Discover
things to do
on Maui
Discover some of the most popular activities and things to do on Maui, savoring every vacation moment with your kids, family, and friends. Enjoy full days of adventure in paradise, and create lasting vacation memories.
Snorkel Trip to Molokini
You know the saying, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do?” When on Maui, do as the Mauians do and go snorkeling. Snorkeling is another must-do activity and one that your family and friends will endlessly thank you.
Road to Hana
Traveling from the North Shore towards East Maui via the Road to Hana is one of the most extraordinary day activities in Hawaii. For those who have never been, this must-do activity should be done at least once in your lifetime.
Whale Watching Tours
Maui Whale Watching tours are undoubtedly one of the best activities to do on Maui. Hawaii, even! Seeing the North Pacific humpback whales gracing Maui’s oceans during their annual Winter migration is one of the most exciting experiences you will ever have!
Sunrise at Mt. Haleakala
Venture to 10,000 feet above sea level and see a glorious Maui sunrise from the summit of Mt. Haleakala on Maui. This Maui activity will leave you with a jaw-dropping grin, and many oohs and awes in the crowd!
There’s nothing quite like a Maui sunrise (except maybe a Maui sunset), and you will have more than one chance to check it out while on Island.
Maui Ocean Center
Enjoy an afternoon with your family and friends and visit the only aquarium in the world dedicated to displaying and preserving Hawaiian marine life. The Maui Ocean Center offers full exploration for all visitors, adults or children. It’s also one of the top things to do in Maui with kids!
Golfing
Golfing in Hawaii is heaven on earth for all golf enthusiasts! From golf students to golf professionals, the Hawaiian Islands offer a gorgeous golf experience for everyone. The golf community on Maui ranges from public courses to the uber-private and elite golf locales only available to the rare few.
Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise
Surprise your loved ones with a special evening cruising at a comfortable speed on a Pride of Maui Sunset Luau Dinner Cruise. This must-do Maui activity features Polynesian dancers, luau cuisine, and a premium open bar. It’s the best way to explore the Island of Maui with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the outer islands of Moloka’i and Lana’i, and the West Maui Mountains. This Maui activity also provides optimal placement to watch a magical Maui sunset!
Hawaii Mermaid Adventures
Undoubtedly, there’s an ocean full of things to do on Maui! Booking an experience with Hawaii Mermaid Adventures is probably one of the coolest, most memorable, and unique Maui activities to explore.
Maui Ocean Vodka Tour
If you love vodka and are interested in organic farming, then the Maui Ocean Vodka Organic Farm & Distillery Tour is the perfect activity for you. Maui Ocean Vodka is an award-winning spirit made right here on Maui.
Visit Historic Paia Town & The North Shore
When on Maui, do not miss out on a chance to check out the Historic Town of Paia and the North Shore area. This can easily be a day-long outing, so make sure that you plan for the time to explore. On the North Shore, visitors can explore beaches and scenic areas, peruse boutiques and art galleries, and dine at various restaurants.
Spa Day
Plan an out-of-this-world spa day on your next vacation to the fabulous Island of Maui. All guests will love this experience with a host of the best Maui spa locations available at your fingertips. Maui spa menus are full of healing services for your body, mind, and soul.
Surfing
The first Western written account of surfing in Hawaii was in 1779 by Lieutenant James King. He colorfully described Native Hawaiians riding wood planks on the ocean swells of the Big Island’s Kealakekua Bay.
In the ancient Hawaiian language, surfing is also referred to as “hee nalu” and was indefinitely a spiritual practice that engaged the Native Hawaiians with the energy of their gods. Historically, hee nalu (surfing) was an activity reserved for Hawaiian royalty and termed the “Sport of Kings.”
Helicopter Tours
Soar above the Hawaiian Islands and survey the beautiful Island of Maui and the outer islands of Molokai and Lanai with a bird’s eye view! See lush valleys, secret waterfalls, dramatic coastlines, erupting volcanoes, and colorful reef formations from the skyline.
There are various helicopter tour companies and tours to choose from in Hawaii. However, they offer different experiences.
Leilani Farm Sanctuary
A guided tour of Leilani Farm Sanctuary is a Maui activity you will most sincerely enjoy if you are a true animal lover. Leilani Farm Sanctuary is an all-volunteer, non-profit animal refuge in Haiku on Maui’s North Shore. It was created from the vision of Laurelee Blanchard, ‘to establish a shelter for Maui’s animals who have suffered from abuse and have been abandoned.’
Jaws Surf Break (PE’AHI)
Whether you are a surfer or not, Jaws is a massive attraction on Maui. Popularized by legendary watermen like Laird Hamilton and Dave Kalama with their tow-in surfing skills, Jaws is now one of the most popular hyped-out spots on the international surfing train.
Ohe’o Gulch (The Seven Sacred Pools)
The Ohe’o Gulch Pools, more commonly referred to as the Seven Sacred Pools, are one of the most popular Maui attractions to see. This area is a natural spectacle, with a string of pools and waterfalls cascading from East Maui Mountain valleys to the blue Pacific Ocean coastline.
Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
Nestled on the slopes of Mt. Haleakala lies the fabulous Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm. Founded by Agricultural Artist and Horticultural Master Ali’i Chang, this farm has become a cultural landmark for Maui residents and visitors. At an elevation of 4,000 feet, the Kula Lavender Farm on Maui is home to over 45 varieties and approximately 55,000 lavender plants.
Sport Fishing
Enjoy awe-inspiring Maui scenery and the most optimal ocean conditions in the world when sport fishing on Maui. On the island, there are many options for Hawaii Sport Fishing, including small and large game fish. Guests can easily book a 2-hour or full-day group tour or embark on a private chartered sport fishing adventure with family and friends.
Makena State Park
Just south of Wailea lies Makena State Park, composed of over 165 acres. Perched upon the coastline sits two of the most fabulous beaches on Maui; Makena’s Big Beach (Oneloa Beach) and Little Beach (Pu’u Ola’i Beach).
Big Beach is one of the most popular spots in the Hawaiian Islands for bodyboarding and skimboarding.
Stand Up Paddling
Stand Up Paddling is rapidly becoming one of the most famous ocean activities in the world. Available to the masses and easy to learn, spend a day “sweeping the ocean,” relaxing, and enjoying gorgeous ocean and shoreline views. Strengthen your core, find your balance and feel a true sense of achievement learning stand-up paddling in Hawaii.
Kapalua Golf Resort
Golfing is undoubtedly one of the most popular activities in Hawaii. On Maui, sports enthusiasts have the best selection of Hawaii’s golf resorts, golf instruction, and annual golf events to attend. Two of Maui’s top golf courses are the Plantation and Bay courses at the Kapalua Resort.
MauiWine
Since 1974, Maui’s only operating winery has been one of the most fabulous attractions to visit in Hawaii. The wine varieties and selections vary, famously offering their time-told Sparkling Pineapple, Grape, and Raspberry dessert wines.
Lahaina’s Banyan Tree
Lahaina’s Banyan Tree is over 140 years old and almost spreads across an entire acre of downtown Lahaina. This species is the largest in the United States but is not indigenous to Hawaii. In 1873, Sheriff William Owen Smith planted this Banyan Tree to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of Protestant missionaries in Lahaina.
PWF Ocean Camps
If you have kids who love the ocean, are interested in marine life, and are currently in 1-5 grade, they will love the Pacific Whale Foundation’s Ocean Camp. This camp offers a fantastic experience for children visiting Maui as well as residents of the island.
Ultimate Air Trampoline Park
Offering over 14,000 square feet of trampoline entertainment, Ultimate Air Maui is Maui’s only indoor trampoline park. Whether you are a resident or just visiting Maui, this is a fantastic place for birthday parties, corporate events, and group events. Activities include freestyle, extreme trampolines, jousting, basketball, dodgeball, and a keiki (children’s) court.
Iao Valley State Park
One of Maui’s most rewarding must-do activities is a day at Iao Valley State Park. Iao Valley is not only a Maui cultural landmark but also a sacred site for housing ancient Hawaiian demigods and has served as a critical location in Hawaii’s history.
Hiking
Plan an adventurous hiking expedition to Maui! The Island of Maui offers a host of incredible hikes ranging from easy trail walks to challenging 3-day+ long excursions. No matter your skill and stamina level, or your group size, there are many exciting hiking opportunities for everyone.
Bailey House & Museum
Maui’s Bailey House and Museum belong to the Maui Historical Society, a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1951. Officially chartered in 1956, the Maui Historical Society’s mission is “To collect, preserve, study, interpret and share the history and heritage of Maui.” (www.MauiMuseum.org, 2022)
Ho’okipa Beach Park
Ho’okipa Beach Park is one of the most famous beaches in Hawaii and one of the most popular beaches worldwide for professional surfing and windsurfing. In the ancient Hawaiian language, “ho’okipa” translates to hospitality, precisely what this Beach Park offers!
See the Dolphins at La Perouse
One of the most extraordinary things you can do in South Maui is to see the dolphins at La Perouse Bay.
Pods of Spinner Dolphins visit La Perouse every morning. After a rare chance to watch the Hawaiian Spinner Dolphins in their natural habitat, take a short walk through the marked trails at La Perouse Bay.
Wai’anapanapa State Park
Wai’anapanapa State Park sprawls across 122 acres of East Maui coastal land. Visitors can travel through two trail loops in this gorgeous area and see a dramatic coastline. Highlights include sea-sculpted lava shelves, ancient Hawaiian burial sites, a blowhole, five secret caves, and the stunning Pa’iloa Beach (also known as Black Sand Beach).
Maui Arts & Cultural Center
Since 1994, the Maui Arts and Cultural Center (MACC) has been providing Maui residents and visitors with the most fantastic venue for arts entertainment on Maui. Here, guests can enjoy Hawaiian culture programs, live music, comedy, dancing, stage shows and plays, concerts, festivals, art exhibits, galas, and more. The MACC is the only venue of its kind on the island of Maui!
Front Street
Peruse restaurants, boutiques, surf shops, and galleries in Lahaina! Front Street is located on the oceanfront in West Maui’s historic Lahaina Town. Hanging out down on Front Street is a must-do when in West Maui. Here, guests can find great souvenirs, check out local art vendors and events, and grab a bite to eat and a refreshing tropical cocktail from any of Lahaina’s beachfront eateries.
Maui Zip n’ Dip Tours
Plan an adventurous day and take your family and friends on one of Maui’s only Zip n’ Dip Tours! This is the latest craze in Hawaii zipline adventures, offered only through Skyline Eco-Adventures on Maui. This activity is becoming increasingly more popular, so make sure to book this Maui activity early.
Feast at Lele
Feast at Lele is such a great Maui activity; we cannot possibly say enough about it! It is like the tour-de-force of traditional luaus, with a superb display of Polynesian culture throughout the menu, music, dance performances, and presentation.
Maui Brewing Company Tours
Maui Brewing Co (605 Lipoa Pkwy., Kihei) is the first craft beer brewed on Maui. Their brewery tours include tastings of their four flagship beers: Bikini Blonde Lager, Big Swell IPA, Coconut Hiwa Porter, and Pineapple Mana Wheat.
Kula Botanical Gardens
Perched at 3,300 feet above sea level, the Kula Botanical Garden is open to all guests from 9am-4pm, seven days a week. This Maui botanical garden spans 8 acres and is a wonderful place to go for a quiet stroll through Upcountry Maui.
Historic Iao Theater
The Historic Iao Theater opened its doors in Wailuku in 1928. Built with a Spanish Mission/late Art Deco style, Wailuku’s famous theater features movie screenings, stage shows, plays, and performances. Past notable performers included Frank Sinatra, Bob Hope, Donald O’Connor, and Mickey Rooney.
Honolua Bay
Honolua Bay is about a 20-minute drive north of the Historic Town of Lahaina. Honolua Bay is a famous West Maui surfing and snorkeling beach. It’s also one of the most beautiful, colorful, and vibrant beaches in the Hawaiian Islands.
Rappel Waterfalls Tour
Explore Hawaii as you never imagined possible on one of Maui’s most unique tours. Journey through a 26-acre privately owned Maui rainforest and botanical garden, and become a Hawaiian-style canyoneer that rappels down lava rock framed waterfalls.
Explore Upcountry Maui
Maui is the best island in Hawaii for so many reasons that there are too many to list! One of the most exciting aspects of Maui is its diverse topography and microclimates. In one day, guests can travel from sea level to the 10,000-ft high dormant Mt. Haleakala.
Charles Lindbergh’s Grave
The Palapala Ho’omau Congregational Church (near mile marker 41) is not only one of the most interesting historical sites on Maui but also the site of Charles Lindbergh’s grave.
Okay, so who was Charles Lindbergh?
“If it takes the wings of the morning, and dwell in the uttermost parts of the sea…”
(Charles Lindbergh inscription at the Palapala Ho’omau Church, Maui)
Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum
The Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum in Puunene is located adjacent to Hawaii’s largest sugar factory (now closed). The museum is just 1,800 square feet but should not be overlooked when visiting historical attractions on the Valley Isle. Maui’s Sugar Museum has a comprehensive collection of exhibits and historical information about Maui’s agricultural history and colonial past.
Horseback Riding Tours
Enjoying a horseback riding tour in Maui is one of the best ways to explore Maui’s aina (land). You can experience the terrain up close and personal from the top of a horse. While engaging in this popular Maui activity, riders have a fantastic vantage point to check out Maui’s amazing mountain and coastal views.
See The House Shakers Perform at Fleetwood’s on Front Street
Head to Historic Lahaina Town to see and hear the House Shakers perform at Fleetwood’s on Front Street, owned by Mick Fleetwood of the legendary band Fleetwood Mac. Guests here will love a romantic sunset dinner and a show with his incredible house band.
Maui Pineapple Tours
Located at the Hali’imaile Pineapple Plantation, everyone will enjoy checking out the only pineapple tour in Maui and the only tour of a working pineapple plantation in the United States!
Parasailing
Parasailing is one of the most exciting ocean activities you can do on Maui! Please remember that this activity is only allowed during the late Spring and Summer months. Parasailing vendors are not allowed to operate during Maui’s whale watching season, which is roughly between late October and April.
Hawaii Nature Center
The Hawaii Nature Center has been providing environmental immersion educational programs in Hawaii since 1981. Located on Oahu and Maui, the Maui field site locations are Iao Valley and Kealia Pond. Since its creation, over 850,000 children have participated in its programs.
Maui Chocolate Tasting
A visit to Maui Chocolate Tasting is the perfect activity for foodies and chocolate lovers visiting Maui. Formerly known as Maui Chocolate Tours, Maui Chocolate Tasting’s new production kitchen is located in North Kihei behind the Tesoro Gas Station on Maui’s South Shore.
Maui Escape Rooms
Do you need a break from the sun? Are you ready for a live-action immersive adventure on Maui that will test your wit? At Maui Escape Rooms, guests can wear the hat of a treasure-hunter, clue finder, cryptologist, and more!
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Mahalo for reading Pride of Maui’s Top 50 Maui Attractions & Maui Activities article. There are just so many wonderful activities and adventures to explore on Maui.
From all of us at Pride of Maui, we look forward to helping you create your best vacation to Maui yet! A Hui Hou Kakou! (Until we meet again)