is known as “ hee nalu ” and was a spiritual practice that engaged the Native Hawaiians with the energy of their gods. Historically, hee nalu was an activity reserved for Hawaiian royalty and as such was termed the “Sport of Kings.”

Today, surfing is an ocean activity that is available to the masses worldwide. It is one of the most popular Maui ocean sports, constantly changing with new skills, trends, style, techniques, and craftsmanship. The Islands of Hawaii remain at the forefront as the best place in the world for surfing.

Visitors come to Maui from all corners of the world to surf each year. Surfing is prevalent on all of the Hawaiian Islands, with some of the most renowned surfing spots on Maui’s famous East and West side North Shore beaches.

Visit Maui and see professional watermen and women take the stage at Ho’okipa Beach Park, Jaws, and Honolua Bay.

Soar above the Hawaiian Islands and take in the beautiful Island of Maui as well as the outer islands of Molokai and Lanai with a bird’s eye view! See all of the lush valleys, secret waterfalls, dramatic coastlines, erupting volcanoes, and colorful reef formations from up high in the sky.

There is a wide range of helicopter tour companies and tours from which to choose in Hawaii. Of course, they each have different experiences to offer.

For over ten years, Blue Hawaiian Helicopters has been awarded TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence and, as such, they have been inducted into their “ Hall of Fame .” They are the leader in Hawaii helicopter tours and it’s no big surprise as to why. With Blue Hawaiian, guests can choose from five tours in Maui County. They offer the Complete Island of Maui, Hana & Haleakala, Maui Spectacular, Waterfalls of West Maui & Molokai, and Private Charters. Their Private Charters are a great choice for those who are on a Maui honeymoon and are looking for a top-notch sky adventure.

Since 2001, Blue Hawaiian Helicopters has been offering tours on their state-of-the-art Eco-Star helicopters. They use “quiet technology,” have an expansive cockpit, and feature first-class seating. All of their tours feature Bose aviation-grade noise-canceling headsets, 4-camera DVD in-flight recording, and two-way comms between the guests and the pilot.

Air Maui is a helicopter tour company with 25+ years of perfect safety. They have eight top-notch helicopter tours to offer. There is the Doors Off West Maui & Molokai, Hana & Haleakala, West Maui & Molokai Special (45-min), Complete Island, West Maui & Molokai (60-min), West Maui & Molokai with Oceanfront Landing, and the “Marry Me” Tour. They also offer custom private charters, which include catering and ground transportation.

Air Maui utilizes the “world’s best touring helicopter,” the American Eurocopter ASTAR, for all their flights. The ASTAR features air conditioning, leather seats, noise-reducing headsets, and a digital stereo. The cabin is quite comfortable, and every seat has an unobstructed 180-degree view. A MultiVision video system records your tours with the pilot’s narrations and background music, all in HD and on a USB flash drive.

For more information, please visit

Blue Hawaiian Helicopters

Visit Blue Hawaiian

Visit Air Maui

A guided tour of Leilani Farm Sanctuary is a Maui activity you will most certainly enjoy if you are a true animal lover. Leilani Farm Sanctuary is an all-volunteer, non-profit animal refuge in Haiku on Maui’s North Shore. It was molded from the vision of Laurelee Blanchard, “to establish a shelter for Maui’s animals who have suffered from abuse and have been abandoned.”

Guests will love wandering through this gorgeous eight-acre property in some of Maui’s most stunning tropical lands. With hundreds of trees and rolling green pastures to take in, you and your family will love perusing Maui’s nature while you encounter some very friendly animals.

There are so many animals that reside at this great sanctuary. You will find donkeys, pigs, goats, sheep, cats, rabbits, geese, tortoises, ducks, deer, and even a happy cow. Due in no small part to Blanchard’s mission to educate the community, the sanctuary also provides learning programs for school groups and special needs visitors. Of course, their tours are also available to the public.

We highly suggest that you go on a guided tour of Leilani Farm Sanctuary when you visit Maui. You and your family will delight in the tremendous sense of love for mother nature and all of her creatures in this peaceful haven on Maui.

Whether you are a surfer or not, Jaws is a must-see spot on Maui. Popularized by legendary watermen like Laird Hamilton and Dave Kalama with their tow-in surfing skills, Jaws is now one of the most hyped-out spots on the international surfing train.

Named after the unpredictable nature of a shark, Jaws Maui is one of the world’s largest and strongest surf breaks. The size of the waves here can exceed 70 feet in the Winter (December-March). The waves are inconsistent, and many events held at Jaws can’t set firm dates. It’s just a waiting game for those monstrous sets!

So, how can you see Jaws on Maui?

Well, its remote location is down an almost-always thick and muddy 4-wheel drive road. As such, we suggest that you lace up your hiking boots or throw on some sturdy rain boots and make the hike down. DO NOT attempt to drive down in your rental car, just as an FYI. You can get stuck on this road even if you have a 4-wheel drive and a lift. And, we promise you, it will be a mess. If you get stuck, the rental car company won’t insure you because it will be considered “off-road,” and absolutely no tow trucks will come and pull you out!

Once you get down there, get ready for an incredible adventure! Bring with you some drinking water and a camera, and remember that this hike is not great for those who are new to hiking.

To find Jaws Maui, head down Hana Highway towards Haiku. Park your car somewhere out of the way of traffic between Mile Markers 13 and 14, and start walking towards the ocean. Please do not block driveways or roads with your car. If Jaws is going off, you’ll see lots of people in the area, so you won’t get lost. The GPS coordinates are: 20.942202,-156.300688

The Ohe’o Gulch Pools, more commonly known as the Seven Sacred Pools, are one of the most popular things to see on Maui. This whole place is a natural spectacle, with a string of pools and waterfalls that cascade from the East Maui Mountain valleys to the coast of the clear, blue Pacific Ocean.

Ohe’o is a beautiful place to explore when one ventures out to Hana. Please note that the pools are no longer open for swimming. Ohe’o is part of the Haleakala National Park system and hosts a ranger station, some public restrooms, large parking lots, and top-notch camping facilities.

The best way to see the Seven Sacred Pools is by planning a camping trip to Hana! First, spend a whole day exploring the historic Road to Hana. Then, you’ll reach the Ohe’o campgrounds by sunset, and rise to a magnificent morning in Kipahulu.

Nestled on the slopes of Mt. Haleakala is the fabulous Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm. Founded by Agricultural Artist and Horticultural Master Ali’i Chang, this farm has become a cultural landmark for both Maui locals and guests. At an elevation of 4,000 feet, the Kula Lavender Farm on Maui is home to over 45 varieties and roughly 55,000 lavender plants.

Spend an afternoon visiting the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm and take a stroll through the elaborate gardens. Enjoy a sweet conversation with your loved one or spend time with friends at one of the hidden rest areas. The view from here faces the South Maui coast. This makes for some breathtaking scenes of the Pacific Ocean stretching to the West Maui Mountain Range.

Guests here can experience a true sense of aloha at the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm. Check out their Guided Walking Tours to learn more about the cultivation of lavender, all of the many species, and Kula’s own micro-climate. The staff, gardeners, and groundskeepers are all very knowledgeable about sustainable horticulture and all of the species of lavender.

Check out the onsite boutique, where you can find a bounty of locally made goods that are infused with lavender. Each product has been crafted by the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, integrating sustainability, innovation, and a true love for the Island of Maui.

Embark on a memorable experience with the Maui Spearfishing Academy during your next Maui vacation. This thrill-inducing tour operator specializes in tours and spearfishing instruction, offering a glimpse into this traditional Hawaiian practice.

Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned spearfisher, Maui Spearfishing Academy caters to all levels. Newcomers can enroll in a beginner’s course, learning essential skills such as safety measures, breath control, and handling spearfishing gear. For the more experienced spearfishers, the academy offers advanced excursions to Maui’s premier spearfishing locales, presenting opportunities to chase bigger fish and refine your technique.

The friendly and knowledgeable instructors at Mauiʻs only spearfishing academy are dedicated to imparting their expertise in spearfishing, ensuring a safe and enriching experience. They can provide guests with all necessary gear, from spears to wetsuits, and the only things required of students and guest spearfishers are respect for Mauiʻs oceans, enthusiasm, focus, and readiness for ocean adventure.

Check out Maui Spearfishing Academy for an authentic Maui adventure that is thrilling, educational, and fun. You can also keep the fish you caught for a beach BBQ or dinner!

Just south of Wailea lies Makena State Park. It stretches out over 165 acres of land. Perched upon the coastline sits two of the most fabulous beaches on Maui: Makena’s Big Beach (Oneloa Beach) and Little Beach (Pu’u Ola’i Beach).

Big Beach is one of the most popular spots in all of the Hawaiian Islands for bodyboarding and skimboarding.

Makena is a perfect South Maui beach for enjoying a day with your family and friends, sunbathing, and body surfing. Big Beach is about 1.5 miles long and 100 feet wide. It offers mostly calm conditions, although it can have a strong undercurrent and some rogue waves pending the season. Big Beach has three entrances, parking lots, public restrooms, and lifeguards.

Little Beach is a small beach cove just north of Big Beach. At one point in time, there was a trail that led from one beach to the next. Due to the erosion of the coastline, it can now only be reached by a 5-minute hike over a steep lava outcropping. Once you fare the trek, you will find the 660-ft long Little Beach below with calm swimming conditions and good times for all. Little Beach is also one of the only nude sunbathing beaches on Maui. On Sunday afternoons, it’s a popular spot for fire-dancing and drum circle parties.

Stand Up Paddling is quickly becoming one of the top ocean activities in the world. It’s open to the masses and quite easy to learn. Spend a day “sweeping the ocean,” relaxing, and enjoying gorgeous views of the water and the shore. Strengthen your core, find your balance, and feel a true sense of achievement as you learn stand-up paddling in Hawaii.

Not only is “SUP” a super fun Maui ocean activity for both children and adults. It is also gaining a particular popularity as a growing women’s sport. You can start out learning on flat water, attempt some small wave riding, and finally gain the confidence to take this sport home with you. All across the world, water sports enthusiasts are taking stand-up paddling to oceans, bays, lakes, rivers, and even reservoirs.

Stand-up paddle lessons and workshops are a great way to spend a day on Maui!

Golfing is without a doubt one of the most popular things to do in Hawaii. On Maui, sports enthusiasts have the best selection of Hawaii’s golf resorts , golf instruction, and annual golf events to attend. Two of the top golf courses on Maui are the Plantation and Bay courses at the Kapalua Resort.

If you are looking to have a memorable vacation in Hawaii while working on your golf game, then Maui is the place to be. It is the best island thanks to a host of great golf instructors for those of all skill levels. At the Kapalua Resort, guests can refine their golf craft at the Plantation and Bay courses or sharpen their skills a bit with some of the PGA professionals at the Kapalua Golf Academy. Founded by PGA Touring Pro Hale Irwin, the Kapalua Golf Academy sits on a 23-acre practice area at the Kapalua Resort. Golf instruction is offered to those of all levels here. It includes help with putting, wedge and bunker play, chipping, full swing, and specialty shots.

The Kapalua Golf Academy staff is a wonderful collection of PGA pros. They specialize in private golf lessons, corporate golf clinics, and personalized off-site instruction.

January is perhaps one of the most popular times for golfing in West Maui. It marks the annual opening of the PGA Tour season with the Sentry Tournament of Champions in Kapalua. Held at the Kapalua Golf Resort, this is the most exciting yearly golf event in all of the Hawaiian Islands.

Since 1974, the only operating winery on Maui has been one of the most fabulous attractions to visit in Hawaii. The varieties of wine vary, and their most famous offerings are their Sparkling Pineapple, Grape, and Raspberry dessert wines.

Following its foundation, the Maui winery partnered with the Ulupalakua Ranch and began cultivating crops of grapes. During this time, they had the great idea to create wine selections out of the most popular agri-crop in Hawaii: Pineapple. Since then, MauiWine has been most well known for their famous Pineapple Sparkling wine called the “Maui Brut Sparkling.” Although this Maui winery has built their name upon their various tropical fruit concoctions, they also produce some much more traditional Maui wines. When you visit them, make sure to taste the Ulupalakua Red (a blend of Syrah, Merlot, and Malbec), Upcountry Gold (a Chardonnay aged in stainless steel), and Lokelani (an elegant sparkling Rose with hints of vanilla and orange blossom).

MauiWine is in the Upcountry area of Ulupalakua, right next to some far-reaching pastures that are full of horses and cattle. This area is a unique part of Maui’s history and agricultural and colonial heritage. All of the staff and operators here at MauiWine pride themselves as “stewards of the land.” Their main goal is to support the sustainability and thriving agriculture of this Upcountry locale.

Visit Lanaʻi, the smallest inhabited island in Hawaii’s island chain. It is also known as “The Pineapple Isle,” and most visitors are surprised to learn that it is part of Maui County. Lanaʻi allows visitors to experience Hawaii in its most authentic and peaceful form bar none.

Known for its rugged landscapes and serene beaches, Lanaʻi starkly contrasts the bustling tourist spots of the Hawaiian Islands. The island is accessible via a short ferry ride from Mauiʻs Maalaea Harbor, or an island hopper flight from Kahului Airport. Please note that once you’re on Lanaʻi, the best way to travel is by tour or rental car, especially for a day trip, so please make your on-island arrangements in advance.

Lanaʻi’s allure lies in its unspoiled beauty and rural Hawaii vibes. You won’t find any traffic lights here, only miles of gorgeous landscapes waiting to be explored. The adventurous guests can traverse Central Lanaʻi’s Munro Trail, which leads through rainforests and scenic points en route to Lanaʻihale, the island’s highest peak. Hulopoe Bay is a must-visit for beach lovers, with crystal-clear waters and a protected marine preserve abundant in colorful marine life. It is just perfect for snorkeling.

Lanaʻi’s small-town charm lives in Lanaʻi City, the island’s heartbeat. Here is where visitors can experience the islandʻs community and culture, eat at local restaurants, and shop at a handful of unique boutiques.

For the luxurious Lanaʻi experience, visitors can head to the Four Seasons Lanaʻi for premium comfort and service, plus one of the most famous golf courses in Hawaii, the Manele Golf Course.

If you have kids who love the ocean and its wildlife, and are currently in 1st-5th grade, they will love the Pacific Whale Foundation’s Ocean Camp. This camp offers a fantastic experience for both children visiting Maui as well as those who live on the island.

Ocean Campers will learn all about Maui’s ocean environment and make new friends while sharing adventures. Each week has a new marine theme with daily hands-on ocean science education, arts and crafts, and a nature-based or museum-type field trip.

Ocean Camp is offered by a single day or a week-long registration. Each day starts at the Pacific Whale Foundation Discovery Center in Maalaea. There is an initial warm-up that includes activities based on the weekly theme. Campers will then enjoy an adventurous field trip and a (BYOL) picnic lunch. After lunch, the kids come back to the Pacific Whale Foundation for the daily science lesson, some games, and a fun craft project.

Rest assured, the staff members at the Ocean Camp are energetic and kid-friendly professionals who will ensure your child’s safety. Whether for a day or the entire week, your kids will have an unforgettable Maui vacation experience with the PWF Maui Ocean Camp.

With over 14,000 square feet of trampoline entertainment, Ultimate Air Maui is Maui’s only indoor trampoline park. Whether you are a local or a guest on Maui, this is such a great place for birthday parties, corporate events, and group events. Activities here include freestyle, extreme trampolines, jousting, basketball, dodgeball, and a keiki (kids’) court.

To save time, visit their site and fill out their online waiver. Just one is required per family. Once this is complete and you have watched the safety video, you are free to enjoy all of the activities that they offer for up to one-year before having to fill out another waiver.

Ultimate Air welcomes people of all ages and physical abilities. Parents will be happy with the separate jumping zones. They are split up by age and size, so your little ones are safe to bounce around in their own zone. Walk-in customers are welcome during all hours of operation, subject to availability, but it is highly recommended that you make reservations. They frequently offer a 30-day individual membership pass for a discounted price. Membership includes 30 days of jumping for up to 2 hours each day.

One of the most rewarding things to do on Maui is to spend a day at Iao Valley State Park. Iao Valley is not just a Maui cultural landmark but a sacred site known for housing ancient Hawaiian demigods. It has served as a critical location in the history of Hawaii.

Lush, magical, and inviting, Iao Valley is simply stunning. This is the perfect place for a family day on Maui. Spend time with each other while you hike through easy trails, swim in the waterfall and pools, and have a picnic or a BBQ. While you venture out of Iao Valley, check out the Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens and the Hawaiian Nature Center.

Visit the Iao Valley State Park page on the DLNR website to learn about park closures and get up-to-date information about the park facilities.

Plan out an adventurous hiking expedition on Maui! The Island of Maui offers a host of incredible hikes that range from easy trail walks to challenging 3-day+ long excursions. No matter your skill and stamina level or the size of your group, there are many exciting hiking opportunities here for everyone.

On Maui, visitors can head up to the 10,023-foot-high dormant Mt. Haleakala Crater to backpack through one of the most geologically diverse areas in Hawaii. Travel East towards Hana and hike through a bamboo forest to a waterfall, start Up Country and explore the Makawao Forest, or journey South and take a stroll through La Perouse Bay. If you’re looking for a chill hike that’s more like a walk, do not miss out on a chance to visit Iao Valley.

Look to The Kings Gardens Maui for a lovely tropical adventure. They have nature hiking tours that feature a beautiful waterfall. You will also get to learn all about the history of chocolate and enjoy tasting some yummy samples!

Maui’s Bailey House and Museum belongs to the Maui Historical Society, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1951. Officially chartered in 1956, the Maui Historical Society’s mission is “To collect, preserve, study, interpret and share the history and heritage of Maui.” ( www.MauiMuseum.org , 2022)

Built in 1833, the Bailey House was once the home of missionary teacher Edward Bailey and his family. The house sits on a historic Hawaiian site, the royal compound of Kahekili, the last ruling chief of Maui. The Bailey house became a museum in 1957 and in 1972, the 7-acre property was listed under the National and Hawaiian Registers of Historic Places.

The Bailey House Museum holds the most extensive collection of Hawaiian art exhibits in Maui County. Here, guests can view some rare archeological finds. There is a 100-year-old canoe, a surfboard that belonged to the Hawaii legend Duke Kahanamoku, 19th Century colonial artifacts, Edward Bailey’s paintings of Hawaii, Koa furniture, and so much more.

Ho’okipa Beach Park is one of the most famous beaches in Hawaii and one of the top beaches in the world for professional surfing and windsurfing. In the ancient Hawaiian language, “ ho’okipa ” means “hospitality,” and that is precisely what this beach park has to offer!

Check out Ho’okipa Beach Park, and watch more than a few of the world’s best watermen and women set the stage. At Ho’okipa, visitors can see the vast North Shore Maui coast and gorgeous reef formations all the way from the top parking lot. You can venture down to the sand for some great people-watching, afternoon BBQs, and soaking up the glorious Maui sunshine.

During the winter, the current can be quite strong, so we suggest that only strong swimmers venture out. Ho’okipa is one of the best spots to snorkel and explore during the summer months. Discover the excitement and international appeal while visiting Ho’okipa Beach Park. Experience the North Shore of Maui the way that the locals do! Kick back and relax, and love life in Hawaii.

One of the most amazing things you can do in South Maui is to see the dolphins at La Perouse Bay.

Pods of Spinner Dolphins come to La Perouse every morning. After a rare chance to watch the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins in their natural habitat, take a short walk through the marked trails at La Perouse Bay.

Make sure to stay on the trails because there are some areas of La Perouse that are protected Hawaiian historical sites. La Perouse Bay marks one end of Maui’s historic King’s Trail. Guests can view archeological sites while they breathe in all of the peace and tranquility of this beautiful part of South Maui.

At La Perouse, you will see beautiful lava formations as they lead out to the sea. From time to time you might see some people riding horses at La Perouse. If you look closely, you may even see some wild goats running around in the Kiawe trees.

You can find La Perouse at the end of Makena Alanui Road, Highway 31. There’s a gravel parking lot but there are no public restrooms or facilities. When you are done with your visit, you can head back to Highway 31 to visit some snorkeling coves or Makena State Beach Park en route back to Kihei.

Wai’anapanapa State Park sprawls across 122 acres of land along the coast of East Maui. Guests can hike through two trail loops in this gorgeous area and take in the stunning views of the coast. Some highlights are the sea-sculpted lava shelves, ancient Hawaiian burial sites, a blowhole, five secret caves, and the stunning Pa’iloa Beach, also known as Black Sand Beach.

Wai’anapanapa is one of the few Hawaii State parks on Maui that allow camping. The property has 12 cabins available to rent, but make sure to book yours ahead of time. There are also several picnic and BBQ areas, some restroom and shower facilities, and a large parking lot. This spot is frequented by both locals and visitors, with a few tour buses that stop in each day. Wai’anapanapa is one of the top places to visit in Hawaii, but only for those in the know.

Wai’anapanapa is near Mile Marker 32 on the Hana Highway. If you head East towards Hana Town, you will see a sign on the road’s makai (ocean) side where you will take a left to reach the State Park.

While exploring Wai’anapanapa trails, guests should follow the information on ALL signs. If one says “ kapu ,” that means stay out! This park has more than 34 ancient Hawaiian historical sites, so please respect the history, the ‘ aina (land), and the aumakua (ancestors).

Since 1994, the Maui Arts and Cultural Center (MACC) has been providing Maui residents and visitors with the most fantastic place for art and entertainment on Maui. Here, guests can enjoy Hawaiian culture programs, live music, comedy, dancing, stage shows and plays, concerts, festivals, art exhibits, galas, and much more. The MACC is the only venue of its kind on the island of Maui!

When a big name act comes to the Island of Maui, you can bet that they’ll be playing at the MACC. The MACC consists of the Castle Theater (indoor), McCoy Studio Theater (indoor), A&B Amphitheater (outdoor), and the Schaefer International Gallery.

There are so many great events held each year at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center. A few of the most popular ones are the Maui Film Festival, Made In Maui County Festival, Mayjah Rayjah Summer Music Festival, Maui Brewers Festival, and Maui Calls. Throughout the year, the MACC also offers a wide range of free events for the public. Some of the best ones are the Starry Night movie screenings, the Ki Ho’alu Guitar Festival, and the Maui Ukulele Festival.

Whether you are a resident of Maui or a visitor, the Maui Arts & Cultural Center is a great place to visit. They offer so many top-notch programs for everyone to enjoy. The Maui Arts & Cultural Center is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization run by a volunteer Board of Directors.

Discover Kihei Triangle to witness South Mauiʻs vibrant bar scene and nightlife. Just across the road from the beach, guests can have a tropical cocktail, do a little souvenir shopping at Kalama Village, get a quick bite, or catch a game and a local beer at a sports bar.

South Shore Tiki Lounge stands as Kihei’s quintessential South Maui bar, restaurant, and nightclub. It’s the best place to catch a game, and the dance floor comes alive on weekends, pulsating with house music by local DJs and attracting a youthful, energetic crowd.

Just a short walk away, Three’s Bar and Grill mixes dining with lively entertainment. They also have a VIP Surf Lounge with a stage for live music and entertainment. During weekdays, guests can enjoy tunes with dinner, while weekends turn up the tempo with performances lasting until the early hours. If you head to Threeʻs, 100% order the Coconut Crusted Shrimp as a starter.

More spots to check out at the Kihei Triangle and South Kihei include VIBE Bar, Kahale’s, Lava Rock Bar, Dog & Duck, and Haui’s Life’s a Beach.

Plan out an exciting day and take your family and friends on one of Maui’s only Zip n’ Dip Tours! This is the latest craze in Hawaii zipline adventures, and it is offered only through Skyline Eco-Adventures on Maui. It is quickly becoming more and more popular, so make sure that you book this Maui activity early.

Guests have two options when they plan their Maui Zip n’ Dip Tour. The first tour is a 3-hour, 4-line adventure where guests will venture down three new lines and finally reach the 4th line, the “Zip n’ Splash.” This is where guests can spend roughly 45 minutes swimming, splashing, and stand-up paddle-boarding in a freshwater pool. The second choice is a 4.5-hour tour with a brand new 9-line zip tour, where guests will soar through 8 separate zip lines before reaching the 9th “Zip n’ Splash,” where they will spend 45 minutes of freshwater fun.

The super popular Upcountry Farmers’ Market has graced Maui for more than four decades, making it the island’s longest-standing farmers’ market. Originally hosted at diverse Upcountry locales such as St. Joseph’s Church and the Eddie Tam Gym in Makawao, it now thrives each Saturday from 7am-11am at the Kulamalu Town Center (conveniently situated near Long’s Drugs off Highway 37). Renowned as a favorite among Maui’s weekly markets, it basks in the milder climate and breathtaking panoramic vistas only found in Upcountry Maui.

What truly sets this market apart is the eclectic mix of over 50 vendors that gather here weekly. Residents and visitors wallow in a cornucopia of amazing local offerings: organically farmed produce to ice-cold coconuts, handpicked macadamia nuts, fresh seafood, Maui coffee, local honey, fresh-cut flowers, and so much more. Morning market goers can also find exotic items like lilikoi (passion fruit) butter, a variety of juices, freshly baked bread, and a colorful array of tropical plants and trees.

The Upcountry Farmers Market also tempts the palate with a whole range of prepared foods. There are always delicious raw and vegan options and Thai and Indian dishes, with new tasty local surprises introduced weekly.

This Maui farmers market isn’t just a top thing to do on Maui; it’s a full-on sensory celebration of Maui’s beautifully diverse culture and community. With the crisp Upcountry air and stunning scenery, here’s a place you can relax in for a while.

Feast at Lele is such a great thing to do while on Maui. We cannot possibly say enough good things about it! It is like the tour-de-force of traditional luaus, with a superb display of Polynesian culture all throughout the menu, music, dance performances, and presentation.

Feast at Lele is brought to you by the creators of Maui’s Pacific’O Restaurant of the Old Lahaina Luau. With this in mind, Feast at Lele has been expertly crafted by the best in Hawaiian hospitality. If you are looking for some fabulous Polynesian food at one of the best luaus in Hawaii, you’ve found it!

Feast at Lele offers all of their guests a truly remarkable Maui experience. First, the location of the Feast at Lele is the same beach where Hawaiian royalty once entertained their guests. This area of West Maui also housed the original seat of the Hawaiian monarchy, which we think is pretty sweet.

The Feast at Lele begins at sunset, where guests are greeted with a fresh flower lei and a Mai Tai. They will then enjoy a delicious, private sit-down 5-course dinner and an open bar throughout the night. The cuisine and evening performances pair with each other perfectly. They are both drawn from the four Polynesian cultures of Hawaii: Aotearoa, New Zealand, Tahiti, and Samoa. Guests can expect to taste some true delights from Hawaiian culture while watching a real Hawaiian performance. Seriously, every part of the Feast at Lele is fabulous!

We suggest that you book Feast at Lele ahead of time as these seats go fast! For more info, please see all of our favorite Maui luaus .

Maui Brewing Co (605 Lipoa Pkwy., Kihei) is the first craft beer to have been brewed on Maui. Their brewery tours include tastings of their four flagship beers. They are the Bikini Blonde Lager, Big Swell IPA, Coconut Hiwa Porter, and Pineapple Mana Wheat.

The guided tours last about 45 minutes. Make sure to get there at least 20 minutes early as the tours are each for only 15 people, and they will start reassigning reservations 10 minutes prior. Call ahead on the weekend or make your reservation online. The tours cover their history, distribution, beer brewing methods, and packaging.

If you miss the tour, you can still buy a beer, wine, or cocktail and enjoy the view of the ocean from their shaded patio. Guests can also play board games, buy merchandise, or have a 32-ounce growler filled to the brim.

Perched at 3,300 feet above sea level, the Kula Botanical Garden is open to all guests from 9 am to 4 pm, seven days a week. This Maui botanical garden spans 8 acres and is the perfect place to go for a quiet stroll through Upcountry Maui.

The environment at the Kula Botanical Garden is peaceful and relaxing, and is a feast for the senses! The air here is so fresh with vibrantly colored flora as far as the eye can see. Tropical fragrances follow the paved pathway, and the property is expertly landscaped. See a huge range of exotic plants and tropical flowers, from Protea, White Ginger, Rainbow Eucalyptus, and Monstera to Orchids, Fuschia, and Bromeliads. A stream travels through the garden and a bird sanctuary for the native Hawaiian Nene birds, which are endangered.

When you come to the Kula Botanical Garden, make sure to give yourself at least an hour to truly check the space out on a self-guided tour. If you’d like to stay longer, be their guest! The owners have made some nice sitting areas for quiet reflection, and picnic tables and chairs for those who would like to enjoy lunch in a nirvanic setting.

If guests would like to book a guided tour of the Kula Botanical Garden, they must book in advance.

The Historic Iao Theater first opened its doors in Wailuku in 1928. It was built with a Spanish Mission/late Art Deco style. Wailuku’s famous theater features movie screenings, stage shows, plays, and performances. Some notable performers from its past include Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Donald O’Connor, and Mickey Rooney.

In 1953 the Iao Theater was one of the first movie theaters in Hawaii to screen the film “From Here To Eternity.” In the early parts of the 20th Century, the Iao Theater was the most beautiful and unique venue on Maui.

By the 1980s, the Iao Theater had started to slowly decline due to a lack of care and service. It was close to demolition. Between 1994 and 1996, the Iao Theater underwent a major renovation to the tune of over $1 million. These efforts were led by the Wailuku Main Street Association. Thanks to Maui’s community and some generous donors, the repairs have been completed and the Historic Iao Theater is now home to Maui OnStage events. Maui OnStage offers acting classes for the youth and adults, and they produce a wide range of plays and Maui stage performances.

The Historic Iao Theater is an excellent place to visit while you are on Maui. You can easily spend a whole late afternoon checking out the boutiques on Wailuku’s Main Street. Then, grab some dinner at any of the delicious restaurants near the theater, and catch a Maui Onstage evening performance with your family and friends.

Honolua Bay is just a 20-minute drive north of Lahaina. It’s a famous West Maui beach for surfing and snorkeling. Honolua is one of the most beautiful, colorful, and vibrant beaches in all of the Hawaiian Islands too.

In the winter, Honolua is a top surf spot for experienced surfers. During the calm summer months, Honolua is one of the best places on Maui to snorkel or scuba dive. The bluffs above the beach area provide a perfect spot to watch surfers from a safe distance or to take in a stunning West Maui sunset.

To snorkel at Honolua Bay, guests have a few options. First, you could book a snorkel cruise that will bring you right to the bay. You could also drive to Honolua, park near the sign for the Honolua-Mokule’ia Bay Marine Life Conservation District and take a short hike through Honolua’s forest.

When you snorkel at Honolua Bay, make sure to enter the water on the right-hand side of the rocky beach. Most people go left to the sandy entrance, but the water there is sometimes cloudy due to a freshwater stream on that side of the bay.

Explore Hawaii as you never thought possible on one of Maui’s most unique tours. Journey through a 26-acre privately owned Maui rainforest and botanical garden. Here you can become a Hawaiian-style canyoneer while you rappel down waterfalls framed by lava rock.

Guests will start out in the morning by traveling down the renowned Hana Highway towards East Maui. With the help of a professional tour guide, they will receive expert levels of information about the Hawaii rainforest environment. Guests will embark on a tour of the botanical gardens, get decked out in canyoneering equipment, and receive rappel training and safety instruction.

The pro canyoneers will then lead guests on a short hike into a Maui jungle, where they will receive more hands-on training. Guests will then have the chance to practice their new skills on a 60-foot dry jungle wall. After an approved “show-and-tell” session, guests will have the choice to continue up to a 50-ft waterfall where they can rappel into a large freshwater pool. If they choose to go further, they can rappel down a more challenging 30-ft waterfall.

Maui is the best island in Hawaii for so many reasons that there are too many to list! Two of the things that make Maui so special are its diverse topography and microclimates. In one day, guests can travel from sea level to the 10,000-ft high Mt. Haleakala.

Due to Maui’s wide range in elevation and the fact the island was created by two volcanic eruptions, there is just so much to see and take in. On the slopes of Mt. Haleakala is an area that is known as Upcountry.

The Upcountry area of Maui is made up of Makawao, Olinda, Kula (lower and upper), Keokea, and Ulupalakua. When you visit these areas, you might be shocked since you wouldn’t expect to see all of the rolling hills, farms, pastures, and sweet and quaint communities.

The next time you’re on Maui, take a scenic tour of Upcountry. Taking some time to explore this area will add to many more unique Maui vacation memories.

Check out historic Makawao Town to get a glimpse of Maui’s paniolo (cowboy) culture, and to find some great stores, galleries, and restaurants. Go to Olinda to hike through the Makawao Forest, check out the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, and explore the Kula Botanical Gardens. Stop by for some original Maui coffee and baked goods from Grandma’s Coffee Shop in Keokea. Do not miss out on a chance to grab a top-notch burger or a plate lunch from the Ulupalakua Ranch Store before you visit the tasting room at Maui’s winery in Ulupalakua .

The Palapala Ho’omau Congregational Church can be found near Mile Marker 41. It is not only one of the most interesting historical sites on Maui but it is also the site of Charles Lindbergh’s grave.

Okay, so who was Charles Lindbergh ?

“If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea…” (Charles Lindbergh inscription at the Palapala Ho’omau Church, Maui)

Charles Lindbergh, nicknamed “Slim,” “The Lone Eagle,” and “Lucky Lindy,” was an extremely influential aviator, inventor, explorer, social activist, and U.S military officer. He was born in Detroit in 1902 and died in Kipahulu, Maui in 1974. He was a stunt pilot, and was the first pilot to fly non-stop from New York to Paris when he was just 25 years old. When his child was kidnapped in 1932, Al Capone (“Scarface”) offered to help him find his baby. In 1932, Lindbergh also invented one of the first artificial hearts out of Pyrex glass! He was a huge deal in his day and was absolutely massive in the media.

Like many, Charles Lindbergh found the Island of Maui to be one of the most desirable places he had ever visited, and made it his home.

Palapala Ho’omau Church was built in 1857 from limestone and coral. This historical Maui church has so much more to offer than just a tiny graveyard. The craftsmanship alone is astounding for its time. Art history lovers will surely be in awe. One of the window paintings inside the church shows a Polynesian Chief dressed in a Hawaiian feather cape. This kind was reserved only for Hawaii’s highest-ranking Ali’i chiefs (royalty). It is kind of tricky to find but it is well worth the effort. The Palapala Ho’omau Church is still active and is visited daily by many residents. Please, PLEASE be respectful and courteous at this East Maui locale!

The Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum in Puunene sits right next to the largest sugar factory in Hawaii, which is now closed. The museum is just 1,800 square feet but should not be overlooked by those who are touring historical attractions on the Valley Isle. Maui’s Sugar Museum has a vast collection of exhibits, and loads of information about Maui’s agricultural history and colonial past.

The A&B Sugar Museum consists of six exhibit rooms. There is The Geography Room, The Water Room, The Human Resources Room, The Plantation Room, The Field Work Room, and The Mill Room. After strolling through each exhibit room and checking out the view in Puunene, guests should have a pretty good idea of what sugar production in the late 1800s looked like. Outside the museum, guests can also find some interesting outdoor exhibits. There is a Portuguese oven from the 1920s, a Cleveland Model J36 trench digger, a cane hauler, a few vintage Caterpillar tractors, and more.

The A&B Sugar Museum is a great place for the whole family to check out. They can explore the entire museum in just under an hour. There is also a sweet little gift shop for those who are looking for the perfect Maui gifts for their friends and family at home.

Embarking on a horseback riding tour in Maui is one of the best ways to explore the ‘ aina (land) of Maui. You can take in the views of the terrain up close and personal from the top of a horse. While engaging in this popular Maui activity, riders will have a fantastic vantage point to check out Maui’s amazing mountain and coastal views.

Horseback riding in Maui is an excellent activity for those of all skill levels. Throughout the Island of Maui, there are more than a few places where you can go horseback riding. In West Maui, the best place to ride horses or take horseback riding lessons is at the Ironwood Ranch. If you are in Central Maui, check out Makani Olu Ranch. Also in Central Maui is Mendes Ranch, a great choice to enjoy horseback riding tours and have a fun, cowboy-style BBQ lunch.

For those who are looking to enjoy island-style country living at its best, a Maui horseback riding adventure is the perfect choice. Mendes Ranch is located on Wailuku’s back road and is a superb choice for those looking for things to do with their kids on Maui . Besides the great trail adventures, Mendes Ranch also offers a top-notch BBQ lunch.

With rave reviews and high ratings, Ironwood Ranch in West Maui is a top spot for horseback rides. They offer rides from beginner to experienced levels, private lessons, sunset rides, and private events.

Lastly, Makani Olu Ranch in Central Maui is just fantastic! They offer Maui horseback riding lessons, private rides, and their famous Waikapu Plantation Ride. This ride traverses picturesque Mauna Kahalawai Valley on the slopes of the West Maui Mountains. The tour accommodates a max of 6 riders, with 2-hour and 3-hour options. This is an ideal choice for a memorable family outing or a holiday excursion with your close friends.

Please visit Mendes Ranch , Ironwood Ranch , or Makani Olu Ranch for more information about horseback riding tours in Maui.

Situated in South Maui, the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary is a haven for Maui’s majestic humpback whale visitors.

Encompassing approximately 1,400 square miles of ocean, the sanctuary is a crucial breeding and birthing area for these magnificent mammals. The sanctuary’s Visitor’s Center offers a unique opportunity for guests (and residents) to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the North Pacific Humpbacks in their natural habitat.

Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary also conducts educational programs and community outreach, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for marine life and its preservation.

Visiting the sanctuary isn’t just a tourist activity; it’s an immersive experience that connects you with nature and underscores the importance of marine conservation in Maui.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or simply seeking a unique activity in South Maui, the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary is a great choice.

At the Hali’imaile Pineapple Plantation, guests will have a great time checking out the only pineapple tour in Maui. It is also the only tour of a working pineapple plantation in the US!

The Maui Pineapple Tour is a fun time for the whole family. It’s an eco-friendly and educational tour where guests can learn about Maui’s pineapple growing history, growing cycles, and cultivation techniques.

The guided tour begins with a display of how pineapples are harvested and then how they are packed and shipped. Every guest will have the opportunity to taste pineapple at different stages, and each guest will be gifted a fresh and tasty Maui pineapple as a souvenir.

Parasailing is one of the most exciting ocean activities you can do on Maui! Please keep in mind that this activity can only be done during the late Spring and Summer months. Parasailing vendors are not allowed to operate during Maui’s whale watching season, which is roughly between late October and April.

Maui parasailing tours depart from Ka’anapali Beach. The top parasailing company in Maui is UFO Parasails. They are the best in the business and have a funny, knowledgeable, and professional crew. Safety and fun are the two most important things to the staff at UFO.

You can expect a small group on a Maui parasailing tour. The groups are usually limited to eight people so that everyone gets a reasonable amount of time in the air. When it’s your turn to get up and fly over the Pacific Ocean, you will be harnessed and perched in the back of the boat. You will slowly float into the air and quickly become the King or Queen of the Pacific, with all of West Maui in your sights. On your way down, you can get dipped in the ocean if you’d like, so tell the parasailing guides ahead of time!

Parasailing is a super fun thing to do for guests of all ages. You can even fly tandem! Time to put this Maui activity on your bucket list!

The Hawaii Nature Center has been providing environmental educational programs in Hawaii since 1981. Their Maui field sites are Iao Valley and Kealia Pond. Since the center was started, over 850,000 children have learned from its programs.

The mission of the Hawaii Nature Center is “to foster awareness, appreciation, understanding, and stewardship of Hawai‘i’s environment by educating children with an interactive and immersive approach.”

They offer both Maui Community and Maui School programs all year round. As such, this non-profit organization adds so much value to the lives of all who take part in their customized activities in Maui.

On your next vacation in Maui, make sure to check out the Hawaii Nature Center. You will learn all about Hawaiian environmental culture and the inner workings that are crucial to the preservation of Maui. This is a great place for kids and a wonderful choice to appease your philanthropic side by volunteering in Hawaii.

A visit to Maui Chocolate Tasting is the perfect activity for foodies and chocolate lovers who are visiting Maui. Formerly known as Maui Chocolate Tours, Maui Chocolate Tasting’s new production kitchen can be found in North Kihei, behind the Tesoro Gas Station on Maui’s South Shore.

Owner and Master Chocolatier Virginia Douglas knows how to showcase all of the unique flavors found on Maui. Her expertise shows through in her fusion of Maui’s fresh, locally sourced fruits, nuts, spices, and flowers with her fantastic chocolate. The result is a flawless blend of taste and color.

Guests will love this exclusive chocolate experience so much. You and your loved ones will have a great time as you learn everything you could ever want to know about chocolate making and how cacao is grown on Maui.

If it sounds like fun to spend the day tasting delicious chocolates that have been hand-made in small batches by a true artisan, then we suggest that you book your reservation to visit Maui Chocolate Tasting ahead of time. This is a very popular outing and it has limited space. Don’t miss out on this rare and unique chocolate activity!

If you choose to visit the Upcountry farm where the cacao is grown, please note that they cannot accommodate those who have limited mobility or other such physical disabilities at this time. With a high elevation of 1900 feet, some moderate walking up and downhill on steep grades is required.

Do you need a break from the sun? Are you ready for an immersive live-action adventure on Maui that will put your wits to the test? At Maui Escape Rooms, guests can wear the hat of a treasure-hunter, clue finder, cryptologist, and more!

So, what happens in the Escape Rooms?

You and your group will be physically trapped in a room filled with gadgets and puzzles. There is only one goal: you have to find the hidden clues, crack the devices and decipher the codes to solve the mystery and escape before you run out of time! Please note that each room has a panic button that allows for an exit if needed.

Currently, Maui Escape Rooms has five escape games to offer. There is Saving Sherlock, Tesla’s Secret, Prison Break, Pirate Ship, and Ka Puka Bunker. Each one is unique and challenging. All of the games are designed to build teamwork skills and promote social interaction.

Maui Escape Rooms will leave you and your loved ones with fond memories of this fun Maui journey. Book a Maui Escape Rooms adventure now to find out if you have what it takes to escape!

Please share this article with your family and friends.

Mahalo for reading Pride of Maui’s Top 50 Maui Attractions & Maui Activities . There are just so many wonderful activities and adventures to check out on Maui.

From all of us at Pride of Maui, we look forward to helping you create your best vacation to Maui yet! A Hui Hou Kakou ! (Until we meet again)

Alexandra Mitchell

Alexandra is a marketing professional with a passion for writing about travel to the Hawaiian Islands, vacation rentals, and luxury real estate. She exposes readers to glimpses of 'Old Hawaii,' new destinations to explore, local events, and all the best things to do on Maui.

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27 Best & Fun Things To Do In Maui (Hawaii)

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: March 22, 2021  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Maui is a beautiful island and a much-loved vacation location in the Central Pacific, where it sits as part of the archipelago of Hawaii.

From a distance, you can see its summit of Mount Haleakala, a long-dormant volcano that serves as an unofficial centerpiece for the locale.

Scenic highways connect pools, waterfalls, beaches, and greenery, and many other islands are scattered in this isle’s vicinity for quick day trips and island hopping.

This island is home to a whopping 30 miles (or more) of gorgeous sandy beaches, with a mix of fierce waves and calm waters.

Though very much a tourist destination, it also maintains much of its traditional and historical flair, so you can get in touch with the culture of the region.

With historic buildings and parks, gorgeous coastline, verdant forests, and scrumptious food, there’s no shortage of things to enjoy.

But what should you add to your itinerary?

To help you decide, here is our travel guide for the 27 best and fun things to do in Maui, Hawaii.

Table of Contents

1. Road to Hana

William Powell / Shutterstock

The Road to Hana is one of the most loved Maui attractions in Hawaii, which is interesting because it’s both one of its free things to do and not an actual intentional attraction.

The road stretches about 40 miles and begins at Pa’ia on Maui’s Windward eastern side.

It takes approximately four hours to make a round trip on this road, which is more formally known as Highway 360.

Along the Road to Hana, you’ll catch glimpses of gorgeous forests with waterfalls, quite a difference from the more barren land on other parts of the coast.

Beautiful views, lush vegetation, curving coastline, and rustic bridges are only a few reasons that the road is so popular.

Hairpin turns and narrow roads can make the trip challenging, but it’s very much worth it!

It’s recommended that you take your time while driving the Road to Hana, as there are plenty of interesting stops.

Beginning first thing in the morning is a good bet for making sure you get a relaxing, experience-filled journey.

If you don’t have a vehicle with you, you can embark on the Small-Group Road to Hana Luxury Tour for eight people over nine hours.

Other options include Temptation Tours and Valley Isle Excursions.

All of these choices incorporate regular stops at attractions.

Hana itself is a very remote and idyllic settlement, a thinly-populated village isolated from the rest of the state.

This has allowed it to maintain much of its original, traditional state without being altered by the influx of tourists.

Despite the road to it being very popular, few choose to stay for long in Hana itself, as it’s more of an intimate, local residency than a spot for visitors.

Address: Route 36, Maui, HI, United States

2. Haleakala National Park

MH Anderson Photography / Shutterstock

Haleakala National Park is, hands down, one of the best things to do in Maui or even in Hawaii, boasting the biggest dormant volcano in the world and playing host to over one million visitors annually.

Spanning a whopping 30,000 acres, the park is located in the Upcountry and has a number of highlights that people gravitate towards most, whether for sightseeing or activities.

The biggest draw of Haleakala National Park is its summit, a mountain peak so tall that you can see it from anywhere on the island.

It measures 10,000 feet above sea level and can be accessed via Route 378, a winding road that gets colder and colder as you go.

You’ll want to start at sunrise to conquer this mountain, which costs a cheap fee to climb.

Upon arriving at the Haleakala National Park summit, you’ll get to go downwards into a large volcano mouth that takes up 19 square miles of space.

The crater is desert-like in nature and full of fun and unique opportunities for photographs.

Another fantastic portion of Haleakala National Park is the Pipiwai Trail, its most popular road, which measures a 4-mile round trip on sea-level ground.

It brings you to great spots like the Pools of ‘Ohe’o and the Waimoku Falls, taking a minimum of three hours to finish – or longer if you make use of the beautiful photo opportunities!

You can also try the gorgeous Sliding Sands Trail, take a sunrise van tour, or book a guide to travel with you.

If you’re a birdwatcher, try the brief Hosmer Grove trail to see original Hawaiian species!

Haleakala National Park is open 24 hours a day, so it’s ideal for a longer trip.

There are some visitor centers you can check out so it’s easier to find your way around.

If you enter via the north, you’ll find the Park Headquarter Visitors Center.

If you’re along the southeast, you’ll find Kipahulu Visitor Center at the Pipiwai Trailhead.

And, of course, in the area of the summit road, there’s Haleakala Visitor Center.

You can opt to enter the part via car, bike, motorcycle, or foot, with higher charges for vehicles.

Each admission allows a three-day pass.

Address: Hawaii, United States

3. Old Lahaina Luau

ccharmon / flickr

It’s not a trip to Maui if you don’t experience a fantastic luau!

One of the top 10 on the island is the delightful Old Lahaina Luau , an intimate, traditional, and authentic luau that caters to locals and tourists alike.

The Old Lahaina Luau is a celebration of entertainment, fresh food, and culture.

Energetic live performances are coupled with delicious food like marinated chicken, mahi-mahi, fresh salads, mashed taro plant, colorful poke bowls, bottomless drinks, and more, all served up in a mouthwatering buffet.

The greatest, though, is the Kālua Pua’a unveiling, which involves the removal of succulent roasted pork from an underground oven for the sampling of all.

The Old Lahaina Luau is set against a panoramic ocean backdrop.

Traditional floor seating in the front gives you an even closer experience to performers while providing those same stunning vistas.

Do note that prices are pretty steep, but definitely a worthwhile experience at least once in your life!

You can find the luau along the northern area above Banyan Tree Park at the waterfront.

Address: 1251 Front St, Lahaina, Maui, HI 96761, United States

4. Iao Valley State Monument

Felipe Sanchez / Shutterstock

The Iao Valley State Monument is located in Central Maui, west of Wailuku, and is a must-see for nature-lovers who like unique features of the wild.

Traditionally, it has been used as a pilgrimage destination for the natives of Hawaii for generations.

The state park spans 10 miles and 4,000 acres, scattered with majestic and imposing rock features across lush green.

Among the stuff to do in the Iao Valley State Monument is taking a walk through the Ethnobotanical Loop, which is home to a beautiful botanical garden.

The dark black cliff of Pali Ele’ele is also a beautiful and striking place to check out, but the highlight is the large cone of rock to its right.

The Iao Needle is the most famous portion of the Iao Valley State Monument.

It is also known as Kakaemoku to locals and reaches about 1,200 feet in height – or 2,215 feet over sea level.

It is a natural basalt lump shaped in a pointed structure, formed by centuries of erosion and then, over time, coated in foliage and tropical overgrowth.

In the olden days, the Iao Needle was used as an altar of sorts.

The legend goes that Maui, a demi-god, was responsible for the creation of the needle.

According to the old tale, he was furious when his daughter, Iao, gained an unwanted suitor named Puukamouia, a water sprite.

The fire goddess Pele ordered Maui to turn Puukamouia into a stone instead of killing him directly, and the result is the needle we know now.

There is an additional bit of history attached to the valley, rich in legend.

It is said that the tribal army of Maui fell here during the 1790’s Battle of Kepaniwai to King Kamehameha I’s forces.

Some people believe that the ghosts of gods of the state, called manas, still reside in the valley.

Today, still a sacred location, the Iao Valley State Monument is available to visit for tourists.

Some areas are closed now and then due to bad weather-caused hazards, but for the most part, well-kept paths and accessible areas bring you through the stunning valley.

Do note that there are no refreshments or drinking water available to purchase at the park, so bring your own!

Address: 54 S High St, Wailuku, Maui, HI 96793, United States

5. Ho’okipa Beach Park

arkanto / Shutterstock

Ho’okipa Beach Park is one of the main tourist attractions in Maui for ocean sports as well as one of the best vacation spots to visit, thanks to its incredible waves that lend themselves to many different activities.

Sports events, like the Red Bull and Aloha Classic surfing competitions, have been hosted here, and its spot on Mile 9 of the aforementioned Road to Hana makes it a convenient spot for a little fun in the sun.

The waters of Ho’okipa Beach Park are unfortunately much too harsh for any swimming to be done properly.

But windsurfing, surfing, and – if the timing is right – snorkeling are all great options, especially thanks to the Hawaiian green sea turtles that wander the pretty formations of coral reef below.

Sometimes, the turtles head up onto the beach to rest as the sun goes down, too!

Photo opportunities are great thanks at Ho’okipa Beach Park lookout points and picnic benches are available for a good snack in the Upcountry Maui sun!

There aren’t many proper eateries or shops here beyond a few stalls, but Paia is near enough in case you need to head out for a quick bite.

Address: 179 Hana Hwy, Paia, Maui, HI 96779, United States

Exploring other areas of Hawaii? Why not check out some of the top things to do in Kona ?

6. Maui Ocean Center

Michelle / flickr

The Maui Ocean Center should be on the bucket list for any visitor to Hawaii who loves marine life.

The center was designed to provide education and amusement for guests, interesting them in further learning about the ecosystem of underwater life in the region.

It sits on Ma’alaea and is easily accessible from many locations near it.

At the Ocean Center, you’ll find many expertly-designed aquariums that house different marine fauna and flora, like green turtles, reef fish, corals, and more.

The relatively small establishment has many places to visit within, including a large glass tunnel that lets you walk beneath and astride rays and sharks.

Displays help to explain many different informational tidbits, such as the lifestyles and life cycles of state-famous humpback whales.

The most loved portion of the Ocean Center is likely the Open Ocean tunnel, which holds a whopping 750,000 gallons of water and is home to an impressive number of above 2,000 fish.

If you’re brave, you can dive within and meet the fish, or go for a less intimidating up-close experience at a touch pool.

You can also opt to travel through the facility on a behind-the-scenes tour, where you can ask staff all sorts of animal care questions and watch feedings.

As you walk around, check out the original Hawaiian art that decorates the walls, and don’t forget to stop by the gift store!

Address: 192 Ma‘alaea Road, Wailuku, Maui, HI 96793, United States

7. Wai’anapanapa State Park

Abbie Warnock-Matthews / Shutterstock

Looking for more options for what to do in Maui that provide both coastline and verdancy?

Check out Wai’anapanapa State Park !

It’s situated fairly remotely on the Hana coast of East Maui.

It offers options for lodging and camping, but simply visiting is one of the area’s free things to do!

The Hawaiian word “wai’anapanapa” translates to “glistening waters”, and given the beauty of the ocean water along Wai’anapanapa State Park’s coast, that’s a very fitting name.

But, as it turns out, that’s not the best part about the beach portion of the park!

It’s actually the sand, not the surf, of Paiola Bay that draws tourists in.

The sand is made from volcanic sediment and is, as a result, jet black!

It’s a great photography location and is breathtaking to behold, though the waters are too rough for amateur swimmers.

Beyond the beach, you’ll be able to hike the main trail of the park, leading up to the freshwater caves of Wai’anapanapa.

Legend has it that Princess Popo’alea and her attendant were murdered brutally by her husband, Chief Ka’akea, here in these caves.

If you’re comfortable with that dark history, you can explore the caves and even swim in the pools in them!

The park also has a number of other ancient spots that are perfect for sightseeing, arranged neatly along the trail.

You’ll see burial grounds, pictographs, and more.

All trails offer something special, with blowholes, heiau, sea stacks, natural formations, caves, arches, and temples galore.

Address: Waianapanapa, Hana, Maui, HI 96713, United States

8. Lahaina Banyan Court Park

Lahaina Banyan Court Park earns its name from one of the country’s biggest Banyan trees, which is also the oldest living one in Maui.

In 1873, Sheriff William Owen Smith commemorated the arrival of Protestant missionaries to Lahaina, Hawaii by planting the Banyan on that arrival’s 50th anniversary.

That makes this tree almost 150 years old.

Over time, the trunk has expanded, becoming 16 instead of its initial one.

In Lahaina Town, it takes up almost one whole acre of space.

The park is relatively small as a result, while simultaneously housing something very large.

It’s quite fascinating and, with the tree’s 60-foot height and shady leaves, a picnic here is one of the fun things to do in Maui.

Lahaina Banyan Court Park is also home to a number of historically significant buildings.

The Lahaina Courthouse, which is home to the Lahaina Historical Society and the Lahaina Arts Council, is an interesting place to visit.

If you’re here this weekend, check if it’s the second or fourth weekend of the month, as local crafts and paintings will be sold in the Art in the Park event!

Address: 671 Front St, Lahaina, Maui, HI 96761, United States

9. Ka’anapali Beach

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Looking for some of the beautiful places to visit in the United States ?

Ka’anapali Beach is one of the best beaches you’ll find in Maui, situated in the western portion as part of Lahaina.

It spans 3 miles and is located on the northwest portion of the island, providing space and opportunity to sunbathe and surf in the strong waters.

The beach was also the first-ever pre-planned resort destination in Hawaii.

Ka’anapali Beach is a huge tourist hotspot and offers a wide range of exciting activities to fill your time with.

Shopping establishments, restaurants, two championship golf courses, hotels, snorkeling companies, and even zipline courses provide plenty of excitement for any visitor.

The open-air shopping location of Whalers Village is particularly recommended.

Every day at Ka’anapali Beach on Black Rock, a ceremony called Puu Kekaa is performed.

This ceremony involves cliff-diving and is one of the great traditional things to see while you’re in the region!

Address: Lahaina, Maui, HI 96761, United States

10. Wailea Beach

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Wailea Beach is situated on Maui’s southern coast.

It is one of Wailea’s five beautiful beaches, making it the most recommended spot for some fun in the sun!

It is also known as one of the more exclusive spots in Maui, with lots of special resorts.

Many other surrounding places to go are in Wailea Beach, too, so you won’t run out of areas and beaches to check out.

The beautiful stretch of sand at Wailea Beach, with palm trees, an accessible paved path, lots of eateries and stores, and plenty of hotels.

All sorts of equipment for water sports are also available.

The beach’s water is also notably calmer than many other parts of the island, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

There’s also no admission fee, making this tourist hotspot one of the island’s surprisingly free things to do, all day long!

Address: Wailea Alanui Drive, Wailea, Maui, HI 96753, United States

Looking for more adventures around Hawaii? Why not check out some of the fun things to do in Waikiki ?

11. Molokini Island Preserve

Bossfrog , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Molokini Island is entirely uninhabited, and it’s a very small semi-circle of land that was once an old volcano vent for Maui’s main volcano.

Today, the Molokini Island Preserve is available to visit and is famously referred to as the Molokini Crater and is a must-see!

Though it’s not commonly considered one of the famous Maui attractions, it’s a gem worthy of photographs and sightseeing.

Unfortunately, going onto the island itself isn’t typically possible.

Mostly, it’s meant to be an excursion where you get to snorkel at the bay of the Marine Life Conservation District. Lots of canoes, kayaks, and boat tours can bring you here, and you’ll be privy to some great Hawaiian reef fish.

There are over 250 species here, so it’s well worth it for any marine life lovers, but do note that trips can be heavy on the wallet!

Address: Maui County, HI, United States

12. Diving and Snorkeling

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Maui and Hawaii in general are famous for their many reefs and habitats for marine life.

This is why SCUBA diving and snorkeling are among the best things to do in Maui.

With these activities, you’ll have a lot of fun and see some of the world’s most beautiful underwater “landscapes”!

There is no shortage of companies eager to give tourists a ride out to the most opportune spots for sea exploration.

You’ll see wrasse, parrotfish, surgeonfish, and even the long-named Humuhumunukunukuapua’a, or Rectangular Triggerfish.

20% of the fish you find here can’t be seen anywhere else on the planet!

13. Nakalele Blowhole

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The Nakalele Blowhole is situated on the eastern portion of Maui, further past the Kapalua, 15 minutes away from the actual road.

As far as points of interest go, it’s not as well known, and the route to it isn’t even paved.

This means you’ll have to go down a sloping mountainside, so make sure you’re wearing the right shoes!

When you do get close to the Nakalele Blowhole, you’ll realize that your efforts have been worth it!

A natural feature of Maui, Hawaii, it’s a lovely sight and is one of its top hidden gems.

For safety’s sake, you shouldn’t get too close to the blowhole, as it can pull you in!

Address: Poelua Bay, Wailuku, Maui, HI 96793, United States

14. Makena Beach and Makena Cove

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Makena Beach and Makena Cove are two locations very near to each other, with different energy levels and atmospheres so you can choose where to go based on preference.

That said, it’s certainly fun to hop between the two spots!

They rest in Makena, a village south of Maui’s Kihei, and are both calm and much less crowded.

Makena Beach is one of Maui’s longest when it comes to undeveloped beaches.

It is often simply called “Big Beach” and is laid-back and relaxed, with lifeguards on duty.

You can take a lovely walk along the shore, which is one of the island’s most romantic things to do as you can see Molokini and Kahoolawe from the sand!

The waters here are harsh and choppy, as they are in many parts of Hawaii, so don’t swim without guards available and pay attention to any beach warnings!

Makena Cove, on the other hand, rests behind a wall and several houses, and it’s a true hidden attraction.

It’s extremely beautiful, a blend of volcanic rock in the outcrop that meets the sea.

There are never any crowds here and it feels very adventurous to relax and explore as you watch the powerful and dramatic waves crash about.

It’s also a stunning location for photo opportunities!

Address: 6925 Makena Rd, Maui, HI, United States

15. Go Whale Watching

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Whale watching is one of the best activities you can possibly partake in while you’re visiting Maui.

Between November and May, but most actively between December and April, a whopping 10,000 humpback whales or more make their way from the Alaskan Gulf up to Hawaii.

Here, they give birth to calves, nurse them, and care for them in the warm water here before returning when the winters of Alaska recede.

The Auau Channel, which lies between Lana’i and Maui, is the chief spot for whale watching.

Outrigger canoes, boats, paddleboards, kayaks, and even helicopters hang by to witness the beauty, and others watch from shore or try to get up close and personal while scuba diving.

An event that celebrates this natural phenomenon is one of the island’s tourist attractions.

It’s called the Maui Whale Festival and has been occurring for just over four decades.

The festival advocates for the plight and health of whales while teaching the public about them, and it also provides concert cruises and public access to the most opportune places for whale watching.

Will you be traveling to Hawaii? If you do plan the trip, here are some of the best Hawaii attractions to add to your list of places to visit in Hawaii!

16. Maui Pineapple Tours

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Maui Pineapple Tours can be found in Hali’imaile, which is the only tourable working pineapple plantation in not just Hawaii, but all of America.

It’s very underrated and is often overlooked in favor of more corporate attractions, so don’t make that mistake!

The Pineapple Tours are a fun and educational experience that teaches you about the techniques for growing and cultivating pineapples.

You’ll learn about planting, packing, and shipping procedures and will even get the opportunity to taste local pineapples at many different stages of growth!

In the end, you’ll be able to bring a pineapple back with you, too.

It’s definitely something to add to your list of what to see if you’re fascinated by farms and farming!

Address: 883 Haliimaile Rd, Makawao, HI 96768, United States

17. Ululani’s Hawaiian Shaved Ice

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Ululani’s Hawaiian Shaved Ice is the place to go in Maui for proper, traditional shaved ice.

If you’ve had shaved ice anywhere else in America, chances are that you’ve had a more frigid, clunky, or chunky variety – but that’s absolutely not indicative of genuine stuff!

There are over 50 different flavors and multiple toppings that you can choose from.

No Ka Oi, which translates to “the best”, is definitely a must-try: a delightful, zingy, refreshing blend of passionfruit, mango, and coconut.

Still, you can choose any combo of flavors, from guava to pineapple and from lime to orange.

Then, coconut cream makes for a fantastic topping for any bowl, regardless of flavor!

Ululani’s uses cane sugar, local fruit purées made in-house, and purified water to create cold, heat-busting delights.

If you’re trying to escape the sweltering tropical atmosphere, having a bowl of shaved ice at such a popular institution is one of the top things to do in Maui!

Address: 790 Front St, Lahaina, Maui, HI 96761, United States

18. Napili Beach

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Looking for more things to see to satisfy your beach-loving heart in Maui, Hawaii?

Check out Napili Beach!

Smaller than Ka’anapali and Wailea but good for family fun, Napili Beach offers calm waters, a crescent-shaped shore, and a relaxed environment for sunbathers, paddleboarders, boogie-boarders, and swimmers of all ages.

There are also lots of fish and sea turtles in the waves of Napili Beach (though you shouldn’t touch sea turtles; it’s illegal with heavy fines!), so bring snorkeling gear with you if you’d like to take a look.

Going for a day trip to the beach this weekend?

Bring enough food; there aren’t many eateries at the beach!

Address: Lahaina, Maui, HI, United States

19. Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm

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Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm is one of the more unique tourist spots in Maui.

Separated from the rest of the island’s tropical vibe, it delivers a calm and serene environment with promises of rejuvenation.

The farm is situated in Maui’s Upcountry area and is a break from the quintessential Hawaii experience.

There are numerous events held at Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm throughout the year, including Gourmet Picnic Lunches, Craft Classes, Guided Card Tours, and even Lavender Treasure Hunts.

It has a very cheap entrance fee and self-guided tours are completely free while providing gorgeous panoramas of the gardens and island on the way.

A gift shop sells amazing products like lavender strawberry peppermint jam, a lavender scone mix, and a heavenly lavender body butter.

Address: 1100 Waipoli Rd, Kula, Maui, HI 96790, United States

20. Surfing

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Maui – and the rest of Hawaii – experiences a lot of waves, and surfing is one of the most fun ways to enjoy all that the waters have to offer.

Huge seasonal waves crashing into the North Shore are the main Maui attractions, but gentler, more relaxed waves can be found on the island.

Essentially, you can surf here no matter your skill level.

There are many great spots for surfing on the island.

Ho’okipa Beach Park, Honolua Bay, and Peahi (called “Jaws”) are all great options, whether you’re chasing 50-foot waves or calmer waters.

Private surf lessons are available from numerous different companies for those who’d like a more guided start!

Planning to visit Honolulu? If you do, here’s our list of what to do in Honolulu to make the most of your vacation!

21. O’o Farm Gourmet Lunch & Farm Tour

O’o Farm Gourmet Lunch & Farm Tour

O’o Farm Gourmet Lunch and Farm Tour is one of the best things to do in Maui, Hawaii if you’re seeking a full-blown Maui experience this weekend!

Located in Upcountry, O’o Farm is an eight-acre establishment that provides two daily tours of its grounds: one for breakfasts in the morning, and one for lunch in the afternoon.

The morning coffee breakfast tour option starts with steaming coffee, French pressed with beans grown on estates.

You’re then taken on a grounds tour and finish off with a delicious breakfast.

The lunch tour starts with a nice, leisurely sightseeing walk along many vegetables and the greenhouse, where you’ll see herbs, tomatoes, flowers, and more growing everywhere.

The tour wraps up with a lovely, rich lunch.

Both tours allow only 15 guests at a time, so advanced booking is required.

The price may also be a bit steep, but it’s a great way to learn about local farming.

You’ll be able to ask questions all you want with knowledgeable farmhands as you enjoy an intimate tour.

Address: 651 Waipoli Rd, Kula, Maui, HI 96790, United States

22. Kula Botanical Garden

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Kula Botanical Garden ‘s life began in 1977 when it was a mere native reserve for plants.

Today, it has blossomed into one of the points of interest in Maui’s upcountry area, becoming a must-do that welcomes thousands of annual visitors.

Situated on Haleakalā slopes, Kula Botanical Garden benefits from rich volcanic soil that makes the area especially fertile.

Eight acres of land are filled with many kinds of flora, many of which are Maui natives.

A gazebo, a covered bridge, and many winding walking paths make for a calm and picturesque excursion of exploration.

Address: 638 Kekaulike Ave, Kula, Maui, HI 96790, United States

23. Bailey House Museum & Maui Historical Society

Bailey House Museum & Maui Historical Society

The Bailey House Museum & Maui Historical Society are key spots to visit on your vacation to Hawaii, especially if you have fun learning about culture, tradition, and history.

The museum is built into a small homemade from Koa wood and lava rock.

The Bailey House Museum & Maui Historical Society has a long life that began in 1833, where it was a mission.

Over the years, it earned many purposes: a private home, a female seminary, a World War II base, and now, a museum.

It is currently home to the island’s biggest Hawaii artifact collection.

The museum is tiny, but it’s educational and fascinating with beautiful oil paintings of landscapes, artifacts from pre-European days, and an upper floor designed to look like a local home in the 19th century.

If you like, you can request to see the museum’s collection of preserved photos and letters, too!

There are also gardens outside with many local plants, some of which are endangered, and a gift shop that sells charming handcrafted goods.

Address: 2375 Main St, Wailuku, Maui, HI 96793, United States

24. Play Golf

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Not everyone thinks of Hawaii as a golfing destination, but some of Maui’s tourist attractions are, surprisingly, golf courses!

In fact, there are 14 of these famous courses on the island, many of which are expertly designed by professionals like Ben Crenshaw and Arnold Palmer.

In Wailea, you’ll find the Old Blue, the Emerald, and the Gold courses, as part of the world-renowned Wailea Golf Club.

In Kapalua, you’ll find the Plantation and the Bay courses.

Many of the island’s golf sites also house beautiful coastline views or eye-catching volcanic formations.

25. Go Ziplining

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There are many different ziplines on the island, so there are many places to visit that can provide you with this fun experience.

The most popular is the one along the north shore’s jungle, but any and all of them are similarly exciting.

For example, Haleakala Ziplines offers long, fast rushes over trees and Ka’anapali Ziplines gives you gorgeous ocean views.

Regardless of your decision, ziplining should be on the list for what to do for any adrenaline junky on the island.

You’ll get to see the local flora and fauna from above as you rush through the air!

26. D.T. Fleming Park

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D. T. Fleming Park ‘s name is a little misleading – it’s more of a beach than a green park!

It’s relatively close to certain larger resorts in Hawaii, so it can get somewhat crowded.

Regardless, it’s family-friendly and one of the fun things to do in Maui with kids.

The waves at D. T. Fleming Park are calm and safe for swimming most of the time, the sand is clean and perfect for sunbathing, and the amenities are modern, ADA accessible, and plenty for convenience.

What it lacks in things to see, it makes up for in a quintessential beach experience!

Need to eat?

Barbecue grills, picnic tables, eateries, and more provide quick bites and snacks.

The Burger Shack and the Bikini Burger are both particularly well-known for good beachside food.

Address: Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761, United States

Will you be visiting Kauai? If you are planning a trip there, here’s our list of some of the best things to do in Kauai !

27. Feast at Lele

Alix H / flickr

Feast at Lele is one of the most fun places to go if you’re looking for a traditional Hawaiian luau without the cheesiness or overly touristy feeling.

It’s a five-course dinner paired with live entertainment, coming one after the other to represent four regions of the Pacific Island.

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted with a delicious fresh lei and a yummy Mai Tai before being taken to a private table.

Cuisine comes from Maui, then from Aotearoa of New Zealand, then from Tahiti, then from Samoa, and finally, you’ll have a simple but thematic dessert of vanilla-lime-coconut mousse-cake, topped with caramelized pineapple.

The kiwi jus five-hour braised beef is a particularly loved part of the event, too, from New Zealand!

Three hundred guests can attend Feast at Lele at any one time, which makes it somewhat small as far as local luaus go.

But that’s kind of the point – an intimate experience at night, suitable for people of all ages!

Address: 505 Front St, Lahaina, Maui, HI 96761, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Maui

Maui and all its places to visit come with an atmosphere that is as serene as it is exhilarating.

It’s exciting to be in the sun and it’s refreshing to enjoy all the natural flair that comes with so many Maui attractions!

This list can help you choose those places to see that you simply don’t want to miss out on for your to-do list, whether you’re on a budget or have more to spend.

Have a fantastic sunny holiday!

The Ultimate Maui Travel Guide (2024 update)

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

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Snorkeling, volcano sunrises, and scenic drives await you on Maui! Welcome to the Valley Isle.

With sparkling beaches, clear water, a volcano, and waterfalls, there is no shortage of things to do, see, and experience here.

While Maui is the most expensive island to visit ( price compare islands here ), it offers a wide range of accommodations, restaurants, and sights, so there are plenty of ways to design your Maui vacation.

Whether you’re looking for a luxurious honeymoon at the only adults-only resort in Hawaii or you’d prefer to book a cabin on the beach, we’ve got your planning covered with this Maui travel guide. 

Maui Travel Update following Lahaina Fire

Due to the devastating fire, travel to Lahaina is closed. We will be providing updates to travel as well as outlets for community support on our Maui Travel Update page .

You’ll find everything you need to know about planning your trip to Maui here.

Want to cut to the chase? We’ve got you covered with these quick links: – When: Pick the best time to visit Maui – Where: Pick what part of the island , and your lodging – What: Check out 33 Things to Do on Maui , or filter and sort with our Activities & Tours database – How: Decide how you’ll get around, with a rental car or check out how to skip it!

Want to hop around? Use our handy table of contents below to find exactly what you’re looking for.

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the maui itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Maui.

Maui Travel Guide: Facts

Impress your seatmate on the plane or win trivia night with these facts about Maui:

• More than any Hawaiian island, Maui has 120-miles of accessible beaches with 81 white, black, and gold-sand beaches.
• There are no private beaches in Hawaii. By law, no one has the right to own a beach or keep people off the beach so come enjoy the beaches!
• Maui is the second-largest Hawaiian island with the third-largest population, 144,000 people
• Maui is home to the largest humpback whale migration in the world from mid-December to mid-April. Come to Maui to see acrobatic feats and guaranteed whale sightings – The Ultimate Whale Watching Guide .

• Haleakala is the largest dormant volcano in the world with a summit of 10,023 feet. The summit depression can hold the island of Manhattan, at 21-miles across and 4,000-feet deep. Check out our Guide to Maui’s Volcanoes
• The Hana Highway was rated a Drive of a Lifetime by National Geographic, drive the Road to Hana to experience 620 curves and 59 bridges ( How to Do the Road to Hana in One Day ).
• Maui is the largest of Maui County’s four islands, which include Moloka’i, Lana’i, and the unpopulated Kaho’olawe. Maui is perfect for day-trip adventures to Lana’i or snorkeling at Molokini Crater ( here is our favorite Molokini snorkel tour )

Maui Geography

Let’s get a lay of the island so you can plan your trip easier!

Maui is the second-largest island in Hawaii and is uniquely shaped. It was formed by two volcanoes, Haleakala and the West Maui Mountains. 

Like all of the Hawaiian islands, there are two sides: a leeward side and a windward side. The leeward side of the island is drier and the windward side is wetter. 

There are five distinct areas on the island: West Maui, South Maui, Central Maui, Upcountry Maui, and East Maui (Hana). 

On West Maui, you’ll find long stretches of beaches, warm weather, numerous snorkeling spots, plenty of resorts and vacation rentals, and jaw-dropping sunsets. West Maui suffered the devastating Lahaina fire in 2023 , which will take years to recover from. The historic town of Lahaina has been destroyed and is not open to visitors .

Other areas of West Maui are open to visitors, including the Ka’anapali resort area, snorkeling spots like Kapalua Bay, and the picturesque Napili Bay. Please visit the west side with care and aloha as they rebuild . Check out our favorite things to do in Kapalua and Napili if you want to enjoy the areas of West Maui that are welcoming visitors.

Another popular spot with visitors, South Maui dials up the luxury. Here you’ll find the most luxurious hotels on the island, stunning beaches, and views of Molokini Crater and Kahoolawe.

Popular spots here include the resort community of Wailea, the small town of Kihei, the expansive Makena Beach, and plenty of tour boats leaving for snorkeling at Molokini Crater. 

Check out our favorite beaches and things to do in South Maui .

Central Maui

You’ll fly into central Maui when you land at Kahului Airport (OGG), the main commercial airport on the island. But that’s not all you’ll find here. Once you leave the main airport area, you’ll find plenty of small restaurants and shops, dramatic mountain views, and great hiking.

Visit the sacred Iao Valley or hike the Waihee Ridge Trail. Or head up to the north coast to stroll through the town of Paia and eat at the most famous restaurant in Hawaii: Mama’s Fish House ( Is Mama’s Fish House Best for Lunch or Dinner? ). 

Kahului is a main cruise port in Hawaii , so if you’re visiting on a cruise ship, be sure to check out all our Hawaii cruise resources , including our favorite Maui shore excursions .

Upcountry Maui

Bring your sweater and head up the slope of Haleakala to Upcountry Maui. You’ll climb in elevation as you get beautiful views of the ocean below you.

You can visit the small cowboy town of Makawao, visit one of the many farms on the island to sample fresh tropical produce, or continue heading up the mountain to the top and visit Haleakala National Park.

In Upcountry, the drive is often just as beautiful as the destination. Most of our favorite Maui farm tours are in Upcountry. And don’t forget to check out our favorite things to do in upcountry Maui .

Visit East Maui by taking the famous Road to Hana (decide here if the Road to Hana is worth it for you!). This drive takes you around 620 curves, over 59 bridges, and delivers views of a stunning coastline, lush landscape, and stunning waterfalls.

This windward part of the island is remote and rugged and an adventure. See our Maui Itinerary on how to plan your stops to Hana or check out our favorite Road to Hana Guided Tour .

We also put together a comprehensive guide on the Road to Hana , and we’ll help you choose the right route for your group.

Our 33 Things to Do on Maui is organized by location to make your planning easier!

What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit Maui?

While you may be visiting from a place that has four seasons each year, in Hawaii there are just two: summer (kau) and winter (hooilo):

Luckily, the weather on Maui is warm and pleasant year-round, so there’s truly no bad time to visit. But our favorite months to visit are April/May and September/October, because there are fewer visitors, the weather is great, and it’s a little less expensive to travel in this off-peak season period.

Related Articles:

• This is the Best Hawaiian Island to Visit in the Winter (Psst, it’s Maui but read for a lot of juicy details)
• Visiting Maui in the Winter: Is it a Good Idea?

While the winter months get slightly cooler temperatures and there is a little more rain, staying on South or West Maui will increase your chances of sunny days and tank top temperatures. That’s why Maui is such a great place to visit year-round. 

And if you’re curious about ocean temperatures and conditions, we have good news. The ocean temperature is always between 75 to 80 degrees, year-round. That means you can swim comfortably in January and in June.

But aside from temperature, consider waves.

During the summer months, you can usually find calm water around the island. The exception is if there is a storm (or remnants of a storm) passing by or if the island is getting a south swell.

South Maui is known to get swells during the summer months, which can bring in larger waves and choppy conditions. West Maui will generally have calmer ocean conditions in the summer. 

In the winter, north swells can bring choppy water and large waves to the north, west, and east side of the island, while the south usually stays a bit calmer. 

Get the full scoop on the best time to visit Maui . 

Getting to Maui

There are two airports on Maui, though one is used very infrequently. The main airport is Kahului Airport (OGG) . This airport is located in central Maui, approximately 30 minutes from Wailea and 45 minutes from Ka’anapali. Kahului airport serves inter-island, domestic, and international flights.

The second airport, Kapalua Airport, is located in West Maui, just a short distance from Ka’anapali. You’ll primarily find flights to Kapalua Airport from Honolulu on Mokulele Airlines. Island Hopping in Hawaii: How To Do It Right .

Renting a Car and Getting Around the Maui

Should you rent a car in Maui? Most likely, yes. While Maui does have a bus system and has uber and taxis, renting a car makes traveling around on your vacation easier. 

We’ve done the math for you to help you decide if renting a car in Maui is right for you . 

Our favorite tip for anyone visiting Hawaii is to book with Discount Hawaii Car Rental . When we travel inter-island or we have friends in town, we use them 95% of the time. They offer the most competitive rates, they work with national agencies, you don’t have to pre-book, and you can cancel at any time. There are also great local companies to rent from, like Kihei Rent a Car. See our Should You Rent a Car on Maui video for more information.

If you can’t get a car (remember that great rental car shortage of summer 2021?) or you just don’t want to get one, here are 11 tips for getting around Maui without a car . 

For the most part, the roads on Maui are well paved and easy to navigate with any type of car — no 4-wheel drive required! Though if you want to rent a jeep…it really is fun. 

If you don’t want to rent a car but still want to get out and see the sights, a guided tour is a great option. Two of our favorite tours that will pick you up from your hotel and take you around are the Haleakala Guided Sunrise Tour and the Road to Hana Guided Tour .

Where to Stay on Maui

Ready to book your stay on Maui? Maui has plenty of five-star resorts, outstanding vacation rentals, and a range of options in between. But what is right for you?

For details on our favorite hotels and vacation rentals on Maui, see our Where to Section Maui !

Should you stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Maui?

Go for a hotel if you’re looking for the traditional resort experience with big pools, nearby beaches, and restaurants within walking distance. Opt for a vacation rental if you want access to a kitchen, are looking for space, or are looking to save money. 

We routinely stay in both. We’ll book a vacation rental for the majority of our stay so we have access to a kitchen and a little more space for the kids. Then we’ll treat ourselves to a great resort for a few days to enjoy the pool and other amenities. This has been a winning combo for us recently. 

If you’re still not sure what you want to do, we break down the difference between choosing a hotel and a vacation rental in Hawaii .  

Should you stay in Ka’anapali, Wailea, Kihei, or…?

While there are five main areas on Maui, most visitors stay on either West Maui or South Maui to maximize their odds of sunshine, warm weather, and lack of rain. 

Whether you should stay in West Maui (Ka’anapali, Lahaina, Napili, Kapalua) or South Maui (Kihei, Wailea, Makena) is often a heated debate. We try to help you make the right decision for you with these two articles:

• Where to Stay on Maui: your accommodation guide
• Ka’anapali vs. Wailea: pick your perfect spot

Plus, get a list of some of our favorite places to stay when on Maui: 

• Our Favorite Maui Honeymoon Hotels
• The Best Family-Friendly Hotels on Maui (kid-tested and approved)
• Maui Vacation Rentals for Large Groups
• Maui Vacation Rentals with Private Pools
• Guide to Glamping Camping on Maui
• The 7 Best Vacation Rentals in Wailea and Makena

How Many Days Should You Stay on Maui

According to the Hawaii Tourism Authority, in January 2022, the average length of stay for a visitor to Maui was nearly 10 days! While you might not be able to get away for that long, we recommend starting with at least a week on the island. There is so much to see and that gives you time to balance relaxation with adventure.

Read more about why we recommend spending at least a week on Maui . And don’t miss our Hawaii packing list as you’re getting ready to go.

Beaches and Snorkeling Spots on Maui

If you’re coming to Maui to snorkel, you’re in luck! In our opinion, Maui is the best island for snorkeling. Add in the stunning beaches, and you are in for a treat. Our favorite beaches include:

• Kapalua Bay : There’s a reason this beach was named the best beach by Dr. Beach in 2018. A beautiful crescent-shaped beach that is partially protected from larger waves for most of the year, this is the perfect spot to spend the day. It’s also a fantastic snorkeling spot. Get the full details on Kapalua Bay . 
• Kahekili (Airport) Beach Park : This Ka’anapali Beach is a gem. It’s usually less crowded than the beaches in Ka’anapali, it has a large, free parking lot. And there’s a nice reef for snorkeling. Plan your visit with our Airport Beach on Maui: The Full Guide .
• Wailea Beach : There’s a reason some of the biggest resorts on Maui are located on this beach. It’s large, beautiful, and has water that is generally easily swimmable. It’s a beautiful place to spend the entire day.

Maui is full of great beaches. Don’t miss our 17 favorite beaches on Maui , with directions and other details like amenities, parking, and lifeguard services. We also break down our favorite beaches in South Maui ! 

And if you’re coming to snorkel, we have you covered:

• Get a full list of our 11 favorite snorkeling spots on Maui
• Read all about where you can find sea turtles on Maui (and view them respectfully)
• If you’re looking for a tour, these are our 7 favorite tried-and-tested snorkeling tours on Maui

Remember that while the beaches in Hawaii are beautiful, they are not without risk. Currents, dangerous shore break, and changing ocean conditions make swimming in any ocean dangerous. Practice beach safety by swimming on beaches with lifeguards, obeying lifeguard flags, and when in doubt, don’t go out. This website has more excellent information to help keep you safe. 

Things To Do on Maui

There is no shortage of fun to be had on Maui. From whale watching to snorkeling to hiking, there is enough here to keep you busy and exploring for years. 

But here are some highlights that you don’t want to miss and then see our full list of 33 Things to Do on Maui .

• Whale Watching: If you’re coming to Maui between December and April, you’ll be able to see the thousands of humpback whales that migrate to Hawaii from Alaska to mate and birth their young. Whale watching is such a special experience, and we have a full whale watching guide for you . Then explore our 7 favorite Maui whale-watching tours .
• Haleakala Volcano : Visit Maui’s dormant volcano, Haleakala (means: house of the sun). You can enjoy the day in Haleakala National Park with a trip to the Visitor’s Center, enjoying one of the numerous hikes offered in the park, or by enjoying sunrise or sunset. This article helps you decide what time of day to visit: sunrise or sunset.  
• Farm Tours: Explore a different side of Maui with one of the many farm tours. You can visit a coconut farm, a bee farm, a pineapple farm, and more. Or, enjoy a farm tour and lunch combo for a truly memorable day out on the slopes of Haleakala. Get a list of our 15 favorite farm tours on the island . 
• Snorkeling Lana’i : There are actually four islands that makeup Maui County. The island of Lana’i is located just a short boat or ferry ride away and provides a completely different experience. It’s one of our favorite places to snorkel by taking a day trip on the ferry . Explore all our favorite things to do on Lanai , including a snorkeling tour.
• Road to Hana : You can explore the east side of the island on this famous drive past waterfalls, over bridges, and along the jagged coastline ( The 5 Best Road to Hana Routes ). It’s a completely different experience than what you’ll find when staying on west or south Maui. Check out our Road to Hana in one-day article or a guided tour . 

Want help seeing how to fit all of the best sights into your vacation? Our Maui itinerary was created just for that.

Don’t just take our word for it! See what others have to say:

Best Tours and Activities on Maui

While we embrace DIY travel, there’s something to be said for a great tour when you’re in Hawaii. Not only are you supporting a local business, but you’re getting time with a guide who truly knows the island. Whether they’re teaching you the history of the islands during a canoe tour or they’re educating you on the marine life during a snorkeling trip, a good tour experience can stick with you for years. 

We’ve done the hard work for you by finding the best of the best tours on the island. Here’s a sampling of our favorites to get started, but don’t forget to check out our full list of Maui Activities and Tours . 

Maui Family Vacations

We love the adventures you can have while traveling with your family.

With two little kids that we take everywhere, we also know that sometimes you need a few extra kid-friendly recommendations to make your trip fantastic. So from our family to yours, we have you covered:

• The 10 Best Maui Resorts That Will Thrill Your Kids
• 67 Things to Do on Maui with Kids (sorted by age)
• The 8 Best Kid Beaches that will Make Your Maui vacation
• 3 Easy Hikes on Maui (that even little legs can do)

If you want an itinerary fit for kids, our Maui Itinerary includes seven excursion days young kids will love. Plus, we include great family-friendly beaches as well as kid-friendly restaurants. We know the importance of a good Keiki (kids) menu.  Get it here!

Popular Maui Videos

Get to know Maui and see some of our best recommendations with our popular Maui videos.

Or, explore our full library of videos on Hawaii .

Full Library of Maui Articles

Want to binge-read everything we’ve written on visiting Maui? Pour yourself a Mai Tai and browse all Maui articles here .

The Maui Itinerary

If you’re planning a trip to Maui, we’ve got you covered. Our island itineraries help you navigate the planning process and make your trip smooth once you’re on the island.

Thousands of customers have loved them, whether they were planning for a trip that was a year away or a trip that was a day away.

We hope you have an amazing trip!

~Jordan & Erica

Love this guide? Don’t forget to Pin it!

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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• Top 5 Maui Beaches
• Things to Do on Maui
• Road to Hana

Nicknamed “The Valley Isle,” due to the great valley that lies between its two major volcanoes, Maui is known for its stunning natural beauty as well as its high-end luxury resorts and popular tourist attractions — a triple threat ranking the island among the world’s top vacation destinations. Honeymooners especially abound here, and whether they are soaking up the sun on the sparkling sands of Kaanapali Beach, touring a local farm, or frolicking through the fragrant fields of the island’s lavender farm, Maui ensures every couple a beautiful beginning to their wedded bliss. Avid golfers can enjoy a tee time at the Kapalua Resort, while outdoor enthusiasts have their pick among hiking in the lush ‘Iao Valley, visiting Haleakala National Park (called the House of the Sun) or simply delighting in a drive along the jaw-dropping Road to Hana.

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