20 Best Things to Do on Maui

The legend of Maui — the demigod who, with his brothers, pulled the Hawaiian Islands from the ocean floor with his magical fishing hook — has inspired generations across the Pacific. On Maui's namesake island, nicknamed “The Valley Isle,” a vast central valley lies between two ancient volcanoes: Haleakalā and Mauna Kahalawai (the West Maui Mountains).

Over the millennia Maui’s geography has changed drastically. Formed by six different volcanoes, the islands of Maui, Molokaʻi, Lanaʻi and Kahoʻolawe were once a single landmass known as Maui Nui (“Great Maui”). Rising sea levels eventually separated the islands, though they are still legally linked today and all part of Maui County.

With lush rainforests, over 30 miles of beaches, charming towns and some of the best food in Hawaiʻi, Maui offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, snorkeling around a volcanic crater or watching the sunrise from above the clouds, these are 20 of the best things to do on Maui.

Located in Māʻalaea Harbor, the Maui Ocean Center acts as a cultural hub, marine life sanctuary, educational center and place to grab lunch and a show all in one. From its world-class aquarium featuring rays, reef sharks, sea turtles and more, to its sustainable seafood farm-to-table cuisine, it’s one of the best family-friendly attractions on the island. In the evening, come for the Migrations Dinner Show — a multi-cultural performance that captures the local spirit of the Hawaiian Islands.

Once a retreat for Hawaiian royalty, Kāʻanapali Beach stretches three miles along West Maui’s sunny coast. Swim, snorkel or sunbathe its golden sands. Afterward, visit nearby Whaler’s Village for an Island Vintage Shave Ice (the lilikoʻi-strawberry is our favorite) and to shop local brands like Aloha Collection. Then head back to the beach for the daily cliff-diving ceremony at Puʻu Kekaʻa (Black Rock) just before sunset.

Just a short boat ride offshore, Molokini is a crescent-shaped island with crystal-clear water and an abundance of coral and tropical fish. It is an ideal location for snorkeling and scuba diving. Take a Molokini snorkeling tour for the best experience. If you’re going between December and April, you may even spot a whale on the way. According to the Hawai’i Tourism Authority, the U.S. military used Molokini Crater for bombing practice during World War II. After years of protests and lobbying, the US government deemed Molokini Crater and the surrounding 77 acres a Marine Life Conservation District and Bird Sanctuary.

Located in the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park, the Pipiwai Trail winds through a bamboo forest to Makahiku Falls and the towering 400-foot Waimoku Falls. The 4-mile round trip takes about two hours. Hikers should wear sturdy shoes and bring water. The trail gets steep and curves around a fresh-water stream. Pipiwai Trail is considered one of the best hiking trails on Maui by visitors and locals alike.

The underwater valleys that once connected Maui, Molokaʻi, Lanaʻi and Kahoʻolawe are shallower than the surrounding ocean, providing shelter for an abundance of marine life — including the humpback whales that migrate to Hawaiian waters during winter months to give birth to their calves. From December through April, thousands of humpback whales migrate to Maui’s warm waters to breed and nurse their young. Book a whale-watching tour to get the best vantage point. Some boats feature hydrophones so you can listen to whale songs underwater.

Once the historic seat of Maui’s government, Wailuku is now a creative hub filled with colorful murals, boutique shops, art galleries and great restaurants. Start at Wailuku Coffee Co. for coffee and breakfast, then browse local art or vintage vinyl at Request Music. Grab a craft cocktail at Esters Fair Prospect and dinner at their sister restaurant The Parlay next door. Then catch a show at the ʻIao Theater. Better yet, visit on the first Friday of the month when the streets turn into a local art, music and food festival.

Mākena’s Maluaka Beach — nicknamed Turtle Town — is famous for its resident green sea turtles. Paddle out with a small group and tour guide in calm waters (takes about 15-20 minutes) and snorkel above a lively coral reef teeming with parrotfish, octopuses and manta rays. Remember to never touch or get too close to sea turtles, as they are an endangered species in the U.S. It is a federal offense to have any physical contact with a sea turtle.

This 5-mile round-trip trail climbs in a Cook pine forest along a lush ridge in the West Maui Mountains. On clear days, you’ll see the coastline, Haleakalā and waterfalls cascading through the valley below. Arrive before 9 a.m. for parking, bring water and sunscreen and expect mud and wet conditions.

Towering 10,023 feet above sea level, the largest dormant volcano in the world, Haleakalā, offers one of the world’s most dramatic volcanic landscapes. Haleakalā translates to “house of the sun,” and offers stunning sunrise views above the clouds. You can also hike one of the park’s many trails (for all skill levels) or arrive late for sunset and stargazing. Stop into the Visitor Center to learn about the park’s endemic species and unique ecology. Reservations are required for sunrise visits (3–7 a.m.) — book a tour for the best sunrise experience. Dress warmly, temperatures before sunrise can dip below 40°F. Daytime hiking is the best option for experiencing the park with the least crowds. Admission is $30 per vehicle (valid for three days). For more information visit: nps.gov/hale

Experience Hawaiian music, hula and cuisine at an authentic lūʻau. Some of our favorites include:

• Old Lāhainā Lūʻau — known for traditional hula and oceanfront sunsets.

• Te Au Moana Lūʻau at the Wailea Beach Marriott.

• Maui Nui Lūʻau at the Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa.

• Grand Lūʻau at Grand-Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort.

Located on the slopes of Haleakalā, Kula Botanical Garden features native Hawaiian plants, colorful orchids and panoramic views of the central valley. It’s a peaceful stop on any Upcountry drive. Fun fact, Maui’s official flower is the loke lani (pink cottage rose) and the official color is pink.

This park on the Road to Hāna is famous for its black-sand beach, sea arches and freshwater caves. Advanced reservations are required for out-of-state visitors (no same-day bookings).$10 for parking or $5 per walk-in visitor. Entry and parking for Kamaʻāina is free. For more info visit: gowaianapanapa.com

Upscale Wailea offers a great selection of dining, designer boutiques, local shops and galleries.The Shops at Wailea is where you will find both local and designer brands and Aurum Maui – excellent farm-to-table cuisine and craft cocktails. Just a short walk away is celebrity chef Chris Cosentino’s Koast, Hawaiʻi Regional Cuisine pioneer Peter Merriman’s Monkeypod Kitchen, upscale neighborhood eatery Spoon & Key Market, the award-winning Lahaina Brewing Co., craft tiki bar Tikehau Lounge and a new farm store by ʻOkoʻa Farms.

Experience local life in the cooler uplands around Makawao and Kula. Visit ʻOkoʻa Farms Store for fresh produce, stop at T. Komoda Store & Bakery for cream puffs, enjoy authentic Neopolitan pizza at Marlow and browse the Upcountry Farmers Market on Saturdays from 7-11 a.m. There are also farm tours galore in Upcountry. We love the Waikulu Distillery, Aliʻi Kula Lavender farm, Surfing Goat Dairy, Ocean Organic Farm and Distillery and Kula County Farms.

This crescent-shaped beach, fronting several luxury resorts, is perfect for swimming, snorkeling and paddleboarding. Calm mornings make it one of Maui’s best sunrise spots. You can also see the Hawaiian island of Kaho’olawe, Molokini and Lana’i from here. Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort faces this beach and is one of the best places to stay in Wailea. The resort arranges morning canoe paddles, which offer sunrise views – a perfect way to start the day.

This iconic coastal drive winds through rainforests, waterfalls and seaside cliffs. Stop at Garden of Eden Arboretum, Honomanu Bay, and Kahanu Garden & Piʻilanihale Heiau – a massive ancient temple built from lava rock. For the best experience — and to help cut down on traffic — take a tour.

Take a Maui horseback riding tour led by paniolos (Hawaiian cowboys) with ocean and valley views. You’ll learn about paniolo culture and history in Hawai’i as you trot by kalo (taro) fields and old plantations towards Waiheʻe Valley. No experience required.

From poke bowls to fresh fish tacos, Maui’s food truck scene is thriving. Try Kinaole Grill in Kīhei or South Maui Fish Company for local flavor on the go. Some of the best food trucks are located next to Costco in Kahului. You can also find good options at The Cannery Dining Lot in Lahaina and at the ​​Kulamalu Food Truck Lot by Longs in Pukalani (Upcountry).

The ultra-lush ʻIao Valley is located in central Maui west of Wailuku Town. This 4,000-acre park is home to Maui’s 1,200-foot Kuka‘emoku (also known as the ʻĪao Needle), the Hawaiʻi Nature Center, an ethnobotanical garden and hiking trails. In 1790 Kamehameha I conquered the Maui army here in the battle of Kepaniwai. Come early when skies are clear for the best views. Advance reservations are required for out-of-State residents. Reservations can be made at https://gostateparks.hawaii.gov. Kamaʻāina can enter for free with a valid ID.

On the North Shore, visit the colorful plantation-era storefronts of Pā’ia. Here, you can meander through galleries, boutiques, restaurants and Mana Foods, a well-stocked health food store that has been beloved by the local community since 1983.

Important Things to Know Before Visiting Hawaiʻi

• Don’t leave anything of value in your car. In some tourist-heavy locations, cars — especially rental cars — have been broken into.

• Don’t leave your valuables unattended on the beach.

• Do not touch sea turtles, monk seals or any wildlife. These are protected, endangered animals, and it’s against the law to touch them or even get too close.

• Do not take rocks, sand, plants or animals from beaches or hiking trails. You may be removing something sacred or a native or endemic species that’s endangered in the area. Leave everything in nature as you found it.

• Do not leave any trash behind — anywhere.

• Heed warning signs at the beach. Lifeguards post signs for hazards such as strong currents, jellyfish sightings and high surf. Take these cautions seriously.

• Do not venture off the beaten path. Straying from marked hiking trails can cause land degradation. You may also be stepping on private or sacred grounds.

• Be mindful of your noise level. Don’t be the loud tourist who disrupts others’ experiences. It’s disrespectful — and a good way not to be invited back.

• Wear reef-safe sunscreen. It’s against the law in Hawaiʻi to use anything else. Help protect this fragile ecosystem.

Maui Activity FAQs

• What is the weather like on Maui? Temperatures on Maui range from 70 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, although the slopes of Haleakala Crater often see lows of 40 degrees. The lowest recorded temperature on Haleakala was 14 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Do I need to rent a car to do these Maui activities? Yes, Maui is a big island and attractions are spread out.

• What are the most popular free attractions on Maui? Beaches, hiking, snorkeling (on your own without a tour) and The Branches – a monthly music performance under the stars at Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows.

• How many days should I spend on Maui? We recommend spending at least 4-5 nights on Maui as there is so much to do all over the island.

• What’s the best way to get around Maui? The best way to get around Maui is to rent a car. The bus and rideshare are limited.

• Which Maui activities require a reservation? You should make reservations for restaurants, lūʻau, shows at Maui Ocean Center, snorkeling and whale watching tours, Haleakalā National Park, Waiʻānapanapa State Park, farm tours, ʻĪao valley state monument, horseback riding and tours to Hana.

• What are the best outdoor activities on Maui? Visiting beaches and parks; hiking; water activities such as surfing, swimming, snorkeling, whale watching boat tours and scuba diving and The Branches – a monthly music performance under the stars at Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows.

• What are the top cultural attractions on Maui? Maui Ocean Center, Migrations Dinner Show, Mele: The Hawaiian Music Experience, Oni Foundation, Kahanu Garden and Piʻilanihale Heiau, ʻIao Valley State Monument, Maui Arts & Cultural Center and Haleki'i-Pihana Heiau State Monument.