Discover
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Learn all about some of the most popular things to do on Maui, and savor every moment of your vacation with your kids, family, and friends. Enjoy full days of adventure in paradise, and create lasting vacation memories.
Snorkel Trip to Molokini
You know the saying, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do?” When on Maui, do as the Mauians do and go snorkeling! Snorkeling is a must-do activity and one that your family and friends will totally love.
Road to Hana
Heading from the North Shore towards East Maui on the Road to Hana is one of the most incredible things you could do on a perfect day in Hawaii. If you have never been, you should make sure to do this at least once in your lifetime.
Whale Watching Tours
A Maui Whale Watching tour is one of the best things to do on Maui, hands down. Seeing the North Pacific humpback whales grace Maui’s oceans during their annual Winter migration is one of the most exciting experiences you could ever have!
Sunrise at Mt. Haleakala
Venture up to 10,000 feet above sea level and take in a glorious Maui sunrise from the summit of Mt. Haleakala. This Maui activity will leave you with a jaw-dropped grin, and there will be many oohs and awes from the crowd!
There’s nothing quite like a Maui sunrise, except maybe a Maui sunset! You will have more than one chance to take it all in while on the island.
Maui Ocean Center
Enjoy an afternoon with your family and friends and visit the only aquarium in the world that is dedicated to displaying and preserving Hawaiian marine life. The Maui Ocean Center offers full exploration for all visitors, adults or children. It’s also one of the top things to do in Maui with kids!
Golfing
Golfing in Hawaii is heaven on earth for all golf enthusiasts! From golf students to golf professionals, the Hawaiian Islands offer a perfect golf experience for everyone. The golf community on Maui ranges from public courses to the private and elite golf locales only available to the rare few.
Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise
Surprise your loved ones with a special evening on a Pride of Maui Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise. This must-do Maui activity features Polynesian dancers, luau cuisine, and a premium open bar. It’s the best way to explore the Island of Maui with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the outer islands of Moloka’i and Lana’i, and the West Maui Mountains. This Maui activity also provides the ideal place from which to take in a magical Maui sunset!
Hawaii Mermaid Adventures
There’s an entire ocean full of things to do on Maui! An experience with Hawaii Mermaid Adventures is probably one of the coolest, most memorable, and unique things to do on Maui.
Maui Ocean Vodka Tour
If you love vodka and are interested in organic farming, then the Maui Ocean Vodka Organic Farm & Distillery Tour is perfect for you. Maui Ocean Vodka is an award-winning spirit made right here on Maui.
Visit Historic Paia Town & The North Shore
While you’re on Maui, do not miss out on a chance to check out the Historic Town of Paia and the North Shore area. This can easily be a day-long outing, so make sure that you plan for the time to explore. On the North Shore, you can explore beaches and scenic areas, peruse boutiques and art galleries, and dine at many first-rate restaurants.
Spa Day
Plan for an out-of-this-world spa day on your next vacation to the fabulous Island of Maui. Guests will love this experience thanks to a host of first-class Maui spas available at your fingertips. Maui spa menus are full of healing services for your body, mind, and soul.
Surfing
The first Western written account of surfing in Hawaii was in 1779 by Lieutenant James King. He colorfully described the Native Hawaiians riding planks of wood on the ocean swells of the Big Island’s Kealakekua Bay.
In the ancient Hawaiian language, surfing is known as “hee nalu” and was a spiritual practice that engaged the Native Hawaiians with the energy of their gods. Historically, hee nalu was an activity reserved for Hawaiian royalty and as such was termed the “Sport of Kings.”
Helicopter Tours
Soar above the Hawaiian Islands and take in the beautiful Island of Maui as well as the outer islands of Molokai and Lanai with a bird’s eye view! See all of the lush valleys, secret waterfalls, dramatic coastlines, erupting volcanoes, and colorful reef formations from up high in the sky.
There is a wide range of helicopter tour companies and tours from which to choose in Hawaii. Of course, they each have different experiences to offer.
Leilani Farm Sanctuary
A guided tour of Leilani Farm Sanctuary is a Maui activity you will most certainly enjoy if you are a true animal lover. Leilani Farm Sanctuary is an all-volunteer, non-profit animal refuge in Haiku on Maui’s North Shore. It was molded from the vision of Laurelee Blanchard, “to establish a shelter for Maui’s animals who have suffered from abuse and have been abandoned.”
Jaws Surf Break (PE’AHI)
Whether you are a surfer or not, Jaws is a must-see spot on Maui. Popularized by legendary watermen like Laird Hamilton and Dave Kalama with their tow-in surfing skills, Jaws is now one of the most hyped-out spots on the international surfing train.
Ohe’o Gulch (The Seven Sacred Pools)
The Ohe’o Gulch Pools, more commonly known as the Seven Sacred Pools, are one of the most popular things to see on Maui. This whole place is a natural spectacle, with a string of pools and waterfalls that cascade from the East Maui Mountain valleys to the coast of the clear, blue Pacific Ocean.
Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
Nestled on the slopes of Mt. Haleakala is the fabulous Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm. Founded by Agricultural Artist and Horticultural Master Ali’i Chang, this farm has become a cultural landmark for both Maui locals and guests. At an elevation of 4,000 feet, the Kula Lavender Farm on Maui is home to over 45 varieties and roughly 55,000 lavender plants.
Spearfishing
Embark on a memorable experience with the Maui Spearfishing Academy during your next Maui vacation. This thrill-inducing tour operator specializes in tours and spearfishing instruction, offering a glimpse into this traditional Hawaiian practice.
Makena State Park
Just south of Wailea lies Makena State Park. It stretches out over 165 acres of land. Perched upon the coastline sits two of the most fabulous beaches on Maui: Makena’s Big Beach (Oneloa Beach) and Little Beach (Pu’u Ola’i Beach).
Big Beach is one of the most popular spots in all of the Hawaiian Islands for bodyboarding and skimboarding.
Stand Up Paddling
Stand Up Paddling is quickly becoming one of the top ocean activities in the world. It’s open to the masses and quite easy to learn. Spend a day “sweeping the ocean,” relaxing, and enjoying gorgeous views of the water and the shore. Strengthen your core, find your balance, and feel a true sense of achievement as you learn stand-up paddling in Hawaii.
Kapalua Golf Resort
Golfing is without a doubt one of the most popular things to do in Hawaii. On Maui, sports enthusiasts have the best selection of Hawaii’s golf resorts, golf instruction, and annual golf events to attend. Two of the top golf courses on Maui are the Plantation and Bay courses at the Kapalua Resort.
MauiWine
Since 1974, the only operating winery on Maui has been one of the most fabulous attractions to visit in Hawaii. The varieties of wine vary, and their most famous offerings are their Sparkling Pineapple, Grape, and Raspberry dessert wines.
Visit Lana’i
Visit Lanaʻi, the smallest inhabited island in Hawaii’s island chain. It is also known as “The Pineapple Isle,” and most visitors are surprised to learn that it is part of Maui County. Lanaʻi allows visitors to experience Hawaii in its most authentic and peaceful form bar none.
PWF Ocean Camps
If you have kids who love the ocean and its wildlife, and are currently in 1st-5th grade, they will love the Pacific Whale Foundation’s Ocean Camp. This camp offers a fantastic experience for both children visiting Maui as well as those who live on the island.
Ultimate Air Trampoline Park
With over 14,000 square feet of trampoline entertainment, Ultimate Air Maui is Maui’s only indoor trampoline park. Whether you are a local or a guest on Maui, this is such a great place for birthday parties, corporate events, and group events. Activities here include freestyle, extreme trampolines, jousting, basketball, dodgeball, and a keiki (kids’) court.
Iao Valley State Park
One of the most rewarding things to do on Maui is to spend a day at Iao Valley State Park. Iao Valley is not just a Maui cultural landmark but a sacred site known for housing ancient Hawaiian demigods. It has served as a critical location in the history of Hawaii.
Hiking
Plan out an adventurous hiking expedition on Maui! The Island of Maui offers a host of incredible hikes that range from easy trail walks to challenging 3-day+ long excursions. No matter your skill and stamina level or the size of your group, there are many exciting hiking opportunities here for everyone.
Bailey House & Museum
Maui’s Bailey House and Museum belongs to the Maui Historical Society, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1951. Officially chartered in 1956, the Maui Historical Society’s mission is “To collect, preserve, study, interpret and share the history and heritage of Maui.” (www.MauiMuseum.org, 2022)
Ho’okipa Beach Park
Ho’okipa Beach Park is one of the most famous beaches in Hawaii and one of the top beaches in the world for professional surfing and windsurfing. In the ancient Hawaiian language, “ho’okipa” means “hospitality,” and that is precisely what this beach park has to offer!
See the Dolphins at La Perouse
One of the most amazing things you can do in South Maui is to see the dolphins at La Perouse Bay.
Pods of Spinner Dolphins come to La Perouse every morning. After a rare chance to watch the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins in their natural habitat, take a short walk through the marked trails at La Perouse Bay.
Wai’anapanapa State Park
Wai’anapanapa State Park sprawls across 122 acres of land along the coast of East Maui. Guests can hike through two trail loops in this gorgeous area and take in the stunning views of the coast. Some highlights are the sea-sculpted lava shelves, ancient Hawaiian burial sites, a blowhole, five secret caves, and the stunning Pa’iloa Beach, also known as Black Sand Beach.
Maui Arts & Cultural Center
Since 1994, the Maui Arts and Cultural Center (MACC) has been providing Maui residents and visitors with the most fantastic place for art and entertainment on Maui. Here, guests can enjoy Hawaiian culture programs, live music, comedy, dancing, stage shows and plays, concerts, festivals, art exhibits, galas, and much more. The MACC is the only venue of its kind on the island of Maui!
Kihei Triangle
Discover Kihei Triangle to witness South Mauiʻs vibrant bar scene and nightlife. Just across the road from the beach, guests can have a tropical cocktail, do a little souvenir shopping at Kalama Village, get a quick bite, or catch a game and a local beer at a sports bar.
Maui Zip n’ Dip Tours
Plan out an exciting day and take your family and friends on one of Maui’s only Zip n’ Dip Tours! This is the latest craze in Hawaii zipline adventures, and it is offered only through Skyline Eco-Adventures on Maui. It is quickly becoming more and more popular, so make sure that you book this Maui activity early.
Upcountry Farmers Market
The super popular Upcountry Farmers’ Market has graced Maui for more than four decades, making it the island’s longest-standing farmers’ market. Originally hosted at diverse Upcountry locales such as St. Joseph’s Church and the Eddie Tam Gym in Makawao, it now thrives each Saturday from 7am-11am at the Kulamalu Town Center (conveniently situated near Long’s Drugs off Highway 37). Renowned as a favorite among Maui’s weekly markets, it basks in the milder climate and breathtaking panoramic vistas only found in Upcountry Maui.
Feast at Lele
Feast at Lele is such a great thing to do while on Maui. We cannot possibly say enough good things about it! It is like the tour-de-force of traditional luaus, with a superb display of Polynesian culture all throughout the menu, music, dance performances, and presentation.
Maui Brewing Company Tours
Maui Brewing Co (605 Lipoa Pkwy., Kihei) is the first craft beer to have been brewed on Maui. Their brewery tours include tastings of their four flagship beers. They are the Bikini Blonde Lager, Big Swell IPA, Coconut Hiwa Porter, and Pineapple Mana Wheat.
Kula Botanical Gardens
Perched at 3,300 feet above sea level, the Kula Botanical Garden is open to all guests from 9 am to 4 pm, seven days a week. This Maui botanical garden spans 8 acres and is the perfect place to go for a quiet stroll through Upcountry Maui.
Historic Iao Theater
The Historic Iao Theater first opened its doors in Wailuku in 1928. It was built with a Spanish Mission/late Art Deco style. Wailuku’s famous theater features movie screenings, stage shows, plays, and performances. Some notable performers from its past include Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Donald O’Connor, and Mickey Rooney.
Honolua Bay
Honolua Bay is just a 20-minute drive north of Lahaina. It’s a famous West Maui beach for surfing and snorkeling. Honolua is one of the most beautiful, colorful, and vibrant beaches in all of the Hawaiian Islands too.
Rappel Waterfalls Tour
Explore Hawaii as you never thought possible on one of Maui’s most unique tours. Journey through a 26-acre privately owned Maui rainforest and botanical garden. Here you can become a Hawaiian-style canyoneer while you rappel down waterfalls framed by lava rock.
Explore Upcountry Maui
Maui is the best island in Hawaii for so many reasons that there are too many to list! Two of the things that make Maui so special are its diverse topography and microclimates. In one day, guests can travel from sea level to the 10,000-ft high Mt. Haleakala.
Charles Lindbergh’s Grave
The Palapala Ho’omau Congregational Church can be found near Mile Marker 41. It is not only one of the most interesting historical sites on Maui but it is also the site of Charles Lindbergh’s grave.
Okay, so who was Charles Lindbergh?
“If I take the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea…”
(Charles Lindbergh inscription at the Palapala Ho’omau Church, Maui)
Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum
The Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum in Puunene sits right next to the largest sugar factory in Hawaii, which is now closed. The museum is just 1,800 square feet but should not be overlooked by those who are touring historical attractions on the Valley Isle. Maui’s Sugar Museum has a vast collection of exhibits, and loads of information about Maui’s agricultural history and colonial past.
Horseback Riding Tours
Embarking on a horseback riding tour in Maui is one of the best ways to explore the ‘aina (land) of Maui. You can take in the views of the terrain up close and personal from the top of a horse. While engaging in this popular Maui activity, riders will have a fantastic vantage point to check out Maui’s amazing mountain and coastal views.
Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary
Situated in South Maui, the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary is a haven for Maui’s majestic humpback whale visitors.
Encompassing approximately 1,400 square miles of ocean, the sanctuary is a crucial breeding and birthing area for these magnificent mammals. The sanctuary’s Visitor’s Center offers a unique opportunity for guests (and residents) to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the North Pacific Humpbacks in their natural habitat.
Maui Pineapple Tours
At the Hali’imaile Pineapple Plantation, guests will have a great time checking out the only pineapple tour in Maui. It is also the only tour of a working pineapple plantation in the US!
Parasailing
Parasailing is one of the most exciting ocean activities you can do on Maui! Please keep in mind that this activity can only be done during the late Spring and Summer months. Parasailing vendors are not allowed to operate during Maui’s whale watching season, which is roughly between late October and April.
Hawaii Nature Center
The Hawaii Nature Center has been providing environmental educational programs in Hawaii since 1981. Their Maui field sites are Iao Valley and Kealia Pond. Since the center was started, over 850,000 children have learned from its programs.
Maui Chocolate Tasting
A visit to Maui Chocolate Tasting is the perfect activity for foodies and chocolate lovers who are visiting Maui. Formerly known as Maui Chocolate Tours, Maui Chocolate Tasting’s new production kitchen can be found in North Kihei, behind the Tesoro Gas Station on Maui’s South Shore.
Maui Escape Rooms
Do you need a break from the sun? Are you ready for an immersive live-action adventure on Maui that will put your wits to the test? At Maui Escape Rooms, guests can wear the hat of a treasure-hunter, clue finder, cryptologist, and more!
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Mahalo for reading Pride of Maui’s Top 50 Maui Attractions & Maui Activities. There are just so many wonderful activities and adventures to check out on Maui.
From all of us at Pride of Maui, we look forward to helping you create your best vacation to Maui yet! A Hui Hou Kakou! (Until we meet again)