When most people think of Maui, they imagine tropical beaches, lounging in the sun and swaying palm trees. While that’s a perfectly good visual of the Hawaiian islands, Maui has so much more to offer. You can fill your island escape with a myriad of activities that will make your trip to Maui a once-in-a-lifetime event.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 things to do in Maui, giving you an idea of how you can spend your time on this pristine Pacific island. With national parks, natural wonders and immersive cultural experiences, there are so many things to see and do in Maui.
The best time to visit Maui is during the off-season, which lasts from April to May and September to November. It is one of the cheapest times to visit Maui as hotel rates will be discounted after the high season in summer.
The weather in Maui in September is lovely, with highs of 25°C and lows of 16°C. April in Maui is slightly cooler, with temperatures reaching 23°C at the highest. Rain is more common in the winter months, so thankfully September and April will be very dry in Hawaii.
It is worth noting that hurricane season in Maui lasts from June to November. They don’t often occur and tend to just miss the islands, but if you are planning to visit during this period, be sure to check the weather forecast regularly.
There is so much to see and do in Maui. From island trekking to snorkelling and whale watching to Luaus, your trip will be filled with wonderful activities.
Here are the top 10 things you simply have to do in Maui, with options for every kind of traveller.
Maui boasts a rich ecosystem with sweeping volcanic landscapes and subtropical rainforests. One of the best places in Maui to experience this natural beauty is Haleakalā National Park. Beyond its picturesque setting, the park is home to many endangered species which cannot be found anywhere else on Earth.
The park is also filled with miles of trails for hiking enthusiasts. If walking isn’t your cup of tea, there are also options for ATV trips and horse trekking through the jungles.
No matter how you chose to traverse the park, you should endeavour to reach the top of the Haleakalā volcano. The summit offers some of the best panoramic views in Hawaii, letting you gaze out for miles into the Pacific Ocean.
One of the best ways to experience the summit is at sunrise. You will need a special permit in order to do so, or you may wish to book a Haleakalā sunrise tour. Once you watch the horizon glow with the pink-orange light of dawn, you’ll realise the long hike was worth it.
Tucked away in Haleakalā National Park you will find ‘Ohe’o Gulch. It is more popularly known as the Seven Sacred Pools, but this was a name devised by hotel owners in the 1950’s as a marketing tool to boost tourism.
The gulch is a valley that was carved out by a stream which empties into the ocean on the Kipahulu coast. Lush vegetation clings to the cliffs and waterfalls cascade down the rocks. When you arrive you will immediately see why it is one of the most beautiful places in Maui.
The pools can get very crowded as they are a very popular swimming spot. You will likely see many brave individuals scaling the rocks and taking daring dives into the water. Cliff jumping is prohibited in the park, but this is not regularly enforced. If you do choose to take a leap, do so at your own risk.
The ranger station nearby is a good place to take a rest and peruse the educational exhibits. There is also a campground close by if you want to spend another day in the park. Just be sure to book well in advance as spaces are limited.
Practically next door to ‘Ohe’o Gulch you can find the Pipiwai Trail. This 6.5km hike takes you through verdant bamboo forests which provide a welcome respite from the harsh sun.
The pathway is well maintained which makes the route very easy, but good hiking boots are recommended as there is a fair incline. The hike will take you to two waterfalls; Makahiku and Waimoku Falls.
The route is prone to mosquitos so be sure to dowse yourself in bug repellent before heading off. Another important thing to consider before you take the trail is that there are some environmental hazards. Landslides and flash floods are known to happen, so stick to the main route and be mindful of your surroundings.
There’s no greater ‘Maui must-do’ than the road to Hana. This highway is a stunning 3-hour drive through some of the most idyllic parts of the island. The route will take you to some of the best places in Maui, like glistening waterfalls and the Keanae peninsula. With so much to see and do, the drive can easily take much longer, and it’s best not to rush and enjoy the journey.
You can undertake the drive yourself in a rental car if you want to explore Maui at your own pace. However, if you want a more organised trip there are guided tours of the road to Hana. With a guide, you’ll be able to see the best sights on the road and have a much more intimate experience. There are parts of the route that are strictly off-limits to tourists, so a guide can help you avoid these.
As the road to Hana is one of the most popular attractions in Maui, you will likely encounter traffic and congestion. The verdant cliffs and coastal vistas are sights to hold, but the tight turns and narrow lanes are bound to get backed up. Nevertheless, the road to Hana is a great way to see the best of Maui and traffic will give you more time to take in the natural beauty of the island.
One of the best stops on the Hana Highway is Wai’anapanapa State Park, which means ‘glistening water’. Like Haleakalā National Park, there is a vast range of unique natural features across 120 acres that are breathtaking to behold. You will need a reservation to enter the park, particularly if you are bringing a vehicle with you. There is a small fee of $5 (about £4) to enter on foot which increases to $10 (£8) if you require parking.
The ancient Hawaiian coastal trail includes black pebble beaches and stunning ocean views. Explore hidden caves on the beach and volcanic arches which are excellent places to grab a one-of-a-kind holiday photo.
There is also a small islet off the shore where many visitors go cliff jumping. Though undoubtedly fun, the water can be rather rough, especially on windy days. It is also worth noting that jellyfish are common in the area, so be mindful if you do take a dip.
On the northwest coast of Wai’anapanapa State Park, you will find one of Maui’s most incredible natural wonders; the Nakalele Blowhole, which attracts countless tourists. The hole is connected to an underwater cave, when waves get high enough water is pushed up and out of the opening at high speed. The water jettisons out the hole like a geyser and can even reach 30m high.
To get to the blowhole you will need to take a short walk through the Acid War Zone. Don’t worry, it’s really not as scary as it sounds. This is a striking rock formation that appears as a barren wasteland. The rocks have been carved and marked by millions of years of salt spray and make for an interesting walking trail.
You won’t find any barriers preventing you from getting right up close to the blowhole. While this may seem encouraging, getting too close can be dangerous due to the slippery rocks. It’s best to stick to the dry spots and admire from a distance.
If you’ve come to Hawaii to catch a glimpse of the incredible marine life, then a trip to Maui Ocean Centre is another top pick. Named one of the best aquariums in the world, the Ocean Centre offers a great opportunity to expand your understanding of sea life. Purchase your tickets in advance to give yourself ample time to see the amazing animals in the flesh.
The mission of the Ocean Centre is to foster greater respect and admiration for the incredible creatures that call our oceans home. At the centre, there are trained specialists who will be able to answer any questions you may have about your favourite sea animals.
With over 60 exhibits, there’s so much fun to be had. The 3D humpback whale experience is one of the best things to do in Maui if you don’t get a chance to go whale watching. The exhibit features CGI Whales that will swim and sing all around you, which is really quite magical.
Another must-do in Maui is attending a Luau feast. This banquet is a hallmark of Hawaiian culture, taking place outdoors on the beach and accompanied by spectacular entertainment. When you book your Luau dinner, you will enjoy amazing local food like Kalua Pig while you watch performances from hula dancers, fire eaters and live music acts.
Head down to the Luau early to catch the sunset on the beach. Then be greeted with a lei and find your seats. This is an unforgettable dining experience that is unlike any other.
If you’re looking for an easy walk in Maui then the Kapalua Trail is a great choice. The 5.6km round trip takes you through the stunning Kapalua resort, where you will see so many different environments like lava fields, beaches and untouched wilderness.
The trail is much more accessible than the ones found in the national parks. The path is mostly paved, making it better suited for families or individuals with mobility issues.
Along the route, you will be treated to some of the best views of the Pacific Ocean on the northwest coast. Be sure to apply lots of sunscreen if you do take the trail, as there is not much shade or coverage, so you will be very exposed to the sun.
It’s no secret that Maui is one of the top destinations for snorkelling, scuba diving and whale watching. One of the best places in Maui for underwater adventures is Molokini Crater.
The crater is one of the only 3 volcanic calderas in the world and is a haven for Maui’s dazzling marine species. The clear waters are perfect for spotting tropical fish and the crescent shape of the crater keeps the water very calm.
To get to Molokini, you will need to get a boat from Malalea, Makena or Kihei. Molokini has 9 diving spots that each have their own appeal. If you book a snorkelling trip, you will likely depart from one of these locations.
Tako flats lie within the crescent and are a true underwater paradise. It’s one of the best places to see octopuses and even manta rays if you’re lucky. Alternatively, ‘The Edge of the World’ rests on the outer curve of the crater. This dark 45m drop is better suited for more experienced scuba divers and is a great place to see exotic marine life.
Maui, with its pristine beaches, lush natural landscapes, and vibrant culture, is a dream destination for travellers seeking a tropical paradise. From breathtaking sunsets to thrilling adventures, this enchanting Hawaiian island offers a diverse range of activities to suit every traveller’s preferences.
We hope this article has given you plenty of ideas for how to spend your time in Maui. If you’re going to be spending some time state-side, be sure to check out our guides to North America and the United States for more top travel tips.
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