Top 10 Free Things to Do on Maui

While there are many options from which to see the whales on your trip to Maui, including a boat, kayak, stand up paddleboard, outrigger canoe, or even a helicopter, they can certainly be seen from shore for an equally magical yet totally free experience. For the best whale watching spots, head to Kaanapali Beach in West Maui, the cliffs surrounding the Ritz Carlton in Kapalua, or any of the beaches in Kihei, Wailea, and Makena if you’re staying on the South side. One of the easiest ways to spot whales is by looking for the mist rising from their blowholes, and you’re likely to see a full breach if you’re patient enough.

If you’re not opposed to spending a little money, we highly recommend taking a whale watching boat trip! This is an inexpensive alternative to watching from the shore and a great way to see the whales up close and personally. Much like Mai Tais and Irish coffee, remember that whale watching and driving don’t mix. Pull over and enjoy!

Keep an eye on local surf forecasts to find the best spots from which to watch while you’re here, and if you do plan on trying to paddle out to catch some waves, make sure to follow proper surf etiquette. The best places for watching are usually Pe’ahi (Jaws), Ho’okipa Beach Park, Olowalu, and Honolua Bay.

Every Wednesday, the Shops at Wailea host a free live music event from 6:30 to 8pm. Enjoy shopping, restaurant specials and gallery receptions with artists. Every 4th Friday in Kihei, a free town party is hosted for a great night spent under the stars enjoying live music, local crafts and an abundance of food trucks.

Key stops include Twin Falls in Huelo, the bamboo forest, aka Pipiwai Trail, where a hike leads to the majestic Waimoku Falls, and the historic Ke’anae Peninsula, known for its taro fields and dramatic ocean vistas. The Nahiku Marketplace is the best place to stop and rest, get a snack and a refreshing beverage, and shop for some Maui keepsakes and cool locally-made gifts.

With its 620 curves and 59 bridges, the road is a testament to Maui’s untamed beauty. Travelers can view the serene pools of Ohe’o Gulch, marvel at the red sands of Kaihalulu Beach, and explore the charming town of Hana, where the pace of life slows down. This journey is not just about the destinations; it’s an invitation to experience Maui’s raw beauty and cultural heritage.

Along the way, roadside stands offer fresh coconut water and tropical fruits, enhancing the sensory journey. The Road to Hana encapsulates the essence of Maui’s natural splendor, making it a timeless adventure.

Local Tip: Head out early! Plan to gas up and leave Paia Maui by 8 am. You want to avoid being stuck behind a long line of rental cars and irritated locals when the road gets busy later in the day. Do not venture onto private properties (even if your guidebook suggests it), heed all warning and speed signs, don’t litter, and be respectful! Otherwise, enjoy!

Maui Walking Tours has consulted with historians, authors, local kupuna, city officials, local architects, and more to compile the best local stories and pass them on. On their tours, guests will learn about how the early Hawaiians divided and cared for the land, the impact of the first missionary families, how the large plantations came to be, and the rise of Maui’s tourism-based economy.

There are two tours offered at the moment, with more to come as more research is done and more routes are planned. The Kihei Walking Tour takes place Mondays and Wednesdays at 5 pm and starts in front of the Kihei Library. The Wailuku History & Murals Tour begins at 3 pm every other Saturday in the brick courtyard in front of the State Office Building. Each tour lasts about an hour and a half and has a cap of 25 guests.

While this incredible activity is free of charge, guests must book their spots ahead of time.