Top 10 Free Things to Do on Maui

If there’s one thing Islanders believe in, it’s celebrating! No matter what time of year you visit Maui, chances are you’ll catch some kind of event, celebration, festival or party, almost all of which are completely free to attend. Here’s a breakdown, month-by-month, of what’s going on (and where) in Maui.

One of the best things about flying thousands of miles to a gorgeous island is the chance to explore it. Get outside and see the natural (and free) sights Maui has to offer.

On April 24th, 1873, Sheriff William Owen Smith planted an Indian banyan tree to honor the 50th anniversary of the first Protestant mission in Lahaina. 141 years later, that same tree now shades two-thirds of an acre and reaches over sixty feet tall. Grab a book and head down to Lahaina’s famous banyan tree for a relaxing time in the shade.

From December to May, an estimated 12,000 humpback whales swim over 3,000 miles from the gulf of Alaska to Hawaii to breed, calve and nurse their young in the shallow, warm waters around Hawaii. One of the best places in the world to see these majestic creatures is the Auau Channel, the shallow area between West Maui, Lana’i and Molokai.

Hawaiian surfers are world-renowned for their skills in big wave surfing. While Maui doesn’t get as much attention as Oahu, there are still some incredible breaks that bring in surfers from around the globe. Although you may not be ready to face the hardcore waves (and wind) yourself, it’s definitely worth making a trip to watch the pros tackle the action.

What’s a Hawaiian vacation without some island tunes? While you’re most likely to find live music at restaurants and bars, there are plenty of free options for low-key, fun evenings outdoors.

With an abundance of truly spectacular trails, hiking is definitely an activity you should consider on your trip to Maui. You’ll have a chance to explore the beauty of Maui first hand and enjoy some of the best-hidden spots on the island, including bamboo forests, freshwater streams, lava rock, sea arches, and waterfalls!

Maui has a total of 81 accessible beaches, so if you can’t find at least one that suits your fancy, chances are it doesn’t exist. From calm water and golden sand to one of the best windsurfing beaches in the world, Maui has something for everyone.

Did you know Hawaii is the only state whose land area is increasing, grows coffee and honors a monarch? Learn about Maui’s rich culture, history, and wildlife by taking a free tour of Lahaina Town, the historic Wailuku district, Wai’anapanapa State Park, Kealia Coastal Boardwalk, and Whalers Village.

When you’re in Hawaii, sunset isn’t just a time of day, it’s an activity. Pick a beach and walk along the shore or pack a blanket and beverage for a truly relaxing, spectacular Maui pastime. If a 3:00 am wake-up call and sunrise viewing aren’t on your vacation agenda, drive up to the summit of Haleakala for an equally beautiful sunset experience. Although entrance to the park is $10, how often do you get to watch the sky change colors from atop a 10,000-ft volcano in Maui? Exactly.