Maui, known also as ‘The Valley Isle,’ is the second largest Hawaiian island and is located with the other islands of Hawaii, in the Central Pacific Ocean.
It is a tropical paradise, offering visitors pristine beaches, lush rainforests, palm trees and stunning vistas.
Maui is also home to a Hawaiian vibrant culture and community, with plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy.
The beaches in Maui are breathtaking, allowing you to see Hawaiian green sea turtles and other marine animals.
The golden sand undeveloped beaches are fantastic for swimming with vibrant marine life.
Warm waters surrounding Maui are home to a protected marine life conservation district with reserves like Molokini and Honolua Bay that have clear crystal waters and beautiful coral formations.
For those that enjoy ocean adventures, you can take boat tours around the surrounding Hawaiian islands, go scuba diving, whale watching or try some private surf lessons.
In land you have central Maui, which is full of shops, restaurants, bars and more. You can also visit the west Maui mountains or enjoy some amazing golf courses.
Things To Do In Maui
1. Hana Highway – Road to Hana
One of the most popular things to do in Maui is the Road to Hana.
The Hana Highway is a 52-mile (84 km) long stretch of road that hugs the north-eastern coast of Maui.
It features numerous hairpin turns, one-lane bridges, and stunning views of the ocean.
The Road to Hana can be a challenging drive, but it is definitely worth it for those who are up for the challenge.
There are many different ways to experience the Road to Hana, you can take a guided tour, drive yourself, or even hike part of the way.
No matter how you choose to do it, the Road to Hana is an experience that you will never forget.
There are many different attractions along the Road to Hana. One of the most popular is the Seven Sacred Pools.
The Seven Sacred Pools are a series of waterfalls and pools that are located in Haleakala National Park.
2. Haleakala National Park
Haleakala National Park covers 30,183 acres (122 km2) of land and features a variety of different landscapes, including volcanic craters, rainforests, and waterfalls.
There are many different activities that you can do in Haleakala National Park. One of the most popular is hiking.
There are over 50 miles (80 km) of trails in the park, ranging from easy to difficult.
Haleakala National Park is also a great place for bird watching, as there are over 80 different species of birds that live in the park.
If you’re looking for an adventure, you can go camping in Haleakala National Park.
There are two different campgrounds, both of which offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
3. Lahaina
Lahaina town is a historic place located on the west coast of Maui. It was once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii and is now a popular tourist destination.
There are many different things to do in Lahaina. One of the most popular is to take a walking tour of the town.
During the tour, you will learn about the history of Lahaina and see some of the historic buildings that are still standing.
Lahaina Harbor is conveniently located in downtown Lahaina and another popular activity in Lahaina is to go whale watching.
Every year, from December to April, humpback whales come to the waters off the coast of Maui to mate and give birth.
Whale watching tours are a great way to see these majestic creatures up close.
4. Maui Ocean Center
The Maui Ocean Center is a marine park located in Maui.
It is one of the largest aquariums in Hawaii and features a variety of different exhibits.
One of the most popular exhibits at the Maui Ocean Center is the Open Ocean exhibit.
This exhibit features a 750,000 gallon (2,839,000 liter) tank that is home to a variety of different fish, sharks, and turtles.
The Maui Ocean Center is a great place to learn about the ocean and the creatures that live in it.
5. Ka’anapali Beach
Ka’anapali Beach is one of the most popular beaches on Maui. This white sandy beach is situated on the west shore of the island and is known for its beautiful sunsets and clear turquoise waters.
Visitors can find plenty of activities to enjoy here, including swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling, and windsurfing.
This beach is also home to many resorts, hotels, and restaurants, making it the perfect place to stay for a Maui vacation.
There are three main areas of Ka’anapali Beach: Black Rock Beach, Pu’u Pehe Beach, and Lahaina Beach Park. Each area has something unique to offer visitors.
Black Rock Beach is one of the most popular areas of Ka’anapali Beach. This area is known for its dramatic black lava rock that juts out into the ocean.
Visitors can find plenty of swimming and snorkelling here, as well as a number of restaurants and shops.
Pu’u Pehe Beach is another popular spot on Ka’anapali Beach. This beach is known for its beautiful coral reefs, which make it a popular snorkelling destination.
Lahaina Beach Park is the largest and most popular beach on Ka’anapali Beach.
This beach is known for its beautiful white sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and dramatic cliffs. Visitors can find plenty of activities to enjoy here, including swimming, sunbathing, windsurfing, and kayaking.
6. Nakalele Blowhole
Nakalele Blowhole is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island of Maui.
This natural wonder is a geyser that erupts from a hole in the ground and propels water up to 30 feet in the air.
Visitors can see the blowhole from a viewing platform, and there are also hiking trails nearby that offer even better views.
The Nakalele Blowhole is formed by lava flows that created a tunnel underground. When waves crash into the shore, they force air through this tunnel and out of the blowhole.
The amount of water that is ejected depends on the size of the waves, but it can be quite impressive to watch.
Visitors should use caution when viewing the Nakalele Blowhole, as the waves can be unpredictable and the viewing platform is not always stable.
7. Makena Beach
Makena Beach, also known as “Big Beach”, is located on the south shore of the island, about 10 miles from Kihei.
Makena Beach State Park was established in 1992 to protect the natural beauty of the area.
The park covers over 1,000 acres of land and includes three miles of coastline.
The Beach is well known for its beautiful white sand beaches and clear blue waters.
Makena beach is also a popular spot for surfing, bodyboarding, and windsurfing.
There are two public parking areas at Makena Beach, one at each end of the beach.
Visitors to the park can enjoy picnicking, camping, fishing, swimming, snorkelling, and hiking.
Makena Beach is a beautiful place to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf of Maui.
Whether you are looking to relax on the beach or enjoy the many activities the area has to offer, Makena Beach is the perfect spot for you.
8. Kamaole Beach Park 3
Kamaole Beach Park 3 is perfect to enjoy the sun, sand, and surf.
The beach is also a great place to watch the sunset.
Kamaole beach is located in Kihei, on the south shore of Maui and is adjacent to Kamaole Beach Park II. The two parks are separated by a small stream.
Both beaches are part of the larger Mai Poina ‘Oe La’u State Conservation District.
The beach is about 100 yards wide and three-quarters of a mile long and has white sand and moderate wave action.
There are also several tide pools along the shoreline.
The beach is lifeguarded and there are restrooms and showers available.
Parking is limited and can be found on the streets or in the parking lot of one of the adjacent shopping centers.
Kamaole Beach Park 3 is a great place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Maui.
9. Maui Brewing Company
Maui Brewing Company was founded in 2005 by Garrett Marrero and Melanie Oxley.
The company is based on the island of Maui, Hawaii and has become one of the most successful craft breweries in the state.
The company has a tasting room and brewery tour operation in Lahaina, Maui.
Maui Brewing Company’s core line-up includes four year-round beers: Bikini Blonde Lager, Big Swell IPA, Coconut Hiwa Porter, and Pueo Pale Ale.
The brewery also produces a rotating selection of seasonal and limited edition beers.
Some of Maui Brewing Company’s most popular seasonal releases include the Mai Tai PA, Lemongrass Luau Wheat Ale, Pineapple Mana Wheat Ale, and the Aloha Series line of Hawaiian-inspired beers.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the facility, enjoy a pint in the taproom, and purchase merchandise from the on-site store.
The Lahaina Brewery & Taproom is open seven days a week and offers free parking.
10. Wailea Beach
Located on Maui’s sunny south shore, Wailea Beach is one of Hawaii’s most popular vacation destinations.
With its white sand beaches, luxury resorts, and stunning ocean views, it’s no wonder Wailea is a favourite among travellers.
But there’s more to Wailea than just its good looks. The beach is also great for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkelling.
And if you want to explore beyond the beach, there are plenty of other activities nearby, from golf and tennis to shopping and dining.
In short, Wailea Beach has something for everyone. So whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed vacation, Wailea is the perfect place to be.
11. Maui Swap Meet
The Maui Swap Meet is a must-see tourist destination for anyone visiting the island.
This open-air market is full of local vendors selling everything from produce to handmade arts and crafts.
Visitors can find souvenirs, local snacks, and unique gifts all in one place.
The Maui Swap Meet is held every Saturday from 8am to 1pm in the Kahului Shopping Center parking lot.
Admission is free, making it a great activity for budget-minded travellers. There is also plenty of free parking available.
At the Maui Swap Meet, shoppers will find a wide variety of goods for sale.
There are also a few food trucks on site, serving up Hawaiian favourites like shave ice, plate lunches, and boiled peanuts.
12. Kapalua Coastal Trail
Kapalua Coastal is located at Kapalua Bay, and the trail winds its way along the coast for about two miles.
There are several lookout points along the way, and the trail ends at D.T. Fleming Beach Park.
The Kapalua Coastal Trail is a great way to experience the beauty of Maui’s coastline.
The trail provides stunning views of the ocean, as well as opportunities to see some of Maui’s native plants and animals.
The trail is also a great place to get some exercise, as it is relatively flat and easy to hike.
If you are visiting Maui, be sure to add the Kapalua Coastal Trail to your itinerary.
13. Honolua Bay
Honolua Bay is is known for its crystal clear water, white sand beaches, and stunning views.
Honolua Bay is also a popular spot for snorkeling, swimming, Hawaiian paddle sports and kayaking.
There are many restaurants and shops located near the bay, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two.
14. Napili Beach
Napili Beach is a crescent-shaped beach and is well known for its dramatic sunsets, white sand beaches, and clear turquoise waters.
Visitors can find plenty of things to do in the area including swimming, sunbathing, snorkelling, and windsurfing.
Napili Beach is a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike.
The beach is situated on the western coast of Maui and is surrounded by the islands of Molokai and Lanai.
The crescent shape of the beach allows for visitors to enjoy stunning views of the sunset over the ocean.
There are several restaurants located near Napili Beach. Some of these restaurants include Merriman’s, Cheeseburger in Paradise, Fleetwood’s on Front Street, and Mama’s Fish House.
Visitors can also find several bars in the area including Moose McGillycuddy’s and Fleetwood’s on Front Street.
15. Lahaina Front Street
Lahaina Front Street is is lined with shops, restaurants, and art galleries.
There is also a wide variety of entertainment options available, from live music to street performers.
Lahaina Front Street is the perfect place to spend a day or night exploring all that Maui has to offer.
Be sure to add Lahaina Front Street to your list of must-see attractions when visiting Maui!
16. Wai’anapanapa State Park
Wai’anapanapa State Park is located on the eastern shore of Maui in Hawaii.
The park is known for its black sand beaches, which are created by volcanic activity.
The beach at Wai’anapanapa is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. There are also hiking trails that lead to scenic lookouts and waterfalls.
Wai’anapanapa State Park is open year-round and there is no entrance fee. Parking is available onsite.
There are also several facilities available for use, including restrooms, showers, and picnic tables.
Wai’anapanapa State Park is a great place to enjoy the outdoors and experience the natural beauty of Maui. With its black sand beaches, hiking trails, and scenic lookouts, the park is sure to please everyone in the family.
17. Ho’okipa Beach Park
Maui’s Ho’okipa Beach Park offers a rainbow of beauty all year long.
Located miles away from the crowds, this pristine beach is nestled on the island’s north shore alongside the Road To Hana.
Ho’okipa Beach is one of the most reliable spots in Maui that you can get a chance to see sea turtles laying on the beach.
18. Ali’i kula Lavender Farm
Nestled on the slopes of Haleakala National Park, with panoramic views of the West Maui Mountains, the Ali’i kula Lavender Farm is a fragrant purple paradise.
It is a great place to learn more about lavender. With 13.5 acres of plants, showcasing 45 varieties.
Though lavender is not native to Maui, the plant thrives in our area’s cool, dry climate and blooms year-round.
Tours are available and guests can also take an extended tour of the farm from the seat of a comfortable, five-person golf cart.
To make your experience even more memorable, the farm provides gourmet picnic lunches.
From guided tours, craft classes and secret garden lavender treasure hunts, a visit to this uniquely magical place is a must-see when visiting Maui.
FAQ
Can you drive around the entire island of Maui?
The island of Maui is small enough that you can drive around the entire island in one day.
However, some places are only reachable by hiking trails.
Where are there waterfalls in Hawaii?
In Maui you’ll find the Waimoku Waterfalls. For those looking for cascading waterfalls, it’s recommended you visit Oahu.
These waterfalls allow you to cliff dive surrounded by lush rainforest, allowing you to experience true island life.
When is the Maui whale festival?
The Maui whale festival is held on a weekend at the end of February or early in March.
What do you do at a Hawaiian luau?
One of the most festive experiences to be had on a visit to the Hawaiian Islands is a luau – a Hawaiian feast featuring lively music and vibrant cultural performances.
At the Old Lahaina Luau there is an evening of traditional Hawaiian cuisine, music, cultural dances and demonstrations.
What is the best time of year to visit Maui?
The best time of year to visit Maui is from April to May or from September to October.
These months offer the perfect combination of warm weather and low humidity.
What is the best way to get around Maui?
The best way to get around Maui is by car.
This will allow you to explore all the things to do in Maui at your own pace. Some places require you to hike.
What are some of the best beaches on Maui?
Some of the best beaches on Maui include Napili Beach, Honolua Bay, Punaluu Black Sand beach, Baldwin Beach Park and Wai’anapanapa State Park.
These beaches offer stunning views, clear waters, and plenty of activities to enjoy.
How many days in Maui is enough?
How many days you spend in Maui will depend on your personal preferences.
If you want to explore the island and visit all of the major attractions, then you should plan to spend at least 5 days in Maui, you can speed this up with Maui tours.
However, if you just want to relax on the beach and enjoy the weather, then 3-4 days may be enough.
Is Maui worth the money?
Maui is a beautiful island with plenty of activities and attractions to enjoy.
While it is not the cheapest destination, it is definitely worth the money to experience some Hawaiian culture on the tropical island.
You can save money by enjoying the nature in Maui and bringing your own hiking or snorkelling gear.
Is 3 days in Maui enough?
If you just want to relax on the beach and enjoy the weather, then 3-4 days may be enough.
However, if you want to explore the island and visit all of the major Maui attractions, then you should plan to spend at least 5 days in Maui.
Are there sharks in Maui?
There are sharks in Maui, but they are not a common sight.
However, it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions when swimming in the ocean.
Many people report seeing reef fish around Maui and being able to touch sea turtles.
Where are the seals in Maui?
The seals in Maui can be found at the Aquarium of Hawaii in Kihei.
You may rarely see them in the surrounding ocean, but with most sea life this is difficult without scuba diving.
