With 120 miles of tropical coastline, 30 miles of golden sands, and a laid-back air enchanting the entire island, Maui Island is nothing short of heaven on Earth.Snorkel with turtles, witness whales leap above the surface, drive the Road to Hana, or catch a magical sunrise from the top of the Haleakala crater — there really is no shortage of fun things to do in Maui.
Hawaii”s second-largest island is a wonderland for outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers and those inspired by great escapes, with a seemingly unending plethora of activities suitable for all ages.
Learn to surf, or try stand-up paddleboarding, or kayaking across the deep Pacific on a glass-bottom boat. Paraglide across mountains, hike to hidden waterfalls and stroll through jungle-y botanical gardens.
Home to one of the largest dormant volcanoes across the entire globe (Haleakalā), Vvodkaalley Isle – as Maui is affectionately called – has a distinctly wild feel, thanks to the island’s sleeping giants.
Don’t miss trying the local food and flavors from this region, or learn how the movements of the traditional hula dance.
So, if you’re planning a trip to this Hawaiian oasis and need a hand fine-tuning the itinerary, take note:
1 – Snorkel through Turtle Town
Seriously, how could you NOT visit a place called ‘Turtle Town’?
True to its name, this strip of coastline, centered at Maluaka Beach, is known for its high population of Hawaiian green sea turtles.
There’s arguably no better snorkeling spot in Maui than here, surrounded by some of Mother Nature’s most beloved creatures.
2 – Go whale watching!
As one of Mother Nature’s most amazing feats, humpback whales migrate from Alaska down to Hawaii’s warm, protected waters to mate.
Not only will you witness mothers and calves in their natural habitat, but you’ll be able to hear them sing too, thanks to the tour boats’ underwater hydrophone equipment.
3 – Marvel at Lahaina’s Banyan Tree
Mother Nature has really outdone herself this time.
The Banyan Tree in Lahaina is unlike any other tree in the country: aerial roots drape towards the ground from its branches, forming new trunks that allow the tree to grow both vertically and horizontally.
Besides the obvious main attraction, not to mention the hundreds of mynah birds, the area is also home to an abundance of shopping and dining opportunities.
4 – Hike the Haleakala Crater
Towering over the island, the foreboding Haleakala Crater is a force of nature in every sense — one of the countless breathtaking vistas inside the Haleakala National Park.
Experience six of the world’s different climate zones as you attempt a hike to the crater 3,055 meters above sea level. Shrouded in mythical tales and geological fascinations, even though it’s called a crater, it’s not your typical kind.
Usually forming after an eruption, it’s believed the Haleakala Crater was created when two valleys inside of the park unified as one. See the wonder for yourself as you summit to the top, and if you arrive during sunrise, stick your head above a sea of clouds floating by.
There are short and long trails to choose from, depending on how long you plan on hiking, and guided hikes are available from dawn to sunset. Scope out cinder cones en route, or walk the lava trail and photograph rare flora, fauna and wildlife.
No matter the time of day, the scenery and views are unparalleled.
5 – Swim, snorkel and surf at the best beaches
If you’ve chosen Hawaii as a vacation destination, spending endless days idling on the beach should be high up on your list of peaked interests. Naturally, there’s an array of gorgeous beaches to check out on the wild coastline of Maui.
Comprising not one, but three beaches, Kama’ole Beach Park is loved for swimming, snorkeling and beach activities. Located in Kihei, the Kamaole Beaches are known as Kam I, Kam II and Kam III.
Favored by surfers (and windsurfers), Ho’okipa Beach Park is off the iconic Hana Highway and if you’re lucky, you might spot a green sea turtle. Baldwin Beach Park is not as crowded as others and bodyboarders particularly love this spot. It’s also good for swimming and snorkeling when ocean conditions are calm.
Travelers arrive at Black Sand Beach (located inside Waiʻānapanapa State Park) to marvel at the darkened shoreline. As of recently, to visit the beach you need to make a reservation prior.
If you find yourself in the Kaanapali area (one hour from the center of Maui), Kahekili Beach Park boasts flat waters and a small shoreline dotted with wispy trees providing shade. Thanks to its makeup it’s a popular snorkel beach.
What better way to end off a hike to the Makaluapuna Point and Kapalua Labyrinth along the Dragon’s Teeth trail, than with a dip in the ocean at Kapalua Bay Beach afterward? (It’s a four-minute drive between the two.)
6 – Drive the Road to Hana
The winding, coastal, 64-mile Road to Hana is magical every step of the way, with lush greenery, cascading waterfalls, 617 curves, and sparkling ocean views as far as the eye can see.
Don’t let its distance fool you; although it may seem like a short ride of just over 80 kilometers, the road takes around 2.5 to three hours to drive because of its unique twists and turns, and the 56 single-lane bridges to tackle.
But you won’t find yourselves watching the clock as the natural scenery is awe-inspiring. Following the seaside, as you cruise the coastline appreciate the abundance of native fauna, from florals to fruit trees growing on the highway sides.
En route, pull over and trek a bit further into the rainforests on the mountainside, and there are several cascading falls to discover. To avoid getting lost and navigating tricky terrain, there are rainforest waterfall hikes to guide you.
Popular picks include hiking to Twin Falls, Upper Waikani Falls (three falls nicknamed the “three bears”), Wailua Falls and ‘The Seven Sacred Pools’ – also known as Ohe’o Gulch, and these tiered falls are inside the Haleakala National Park.
From Ohe’o Gulch, take the Pipiwai Trail which starts right here, and hike further on to Waimoku Falls. If you’re not keen on walking but still want to go waterfall hunting, there are half-day jeep tours venturing off-road through the valleys and dense forestry.
7 – Spend the day venturing Haleakala National Park 
From volcanic cinders to waterfalls, Haleakala National Park is one of the most fulfilling experiences among the things to do in Maui for outdoor enthusiasts … or any type of traveler for that matter.
Spanning 12,214 hectares, the park is divided into two primary districts, each comprising varied ecosystems and topography.
The Summit District is favored for its volcanic hikes, seeing rare wildlife in their natural habitat and the views from the top of the Haleakala Crater with your head above the floating clouds.
You can camp here too, and apart from hiking the crater, there are other fabulous group activities, like joining a Haleakala sunrise bike tour.
Swapping scenery, the Kīpahulu District is an abundance of coastal land kitted with waterfalls and rocky oceanside to explore. Hiking through the rainforest to reach the falls is well-favored, especially along the Pīpīwai trail. The Pools of ʻOheʻo (ʻOheʻo Gulch) are here too.
Listen out for songbirds chirping in the trees, go stargazing at night or enquire about one of their epic ranger-led programs … there’s something for everyone.
8 – Dive the Molokini Crater
Sitting just a few miles off Maui’s shore, the partially-submerged Molokini crater is Hawaii’s only island marine sanctuary, thought to have existed for over 150 million years.
Teeming with sea life, from turtles to fish, whale sharks, and more, the crater is heaven on Earth for divers and snorkelers.
Combine a dive with a catamaran trip for a truly unforgettable day.
9 – Meet dolphins on Lanai Island
A perfect half-day getaway for the entire family, Lanai Island plays host to some of the most friendly and vibrant marine life in the country — scratch that, the entire planet!
Once you’ve ticked Lanai off the Maui bucket list and come face to face with wild dolphins, you’ll quickly realize why this oceanic oasis is regularly considered one of the world’s 10 best dive spots.
10 – Feel like Charlie and the Chocolate factory during a Cacao Farm tour
Calling all chocolate addicts! Gain first-hand knowledge about the delectable fruit-turned-treat during a cacao farm tour in Maui.
As Hawaii’s largest chocolate factory, there’s no better pick than Maui Ku’ia Estate Chocolate in Lahaina, West Maui.
Arriving at the private estate, begin with a tour covering eight hectares of land, and as you’re guided through the cacao trees, get schooled on the manufacturing process, from growing the seed to harvesting the fruit, as well as chocolate-production methods from pod to bar.
As the farm tour comes to an end — and guests are itching to satisfy their sweet tooth — enjoy a nine-piece chocolate tasting where you get to sample a variety of their award-winning choccies.
For something extra special, head to The Chocolate Bar in an open-air pavilion and enjoy their four different ‘Flights of Chocolate and Beverage Pairings’.
11 – Kayak from Makena to Turtle Town
After soaking in the rays at Makena beach on the island’s southwestern coast (a stunning slice of nature in its own right), grab a kayak and venture toward Turtle Town at your own pace.
Before jumping in the warm waters for a snorkel, keep an eye out for a whale or two!
12 – Spend a day in the Iao Valley
Home to distilleries, wineries, lavender farms and some of the island’s most photogenic landscapes, any day in the Iao Valley is a day well spent.
Not only is it a beautiful experience, but it’s also an educational one, with guides sharing fascinating tidbits about Maui’s culture, ecology, and history the whole way through.
13 – Try parasailing!
Not to be confused with paragliding, on a Maui parasailing adventure, brave thrillseekers soar into the sky solo, in pairs, or in a trio, towed along by a boat hundreds of feet below.
If you’ve never parasailed before, there’s no better place to tick off the exhilarating activity than on this paradise island!
Operating since 1985, West Maui Parasail offers two locations to parasail from; Lahaina Harbor (Slip #15) and Kaanapali Beach (in front of Whalers Village).
Boarding your boat specifically designed for the water sport, you will launch off from the boat, and land safely back on deck once the flight is done.
UFO Parasail is also located at Kaanapali Beach outside of Whalers Village, and if traveling with a large group, their charters fit up to a maximum of 12. Parasailing excursions only run from May to December when it’s peak season.
14 – Explore the Kaeleku Caverns
If you’re still looking for fun things to do in Maui, look no further. The Kaeleku Caverns on the island’s east, originally formed 1000 years ago by flowing lava, today act as a popular tourist attraction.
Besides boasting the island’s largest accessible lava tube, the attraction also houses the Red Ti Tropical Flower Maze, a surefire hit for kids and adults alike.
15 – Trek the Waihe’e Ridge Trail
Even before the clock strikes 9 AM, the parking lot to the Waihe’e Ridge Trail gets chocker blocks full of hikers here to test the famed trailhead.
Depending on your fitness level, as well as your hiking experience, the six-kilometer trek can take between two and four hours round-trip to complete, however, with views and vistas like these, it’s so worth it.
The trail features some steep inclines, particularly in the beginning half of the pathway, but quickly be led through rainforests and tall trees, and there are multiple benches along the way if you need a break.
Breaking out of the canopies, travel the open ridgehead, with sweeping displays of waterfalls, oceans, forests and parts of Haleakalā National Park. Certain bits of the trail can become slippery when muddy, so it’s important to wear appropriate hiking shoes.
16 – Unleash your inner Tarzan on a zipline adventure
Take a break from the coastline and head inland for a day, zipping from one jungle treetop to another on one of Maui’s many multi-stage zipline eco-tours!
Whether you explore upcountry Maui in Haleakala; Ka’anapali in the West Maui Mountains; or the WW2 base, ‘Camp Maui’, an incredible experience awaits.
Better yet, turn the thrills up a notch by combining the zipline adventure with a waterfall hike or sunrise bike ride!
17 – Take to the skies on a Maui & Molokai helicopter tour
During your Hawaiian getaway, add a touch of magic to your itinerary with a helicopter tour over the island, and photographers and couples especially enjoy the activity.
With lush terrain skirting the entire coastline and beautiful blue waters to boot, the overhead views of western Maui are nothing short of magical.
Whether you opt for a 45-minute, 1-hour, or 1-hour+ flight, little can compare with the thrill of zooming past the nearly-4000-foot-tall Molokai cliffs.
Different helicopter flights route to varying parts of Maui. If you’d prefer to sightsee the famous Road to Hana, pick a heli ride that soars from the north down over the eastern shores including Hana Forest Reserve.
Kick things up a notch and opt for a “doors off” flight experience, and your captain will provide useful information about the natural sites and landscapes you pass.
18 – Go for a surfing lesson
Sure, Hawaii boasts some of the world’s most intimidating professional surfing locations (namely on Oahu’s North Shore), but there’s no shortage of calmer waters perfect for beginners and intermediates alike.
All of Kalama beach, Kihei, or Lahaina on Maui’s main western shore offer professional lessons, with friendly locals guiding you every step of the way.
19 – Try scuba diving
Hawaii is a marine paradise, which means that sublime scuba diving locations are a dime a dozen.
Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a total newbie, there’s an experience suitable for all skill levels, with a number of dives departing from most major coastal towns.
For something totally unique, why not opt for a torch-lit night dive?
20 – Go Kitesurfing at Kite Beach
Since prime kitesurfing conditions are typically found along tropical beaches, with 30 miles of arguably the most stunning tropical beaches on the planet, Maui is the ideal place to strap in for this heart-racing water sport!
Whether you’re a newbie, pro, free-rider, or towel minder, there’s a class suitable for everyone. Looking for a starting place? Head to Kite Beach and Teach Beach at Kanaha Beach Park.
21 – Saddle up for a horse riding excursion!
If you’ve already ticked hiking off the list, take family-friendly exploration to another level by jumping on a trusty steed!
Led by real ‘paniolos’ (Hawaiian cowboys), horse riding adventures take guests through the island’s rugged and expansive wilderness, with spectacular sights of the Pacific Ocean and Hawaiian countryside from start to finish.
22 – Spot whales on the Atlantis submarine
After departing from Lahaina Harbor on the Maui Atlantis Submarine tour, you’ll dive over 100 feet below the surface and explore the ocean floor alongside reef sharks, colorful schools of indigenous fish, vibrant coral formations, and, during the winter months, even a whale or two!
For the underwater experience minus the hassle of getting wet, this one’s a winner.
23 – See more than 700 plant species at the Garden of Eden Arboretum
Come and take a walk through the Garden of Eden Arboretum and get lost in a world of nature and wonder.
With the aim of preserving the local ecosystems and shining a light on exotic plant and flower species from regions around the world with a similar tropical climate, the garden has been open to the public (and building its collections) since 1996.
Appreciate its natural features during a trail walk on one of the designated pathways. Visit the Enchanted Forest filled with mango trees and walk through Bamboo Valley to reach viewpoints overlooking waterfalls.
Other exciting activities to try at Garden of Eden include abseiling the Puohokamoa Waterfall during their Rappel Maui adventure, or, relax instead and check out the Art Gallery.
24 – Join a Haleakala sunrise bike tour
One of the best times of day for a riding excursion in Maui is around sunrise, before the heat of the day starts to sink in, and bike tours at this hour are popular.
Seeing the sun jut out over the horizon from the summit of the 3000-meter-high Haleakala Crater is simply unmissable — it’s one of Hawaii’s most impressive feats of Mother Nature.
But what goes up must come down; after the glorious sunrise, you’ll start your descent on the bike, with stunning vistas on offer all the way to the North Shore town of Haiku.
During a sunrise bike tour, you will be transported to the top of the crater while it’s still dark, just in time to start pedaling at sunrise.
If you’re not a (super early) morning person, opt for a 37-kilometer downhill bike tour instead. As one of the most beautiful parks in this part, the cycling expedition also starts from the Haleakala Crater.
As you are on an island, if you prefer to spend your time off land consider a fun water biking adventure from Makena Bay and around Maui’s beaches.
Riding the self-peddled boat bike, cruise the coastline and look below you for an underwater world.
25 – Learn the Hula dance
It’s Hawaii, after all, so learning the Hula dance — a beautiful expression of the Hawaiian spirit — is easily one of the more rewarding and authentic things to do in Maui.
If you quickly master the Hula and are itching for more, the Hawaii Hula Company also put on Lei-making workshops and Luau parties.
26 – Board a sunset sailing tour in Ka’anapali
Home to a three-mile stretch of golden sand often considered one of the best beaches on Maui, Ka’anapali is a local treasure.
But when you glide out onto its waters at sunset, riding the waves on a sailboat, that’s when the beauty turns to magic.
Spice up the romance factor with a dinner cruise or get wild with an open bar, whatever floats your boat!
27 – Try stand-up paddleboarding
A relaxing and peaceful experience (once you get the hang of it), stand-up paddleboarding at places like Kalama Beach is an ideal way to appreciate the salty fresh air.
For total newbies, plenty of vendors offers group and private lessons. On the flip side, if you’re a seasoned pro, simply rent your own board and explore at your own pace.
28 – Soar above the island in a private plane
With such a diverse landscape comprising of islands, volcanoes, and crystal-clear oceans, the views from a plane are simply unmatched.
Most visitors prefer just to sit back, relax, and enjoy the romantic flight with a glass of champagne in hand. But there’s also a second option: take the joystick yourself and turn the Hawaiian skies into your own aerial playground!
29 – Experience the thrills of a high-speed jetboat
Hold on tight! With the Maui jet boats capable of reaching hair-raising top speeds of 50mph, this activity is NOT for the faint of heart.
The vessels skid, spin, slide and leap over the waves, and thrillseekers love every minute of it.
Usually, we’d recommend a hat, but it would probably fly off…
30 – Witness the thunderous Nakalele Blowhole eruptions
At this natural marvel, seawater trapped in an underwater lava tube is searching for a way to escape, and it does so every few minutes in the form of a magnificent geyser-like explosion!
To all the romantics, keep an eye out for the area’s Insta-famous heart-shaped rock window.
31 – Join an ATV buggy tour
Rev that engine, people! On the back of a roaring 4-seater ATV, travelers can explore the picturesque landscapes of Lahaina on the west or Kaupo Ranch on the east — either way, everything from rugged mountains to pristine shores awaits.
For anyone looking to satisfy the insatiable need for adrenaline, take note.
32 – Check out the amazing Maui Luau show
If there’s any must-see entertainment that trumps all others, it’s Maui’s traditional Polynesian Luau performance.
The iconic dance routine not only features beautiful costumes, tiki torches, and an unbeatable atmosphere but also typically comes with a mouth-watering all-you-can-eat buffet and free-flowing drinks for all!
33 – Sign up for a Maui pineapple tour!
For fun things to do in Maui that are off the beaten track, look no further than a tour that focuses on the island’s sweetest fruit!
On a dedicated pineapple tour, guests set off to the historic plantation town of Hali’imaile where delightful guides lead you through the farmland and packing facility.
As you wander the pineapple fields, get to know more about the production process, from growing their Maui Gold pineapples from seed to stores. Best of all, the 1.5 walkabout concludes with a sample tasting!
Considered a symbol of Hawaii, pineapples are the most popular fruit to grow. A second farm to check out is the Maui Tropical Plantation, and arriving at the farm, enjoy a tram tour around the pineapple fields.
Chugging past a lagoon, flowers, coconut groves and dozens of pineapple plants, the journey is 40 minutes, and also includes a 15 to 20-minute coconut husking demo.
Afterward, stop by the on-site cafe or country market and there is an artsy souvenir shop — Mālama Studio — to squizz.
34 – Taste the beers at Maui Brewing Company
After a day on the beach, it’s safe to say nothing is more refreshing than an icy cold beer, and there’s arguably no better joint on the island for a craft brew than the Maui Brewing Company.
With plenty of ales, lagers, even a Coconut Hiwa porter on the menu, there’s something for every palate.
Still craving more beer? Then arrange a 60-minute guided tour of the brewery.
35 – Visit the Maui Ocean Center
Wielding the title of the largest tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere, the 3-acre Maui Ocean Center is a consistent crowd favorite for visitors of all ages.
Besides the thousands of fish, rays, sea jellies, and sharks on display, the aquarium is also marvelously educational, presenting as the perfect place to understand the history of the relationship between Hawaiians and the sea.
36 – Go sea-scooter-snorkeling at Wailea Beach
On the island’s southern side, the palm tree-lined Wailea Beach might be small, but what it lacks in size it makes up for in beauty, with sandy shores, turquoise waters, and an abundance of colorful sea life beneath the surface.
Thanks to its clear waters, Wailea is a snorkeling haven — for the prime underwater experience, latch onto a nifty sea scooter and explore in the mornings before the winds pick up.
37 – Drive the coast in a Maui Roadster!
Any Maui visitor should squeeze a coastal drive into the itinerary, that’s a given. But for the ultimate road trip, that’s where the Maui Roadsters come into play.
When you’re cruising down the cliffside highway in a 1957 Porsche 356 Speedster Convertible, one of automotive history’s most iconic sports cars, that exact feeling of blissful freedom is what vacation is all about.
38 – Try your hand at spearfishing
With both group and private spearfishing lessons on offer, there’s plenty of opportunities to catch a fish the old fashioned way on this paradise island.
Depending on your experience level, choose from freediving outings, spearfishing 101 courses, or shallow snorkeling adventures — whichever option, a decent-sized catch is all but guaranteed.
39 – Sweep through local history at the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum
Did you know that back in the day, sugarcane growing and production helped to boost the local economy for years? Fast forward to today and most of the country’s sugar mills have closed down.
For a chance to better understand this local history, step back in time at the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum. Deep dive into the world of sugar on the island from the time of its first native settlers (around 600 CE), to when Captain Cook and his crew arrived in 1778.
The museum is split into an assortment of rooms and exhibits set to help visitors better understand the role of sugar in Hawaii.
These are the Geography/Water Room, the Founder’s Room, the Immigration Room, the Plantation Room, the Field Work Room and the Mill Room. Uncover artifacts, photographs, instruments and interactive displays as you wander from one to the next.
Heading to the outdoor exhibits, scope out some of the larger machinery and equipment once used in the fields and factories, like an 1898 Nordberg steam engine and a vintage Caterpillar 660 cane hauler cab.
40 – Jump in a traditional Hawaiian canoe
Departing from Wailea Beach, a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe ride fuses adventure with history.
Not only is it a great way to bask in the sun and fresh air but thanks to the friendly guide, the experience also provides intriguing insights into local Polynesian cultures and traditions.
41 – Paraglide from a mountain!
Thrillseekers, get in line! Feel the wind in your face and the adrenaline pump through your veins as you glide down from the slopes of Mt. Haleakalā to the sandy shores far below, soaking in some of Maui’s prime mid-air views along the way.
Flights run year-round (weather permitting), so there’s no excuse to miss out on this one!
42 – Go stargazing!
Most of Maui is untouched wilderness — and we all know what that means: minimal light pollution and some of the world’s most breathtaking night skies!
With Maui Stargazing, expert guides lead guests to the Haleakalā summit, where nothing but constellations, star clusters, and glowing planets await.
Nature lovers, make this one a priority!
43 – Play a traditional round of golf…
As the home of some of the lushest greenery in the USA, Maui is abundant with world-class golfing opportunities.
Arguably the premier fairways lie on the Kapalua Plantation Course, a highly acclaimed course resting on the side of a mountain.
Not to be overlooked, however, are the seaside Wailea Emerald Course, the stunning Kāʻanapali Golf Courses, likewise the underrated Maui Nui in Kihei.
44 – Go souvenir shopping at the Maui Swap Meet
Held every Saturday Morning in Kahului since 1981, the iconic Maui Swap Meet has been a tradition adored by both locals and tourists alike.
As the biggest outdoor market on the island, full of souvenirs, arts and crafts, local snacks, and, of course, Hawaiian shirts, seldom does anyone walk away empty-handed.
45 – Try FOOTgolf!
If teeing off for 18 holes doesn’t quite tickle your fancy, why not try the new fad of footgolf?
As a mix between soccer and traditional golf, players ditch the clubs entirely and kick their way down the fairways instead!
Very little skill or practice is needed, making this one of the best things to do in Maui for families!
46 – See sculptures being made at Makai Glass
Besides being an amazing glass blowing studio where guests can admire the crafters in their element, Makai Glass Maui also houses a phenomenal gallery featuring sculptures inspired by Hawaii’s waters and volcanic formations.
It’s the ideal stopping place on any road trip to the north of the island.
47 – Snap a selfie at Ali’i Kula Lavender
Photographers and Instagrammers, rejoice!
The perfect purple backdrop to any travel selfie, the charming Ali’i Kula Lavender farm is both picturesque and interactive.
With family days, women’s days, walking tours, and mini-bouquet-making all on the calendar, there’s no shortage of things to do.
48 – Grab lunch at Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop
When the tummy’s rumbling, there’s no eaterie more equipped to crush that hunger than Leoda’s, home of the so-called ‘glorified grandma comfort food’.
This casual, family-style Lahaina restaurant focuses on farm-fresh and sustainable ingredients for breakfast, lunch, and dinner — the highlights, of course, true to the shop’s name, are the simply scrumptious pies.
49 – Treat yourself to Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice
On those scorching hot days, nothing quite beats a good ol’ fashioned cone of Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice, Maui’s unique take on the ice cream cone. Choose your size and flavor, pile on the toppings, and then sit back and enjoy!
With six locations scattered all over the island, there’s no excuse to skip out of this locally-adored treat.
50 – Get buzzed at Ocean Organic Vodka Farm & Distillery
Crafted sustainably on the Hawaiian Islands, Ocean Organic Vodka is a premium vodka made from organic sugar cane and is the only vodka in the world to be blended with deep ocean mineral water.
Situated on 80-acres of breathtaking views from the slopes of Haleakala, the home of Ocean Organic Vodka is centrally located between the north and south shores of Maui. Experience sustainable farming practices under the tropical sun while you learn about the local history of sugar cane farming with views of Maui’s north and south shores.
The Farm is open to the public and offers tours and tastings and features a restaurant and bar, the Farm Café, and Farm Store. The Farm Café features a working garden at its side from which ingredients are sourced for food items, cocktail garnishes, and more.
51 – Book a table at Mama’s Fish House
Family-owned since 1973, Mama’s Fish House is a staple when it comes to Hawaiian seafood. Catchments are brought to the restaurant daily, ensuring mouth-watering freshness, no matter the order.
Throw in the notoriously courteous service and the blissful tropical breezes and it’s no wonder Mama’s has been rated one of the ‘Top 10 Fine Dining Restaurants in the US’ (by TripAdvisor).
52 – Abseil down waterfalls
For all the keen adventurers, if you’re on the hunt for things to do in Maui that will leave a mark on your memory, then rappeling down the faces of waterfalls along the famous Road to Hana ought to do the trick.
Even if you’ve never abseiled before, instructers are present every step of the way, ensuring both safety and satisfaction!
53 – Taste some Spam Musubi (if you dare)
When in Hawaii, eat like the Hawaiians, no matter how peculiar the dish in question.
That statement couldn’t ring more true than in the case of Spam Musubi, a popular type of sushi that features, of all ingredients, marinated spam.
It might sound odd, but hey, don’t knock it till you try it.
54 – Try pineapple wine at the MauiWine winery
As one of the island’s most revered wineries, Maui Wines at Ulupalakua Ranch is an essential stop for the oenophiles among us.
Once seated in the 150-year-old King’s Cottage tasting room, choose from the tasting menu, wines by the glass, flights, and wine cocktails, covering both sparkling and traditional varieties. For a truly local experience, make sure to sample the pineapple wine.
55 – Explore Lahaina with a Segway tour
Forget walking — up your Maui game with a ride on two wheels!
Take to the historic streets of Lahaina on the island’s west coast, with stops at notable restaurants, bars, galleries, and more, before zooming down the coastline and finishing up further north at the stunning Kaanapali Beach.
For that extra special touch, tackle the coastline at sunset.
56 – Wake up with MauiGrown Coffee
Coffee aficionados, you’ve just found your paradise.
The 500-acre MauiGrown Coffee estate nestled in the West Maui Mountains grows several varieties of Arabica beans, serving both roasted coffee and green coffee (including Mokka, Red Catuai, Typicca, and Yellow Catura).
One visit to this plantation-style roastery and you’ll never think of a cup of joe the same way again.
57 – Meet the adorable Hyatt penguins
The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa in Lahaina boasts a selection of mid-tier and high-class rooms, but that’s far from its main attraction; the hotel has become famous for its seven ‘special’ guests: its crew of endangered African Black-Footed Penguins!
With live feeding shows and daily educational talks between 9 am and 1 pm, why not say a quick hello?
58 – Cliff dive at Black Rock
Known locally as Pu’u Keka’a, or ‘Black Rock’ to the tourists, this 30-foot-tall natural cliff at the north end of Ka’anapali Beach has become the site of a Maui tradition: the daily cliff jump.
Every evening, just a the sun sets over the island, a diver leaps from the cliff into the ocean, leaving onlookers dazzled. If you’re brave enough, try it for yourself.
59 – Be dazzled by magic at Warren & Annabelle’s!
With close to 4 hours of fun, food, mesmerizing magic, and non-stop laughs, this highly acclaimed spectacle is an unmissable event for visitors of all ages!
Take your seats inside the beautiful, million-dollar venue, crack open a drink, and simply admire the magic as renowned performer Warren Gibson delights the audience with sleight of hand and special effects.
60 – Visit the Maui Arts & Cultural Center
No matter the time of the year, the Maui Arts & Cultural Center offers a host of events and exhibitions to suit every kind of traveler. From headbanging outdoor music festivals to food truck meetups, Hawaiian cultural programs, and moonlit dance shows, there’s never a dull moment.
On those balmy nights, the outdoor pavilion (fruity cocktail in hand) is heaven on Earth.
61 – Take a seat on a sunset dinner cruise
Grab your significant other, put on your Sunday best, and climb aboard a luxury catamaran for a romantic sunset dinner cruise — a surefire way to rekindle any flame.
Ships depart from Lahaina, Ka’anapali, and Ma’alaea harbor, with multiple-course meals and live entertainment ready to sweep guests off their feet.
62 – Stroll through the Kula Botanical Gardens
Covering close to 8 acres, Kula‘s selection of fauna, unlike that of most gardens, is allowed to grow freely, giving the attraction a wild, Jurassic Park-esque feel.
With most tourists flocking to the beaches, Kula sells itself as a peaceful, welcome change from the typical hustle and bustle of the island’s main attractions.
63 – Take a Maui cooking class at Chez Klio
For over a decade, the Chez Klio cooking class has been delighting visitors with every pinch of salt and every mouth-watering bite.
Specializing in classic Maui and Asian Fusion flavors, budding chefs can try their hand at creating three or four different meals, capped off with a plate of Chef Yasko’s famous dessert on the Haleakala mountainside.
64 – Grab lunch at Paia Fish Market
Widely regarded as one of, if not the best seafood restaurants across Hawaii, the Paia Fish Market is known for its inexpensive yet ultra-fresh dishes, not to mention the supersized portions!
With locations in Paia, Lahaina, and Kihei (plus one on Waikiki Beach in Oahu), delicious seafood is never too far away.
How to get to Maui?
For travelers arriving from other islands close by, such as Oahu, there are private boat charters or daily public ferries that travel between the islands. The journey from Oahu to Maui via ferry is 90 minutes.
If your first Hawaiian destination is Maui, you will arrive at Kahului Airport — a 20 to 30 minutes drive from the city center.
Before flying, pre-organize airport transfers for the moment you land in Maui, saving you time, energy and haggling taxi prices
Your private driver awaits, ready to transport you directly to your accommodation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
Where to stay in Maui?
From couples to families, Maui caters to all types of travelers who arrive on her shores, whether you’re after a luxury resort stay or an accommodation option with no screaming youngsters around.
Starting with a bang, the adults-only Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux sits on the cliffside 300 meters above the ocean and carries the title of a five-star stay.
Living up to expectations, check into the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Maui boasting a beachfront location with tons of room options… The presidential suites are next level.
Stylish and a great option for couples, Fairmont Kea Lani has world-class resort features and is also on the beach — it is a five-star stay after all.
Bright, clean and modern, book a room with ocean views and enjoy sunsets and even whale-watching right from your private balcony at Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui.
The Ritz-Carlton Maui is hard to beat, from tennis courts to golf courses to three-level swimming pools. The five-star resort is elegant and all rooms and suites are mega comfy.
Completely surrounded by nature, Lumeria Maui is a wellness retreat destination and oozes old-world charm.
The Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort and the AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea are fabulous options for travelers who appreciate contemporary design.
Where to go next?
Comprising a gathering of incredible islands, there are many things to do in Hawaii, so where is your next aloha-spirited destination?
With one island separating Maui and Oahu, take a 90-minute ferry ride across to Hawaii’s third largest isle for plenty of action, beauty, and iconic attractions and monuments.
Flying from Maui to Kauai, the Garden Isle as it is nicknamed, steals plenty of hearts and is not as busy as some of the other major islands. There is no public ferry that travels here; the only way to get to Kauai from Maui is to fly or charter a private boat.
Big Island is favored by all sorts of travelers and has less of a resort feel than other islands around. Find affordable accommodation or high-end fancy stays and there is tons to do on the largest Hawaiian island.
Final thoughts
You’ll find it hard to wake from this tropical daze and head back into reality … the things to do in Maui create the ideal getaway — no matter the time of year.
From dormant volcanoes to the ocean, the island is truly special.
What are your favorite sites to visit in Maui, or adventurous activities to try out? Share with us in the comments, we’d love to hear.
Happy and safe travels!