Hawaii’s year-round tropical weather may be the reason to visit Maui alone but Maui’s reputation as a top travel destination precedes the island.
There are many allocates to the island: the Best Island in the US by Conde Nast, the 6th of the World’s Best Places to Visit, according to U.S. News & World Report, among others
The rave and hype over the island are well deserved. Offering a perfect mix of pristine beaches, lush forests and parks, exciting land and water adventures, vibrant cuisine and colorful history and culture, the magical island paradise has an exciting experience awaiting travelers.
Get inspired to visit the beautiful tropical island with our tips and things to do in Maui, Hawaii:
1. See the sunrise at Haleakala National Park
Popular Pipiwai trail in Haleakala National Park on Maui, Hawaii, USA | MNStudio, Shutterstock
Haleakala National Park is home to the Haleakala Crater, a 10,023-feet above sea level extinct volcano towering the island. Known as the “house of the sun”, the park boasts what may be one of the most incredible views of the sunrise in the world. There is simply no way to properly describe the surreal experience of seeing the dark Hawaiian sky awash with red, pink and yellow splashes of color. It’s something one has to experience once in their life!
After the sunset, you can stay for a breakfast picnic before you walk across the hiking trails around the volcanic landscape. Before you go, make reservations to view the sunrise online. As it’s a popular activity, it pays to be ready for an influx of people and vehicles.
Haleakalā National Park
30000 Haleakala Hwy, Kula, HI 96790, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 808-572-4400
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Kula Bistro (4.7/5 stars, Kula, $$)
• Kinaole Grill Food Truck (5/5 stars, Hawaiian, $$)
• Coconut’s Fish Cafe (4.6/5 stars, Sea Food, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Haleakalā National Park in Maui.
The best hotel to stay near Haleakalā National Park based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui (8.8/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
2. Zip your way through Maui’s forests
Discover Maui, Hawaii with Skyline Hawaii | Skyline Hawaii, YouTube
Maui not only offers Zip line, one of the most exciting adrenaline-pumping activities, but it is home to it. The very first zip line in America was opened in Maui in 2002. Zip lining not only gives you that adrenaline rush, but it also offers a unique and killer way to see Maui.
There are many courses in Maui offering the popular activity, with some courses better for kids and some reserved for daredevils. Zip through the air as you fly at high-speed above the trees, and relish in the moment of flying freely through the sky. Try out the “Zip n Dip” course at Skyline Eco-Adventures Kaanapali, where the zip line ends at a dip in a jungle swimming hole.
Skyline Eco-Adventures Kaanapali
2580 Kekaa Dr #115, Lahaina, HI 96761, United States
Cost: +$160/per person
Ph: +1 808-427-2771
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Fish Market Maui (4.6/5 stars, Restaurant, $$$)
• Tommy Bahama – Maui Food Truck (5/5 stars, Restaurant, $$)
• Cruzin’ Cafe (5/5 stars, Coffee shop, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Skyline Eco-Adventures Kaanapali in Maui.
The best hotel to stay nearby based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club – Lahaina & Napili Towers (9/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
3. Spend a day Kaanapali Beach
Kaanapali Beach from Black Rock, Maui, Hawaii | Photo Image, Shutterstock
The 3-mile stretch shoreline of Ka’anapali Beach is a top attraction on the island. The beach was originally a private retreat for high rollers but now developed into a thriving sunny resort area, with plenty of things to do. The beach is fantastic to explore so you can easily spend a day there. Check out the different restaurants along the beach, or discover the ocean’s beauty of the clear cerulean waters near the Black Rock, home to many tropical fish.
End your day at the beach and stay for a classic Hawaiian tradition at sunset: a ceremonial torch lighting ending with a spectacular cliff dive by a local.
Kaanapali Beach
Kaanapali Beach, Kaanapali, HI 96761, USA
Admission: Free
Ph/Tel: 808-661-2000
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Tommy Bahama – Maui Food Truck (5/5 stars,Hawaiian, $$$)
• Leilani’s on the Beach (4.5/5 stars, Hawaiian, $$)
• Monkeypod (4.9/5 stars, Hawaiian, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Kaanapali Beach in Maui.
The best hotel to stay near Kaanapali Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, Ka’anapali (9.1/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
4. Coast along Road to Hana
Aerial view of a waterfall on the road to Hana Maui Hawaii | Kelly Headrick, Shutterstock
Road to Hana is a famous long scenic drive in Maui that promises those who navigate its incredible views and beautiful spots. The 52-mile highway stretches over the Maui mountains and terrain, with winding and narrow roads. Hop on the road and go on a beautiful adventure! Stop by Ho’okipa Beach Park, around mile 9 of the highway, to feel sand between your toes, or take a rest at the Garden of Eden a beautiful arboretum, around mile 10.
Road to Hana
Hana Hwy, Kula, HI 96790, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 808-661-8687
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Aloha Aina Barbecue (5/5 stars, Barbecue, $$$)
• Mediterranean Grill (4.9/5 stars, Mediterranean, $$)
• Ka Haku Smoke Shack (4.9/5 stars, Vietnamese, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Road to Hana in Maui.
The best hotel to stay near Road to Hana based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Paia Inn (8.4/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
5. Snap a photo at the Bamboo Forest
Pipiwai trail in the bamboo forest in Haleakala National Park on the island of Maui | RS Smith Photography, Shutterstock
Maui has a number of bamboo forests offering a spectacular background for your travel photos. One of the best bamboo forests is located in Haleakala National Park and is on the way to other popular sights. Getting to the bamboo forest is a 2-3 hour round trip hike, but rewards you with more than what you bargained for. Hike your way to the Pipiwai Trail, past the Makahiku falls and ‘Ohe’o Pools to reveal the magical bamboo forest.
Snap photos and marvel at the amazing sight of the towering bamboo. If you continue on you’ll be greeted by the Waimoku Falls, one of the popular stops in Road to Hana.
Bamboo Forest
8310 Hana Hwy, Haiku, HI 96708, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 808-248-7375
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Ka Haku Smoke Shack (4.9/5 stars, Barbecue, $$$)
• Bailey’s Café (4.6/5 stars, Hawaiian, $$)
• Kama Hele Cafe (4.9/5 stars, Cafe, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Bamboo Forest in Maui.
The best hotel to stay near Bamboo Forest based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux (9.4/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
6. Visit the Maui Ocean Center
Maui Ocean Center AquariumPLUS | Maui Ocean Center, YouTube
Although Maui has sunny weather all year long, the occasional rainy day may be a puzzle for tourists visiting the beaches. One of the favorite indoor activities for such a case is the Maui Ocean Center, Hawaii’s premier aquarium. The aquarium has one of the largest collections of live corals, daily presentations, tide pools, open ocean exhibits and other exciting activities featuring the rich marine life of Hawai’i.
While away the rainy day in the Maui Ocean Center where there is plenty to see and do. Check out virtual whale encounters where you can be up close and personal with the Humpbacks of Hawai’i. The center is open 365 days a year, from 9 am to 5 pm. Check out the website for special events happening in the aquarium.
Maui Ocean Center
192 Maalaea Rd, Wailuku, HI 96793, United States
Admission: +$9.99 per person
Ph: +1 808-270-7000
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• The Mill House (4.7/5 stars, New American, $$$)
• Maui Rotisserie Chicken (4.8/5 stars, Maui, $$)
• Earth Aloha Eats (4.8/5 stars, Vegan, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Maui Ocean Center in Maui.
The best hotel to stay near Maui Ocean Center based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Kohea Kai Maui, Ascend Hotel Collection (8.4/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
7. Feast in a traditional Hawaiian Luau
Visitor at Old Lahaina Luau | Old Lahaina Luau
A trip to Hawaii isn’t complete without experiencing the classic Luau, a night of fun and exciting performances of cultural dance and demonstrations with festive and delicious Hawaiian cuisine. A favorite spot for the authentic Luau experience is the Old Lahaina Luau, established in 1986. With its beautiful beachfront location, the show performances and Hawaiian cuisine provide the perfect taste of the islands’ culture.
Old Lahaina Luau
1251 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 808-667-1998
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Lahaina Grill (4.8/5 stars, American, $$$)
• Paia Fishmarket Front Street Restaurant (4.7/5 stars, Seafood, $$)
• Edge Maui (4.9/5 stars, Asian Fusion, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Old Lahaina Luau in Maui.
The best hotel to stay near Old Lahaina Luau based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• The Plantation Inn (9/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
8. Sunbathe at Napili Beach
Napili Beach on the west coast of Maui, Hawaii | Photo Image, Shutterstock
Napili Beach is a small, intimate crescent-shaped beach with white sand and crystal clear waters. The secluded beach gives off a relaxed atmosphere as few people visit the hidden gem. Lie down and bask in the beautiful warm sunny weather, without worrying about kids running around and getting sand in your eye. The waters are also perfect for a bit of snorkeling.
Napili Beach
53 Hui Dr, Lahaina, HI 96761, United States
Admission: Free
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Lahaina Grill (4.8/5 stars, American, $$$)
• Down The Hatch (4.6/5 stars, Seafood, $$)
• Māla Ocean Tavern (4.6/5 stars, Seafood, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Napili Beach in Maui.
The best hotel to stay near Napili Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Montage Kapalua Bay (9.3/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
9. Join a Pineapple tour
Pineapple field at Hali’imaile Pineapple Company | Hali’imaile Pineapple Company, Facebook
Pineapple, the tropical fruit, is practically in most of the Hawaiian dishes. In fact, Hawaii used to produce so much pineapple, it was called the Pineapple Capital of the World. To learn about the fruit and sample it in the process, join a tour of the source of these juicy fruits. In Hali’imaile, a working pineapple plantation offers tours of the fields to learn the ins and outs of how the fruit starts from the seeds to freshly cut in your favorite fruit salad. The tour is a refreshing activity as the fruit as it’s educational and Eco-friendly.
Haliimaile Pineapple Co Ltd
872 Haliimaile Rd, Makawao, HI 96768, United States
Admission: Free
Ph/Tel: +1 808-871-0380
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Kama Hele Cafe (4.9/5 stars, Cafe, $$$)
• Habibi On Maui (4.6/5 stars, Middle Eastern, $$)
• Freshies Maui (4.7/5 stars, Maui, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Haliimaile Pineapple Co Ltd in Maui.
The best hotel to stay near Haliimaile Pineapple Co Ltd based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Aloha Cottage (9.5/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
10. Go snorkeling at Wailea Beach
Wailea Beach Maui, Hawaii | dronepicr, Flickr
Maui has no shortage of beaches. Wailea Beach is a public beach but with a more upscale-resort vibe. There are facilities for showers and restrooms, making this beach perfect for family outings. There are many things to do on the beach like sunbathing, boogie boarding, body surfing. But like almost any beach in Hawaii, it’s perfect for snorkeling. Put on your snorkeling gear and see how many marine creatures you can spot under the sea!
Wailea Beach
Kihei, HI 96753, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 808-879-4364
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Coconut’s Fish Cafe (4.5/5 stars, Seafood, $$$)
• Maui Teriyaki (4.6/5 stars, Japanese, $$)
• Kinaole Grill Food Truck (5/5 stars, Kinaole, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Wailea Beach in Maui.
The best hotel to stay near Wailea Beach based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Fairmont Kea Lani (8.9/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
11. See the postcard-perfect Waianapanapa State Park
Waiʻanapanapa State Park in Hana on the island of Maui, Hawaii | Abbie Warnock-Matthews, Shutterstock
The coastal Waianapanapa State Park offers amazing views of the rocky and rugged shoreline, sea arches and the black basalt lava sand beach. Waianapanapa means ‘glistening water’ and the views of the seascapes from the park certainly lives up to its names. Take postcard-worthy photos at the lookout points, where you can see glorious panoramic views of the island. On days when the weather is calm, you can enjoy the beach and go swimming.
Waianapanapa State Park
Waianapanapa, Hana, HI 96713, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 808-248-4843
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• I Lava Tacos (5.0/5 stars, Mexican, $$$)
• Thai Food By Pranee (4.7/5 stars, Thai, $$)
• Braddah Hutts BBQ Grill (4.7/5 stars, Barbecue, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Waianapanapa State Park in Maui.
The best hotel to stay near Waianapanapa State Park based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Heavenly Hana Paradise (9.2/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
12. Kayak in Makena Bay
Wailea-Makena Beach, Maui, Hawaii, USA | Elena_Suvorova, Shutterstock
Makena Bay is located south of the Wailea resort area. Makena means ‘abundance’ and is an apt name for the area as there is an abundance of natural beauty and activities you can enjoy in the bay. While you can spend your day in the bay, lounging, swimming or snorkeling, why not go on a Kayak tour? With the scenic Haleakala as your background, you can paddle your way through the rich blue waters of Makena. Stop by designated areas where you can snorkel and see the sea life up close.
Makena Bay
5083 Makena Rd, Kihei, HI 96753, United States
Admission: Free
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman (4.6/5 stars, Hawaiian, $$$)
• The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea (4.7/5 stars, Wailea, $$)
• Jazzy’s Kitchen Mexican food truck (4.9/5 stars, Mexican, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Makena Bay in Maui.
The best hotel to stay near Makena Bay based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Andaz Maui At Wailea Resort (9/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
13. Chill out at Banyan Tree Park
Lahaina Banyan Tree, Lahaina Town, Island of Maui, Hawaii | Joe West, Shutterstock
Located on Front Street in Lahaina, is an impressive, towering 60-feet banyan tree. The large tree is over a decade old and has several tree trunks surrounding the area, giving the impression there is a forest of trees. Look up in awe at one of the largest banyan trees in the world. The covered area serves as a park where you can relax or enjoy the demonstrations that sometimes take place in the park.
Banyan Tree Park
671 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761, United States
Admission: Free
Ph: +1 808-661-4685
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Fleetwood’s on Front St. (4.5/5 stars, Seafood, $$$)
• Eating Local (5/5 stars, Hawaiian, $$)
• Alchemy|Maui by Valley Isle Kombucha (4.9/5 stars, Maui, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near Banyan Tree Park in Maui.
The best hotel to stay near Banyan Tree based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• The Lahaina Beach House (8.6/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
14. Take surfing lessons
Maui Surf Clinic Surf Lessons | Smart Destinations, Flickr
Maui is one of the best places to learn exciting water-sports: surfing! It has plenty of beaches and breaks that give the perfect opportunities to ride the waves, or at least learn how. The island has over 20+ surfing schools around the island to choose from, with lessons that generally run for 90 to 120 minutes. Learn the basics from established surfers, or get tips on how to perfect your ride if you’re experienced. As Maui can get windy in the afternoon, most lessons are done in the morning for access to calmer waters.
Maui Surf Clinics
505 Front St #201, Lahaina, HI 96761, United States
Admission: $85 – $180 Price range
Ph: +1 808-244-7873
Get directions
15. Explore Iao Valley State Park
A river runs through the rainforest of Iao Valley State Park | Abbie Warnock-Matthews, Shutterstock
The 4,000 acres ‘Iao Valley State Park is a must-go destination for any visitor in Maui. Deemed the second ‘wettest’ place in Hawaii, the summit of the valley receives about an inch of rain a day, making the area lush with dramatic forestry and tropical fauna. The prime attraction is the ‘Iao Needle, a peak 2250 meters from sea level, which can be viewed from the observation deck. Take a walk on the ‘Iao Needle Lookout trail to learn about the different species of flora and fauna of the area.
‘Iao Valley State Park
54 S High St, Wailuku, HI 96793, United States
Admission: Free
Get directions
Top restaurants to eat nearby according to locals and visitors:
• Down The Hatch (4.6/5 stars, Seafood, $$$)
• Joey’s Kitchen Napili (4.7/5 stars, Hawaiian, $$)
• Acevedo’s Hawaicano Cafe (4.8/5 stars, Mexican, $$)
See the full list of places to eat near ‘Iao Valley State Park in Maui.
The best hotel to stay near ‘Iao Valley State Park based on overall price, location and amenities according to travelers:
• Napili Shores Maui by Outrigger (8.6/10 stars, $$$) – Booking.com
16. Cool off with shaved ice
A colorful photo of a rainbow Hawaiian shave ice in red plastic cup | Chris Allan, Shutterstock
Shaved ice is a frozen treat made from ‘shaved’ ice formed into a ball and drizzled with different syrups and topped with fruits before serving. It is the ultimate treat under the sun and a quintessential Hawaiian sweet. Take a break and scoop yourself a bite of delicious shaved ice from the many stalls and shops in Maui. Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice is popular with visitors and locals, and people say you can try whatever flavor you’d like as there is no bad option.
17. Bite into Hawaiian pizza
Flatbread Organic Pizza Paia Maui | John Coffey, Vimeo
There are possibly fewer controversial things in the world that would spark outrage and internet debates than pineapple on a pizza. The sweet-savory mix of pineapples, meat, cheese and tomato sauce is popular in Hawaii, thus the name. There are a number of joints offering this classic dish, and you really can’t go wrong in a place that is named for it. Try out the Hawaiian style pizza of Flatbread Company, a small chain of pizzerias in Hawaii.
Flatbread Company
89 Hana Hwy, Paia, HI 96779, United States
View Flatbread Company Menu
Ph: +1 808-579-8989
Get directions
18. End your day on a sunset cruise
Travel cruise ship couple on sunset cruise in Hawaii holiday | Maridav, Shutterstock
Maui boasts one of the best sunset views in the world and what better way to enjoy the experience than to take a sunset cruise? This one-of-a-kind romantic experience is sure to be one memory for the books. Climb aboard the catamarans sailing along the waters of Maui as you sip on the finest cocktails of the island and take in the breathtaking flurry of sunset colors painting the sky. You can also enjoy a luxurious and filling meal on these cruises, away from the crowded restaurants of the mainland. Several tour operators run this popular experience, catering to different needs and budgets.
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