Best Things
To Do in Maui
Table of Contents
Looking for the best things to do in Maui?
You’re in the right place. Anyone who has ever visited Maui, Hawaii’s second-largest island, will admit that they seriously love this heavenly holiday destination. In fact, every single thing about it!
This is undoubtedly one of those few places in the world that you’d die to visit or may be even live there for the rest of your life, but only if you know what this idyllic island offers and the best things to do while there.
So suppose you’ve booked your plane ticket to Maui and made hotel arrangements, it would be a gravely bad idea to stay indoors or lounge by the hotel pool during the entire period of your vacation. That’s because there are an endless list of things to see and do in this picturesque island.
To save you from the energy-sapping task of perusing through various sites just to find what might suit you, we’ve rounded up the best things to do in Maui. In fact, we’ve categorized them into sections to make it a lot easier for you.
You’ll realize that many of them will most likely suit you, and will probably have you admitting that not many places in the world come close to Maui in terms of beauty, splendor, laid-back atmosphere and an overabundance of fascinating things to do. All you have to do is embrace the island, take your time, and be adventurous!
Top Tours on Maui
As a safe and exciting activity, zip lining over the fragrant Maui jungles and its soaring waterfall is an adventurous activity that’s great for families, kids, couples, groups, teams and solo travelers. This thrilling and adrenaline-filled adventure is undoubtedly one of the most popular outdoor activities in Maui.
You don’t require any previous zipping or climbing experience, all you have to do is gear up with state-of-the-art equipment and whiz through the air at astonishing speeds in excess of 80 km/h (50 mph). There are various types of zip lines to enable you choose the one that suits you and within your budget.
The moment you jump into the crystal clear waters of Maui, you’ll certainly understand why the ever beautiful Molokini is considered Hawaii’s premier dive and snorkeling spot. Its conspicuous crescent shape acts as a perfect shield from strong currents and waves that make it appealing for kids, adults, beginner snorkelers and even expert scuba divers.
However, you’ll have to join a tour in order to snorkel and dive here. If that’s sorted, put on your flippers, grab your snorkel mask, plunge on in and enjoy the magical adventure of Molokini. Just don’t forget your underwater camera, you’ll thank us later.
While there are various ways to see and experience the Valley Isle, not even one comes closer to seeing Maui from a helicopter. Since Maui is popular for its attractive beaches, lush landscapes, beautiful reefs and soaring waterfalls, helicopter tours won’t disappoint you.
Whether you want to adventure with kids or your better half, you’ll be able to see the whole of Maui like birds do, in fact, in just one hour.
Saying that the Road to Hana (or Hana Highway as locals prefer to call it) is stunning is an understatement. Hugging the beautiful coastline, Road to Hana is full of gorgeous waterfalls, fertile valleys, wayside parks, verdant cliffs, beautiful vegetation, and iconic black and white sandy beaches in almost every turn.
To be honest, this road is undeveloped but stretches uninterrupted with a multitude of trails. At its finest, this road brings forth one of the most memorable and romantic road trips you’ll ever experience. You may want to do a lone road trip, but that’s not advisable because it can be dangerous, and it would be proper if you get a guide.
Are you looking for a tranquil, pleasurable, and fulfilling evening? Spend some time floating in the calm waters watching sunset from a Maui Dinner Cruise while enjoying an unforgettable dinner. These cruises set a romantic mood while the brilliant sunset casts a warm cascading light across you and your loved one.
Better still; indulge in sumptuous delicacies from the decks of these powerful yachts as they sail around. Oh, don’t forget that there’s additional live music, as well as skillfully-mixed cocktails to make it an even more special romantic escapade.
Great for kids and for romantic adventures, discover the unforgettable underwater with some snorkeling in Maui’s pristine beaches and come into close contact with sea turtle, colorful fish, popular reefs and coral formations.
Strengthen your romance in the best possible way by watching the amazing sun rise above the clouds.
However, you’ll have to get a permit to enable you get into the park before sunrise.
A visit to Maui will certainly be incomplete if you don’t experience the legendary luau, which gives you the chance to sip a mai tai at sunset in company of your kids, friends or loved ones.
Explore Hawaii’s WWII history with a visit to Pearl Harbor and experience fundamental sites that helped change the face of the United States during this educational and eye-opening day trip.
Here’s another chance to delve into an unforgettable underwater sea adventure. The kids will absolutely love it!
Explore Hawaii’s WWII history with a visit to Pearl Harbor and experience fundamental sites that helped change the face of the United States during this educational and eye-opening day trip.
Take a ride on a 20-minute Pineapple Express Train and get to learn about the history of the pineapple, Hawaii’s agriculture and the captivating life of James Dole, as well as other legendary stories about the old Hawaii.
Go native on an educational tour and test your Tongan spear throwing skills at the Polynesian Cultural Culture in Oahu. For almost five decades, the Center has provided exotic cultures and traditions of ancient Polynesia.
Get romantic and adventurous by visiting the ‘lao Valley State Park where you’ll peacefully explore the beauty of the West Maui Mountains.
Take your kids, better half and pack for a private tour with a private tour guide, and get to do what you want and stay as long as you want in some places. In short, just tailor make your day to fit your tastes.
Hop aboard a boat for a dolphin searching adventure. You’ll experience the thrill of watching wild dolphins in their natural habitat.
It doesn’t matter whether you like offshore or inshore fishing, just get on the boat with the fishing rods. Wait for the fish to bite your rod and put in a good fight. At the end of the day, we bet you’ll be quite pleased with your catch.
Humpback whales do migrate to Maui thanks to its warmer waters. You should therefore, grasp this chance to watch these rare giant marvels up close and personal.
Great for kids and for romantic adventures, discover the unforgettable underwater with some snorkeling in Maui’s pristine beaches and come into close contact with sea turtle, colorful fish, popular reefs and coral formations.
Parasailing is the ultimate way to get high on Maui. You can fly solo, with your kids, friends and better half in these thrilling and fun-full parasailing adventures.
Take part in adrenaline-pumping water sports adventures such as jet skiing, scuba diving and wakeboarding in Maui. They’re fun, pure and exciting.
Hire a kayak and go on a romantic adventure by explor-ing the inlets and coves of Maui’s shoreline. Morning hours provide best times for kayaking in terms of ocean conditions.
Escape from the crowds, buses and tour boats and get another glimpse of Maui’s best kept ocean secret: the turtles! The Turtle Town is the best spot to swim with these peaceful and majestic creatures as they lazily feed.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re a novice, you can learn a thing or two about surfing while vacationing in Maui. There are private surfing lessons for people of all ages.
There are few better ways to start a glorious day in Maui than by stand up paddling. Sign up for some quick paddling lessons and learn proper strokes and balancing techniques.
As you can see, the natural beauty of Maui and its extremes from its lush valleys, soaring waterfalls to stunning volcanoes make it a perfect paradise for tours and adventure. Whether you get thrilled to snorkel, bike, zip line or just watch the gorgeous land from the sky, Maui has it all!
Top Places to go Hiking
From leisurely and laid-back coastal paths to the more challenging and demanding volcanic, rainforest and mountainous terrains, Maui offers fabulous hiking trails.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re an expert hiker or a novice, Maui will reward you with lush forests, jaw-dropping views, native birds and breathtaking surprises like rare plants and hidden waterfalls.
Explore the Bamboo Forest on Pipiwai Trail
Located twelve miles past Hana on the South-West Side of Haleakala National Park in the Kipahulu District, Pipiwai Trail is a treasure trove that’ll amaze you with its amazing bamboo forests and an incredible waterfall to sum up your 4-mile round trip.
The Pipiwai trail can be daunting at times due to its steep terrain, but it’s superb if you’re looking for something adventurous, budget-friendly and romantic.
Visit and Take a Selfie on the Twin Falls
Twin Falls is ultimately the first easily accessible and free for public waterfall in a string of falls and pools that you’ll find on the Road to Hana.
Even though it’s dangerous given that it’s slippery and the risk of flash floods occurring at any time, Twin Falls is spectacular.
Do not let these dangers stop you from taking a Selfie, especially if you’re on a hurry but still seek some impromptu gratification. Better still, it’s perfect if you have kids in tow and would want to enjoy some free water activities.
Makahiku Falls- Oheo Gulch
Measuring nearly 200ft, the Makahiku Falls is undoubtedly one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the Oheo Gulch, which is also known as a place of Seven Sacred Pools.
When conditions are calm, Makahiku somehow turns into an infinite pool with a blue hue, which makes it so cool and proper for an afternoon romantic adventure.
The bad part is; the pool doesn’t go on forever since some unfortunate souls have fallen down 200ft to their untimely deaths, so you got to be very careful.
Waihee Ridge Trail
Ever wanted to hike to the top of a mountain and be in commune with the clouds? Well, this is what the spectacular Waihee Ridge Trail gives you.
Located in Westside of Maui Mountains, the Waihee Ridge Trail is a 5-mile round trip trail that will provide you with the chance to ascend 2,600ft above sea level through a lush forest full of wild guavas, kukui, ferns and ohia.
You’ll agree that photos don’t do the Waihee Ridge Trail proper justice, just take a romantic and adventurous hike on this trail and immerse yourself in the panoramic views of the Mountains and the ocean below.
Sliding Sand Trail and Halamau’u Trail
Beginning just off the highway at 7,900ft elevation, the Sliding Sand Trail and Halamau’u’ Trail offers sweeping and majestic views from the Haleakala Crater.
It doesn’t matter how far you travel, the red dirt of this unique trail will be a real treat that allows you to navigate past huge cliffs and cinder cones. You’ll cover 1.1 miles on your way up and a 2.6-mile descent once you reach the crater ridge south and into the heart of a marvelous wilderness.
Even though you may not want to take kids on the full length of this trail, it’s still a family friendly trail that’s free and quite captivating.
Find the 7 Sacred Pools
Popularly known as the 7 Sacred Pools, Ohe’o Gulch is a popular budget-friendly attraction in Maui. It features deep freshwater pools and cascading waterfalls along the Pipiwai Trail. It offers utmost peace and tranquility that’s perfect for a romantic adventure.
Kapalua Coastal Trail
This two-mile coastal pathway along Maui’s northwest coast is an easy, but beautiful trail where you’ll be treated to an impressive oceanfront and lush greenery in a very budget-friendly manner.
Lahaina Pali Trail
Built over two centuries ago as a pathway for travelers to get between Maalea and Ukumehame either by foot or on horseback, this one-way 5-mile (8kms) trail is rocky, zig-zagging and strenuous.
Nakalele Blowhole
Take this short hike and if you’re one of those lucky souls, you’ll experience nature’s real power at this phenomenal point along the Honoapiilani Highway.
When the tide is high, you’re likely to witness ocean water being spewed 100ft in the air in a glorious display of nature’s unadulterated beauty and power. It’s not surprising that there’s an overabundance of natural beauty in Maui, so it’s only better if you choose to stretch your legs and take them across Maui on an adventurous hike full of fine-looking topography and amazing escapades.
Top Free Things to do
You actually don’t have to break the bank to have some real good time in Maui. That’s because there are a plethora of fantastic things and locations that you can enjoy for FREE in this idyllic island! Most of these places and activities are free but some will charge a minimal fee, and we’ll note them accordingly.
Beach Hopping
The first thing that’ll probably go to your mind when it comes to vacationing in Hawaii is its marvelous and golden beaches. There are endless options that it becomes quite hectic choosing one from the other.
So what do you do? Go beach hopping!
The fact that there are no private beaches in Maui makes it much better; they’re all free and kid-friendly. All you’ve got to do is pack your swimming gears, some nice snacks and get going. You can hop from Kaanapali Beach, Black Sand Beach, Red Sand Beach, Hamoa Beach, Ukumehame Beach Park, all the way to Keawakapu Beach. Remember; they’re clean and among the best in the world.
Bring Your Glasses and Enjoy a Maui Sunset
Imagine watching the sunset in company of your loved one. That’s exactly what the west side of the Maui Island offers you. There are various spots to soak it all up and enjoy the spectacle show.
From Kaanapali, Kapalua to Lahaina, all these places are wonderful for a Maui sunset. Many of them might not be that private given that they’re all free, but there’s no doubt that you’ll enjoy a romantic sunset and evening.
We guarantee you that no sunset is the same, so soak up all the glorious sunset. Just don’t forget your sunglasses.
Meet and Mingle with Strangers at Maui Friday Town Parties
Spearheaded by the Maui County Office of Economic Development, Maui Fridays are a thing to behold! For four Fridays every month, each of Maui’s counties (Wailuku, Lahaina, Makawao and Kihei) holds evening parties that highlight the counties’ historic and unique traditions and shows.
From the Paniolo party in Makawao to the eccentric art show in Lahaina, these are special culture nights where you’ll enjoy free entertainment, meet and mingle with friendly and happy faces while enjoying an authentic and budget-friendly atmosphere full of great music, stellar drinks and sumptuous dishes.
Kids are more than welcome to these parties.
Visit the Banyan Tree
There are a lot of things to do in Maui, but the Banyan tree in Lahaina is a must-see attraction. Planted in 1873, this tree is said to be the biggest tree in the United States, and that’s pretty hard to dispute.
This is a historic and sprawling Lahaina landmark that has been turned into some sort of art in the park. The island organizes art fairs and community festivals under the shadows of the tree’s sweeping branches every second and fourth weekend of every month.
Visiting the banyan tree is amazing at anytime especially with kids, but we recommend an evening visit.
Kaanapali Historical Trail
Kaanapali might be a small town in the island of Maui, but it has the rare uniqueness of being home to the Kaanapali Historical Trail. So if you are a history and culture buff, don’t deny yourself the chance of having some fun and education on this free tour of one of Maui’s rich and interesting history.
Take a stroll in the Front Street and immerse yourself in what was once the capital of Hawaii. It’s free, good for kids to learn a thing or two about ancient Hawaii and will leave you craving for more.
Marvel at Fireworks Shows
Start off your July with Independence Day Fireworks in Lahaina and even a more magic one in Wailea on New Year’s Eve. It may look old-fashioned but it’s a budget-friendly way to have a romantic night or enjoy with kids
Kapalua Coastal Trail
This is one of west Maui’s most spectacular hikes. Stretch your legs on the easy coastal pathways all for free.
Wailea Beach Walk
Maui’s popular sun-kissed south shore has gorgeous beaches manicured lawns and paved shoreline walkways that makes it perfect for a romantic leisurely walk.
Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge
Take some time to walk with your kids along this coastal salt marsh. This is a wetland habitat for endangered water birds such as the Hawaiian Stilts.
Lahaina Historic Trail
Explore the 30-minute free walk on the Lahaina Historic Trail and explore the rich local history of this old town, which was once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom.
Keiki Hula Shows
Prepare to fall in love with children as they present an authentic Hula tra-dition every Saturdays and Sundays at the Lahaina Cannery Mall.
Learn Hula Lessons
Enjoy one-hour free Hula lessons at the Lahaina Cannery Mall at 5 p.m. Kids will love it, but so will adults.
Polynesian Dance Show
Even though you’ll have to pay $5 for parking if you have a car, you can enjoy how to do intricate Polynesian dances by learning a move or two every Tuesday and Thursday at the shops at Wailea.
Drink Maui Wines and Get Drunk in the Slopes of Haleakalat
Head upcountry to the slopes of Haleakala and enjoy some gorgeous views, peace and tranquility while downing some Maui wine.
Attend Free Community Festivals
Many of Maui community festivals are free and there’s at least one every month. Most of them honor the Native Hawaiian culture and include live music.
Hawaiian Music Concert
Enjoy the musical culture of Hawaii on the last Thurs-day of every month on the lawn of the historic Baldwin Home Museum in Lahaina
Learn to Play Ukulele
Learn some Ukulele playing techniques for free at La-haina Cannery Mall on Tuesdays at 11 a.m. and at The Shop t Wailea on Mondays at 5.30 p.m
Attend Whalers Village Events
Located in the heart of Kaanapali, there’s no shortage of something free at the Whalers Village. From lei-mak-ing demonstration to free Ukulele and Hula lessons, you’ll never lack some free shows.
Watch Surf Action at Ho’okipa Beach
Located on Maui’s north shore, Ho’okipa is one of the world’s top wind surfing spots, and you can sit back and enjoy the best surfers do their thing.
Be a Daredevil and Jump Off a Cliff at the Black Rock
Want to show your inner daredevil? Head to the Kaanapali Beach and jump off the enchanting Black Rock cliff. It’s however dangerous and nerve-wrecking.
It’s obviously true that Maui can’t top any charts when it comes to top budget-friendly destinations. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t find some free things if you know where to look. As you can see, some of the most popular and captivating stops in Maui are completely free, and will only require you to invest your precious time.
Top Foods to Try on Maui
From leisurely and laid-back coastal paths to the more challenging and demanding volcanic, rainforest and mountainous terrains, Maui offers fabulous hiking trails. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an expert hiker or a novice, Maui will reward you with lush forests, jaw-dropping views, native birds and breathtaking surprises like rare plants and hidden waterfalls.
Shaved Ice
Few things in life can either beat or match the pleasures of sharing a large cone of shaved ice with your loved ones while vacationing in Maui. You’ve got to understand that the weather in Maui is always warm and there’s rarely an hour when you’ll get the feeling that a cup or cone of shaved ice is inappropriate.
From locals and visitors to adults and children, shaved ice is an ever-constant affair because, it’s yummy, delicious, colorful and exotic. Remember; not all shaved ice are made equal, so you have to be a little choosy.
You can nonetheless, go for the world-famous Ululani’s shaved ice. It’ll never disappoint you!
Try the Famous Coco Puff
If you are on vacation in Maui and never heard of the world-famous coco puff, it’s high time you visit Liliha Bakery and grab the chance to bite down through each flavorful layer of the coco puff. This is basically a small puffed pastry that’s filled with a thick and semi-hard coconut and vanilla frosting and creamy chocolate pudding.
The coco puff will melt in your mouth, and will leave you craving for more. It’s quite affordable, and we bet the kids will love it even more.
Eat a Fresh and Healthy Bowl of Acai
This bowl is quite unique and tasty and is nothing short of perfect for families or for lovebirds.
The Coconut
Fresh coconut is a thing in Maui. You’ll find them in almost every corner of the island.
However, you don’t have to enjoy them as plain as they are; there’s a way that Hawaiians mix it with haupia sorbet, passion fruit sauce (lilikoi) and other fresh fruits to make it much more delicious.
Coconuts are quite cheap and healthy, so you got to enjoy them with your family or loved ones, but it doesn’t matter if you’re a solo traveler, you’ll want more.
Try Maui’s Loco Moco
As one of Hawaii’s original homemade fast foods, Loco Moco can be found at just about any fast food restaurant, lunch wagon or roadside diner in Maui. This sumptuous dish is unique and is made of fried eggs, hamburger patty, white rice and brown gravy, but can still include other variations such as ham, spam, kalua pork, bacon and many more.
It’s said that the Maui’s loco moco is great for curbing hangovers after a night of drinking and party, and so would be great for romantic couples after a night party in town.
Try the Famous Spam Musubi
Croissada
Try Freshly Made Poi
Explore the ancient Hawaiian super food called poi that’s made by pounding the root of taro before being wrapped with pork.
Try the Famous Chocolate Haupia by Ted’s Bakery
Located in Kamehameha Highway in Haleiwa, Ted’s Bakery is known for stocking refrigerated desserts and pastries, but their famous chocolate haupia cream pie is the best.
Enjoy a Delicious Poke Bowl
Try this incredibly fresh raw seafood that can be marinated in the sauce of your choosing. One of the most popular options is the ahi poke that’s made with yellow-fin tuna.
Hawaiian Plate
When in Hawaii, you have to try one of the traditional Hawaiian dishes such as chicken long rice, laulau, lomilomi salmon and kalua pork.
Saimin
This is the Hawaiian version of a piping hot bowl of noodles, which combine the elements of Japanese, Chinese and Filipino and an evidence of Hawaii as a crossroad of various cultures.
Taro Ko Farm Chips
These handmade potato chips are very rare and can only be found in Kauai in the historic town of Hanapepe at an old green house.
Luau Stew
Made from taro leaves, Luau stew is a traditional Hawaiian dish that’s cooked until it can literally melt in your mouth and can be served with beef brisket.
Strawberry Mochi
The Japanese rice cake is in no short supply in Hawaii and is available in various forms with the strawberry one being the most popular one.
Cow Pig Bun Burgers
This hamburger has garnered quite a following among meat eaters as it is delicious and flavorful.
Pasteles
This savory filing highlights the influence of Puerto Rican immigrants in Hawaii. It’s made of corn masa, grated green bananas and plantains.
Leoda’s Pies
Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop is located somewhere on the road to Lahaina from Maalea and is known to serve a range of pies that comes in a variety of flavors, some sweet some spicy.
Honu Seafood and Pizza Archi Bruschetta
Located in Lahaina just next to the ocean, this joint’s bruschetta is one of the most flavorful you’ll ever find. It’s made of local tomatoes and edamame puree.
Maui has a long and rich history of sumptuous and unique dishes. These dishes are evidences of Hawaiian culinary passion. You should do the Hawaiian cuisines some justice by sampling various dishes and immersing yourself into the authentic Hawaiian food culture.
Top Places to Visit
As we’ve noted earlier, Maui is one of the best places in the world. This idyllic island is full of enormous humpback whales, gorgeous beaches, sumptuous dishes and incredible sunsets and sunrises. That said, there are a lot of spectacular places to visit, relax, enjoy and have some downtime. You’ll never be disappointed.
Have some Educational Adventure at ‘lao Valley State Park
You should definitely visit and seek some adventure at the ‘lao Valley State Park if you’re in Maui and looking for something other than the spectacular beaches. Located in Central Maui and covering an area of 4,000 acres, this 10-mile long park is the place to go if you want to learn a thing or two about Maui’s tropical flora. That’s not all; this is home to the ‘lao State Monument, which is historically significant as the site where Kamehameha I conquered the Maui Army in the battle of Kepaniwai in 1790. Visiting this park is not free, but it’s quite affordable and perfect for both kids and adults.
Maui Tropical Plantation
Just when you thought that the Road to Hana excursion was thrilling and captivating, your journey in Maui will be incomplete if you don’t make a stop at the Maui Tropical Plantation.
This lush farm full of sugarcane and pineapple farms will give you a glimpse into a totally unique side of Maui. With over 500 acres, Maui Tropical Plantation will offer you educational tours and the chance to enjoy farm-driven restaurants and bars not just by yourself but with kids too.
Watch the Stars at the Haleakala Observatory
Soaring over 10,000ft above sea level, Haleakala is not only the world’s biggest dormant volcano but is also home to some of the best and most memorable views on Earth.
The spectacular views from the summit of the volcano are surreal, dramatic and will show you just how formidable Mother Nature is.
Perfect for a romantic tour, visiting the Haleakala is budget-friendly but offers a lot of valuable insights about the Earth as it’s one of the world’s leading astronomy observatories.
Front Street
Located in the town of Lahaina, Front Street is so cool and full of an amazing assortment of shops that conveniently stretch in a pedestrian-friendly road.
If you’re a shopaholic, it’ll be pretty hard to resist visiting Front Street. Full of inexpensive shops that sell elegant souvenirs and high-end art galleries, you’ll probably spend hours leisurely strolling this street and sampling some amazing pieces of art depicting Maui’s rich history.
Visit the West Maui Mountains
Even though the best way to see the West Maui Mountains may by helicopter, it cannot be dismissed that driving around the backside of west Maui will ultimately rival the Road to Hana. That’s because you’ll get the chance to get a glimpse of the West Maui Mountains, which is known as “the holding house of water.”
That said, these 1.7 million years old mountains will provide both you and your kids with the chance to bond through various water activities, as well as hiking.
Learn about the Ocean at the Maui Ocean Center
Come face-to-face with sharks, turtles and stingrays and other thousands of tropical fish at the Maui Ocean Centers. This 5-acre aquarium is family-friendly and perfect for learning about marine life.
Dive into History at the Bailey House Museum
Constructed in 1833, this lava rock and koa wood structure is known for its incredible collection of Hawaiian antiques and artifacts. It’s the oldest and largest history museum in Maui and offers you a chance to learn a couple of things about Hawaiian culture.
Visit the Hana Cultural Center
Visit Baldwin Home Museum
Built by Reverend Dwight Baldwin on Front Street in Lahaina, this museum offers an interesting and affordable way to get a glimpse of Maui during the colonial missionary life.
Visit Wai’napanapa State Park
Visit Makena State Park
Located south of Wailea, this 165-acre beach is so big that it’s also known as the Big Beach. It’s filled with dramatic cliff landscape and brilliant blue/green water. Great for swimming, snorkeling and picnic.
Visit Kamaole Beach Park III
Ho’okipa
More popular for sightseeing than for swimming, this beach on Maui’s north shore is world-renowned as an impressive and dramatic windsurfing destination.
Red and Sand Beach
Unlike any other, this beach in Kaihalulu is a dramatic and gorgeous hidden cove with its crunchy red cinders making it a blissful scene.
Baldwin Beach Park
Located just outside Paia, this beach is picturesque thanks to its wonderful scenery, width and soft sand, ultimately making it perfect for community gathering with its lifeguards, picnic tables, bathrooms, showers and many more.
Wailua Falls
Waimoku Falls
Hike to the end of the famous Pipiwai Trail and you’ll find this falls just above the Seven Sacred Pool.
La Perouse Bay
This is the only place that could rival the Molokini Crater if you want to experience some great snorkeling adventure. Located near Wailea, head there in the morning and the blue waters and its lava rocks shoreline will be a sight to behold!
Kanaha Beach Park
It’s one of the best locations for windsurfing, kiting and sightseers. It’s beautiful, it’s big and offers epic views!
Upper Waikani Falls
Located on the Road to Hana, this falls is small but really gorgeous. It’s however, very dangerous and you shouldn’t be tempted to dive in if you aren’t an expert diver.
Kaumahina State Wayside Park
Makena Landing Park
Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve
Ulua Beach
Black Rock Beach
Makahiku Falls
Garden of Eden Arboretum
D.T Fleming Park
Located in Lahaina, this public beach doesn’t seem like one. It’s so gorgeous, so well-maintained that you’d think it’s a private beach. It has soft sand and gentle waves, thus great for surfing lessons.
Pua’aKa’a State Wayside Park
Further down on the Road to Hana, you’ll find this small but real gorgeous swimming hole. It has bathrooms, picnic tables, a parking space and you’ll be captivated by the sweet scent of ginger and lush jungle flower.
Black Sand Beach
Located just off the Road to Hana, this beach is not only unique thanks to its black sand but is also great for snorkeling and diving. It is home to seabird colony, ancient lava caves, secret blowholes and offer panoramic views.
Kalama Skate Park
Even though it’s currently closed after it was recently vandalized, this public beachfront skating park in Kihei is a great community spot where people of all ages, adults and kids, horn their skate moves. It has a playground, BBQ grills, picnic tables, sports court and bathrooms and showers.
Launiupoko Beach Park
You’ll love this 6.7-acre beach park in Lahaina as it offers beautiful grass, an incredible shoreline, as well as a natural pool enclosed with lava rocks and picnic tables.
Lahaina Harbor
It’s conveniently located in downtown Lahaina off the famous Front Street and behind the Banyan Tree. It offers incredible ocean activities from snorkeling, surfing to Whale watching. Oh, it’s a gorgeous harbor too!
Airport Beach Park
Still in Lahaina, this beach boasts an expansive grass lawn, a huge covered gazebo and tons of free parking spaces. It’s great for board walking and is popular for BBQs and picnics. Showers and restrooms aren’t a problem.
Kula Botanical Garden
Hamoa Beach
Koki Beach
Still in Hana, this culturally significant beach has no restroom facilities but is different from the others. It’s rugged but very beautiful.
You’ll realize that Maui is more than just full of pristine beaches and sky blue waters. It’s pretty hard to miss something that will captivate your imagination. Whether you love nature, shopping or even science, Maui has you totally covered.
Best Places to Shop
Want to take a little bit of paradise home with you? Well, you don’t have to worry because Maui has some of the best shops that will entice you to open your wallet and spend on art, high-end clothing designs, colorful Hawaiian clothing, exotic fruits and many more. All you got to do is know where to go shopping.
Front Street
There are also a plethora of jewelry shops that offer something for every budget. It’s often recommended that you combine Front Street shopping
with a romantic stroll while also sampling its dining gems. Most places open until late and would be ultimately ideal for a romantic shopping and adventure.
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Whalers Village
Whalers Village in Ka’anapali offer both guests and locals the chance to enjoy some beach time while shopping at the same time. This village is pretty amazing given that it offers both indoor and outdoor shopping areas that amicably offer a mix of high-end international brands and down-to-earth local stores.
The village also offers a lot of other activities such as dining options and hula performances that would be great for kids and for those looking to enjoy some romantic time in between their shopping expeditions. Some of the shops that you’ll find here include; Coach Swarovski, Tommy Bahama, Georgiu and Louis Vuitton.
Hana Fresh Farmers Market
Local growers not only sell farm produce of all kinds but you’ll also come across vendors trying to convince you to buy unique arts and crafts.
This is the one place that you must visit when in Hana and in need of some fresh and healthy farm produce to keep you going, especially when you’re on a budget.
Wailea Shopping Experience
The fact that there’s a shuttle running from the area resort to the shopping complex makes it ideal if you’re in company of kids and looking for a budget-friendly way to spend some little money.
Lahaina Center
Some of the most impressive place in the Old Center are the Hawaiian village known as Hale Kahiko and the Lahaina Cannery Mall that’s home to popular international and national brands, as well as local arts and crafts.
As you’d expect, most of these places are budget-friendly and very inviting.
Dive into History at the Bailey House Museum
Maui Marketplace
Queen Ka’ahumanu Center
Lahaina Cannery Mall
With its numerous international shops, art galleries, shopping malls, designer boutiques and incredible farmers markets, Maui is undoubtedly a shopper’s paradise. You’ll discover the atmosphere of creativity once you enter these shops and will nod to the fact that Maui has become Hawaii’s premier all-round shopping destination.
Top Restaurants to Eat
So all you have to do is find a place that suits your taste buds, and it’s not that hard. That’s because the island is full of restaurants that offer an exotic blend of Hawaiian culinary with a range of other culinary exports.
This is because the restaurant is dedicated to handcrafted food, drink and merrymaking in a simple but passionate way. That’s why this Wailea hotspot is always full of foodies, beer lovers, lovebirds and families who want to escape their day-to-day stresses and enjoy some sumptuous meal and ice-cold beer in company of like-minded patrons.
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Word going round is that Mama’s serve fish so fresh that the menu includes the name of the fisherman who caught it, a few hours before it landed on your table. Well, if that’s true, then there’s no doubt that this is a truly special place that’s perfect for a special romantic occasion.
Led by Chef Jeff Scheer, this restaurant takes a fearless creativity approach in preparing a wide range of dishes that you’ll devour while looking at the breathtaking Waikapu Valley through huge windows, which makes it a perfect romantic setting.
You may want to try the ahi club sandwich or the kombucha drink. Oh, the restaurant also offers live music at night.
If only there was an award for “extraordinary restaurants in the unlikeliest of locations,” Hali’maile General Store would deservedly run with the title. Located in Makawao, this classic restaurant is historical and has been praised for serving some of the best Hawaiian regional dishes for over three decades now.
Its location may be sleepy and with no other hotels, but Hali’maile General Store continues to attract couples and food aficionados, thanks to its grilled rack of lamb, fresh seafood, juicy fruits and many more.
Located in Kihei, this is an award-winning restaurant that offers a wide selection of dishes that are inspired by Maui’s multi-ethnicity.
Named after Hawaii’s state fish, this is a Polynesian thatch-roof restaurant that floats on a lagoon in Wailea. It offers sumptuous Hawaiian dishes, but they’re pricey.
Located in on the Front Street in Lahaina, this critically acclaimed offers a great dining experience and is popular with both locals and visitors thanks to its superb dishes and incredible location.
Located in Kihei, this restaurant has been around for the last two decades and was invited to cook at the Inaugural Luai in Washington D.C. when President Obama was first elected into office.
Another one located in Kihei, this is a great place to sample the tasty and reasonably priced seafood in Maui such as Ahi, Opakapaka, Ono, Mahi Mahi and many more.
There’s no doubt that the best restaurants in Maui offer an exotic blend of sumptuous dining options that will satisfy your sweet tooth, fill your stomach and make a special occasion more special. Most of them are set in breathtaking spots, are budget-friendly and perfect for families, lovebirds and solo souls.
Conclusion
From miles of pristine beaches, world-class shopping to thousands of things to do and gorgeous places to do, you can never go wrong with Maui. Whether you’re traveling alone, with your better half or with your kids, Maui is perfect for just about anyone.
Well, a lot of things might be pricey, but there are a plethora of free things and a lot more that are budget-friendly. That said, book your flight, park your bags and get to enjoy the best that the Valley Isle has to offer.