With its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and the Haleakala volcano towering 10,000 feet overhead, Maui is an amazing destination for a tropical getaway. It can be hard to know where to spend your time so we’ve highlighted a few of our favorite Maui activities.
Snorkeling
One of the best and easily accessible Maui activities is snorkelling. The Molokini Crater offers the best diving and snorkelling in the world. Several local companies offer tours to the underwater volcano islet. If you’re looking for a walk-to location you can visit either the Keawakapu Beach or Kamaole Beach III. If you’re ok to drive to a location, we’d suggest Chang’s Beach in Wailea where you can swim with some turtles. Or if you’re up for a longer drive, Honolua Bay has a large coral reef with lots of fish and turtles. For you local snorkel gear visit Snorkel Bob’s
Drive the Road to Hana
When it comes to driving the Road to Hana 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. You can do a tour or drive yourself to Hana. Check online for tips and suggestions on where to stop when planning your day to Hana. It’s worth downloading the Shaka or Gypsy app for a toured guide.
Surf Lessons
When you’re visiting the island and looking for fun Maui activities, make sure to book your very own private surf lesson. Learning how to ride the waves is not only fun, but it’s the perfect way to experience Maui just like a local. We recommend Rivers to Sea Surf Lessons that take place just outside of Lahaina at Guardrails Mile Marker 19 off Highway 30. Ask for instructor Sharky Maui! Rivers to the Sea provides private one-on-one, semi-private and group Maui surf lessons, all private, in a location away from the crowds.
Whale Watching
Maui is one of the best spots in the world for whale watching. These gentle creatures have unique breeding and migration patterns that visitors enjoy watching every year on their Hawaii trip. Whale watching is from December – April. The 45-foot-long Pacific humpback whales congregate in large numbers in the shallow Auau Channel between Maui, Molokai, and Lanai—making Maui whale-watching tours some of the best in Hawaii. We highly recommend the Whale Watch Boat Tours with the Pacific Whale Foundation.
Visit the Town of Paia
If you are looking for a laid-back town with a hippie vibe, you won’t want to miss Paia, Maui. Paia is a charming little boho town on the North Shore of Maui that has great restaurants and interesting shops. Paia has managed to avoid becoming touristy and it is still largely populated by a diverse mix of eccentric people with a bohemian vibe. And, If you’re looking for an adrenalin rush then you can head to Kite Beach for some kite-surfing.
Haleakala Park
Towering over the island of Maui and visible from just about any point, Haleakala Crater is a force of nature. At 10,023 feet above sea level, this dormant volcano offers a breathtaking range of landscapes and skyscapes. Visitors can day hike, spend the night in a tent campground, or reserve one of the three historic cabins. Many visitors wake up early to drive to the Haleakala Visitor Center,to watch the most spectacular sunrise on earth. But plan in advance as reservations are required for sunrise viewings at Haleakala.
Book a Luau
We think everyone should see a Luau while in Hawaii. The Luau, a Polynesian and ancient Hawaiian ritual, is a popular social gathering meant to unite the people of a town in celebration of a significant life event or achievement. Luaus feature traditional Polynesian and Hawaiian food while you enjoy a traditional Polynesian dance show. The Grand Wailea Hotel and The Marriott Resort in Wailea or the Old Lahaina Luau in Lahaina are all great options to book a Luau.
Ho’okipa Beach Park
A bucket list for experienced surfers! Ho’okipa is Mecca to the windsurfing world. There are professional windsurfing competitions held here, and on just about any day with wind you can watch pros doing their thing. Overall, swimming is secondary to other attractions here, as safe swimming options are somewhat limited. If you’re considering getting in to surf or sail here, you should be skilled enough for the conditions.
Iao Valley State Park
This somewhat rainy valley is surrounded by lush peaks, home to one of Maui’s iconic landmarks, the 1,200-foot Iao Needle created by erosion of the softer rock around it over many millennia. It is a must-see and a treasure that is easily accessed by anyone. There are wide paved walkways, steps, and signage with historical information. It is also dramatically scenic and particularly well suited for older folks and kids.
