Must-Do Adventures on Maui
Trying to plan your vacation to Maui, but feeling overwhelmed with options and not sure where to start? While there’s no shortage of adventure on this Hawaiian island, here’s a list of local and tourist favorites alike:
Road to Hana
Undoubtedly one of the top experiences on the island, the Road to Hana is an absolute must-do tour on Maui. This scenic route is 52 miles long and packed with over 600 turns. Hike a bamboo forest, swim in the seven sacred pools, and cliff jump off waterfalls. Red and black sand beaches, bamboo forests, and the best banana bread on the island await you. If you’re wanting to see the natural wonders of Maui, this is the best of it!
Haleakalā
Haleakalā National Park is home to Haleakalā Volcano, but don’t worry, it’s dormant! Drive into the clouds as you make your way over 10,000 feet above sea level to admire the orange, red, and blue hues of this stunning sunset, with views of the island surrounding you. Stay after the sun sets for the best stargazing spot. Reservations are needed for sunrise, but not for sunset. Other highlights include hiking the crater, the Pipiwai Trail, stopping at the Kapahulu Visitor Center, and O’heo Gulch. $30/vehicle or $15 pedestrians/cyclists gets you in, and the pass is valid for 3 days starting from the date of purchase. More info here: https://www.nps.gov/hale/index.htm
Hiking
From the sacred Iao Valley to Haleakalā’s Pipiwai Trail to the Waihee Ridge Trail, there are some hikes on Maui you won’t want to miss! Push your body to its limit as you hike higher up mountain ridges or deeper into bamboo forests. The elevation won’t be the only reason you’ll lose your breath when you are rewarded with picture-perfect views of green mountains, sparkling water, and deep gorges.
Drum Circle
Baldwin Beach is home to Maui’s best drum circle! Admire sea turtles coming up on shore as the sun slips below the horizon, enjoy a peaceful evening swim, or dance along to the beat of the many drums played at this local party. Then end the evening in awe over fire dancers spinning flames in front of your very eyes.
Luau
These festive parties held on the islands often feature entertainment such as music and hula dancing, along with a feast of traditional Hawaiian dishes. Many of the major hotels host luau’s open to the public, offering visitors a variety of times and locations to choose from. Outside of the hotels, The Old Lahaina Luau (reopening March 12th) is one of the most popular and longest running shows on Maui. Plus, they are open seven days a week! Seats fill up quickly, so it’s best to make a reservation in advance. Visit https://oldlahainaluau.com/
Snorkeling & Scuba Diving
Ever wonder what it would be like to swim beside giant sea turtles or countless colorful fish? These activities on Maui are unmatched. Swim underwater, close to these amazing creatures without disturbing them. Molokini Crater has some of the best snorkeling and is a perfect day trip.
Lanai/Molokai
Speaking of day trips, these nearby islands are also a great option if you have more time to spend! The ferry from Maui to Lanai is roughly an hour, and you can catch one for just $30! However, getting to Molokai involves a quick flight but for 30 minutes of air time, you can arrive to a more untouched side of Hawaii.
Whale Watching
If it is November to May, this should be at the top of your list! Whale watching season attracts countless visitors to the island every year who go with the Pacific Whale Foundation and other tour companies hoping for a glimpse of these magnificent creatures. However, it’s quite common to even see them from shore when driving along the coast!
Helicopter Tour
There’s only so much you can see on ground, but the sky's the limit here. Maui from the air is a whole different level of striking scenery! For thrill-seekers, opt for the doors-off helicopter! Routes from Maui may include a trip to Molokai to see the world’s highest sea cliffs, or perhaps a trip to view the Big Island’s Mauna Kea or Mauna Loa volcanoes from above. If your timing is right you may even witness a an active lava flow!
Howzit Hostels provides free guided experiences to many of the best places on Maui. Book a bed in one of our shared dorms or private rooms at our hostel and let us show you the time of your life! View our weekly activity schedule here Howzit Hostels FREE Activities.