Things To Do on Maui

Haleakala Crater and National Park

Take your camera to capture the stunning sunrises and sunsets at the summit of the Haleakala Crater that rises some 10,000 feet above sea level and situated within the Haleakala National Park.

Maui Legends

Hawaiian legend has it that the demigod Maui, stood on top of this house of the sun and lassoed the sun as it set across the sky, slowing its descent and making the day last even longer. Follow in the footsteps of Maui along the winding road up to the summit.

Kaanapali Beach

The beach areas are unforgettably beautiful. Kaanapali Beach is a combination of three miles of white sand, and crystal clear blue waters that have led to Kaanapali Beach being previously named America's Best Beach. This is a former retreat of the Hawaiian Royal Family and its range of hotels and resorts are now popular getaways from the pace of the real world.

Whale Watching

Maui is known for some of the best whale watching in the world. From December to May the calm, clear waters found off of Western and Southern Maui provide the perfect playground for these magnificent mammals, an opportunity not to be missed!

Makena Beach State Park

Makena Beach State Park (Big Beach) is one of the largest beaches in Maui, almost 2/3 of a mile long and sheltered from the island's trade winds on either side. Here you can really get away from it all as there are no buildings in sight; the Park retains its wild state and dolphins and turtles are regular visitors here.

Surfing and Snorkelling

There is no better place to learn how to surf than Maui, considered the birthplace of surfing! Ride the waves with your experienced instructor on one of the famous beaches of Maui; Lahaina and Kihei both offer easy waves, perfect for beginners.

The Road to Hana

Along Maui's rugged eastern coastline, you will find the peaceful town of Hana. Take the 52 mile serpentine Hana Highway from Kahului which winds through the flourishing rainforests, waterfalls and breath-taking views out to sea that characterise this island. Start your drive early so you can spend time taking in the view at the countless viewpoints. When you arrive in Hana visit the Hasegawa General Store, and the Hana Ranch Store, where you will find one off souvenirs of your holiday in Maui.

Golfing

The area is also home to two championship golf courses, the Royal Kaanapali and Kaanapali Kai. Held at the Plantation Course at Kapalua every January is the Hyundai Tournament of Champions a must for all you golfing enthusiasts.

Lahaina Town and Harbor

The historic town of Lahaina was transformed in recent years into a Maui hotspot and home to numerous art galleries and unique shops and restaurants. The former capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom in the early 19th century, it was also a historic whaling village during the whaling boom in the mid 1800's and inspiration for Herman Melville's Moby Dick. Today, you will find a sense of old Lahaina down the lively Front Street, with historic stops including the U.S Seamen's Hospital, the Pioneer Inn and the Hale Paaho (Lahaina Prison). In the winter months, sail from Lahaina Harbour for an incredible whale watching tour, the coast off Lahaina is one of the best places in the world to spot these majestic creatures.

Helicopter Tours

Away from the beach and water activities there are plenty of other things to do including taking a helicopter tour over Maui, with its stunning scenery and breath-taking views. You will appreciate the pineapple and sugar plantations and the beautiful waterfalls of Western Maui.

Maui Gold Pineapple plantation

Enjoy delicious fresh pineapples from the heart of Maui and learn all about the growing and farming process of Hawaii's most beloved fruit! Maui Gold Pineapple's aren't just regular Pineapples - they have been specially bread to be so tasty - don't take our word for it though, try the amazing Maui Gold Pineapples yourself on your Hawaii Holiday!

Molokini Crater Diving and Snorkelling

Take a trip to Molokini a small, crescent moon-shaped island that is a partially submerged volcanic crater and home to diverse, colourful coral and over 250 species of tropical fish. This is also a snorkeler and diver's paradise and one of the top 10 dive spots in the world with visibility of a depth of up to 150 feet. Tours depart from Maui at Maaleaea Harbour and Kihei Boat Ramp.

Pools of Oheo

Stop to wonder at the Pools of Oheo situated on the lower slopes of Haleakal. These pools are created by streams that pour into pools and over waterfalls creating a superb display of nature.

Surfing and Bodysurfing - Hamoa Beach

Hamoa Beach is a half-moon shaped grey sand beach within a truly tropical setting. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy some surfing and bodysurfing as the unprotected waters bring in rolling off shore waves.

Snorkelling and Whale Watching - Maui Ocean Centre Hawaiian Aquarium

The Maui Ocean Centre, the Hawaiian Aquarium includes snorkel trips and whale watches with visitor information and tours and is well worth a visit.

Horse-riding at Haleakala National Park and Piiholo Ranch

You may like to enjoy a horse-riding excursion across the open fields of upcountry Maui, home of the Hawaiian cowboy. Take in the breath-taking scenery of the Haleakala National Park or the Piiholo Ranch of Makawao - this is the perfect family adventure.

Whalers Village Shopping and Museum

You will be enthralled with the shopping opportunities in the towns in Maui and Whalers Village is a world class shopping complex with a range of boutique and luxury stores to browse, along with fantastic restaurants and renowned Whalers Village Museum, which offers a snapshot of life during the whaling years of the early 19th century.

Valley State Park and Nature Centre

For further sightseeing and hiking, the Iao Valley State Park is unmistakable being 10 miles long and encompassing the 1,200 ft. Lao Needle. This is where the Battle of Kenaniwai took place in 1790. Located here is also the Hawaii Nature Centre including interactive exhibits for all the family to enjoy.

Snorkelling - Waianapanapa State Park

Consistently voted one of Hawaii's favourite beaches and a snorkelers dream visit the beautiful black sand beach of Waianapanapa State Park nestled among black lava cliffs.

Art and Culture

For a taste of Maui Art and Culture you will find the arts scene is alive and well with event and exhibitions at the Maui Arts and Cultural Centre in Kahului and the Hui Koeau Visual Arts Centre in Makawao. As well as Art Night every Friday in Lahaina between 7pm and 10 pm, the art galleries along Front Street open their doors to invite the public to chat with artists and view their work.

Sugar Museum

For a fascinating insight into the history of the sugar industry don't miss a visit to the Alexander and Baldwin Sugar Museum just outside of Kahului charting the establishment and the rapid growth of the sugar industry in Maui in the early 1800s. With a number of indoor and outdoor exhibits, trace the history of this important industry in shaping the landscape, and the economy of this island.

Sugar Cane Train

For a unique sightseeing journey travel 6 miles from Lahaina Town to Kaanapali on the Sugar Cane train. An open-air coach will transport you across a 325 foot winding wooden trestle with amazing views of other islands and mountains.

Baldwin Museum

Experience the true history of Maui by visiting the oldest building on the Island - Baldwin House. Built in 1835 and currently being restored, Baldwin House is a great place to visit. Lahaina, where the house is situated, is one of the most historic sites of Maui where you can learn about the whaling era and much more.

Dining

There is a great diversity of eating establishments and you will be spoilt for choice when dining in Maui, with world renowned chefs; expert in Hawaiian, Japanese, Caribbean Mexican and Thai cuisine, to name a few! Whether you fancy a seaside fish house or a candle lit ocean front dinner, find your perfect spot in Maui. We always recommend visiting Mama’s Fish House after your Road to Hana journey - it is an excellent end to an amazing adventure - but be sure to book in advance as this is an extremely popular Maui dining spot!

Luau

Be sure to experience a Hawaii Luau. The Royal Lahaina Resort hosts one of Maui's best oceanfront Luaus. Enjoy a traditional Hawaiian buffet and Luau show celebrating the legends of Polynesia.

Whatever you choose to do in Maui, and wherever you choose to stay, let Tailor-made Hawaii's expert team help you plan every last detail, and make sure that your holiday in Maui leaves you with memories to last a lifetime. Call us today or drop us an email and let us start planning your dream holiday to Maui today.