Maui is the second largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and it offers visitors an unforgettable tropical paradise. Its picturesque beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanic landscapes leave visitors craving a return. In this guide, we will provide an overview of the best things to do during your visit to this beautiful island.
This post contains affiliate links. This means if you purchase something from a link, I may make a small commission, at no cost to you. This helps me keep the site running and free.
If you like this post, be sure to sign up for my e-mail list for travel inspiration (and get your FREE budget printable), or connect with me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, or Pinterest.
Maui’s Climate
Maui is divided into five distinct regions, each with unique features and climates. Coastal areas experience warm weather with temperatures ranging from 75-85°F (24-29°C), while Upcountry and higher elevation areas have cooler temperatures, ranging from 55-75°F (13-24°C). The windward (eastern) side of the island is wetter and greener, while the leeward (western) side is drier and sunnier.
Culture and History
Maui’s culture and history are rooted in its Polynesian heritage, with native Hawaiian customs and traditions still present today. The island has been influenced by European explorers, missionaries, and immigrants from various countries, contributing to Maui’s complex cultural tapestry. The spirit of aloha is prevalent on the island, with warm, welcoming locals willing to share their culture with visitors.
The Best Time to Visit Maui
Maui is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences and priorities. Peak season, from December to April, offers drier, sunnier weather but also higher prices and typically larger crowds. The off-peak season, from May to November, has more affordable accommodations and fewer crowds, with increased rainfall enhancing the island’s lush vegetation.
Shoulder season runs from April to May and September to October. This time of year provides a balance of favorable weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable lodging. These months also host several cultural events and festivals, such as the Maui Film Festival and Maui County Fair.
Whale watching is popular from December to April, while snorkeling and scuba diving are best from May to September due to calmer conditions. Ultimately, the ideal time to visit Maui depends on your interests and what you want to experience during your stay.
15 of The Best Things to Do in Maui
Visit Beautiful Beaches
Maui boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with crystal-clear waters and amazing scenery. Whether you’re looking to swim, snorkel, or simply relax with your toes in the sand, there’s a beach for everyone.
Ka’anapali Beach, a 3-mile stretch of soft sand located on the west coast, offers pristine waters and easy access to nearby resorts and restaurants. Wailea Beach, in South Maui, is known for its calm and kid friendly waves and stunning sunsets. Napili Bay, located on the northwest coast, offers excellent snorkeling opportunities and a laid-back vibe with views of Moloka’i and Lana’i. Makena Beach, also known as Big Beach, is a popular destination for surfers and sunbathers alike. Its wide stretch of sand and impressive waves are complemented by life guards on duty. Finally, Baldwin Beach Park, located in Paia, is a tree lined beach park that is a family-friendly destination with picnic areas, restrooms, and plenty of parking.
Attend a Lu’au
For many a lu’au is the quintessential Hawaiian experience, and Maui offers some of the best in the state. The Old Lahaina Lu’au is widely regarded as the most authentic lu’au on the island, offering a traditional Hawaiian feast, cultural demonstrations, and live music and hula performances. Feast at Lele, located in Lahaina, offers a more upscale experience, with a gourmet menu and tableside service. Drums of the Pacific, located at the Hyatt Regency Maui, offers an entertaining evening, with music, dance, and fire knife performances. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a lu’au is a memorable experience that will immerse you in the island’s rich culture and traditions.
Visit Haleakala National Park
Haleakala National Park is a must-visit destination on Maui, covering over 33,000 acres of land and featuring stunning views of the island’s volcanic landscape. Like Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, a highlight of visiting Maui is undoubtedly a sunset experience from a viewpoint at the volcano followed by start gazing. Are you an early riser instead? Visitors can witness the sun rising or setting over the clouds, creating a spectacular sight. But plan to dress warm as it gets cold and windy at that elevation. Other activities in the park include hiking trails, scenic drives, and ranger-led tours.
Enjoy Kapalua Coastal Trail
The Kapalua Coastal Trail is a scenic and accessible path that runs along the shoreline of the Kapalua Resort area. The trail spans approximately 3.5 miles and is rated as easy, making it suitable for all ages and fitness levels. Along the way, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the ocean, as well as unique rock formations, lush vegetation, and even the occasional whale sighting during the winter months. The trail also features several beaches and coves that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or picnicking.
See the Acid Trail
The Acid Trail, located in the Wai’anapanapa State Park, is a unique and fascinating natural wonder that showcases the geological history of Maui. The trail is a short, easy hike that leads visitors through a volcanic landscape that make you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. The trail gets its name from the naturally occurring acid in the rocks, which creates a unique green hue. Along the way, visitors can see lava tubes, sea arches, and blowholes, as well as learn about the cultural significance of the area to native Hawaiians.
Visit Nakalele Blowhole & Eat Banana Bread
At the end of the Acid Trail, you’ll find the Nakalele Blowhole. This natural wonder creates a powerful and dramatic spray of water as waves crash into the rocks. The blowhole is a short but steep hike, offering fantastic views of the coastline and the surrounding hills. It can be windy here though so bring your sunglasses and a hat to help combat salt water from getting in your eyes.
Nearby vendors set up near the parking lot and sell delicious banana bread, a local specialty, that is a must-try for visitors. The blowhole and banana bread make for a perfect combination of natural beauty and local cuisine that should not be missed.
Visit Lahaina
Lahaina is a historic town on the west coast of Maui, with a charming mix of old and new architecture and plenty of things to see and do. One of the main attractions is the Banyan Tree Park, home to a massive banyan tree that covers over an acre of land and provides shade for visitors and locals alike. The park also features a variety of local vendors selling crafts, jewelry, and souvenirs. For a delicious meal, head to Lahaina Grill, a highly recommended restaurant with a diverse family-friendly menu that highlights fresh local ingredients.
Travel Tip: Head to the only winery in Maui to try some delicious local wine.
Visit Iao Valley State Park
Iao Valley State Park is a stunning natural area that showcases Maui’s lush vegetation, towering peaks, and rich cultural history. The park is a great first stop as it is very close to the airport. It is also home to the Iao Needle, a distinctive rock formation that rises 1,200 feet above the valley floor. This landmark is an important cultural and historical site for native Hawaiians, and visitors can learn about the area’s significance through interpretive signs and exhibits. The park offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and scenic viewpoints that provide stunning views of the valley and the surrounding hills.
Go Snorkeling
Snorkeling is a popular activity on the island and there are many places to do it either on your own or with a group. Molokini Crater, located off the coast of South Maui, is a world-renowned snorkeling destination known for its vibrant coral reefs and abundance of fish. You can join a small group tour out to the crater and learn about the area as well as have time to jump in the warm waters. Honolua Bay, on the northwest coast, is a protected marine reserve with a diverse range of marine life, including sea turtles, octopus, and schools of colorful fish. Black Rock, located on Ka’anapali Beach, is a popular spot for both snorkeling and diving, with a variety of marine life and unique underwater rock formations. We enjoyed snorkeling here and were thrilled that a small group of sea turtles came to swim with us along the rocks.
Take Surf Lessons
Maui’s consistent waves and warm waters make it a sweet destination for surfing. Maui Surfer Girls is a local female-owned company that offers private and group lessons for ages 5 and up at the beginning to intermediate levels. Hawaiian Paddle Sports offers a variety of water sports, including surfing lessons, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking, with experienced instructors who provide personalized attention and expert guidance. Maui Waveriders is a reputable surf school that has been operating on the island for decades. They say on their website that they specialize in “beginners and cowards” and their lessons prioritize having fun!
Go Whale Watching
Maui is one of the best places in the world to witness humpback whales arching their backs or jumping out of the water. The peak season for whale watching from December to April. The best locations to see marine wildlife are in the waters around the islands of Maui, Lanai, and Molokai. Recommended tour companies include Pacific Whale Foundation, a non-profit organization that offers educational and eco-friendly tours, and Ultimate Whale Watch, a locally owned and operated company that comes highly rated. Their knowledgeable guides and small group sizes create an intimate experience. If you have never been able to do this type of activity before, a whale-watching tour in Maui is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness these incredible creatures up close.
Go Hiking
Maui’s diverse landscapes provide excellent opportunities for hiking, with trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. Pipiwai Trail, located in the Haleakala National Park, is a moderate hike that leads visitors through a bamboo forest to the stunning Waimoku Falls. The Waihe’e Ridge Trail, located in West Maui, is a challenging but rewarding hike that offers panoramic views of the ocean and the lush valley below. There are so many trails you can take along the coast and simply by taking advantage of turn outs along the road that you could not run out of new trails to try.
Drive the Road to Hana
Speaking of scenic roads, the Road to Hana is a beautiful drive that winds along the northeastern coast of Maui, offering stunning views of the ocean, waterfalls, and lush vegetation. Key stops and attractions along the way include the Twin Falls, a series of waterfalls and swimming holes, and the Garden of Eden Arboretum, a botanical garden with exotic plants and wonderful viewpoints. Tips for a successful trip include starting early in the day to avoid crowds, packing snacks and water, and taking your time to enjoy the scenery. You could even plan to spend the night in Hana in order to take your time and enjoy stops along the way at a more leisurely pace.
Eat Shave Ice
Shave ice is a quintessential Hawaiian treat that is a must-try on Maui. Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice, with multiple locations on the island, is a popular choice for its fluffy and finely shaved ice and a wide variety of flavors, including local favorites like passion fruit and lychee. Breakwall Shave Ice Co., located in Lahaina, offers a unique twist on shave ice by offering an adult version with alcohol, with homemade syrups, and organic ingredients. They also serve acai bowls, coffee drinks, and smoothies.
Scenic Drive on Highway 340
Highway 340, also known as the “Road to the Heavens,” is a scenic and winding route that takes visitors through the rural and remote areas of West Maui. The route spans approximately 20 miles and takes approximately one hour to drive. This is a great option if you don’t have time for the full Road to Hana experience as it also provides stunning views of the ocean, cliffs, and valleys along the way. Highlights and attractions along the route include the Nakalele Blowhole, the Kahakuloa Head scenic lookout, and the historic village of Kahakuloa. The drive is best taken at a leisurely pace, with plenty of stops along the way.
Final Thoughts
Maui is one of the most beautiful islands in the state of Hawaii. Use the suggested activities as a starting point to create a memorable adventure that is sure to leave you wanting to return!
Save “Best Things to do in Maui” for later
Author Bio
This is a guest post by fellow travel blogger Michelle. Michelle Silva is the lead author and CEO of Travel with Intention, a travel blog dedicated to the DIY travel planner.
