Prior to the pandemic, almost 285,000 people visited Hawaii in December 2019 alone. Considering that this state’s picturesque settings and amazing weather are everyone’s dream, it’s no wonder why people from all over the world flock to these islands.
If you’ve always wanted to go on a tropical vacation, then this is it, especially if you’re American. Hawaii’s only a short flight away, and you don’t need to travel internationally!
But where should you go? Well, we’d suggest Maui, which is the second-largest island in Hawaii!
If you’re now wondering about the best things to do in Maui, then keep reading. This article will show you everything you shouldn’t miss out on!
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Spend an Afternoon at Oneloa Beach
Of course, one of the first things you should do when you’re in Maui is go to the beach! While many beaches on Oahu are crowded with tourists, you’ll find Maui more peaceful.
Oneloa Beach comes highly recommended, as there are rarely any crowds and it’s one of the most beautiful beaches on this island. It spans 0.25 miles and you’ll enjoy incredibly soft sand. Not only that, but you can also see a shallow reef here.
You can always spend a lazy afternoon lying on your beach towel. But this beach provides excellent snorkeling conditions, so bring your gear! You’ll spot lots of vibrant fish underwater.
Try Stand-up Paddleboarding
Want to be in the water, but not in the water? Then stand-up paddleboarding can be a fun experience!
You’ll go out on top of a paddleboard, and you’ll get around by using an oar. You can choose to actually stand up for the experience, or you can sit or kneel while navigating the waters.
If you feel comfortable with it, you can rent a paddleboard and oar to get around on your own. Otherwise, companies provide lessons, both one-on-one and group ones. You can also book tours so you can get around to all the best spots in Maui.
Whatever you choose, you’ll get to bask in the warm sun and stare into the clear waters to see the corals and marine life.
Attend a Luau
For Maui attractions, you can bet there are luaus! They’re a hit with tourists, as not only do you get to witness some Hawaiian culture, but you also get to chow down on some delicious food while being entertained.
When you arrive at the venue, you’ll be greeted and given a lei to wear. You’ll then be seated and soon after, you’ll enjoy multiple courses for your meal.
Luaus will typically serve you laulau, which is leaf-wrapped pork. Another popular option is moa, which is chicken. You’ll also sip on tasty drinks, like pina coladas and mai tais.
While you’re indulging in heavenly dishes, the stage will have plenty of performers that’ll capture your attention. For example, there are musicians and dancers who will give you a glimpse of traditional Hawaiian songs and dances.
Go to Nakalele Point
One of the best places to go in Maui is Nakalele Point, as it has several attractions.
The most famous one is Nakalele Blowhole, which is a sight to behold. There’s an underground cave that causes the surface to have an “eruption” of water whenever it’s high tide. The water can reach over 50 feet!
While you’re there, take a look around for a large rock formation that looks like a heart shape. Take a photo, as it’ll make the perfect phone or computer background.
You can also get on a concrete slab, where you can see all the tide pools at Nakalele Point.
Visit Molokini Crater
This one’s a must-do for avid snorkelers or people who love marine life. Not only can you snorkel and scuba dive here, but you can also go out on outrigger canoes and kayaks.
From the air, Molokini Crater looks like a crescent in the middle of clear blue waters. This natural landscape is a result of a volcanic eruption from 230,000 years ago. Since then, a rich ecosystem’s formed!
Molokini Crater is actually one of the only volcanic calderas in the world; there are only 3. For this reason, it’s the state’s only island marine sanctuary.
In these waters, you’ll find over 250 marine species, so it’ll definitely be a treat, especially since on a good day, you can get visibility of over 180 feet! If you time your trip right and you go while whales are migrating, you just might be able to hear humpback whale songs while diving.
On the crater itself, you might spot some seabirds, like the wedge-tailed shearwater.
Molokini Crater is only reachable by boat, so you’ll have to book a journey before heading out.
Meet Turtles at Turtle Town
Turtle Town is located a Maluaka Beach and is one of the best places to snorkel in Maui. Lots of algae grows here, which is a tasty treat for turtles. As a result, you’ll see many Hawaiian green sea turtles in the water!
In addition to turtles, you’ll see creatures like dolphins, octopi, and manta rays. Just make sure you look with your eyes and not your hands.
There are lots of underwater caves at Turtle Town, so leave enough time to explore them all.
Go Ziplining
Most people get a view of Maui either on land or underwater. Ziplining offers you a unique perspective, as it takes you over the top of lush greenery, so it’s something you have to do on your vacation to Hawaii! This is a family-friendly activity; while it gets your heart pumping, it’s very safe to do.
Ziplining will take you 50 feet above ground, and you’ll coast down at 30 mph. You’ll get a stunning view of the tropical canopy, which is something you’ll never forget.
Ziplining companies don’t only provide 1 activity either. For example, you’ll be able to walk across swinging bridges that’ll take you through more nature. You can also opt for tour guides to learn more about the things you’re seeing.
Go Horseback Riding
Why go on foot if you can go by horse? Not only is it more relaxing, but it’s also very romantic!
There are guided tours that allow you to explore Maui from a higher perspective on a horse’s back. They’ll take you through the mountains and the coast so you see all the nature Maui has to offer. You might even get up close to some waterfalls!
You’ll also get to ride your horse along the beach, which can feel extremely carefree and joyous. Some tours also take you to a petting zoo at the end, so you’ll pet some cute and cuddly creatures like rabbits.
Bike Around the Island
The great weather and fresh air of Maui beckons, so consider renting a bike to get around. This can help keep the vacation pounds off, and if you had an exercise routine back at home, this can also help you stay on track.
Rental companies allow you to go on self-guided tours, but they also have group ones. Either way, they’ll provide you with everything you need to stay safe and comfortable, such as helmets and rain gear, as well as maps.
If you’re not in good shape or don’t want arduous bike rides, you can always rent from Kimo’s Electric Bikes. These allow you to still pedal, but if you get worn out, you can flip the switch and let the bike take care of the work.
Go Whale Watching
Speaking of whales, you should go whale watching if you’re in Maui between December and April. During this period, around 10,000 humpback whales migrate from the Gulf of Alaska to Hawaii. Once they make it to warmer waters, they give birth to their calves and raise them here before going back.
There are plenty of companies that offer trips out to the best spots for whale watching even in whale watching san diego. But if you want the best experience possible, you should aim for one that takes you out to the Auau Channel, which is between Maui and Lana’i.
You can always go out on a boat to spot these majestic creatures, but there are other options available too. You can go out on an outrigger canoe, kayak, stand-up paddleboard, or even a helicopter if you’ve got the budget! You might even get lucky and spot some whales while out scuba diving.
Check Out the Maui Butterfly Farm
For fun things to do in Maui with the family, you should add the Maui Butterfly Farm to the list. It was established in 2011, making it Hawaii’s oldest butterfly breeding specialist. In fact, it’s the only place in the state to see live butterflies!
The butterfly population on the Hawaiian islands is actually declining, so this butterfly farm is dedicated to saving them. As you go through the tour, the experts at Maui Butterfly Farm will teach you about how you can do your part in helping these beautiful creatures.
At the butterfly lighthouse, you’ll get to feed these insects. There will be great photo opportunities there, so make sure to snap plenty of pictures!
Golf at Wailea Golf Club
Maybe you’re on a getaway from the kids and/or work, so you deserve to treat yourself. While you can certainly golf anywhere in the world, trust us, tee time at Wailea Golf Club is worth your time.
There are three 18-hole courses here that have won numerous awards. While you make your way around them, you’ll get to soak in the gorgeously green landscaping, as well as the ocean in the distance.
Once you’re done, enjoy a spectacular meal at one of the elegant restaurants on site. You’ll get a fantastic ocean view while eating too!
Visit the Kula Botanical Gardens
The Kula Botanical Gardens stretches across 8 acres of land and has lots of pretty plant life to look at. They also have a koi pond with unique rock formations.
On the premises, you’ll find a carved tiki exhibit that’s surrounded by native Hawaiian plants. In addition, there’s an aviary and chameleon exhibit where you’ll gaze upon some cool creatures.
This kid-friendly activity can be just what you need for a relaxed day out.
Drive the Road to Hana
If you’ve got a driver’s license, then one of the best things to do in Maui is to drive the Road to Hana. Rent yourself a car if you haven’t already, and go on this crazy winding road that’ll take you all around the island.
The Road to Hana spans 68 miles, but you’ll encounter over 600 turns and 50 one-land bridges, so the drive’s not for the faint of heart. However, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views!
You should also take the chance to put down your windows. You’ll get to breathe in some fresh air and feel the cool breeze over your face.
The drive itself is already outstanding, as it’ll appease the biggest nature lovers. But many of the destinations in this article are also on the Road to Hana, or they don’t take long to reach from the road. So you can always combine activities to make the most out of your trip!
If you don’t have a driver’s license or you don’t feel comfortable driving these winding roads on your own, then you’ll be happy to know that there are tours available. These companies will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel so you don’t have to worry about transportation at all.
Make Sure to Try These Things to Do in Maui
There are so many things to do in Maui that you won’t be bored. In fact, you might not even be able to fit everything into one trip!
But we guarantee that you’ll fall in love with Maui, so it won’t be your last time there. You’re sure to return to this beautiful tropical island, so spread out your activities and enjoy them to the fullest.
Want to travel the world? Then take a look at the rest of our blog page for some inspiration!