There are several things to do on Hawaii’s beautiful island of Maui, and it’s a fun destination to visit. It offers various activities and attractions, such as state parks and volcanic fields.
The island’s beautiful beaches and views are what make it an ideal choice for a vacation.
Family-friendly and full of exciting activities, the island of Maui is an excellent choice for anyone looking to have a fun vacation.
The article covers various things to do in Maui (Hawaii).
Where Is Maui?
Located in Hawaii, the island of Maui measures about 727.2 square miles. It is the second-largest island in the state of Hawaii and the seventeenth-largest in the United States.
It is the largest of the four islands in the county of Maui. In 2010, the island had a population of 144,444. It is also third-highest in the Hawaiian Islands, behind Oahu and Hawaii Island.
Some of the most popular tourist areas on the island of Maui are the Haleakala National Park, Lahaina, and Iao Valley.
The Hana Highway runs through the east coast of the island, and it passes through various mountain ranges.
Another popular area is the Haleakala volcano, located in the Haleakala National Park.
Things To Do In Maui (Hawaii)
There are several unique things to do in Maui. As we already established, this island has several popular tourist destinations. These are 21 things to do in Maui;
1. Haleakala National Park
One of the best places to visit in Hawaii and on the island of Maui is the Haleakala National Park.
This area is home to the world’s biggest dormant volcano and attracts a minimum of one million visitors annually.
The park, which spans over 30,000 acres, has a variety of attractions and highlights that people can enjoy. It’s located in the Upcountry and offers various exciting activities.
The park is located about 10,000 feet above sea level.
Address: The Haleakala National Park is at State Highway 378, Kula, Hawaii 96790, United States.
2. Road To Hana
The road to Hana is also one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island of Maui.
The road is a free and non-intentional way to explore the area. It is one of the most exciting things to do on Maui.
The road to Hana begins at Paia on the island’s Windward side. It can take around four hours to travel the entire distance. This road is referred to as Highway 360.
The beautiful views, the stunning coastline, and the various bridges that are on the road are some of the reasons why people flock to this area.
The Road to Hana also provides visitors with a glimpse of beautiful forests and waterfalls. These areas are different from the barren land found on other parts of the coast.
Address: This beautiful road is on route 36, Maui, HI, United States.
3. Maui Ocean Center
The center’s goal was to provide educational and amusement activities for the visitors.
It was designed to educate them about the various life forms living in the area. Therefore, it should be on the things-to-do list of every visitor to Maui.
The Ocean Center features several aquariums that exhibit different types of marine life.
These include coral reefs, green turtles, and other sea creatures. In addition, they have displays explaining humpback whales’ behaviors and lifestyles.
Address: The Maui Ocean Center is at 192 Ma’alaea Road, Wailuku, Maui, HI 96793, United States.
4. Ho’okipa Beach Park
Another popular tourist attraction in the area is the Ho’okipa Beach Park. This area is known for its incredible waves for various ocean sports activities.
The area is used to host various professional surfing events. In addition, sports events, such as the Red Bull and the Aloha Classic, are held here.
In addition to surfing, this area is also known for its various water sports activities, such as snorkeling.
Ho’okipa Beach Park is known for snorkeling because the nearby coral reefs harbor green sea turtles.
Address: This attraction is at 179 Hana Hwy, Paia, Maui, HI 96779, United States.
5. Iao Valley State Monument
The Iao Valley State Monument has been a pilgrimage site for the local inhabitants of Hawaii for generations. The park spans over 10,000 acres and features various rock formations.
It is located in Central Maui and is also one of the most fun things to do in Maui. One of the fun things to do in this area is to visit the Ethnobotanical Loop.
The Ethnobotanical loop is a walk through a botanical garden. Another fantastic place to visit is the Pali Ele’ele cliff. It features a large rock.
The most popular attraction in Iao Valley State Monument is Iao Needle.
This natural lump of volcanic rock is approximately 1,200 feet tall and is known as Kakaemoku.
It was formed by centuries of erosion and is covered in tropical overgrowth and foliage.
Address: This beautiful site is 54 S High St, Wailuku, Maui, HI 96793, United States.
6. Old Lahaina Luau
The restaurant features live performances and a wide variety of food. The food served at this establishment is prepared with fresh and flavorful ingredients. In addition to this, the patrons can also enjoy a variety of drinks and food.
Old Lahaina Laua‘s unique floor seating area allows patrons to enjoy the same amazing views while getting closer to the performers.
Address: This restaurant is at 1251 Front St, Lahaina, Maui, HI 96761, United States.
7. Diving and Snorkeling
Aside from surfing, this area is also known for its various water activities, such as diving and snorkeling.
This activity is fun and can help visitors see the world’s most beautiful underwater landscapes.
This area is also known for its various marine life. Some of these include the wrasse, surgeonfish, and parrotfish. Some of the fishes found here cannot be seen anywhere else.
8. Molokini Island Preserve
Molokini Island is a semi-circle of land that used to be part of the central volcano in Maui.
However, it is unpopulated and uninhabited. Today, this area is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about this volcanic site.
Getting on the island is unrealistic, so you visit the Marine Life Conservation District bay, where you witness over 250 species of Hawaiian reef fish.
Address: The Island is at Molokini Shoal Marine Life Conservation District, Maui County, HI, United States.
9. Wailea Beach
This beach is one of the more exclusive locations in the area. Aside from this, other areas within Wailea Beach are also popular tourist attractions.
The area’s beautiful stretch of sand and its numerous stores and restaurants are some of the factors that make this beach a must-visit.
Address: This Beach is in Kihei, HI 96753, United States.
10. Lahaina Banyan Court Park
One of the most popular attractions in Lahaina is the Lahaina Banyan Court Park.
This area’s name originates from a massive tree considered the oldest living tree in the area. The tree is over 150 years old. It takes up close to one acre of space.
Address: The Lahaina Banyan Court Park is at 671 Front St, Lahaina, Maui, HI 96761, United States.
11. Ka’anapali Beach
Ka’anapali Beach is located in the western part of the island and is part of Lahaina.
It offers various activities and natural beauty. It spans over three miles and provides excellent views of the ocean.
Ka’anapali Beach is considered one of Hawaii’s first resort areas. It has exciting activities and activities that will keep you entertained for hours.
Address: The Ka’anapali Beach is in Kaanapali, HI 96761, United States.
12. Wai’anapanapa State Park
The area’s name originates from the Hawaiian word “wai’anapanapa,” which means “glistening waters.” The natural beauty of the ocean water makes the title more fitting.
The sand on Wai’anapanapa State Park‘s beach is made from volcanic sashes, which results in a jet black color.
This natural feature draws tourists because of its beauty and is an excellent photography location.
But unfortunately, the rough waters make it too dangerous for most amateur swimmers.
Address: The Wai’anapanapa State Park is at Waianapanapa, Hana, HI 96713, United States
13. Ziplining
Various zip lines are available on the island, and one of the most popular is the one in the north shore jungle.
Ziplining is one of those activities you engage in that leaves you with lasting memories.
One of the most popular ziplines is the Haleakala Zipline, which offers fast and furious rushes over trees. The Ka’anapali Zipline is also an excellent choice for fantastic ocean views.
14. Bailey House Museum & Maui Historical Society
Another exciting place to visit during your trip to Maui is the Bailey House Museum and the Maui Historical Society. This is a great way to learn about the island’s history and culture.
The Bailey House Museum and the Historical Society were established in 1833 initially as a mission.
It is used for various purposes, such as a World War II base and a female seminary.
Address: This attraction is at 2375 Main St, Wailuku, Maui, HI 96793, United States.
15. Kula Botanical Garden
The Kula Botanical Garden was first established in 1977 as a native reserve for plants.
It has since become one of the most popular attractions in the upcountry area of the island. This is one of the most fun things to do in Maui if you’re a fan of plants.
The Kula Botanical Garden is located on the slopes of Haleakala. The area’s natural beauty and rich volcanic soil make it an ideal place for plants.
Address: This Garden is at 638 Kekaulike Ave, Kula, Maui, HI 96790, United States.
16. O’o Farm Gourmet Lunch & Farm
O’o Farm is an eight-acre farm that is located in Upcountry. It offers daily tours designed to provide a different perspective on its grounds.
The farm’s morning tour starts with a French-pressed coffee. After taking a tour of the farm, you’ll be able to enjoy your breakfast. There is also a lunch tour available on the farm premises.
Address: The O’o farm is at 651 Waipoli Rd, Kula, Maui, HI 96790, United States.
17. Surfing
Surfing is one of the most popular activities in Hawaii and in Maui. The island and the rest of Hawaii are known for their waves abundance.
The island has several great surfing locations, such as the Ho’okipa Beach Park, Honolua Bay, and the Peahi. These locations are ideal if you’re looking for calm waters and big waves.
Various surf lessons are available in the area. For those who are looking for a more personalized experience, several companies offer surfing lessons.
18. Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
The O’o Farm is located in Upcountry, a break from the island’s tropical lifestyle. It offers a tranquil environment that breaks from the typical Hawaii experience.
The farm’s entrance fee is only a few dollars, and its self-guided tours are free. These allow visitors to understand the farm and the surrounding area better.
Address: The Ali’i Kula Lavender farm is at 1100 Waipoli Rd, Kula, Maui, HI 96790, United States.
19. Napili Beach
Napili Beach is ideal for families with children, one of the smaller island’s beaches.
It features a crescent-shaped shore and calm waters. It’s also a good spot for people looking for a relaxing environment.
Although it’s illegal to touch sea turtles in the area, numerous fish and other marine life are in the waters around the beach.
If you’re planning on visiting the beach, bring snorkeling equipment to enable you to observe the rich marine life.
Address: The Napili beach is at Napili-Honokowai, HI 96761, USA.
20. Ululani’s Hawaiian Shaved Ice
If you’re in the mood for a traditional shaved ice treat, head to Ululani’s Hawaiian Ice.
This is the place to go if you’re looking for the best-shaved ice in the country. Coming to this place is one of the fun things to do in Maui.
The staff at Ululani’s Hawaiian Ice can create a variety of flavors for you, such as pineapple, orange, and guava. You can also use their coconut cream to enhance any bowl.
Address: This attraction is at 790 Front St, Lahaina, Maui, HI 96761, United States.
21. Go Whale Watching
And the last but not the least thing to do in Maui is to go whale watching. During winter, thousands of humpback whales migrate to Hawaii from the Alaskan Gulf.
This activity is one of the best things to do in Maui if you plan to visit. Between November and May, whale watching can be very popular on the island.
Best Time To Visit Maui
The best time to visit Hawaii’s island of Maui is during the spring and fall shoulder seasons.
These seasons provide the ideal weather for travelers looking for a break from the crowds and high rates during the summer and winter.
How Much Does It Cost To Visit Maui?
A one-week trip to the island of Maui can cost up to $10,000. For a more luxurious stay, expect to spend around $18,000 to $20,000.
On the other hand, an economy trip costing approximately $3,500 would be ideal for those on a tight budget.
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