Aloha! Welcome to our guide to fun things to do in Maui! Maui, the Valley Isle, beckons with its stunning beaches, dormant volcanoes, and lush rainforests. Whether you’re an adventurer seeking heart-pounding thrills, a sun worshiper yearning for relaxation, or a foodie craving unique flavors, Maui has something for everyone. This blog will be your one-stop guide to crafting the perfect Maui itinerary, packed with fun things to do, see, and experience on this unforgettable island paradise.
From the moment you arrive, Maui’s vibrant charm is visible. Start your journey with a sunrise visit to Haleakalā National Park, where the view from the summit of the volcano will leave you in awe. For beach lovers, the island boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches like Kaanapali, Wailea, and Makena.
Adventure seekers can explore the island’s lush landscapes through hiking trails or embark on a thrilling zip-lining experience. Don’t forget to dive into Maui’s rich marine life with snorkeling or scuba diving trips at Molokini Crater or Turtle Town. And of course, drive the Road to Hana. With so much to see and do, your days in Maui will be filled with unforgettable moments and stunning scenery.
Haleakalā National Park Sunrise
We’ll kick off our fun things to do in Maui list with an unforgettable experience: a sunrise tour at Haleakalā. This adventure begins in the early morning hours, but the reward is worth every bit of lost sleep. As you ascend to the summit of this dormant volcano, you’ll witness the sky transform with a palette of vibrant colors, offering one of the most spectacular sunrises you’ll ever see.
The view from the top, at over 10,000 feet above sea level, provides a panoramic glimpse of Maui’s rugged landscape and the vast Pacific Ocean. Whether you choose to drive up or join a guided tour, experiencing the sunrise at Haleakalā is a magical way to start your Maui adventure. Below are a couple of fun tours to check out:
1. Mountain Riders – Maui Sunrise Volcano Tour
The tour starts with pick-up at 2:45 am (booking in advance is essential) and returns by 9:45 am. After a van ride, the beautiful sunrise itself is viewed from the rim of the crater! The adventure continues with a scenic 26-mile downhill bike ride through diverse landscapes, ending at a beach park. The tour includes transportation, snacks, a windbreaker, a helmet, and a cruiser bike for the downhill ride!
2. Aloha Motorsports – Haleakala Volcano Summit Sunrise or Sunset Adventure Tour – Navigation Guided
Combining one of Maui’s top destinations with the ultimate Hawaiian joyride, you’re in for an experience that creates memories to last a lifetime! The climb to the top is nothing short of breathtaking, especially with the Slingshot’s (an exotic car) unobstructed views. Near the summit, you’ll gaze into a massive crater that stretches 2 miles wide and 7 miles long.
From this vantage point, enjoy a stunning 360-degree panorama of Maui, the ocean, and the neighboring island! If time permits, on your descent, consider stopping by the Maui Pineapple Winery or exploring one of the several nearby botanical gardens.
For the Beach Lovers
For those who crave relaxation, the island boasts some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. Imagine sinking your toes into the soft sand of Ka’anapali Beach, a three-mile stretch of paradise perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Or perhaps snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters off Wailea Beach, teeming with colorful marine life.
If you’re seeking a more secluded escape, Makena Beach offers a vast expanse of white sand, ideal for long walks and soaking up the tranquility of the island. Maui caters to every beach lover’s dream, from lively shores to hidden coves which makes visiting these pristine beaches among the top fun things to do in Maui.
Ka’anapali Beach
Located on the island’s west coast, Ka’anapali Beach is renowned for its golden sands and crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. This beach is also home to the famous Black Rock, a popular spot for cliff diving and exploring vibrant marine life.
Cliff diving at Black Rock is a tradition dating back to the time of Maui’s ancient Hawaiian warriors. Today, you can watch daring cliff divers leap from the rock into the deep blue waters below, or if you’re adventurous, take the plunge yourself.
Beneath the surface, Black Rock is surrounded by thriving marine ecosystems, making it one of the best snorkeling spots on the island. Here, you can encounter a variety of marine species, including Hawaiian green sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and the occasional manta ray.
The beauty and excitement of Ka’anapali Beach, coupled with its luxurious beachfront resorts and vibrant atmosphere, make it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Maui’s coastal wonders.
Wailea Beach
Wailea Beach, situated in the upscale resort area of Wailea, is known for its calm waters and luxurious surroundings. Here, you can indulge in a day of relaxation on the soft, sandy shores or take a leisurely stroll along the scenic coastal path that connects several beautiful beaches and offers breathtaking ocean views.
For those who prefer a bit more activity, Wailea Beach offers a range of water sports, from gentle paddleboarding to exhilarating snorkeling adventures where you can explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter an array of tropical marine life. The calm waters make it an excellent spot for both beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.
One of the highlights of Wailea Beach is the scenic coastal path that winds along the shoreline, connecting several stunning beaches in the area. This beautifully landscaped path offers breathtaking ocean views and is perfect for a leisurely stroll, morning jog, or romantic sunset walk. As you meander along the path, you’ll encounter lush tropical gardens, picturesque coves, and panoramic vistas of the Pacific Ocean.
The luxurious ambiance of Wailea Beach is enhanced by the presence of several high-end resorts and spas that line the coast. These establishments offer top-notch services, from gourmet dining to relaxing spa treatments, ensuring that your beach day can be as pampered or as active as you desire. Whether you’re indulging in a beachfront massage, savoring a cocktail at a beachside bar, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere, Wailea Beach provides a perfect blend of relaxation and luxury, making it a must-visit destination on your Maui itinerary.
Makena Beach
Makena Beach, also known as Big Beach, is one of Maui’s largest and most picturesque beaches. Its expansive shoreline and striking turquoise waters make it an ideal spot for beachcombing, picnicking, and bodyboarding. Makena’s remote and unspoiled beauty provides a more secluded and tranquil beach experience, perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Big Beach’s vast expanse makes it an ideal spot for a variety of activities. Beachcombing is a popular pastime here, with the wide, sandy stretch providing ample opportunities to discover unique shells and other seaside treasures. The gentle slope of the beach into the clear, warm waters makes it perfect for wading and swimming. Picnickers can set up along the shore, enjoying a meal with the soothing sound of the waves in the background and panoramic views of the ocean.
For those seeking a bit more excitement, Makena Beach is renowned for its excellent bodyboarding conditions. The consistent shore break provides thrilling rides for both beginners and experienced bodyboarders. However, it’s important to note that the waves here can be powerful, so caution is advised, especially for those not familiar with ocean conditions.
What truly sets Makena Beach apart is its remote and unspoiled beauty. Unlike some of the more developed beaches on Maui, Big Beach has remained relatively untouched, offering a more secluded and tranquil experience. The absence of major resorts and commercial development means that visitors can enjoy the natural splendor of this beach without the usual crowds. Towering cliffs at either end of the beach add to its dramatic scenery, providing a sense of seclusion and privacy.
The serene environment makes Makena Beach a perfect retreat for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of more crowded tourist spots. Here, you can find a quiet spot to relax, read a book, or simply soak in the sun and the peaceful atmosphere. The surrounding area also offers hiking trails and scenic overlooks, such as the nearby Puʻu Ōlaʻi cinder cone, which provides panoramic views of the coastline and the neighboring islands of Molokini and Kahoʻolawe.
Photo Courtesy of MauiGuidebook.com
Bamboo Forest Hiking
Another fun thing to do in Maui is hiking through the bamboo forests. It’s an enchanting experience that immerses you in a world of serene beauty and natural wonder. As you venture along the trails, you’ll find yourself surrounded by towering bamboo stalks that sway gently with the breeze, creating a mesmerizing rustling sound. The dense canopy above filters the sunlight, casting a dappled glow on the forest floor and creating a mystical atmosphere.
One of the most popular spots to experience this is the Pipiwai Trail, located in Haleakalā National Park, which leads you through a stunning bamboo grove on your way to the majestic Waimoku Falls. The hike offers a unique opportunity to witness the lush, green landscape up close, with the bamboo towering high above, creating a sense of peaceful seclusion. The combination of the soothing sounds, the fresh forest air, and the striking natural beauty makes hiking through Maui’s bamboo forests a truly unforgettable adventure. Check out these hiking adventures:
1. Holo Holo Maui Tours – Bamboo Forest Trek
Experience the road less traveled on a journey that takes you through Maui’s verdant countryside, jagged lava fields, and expansive pastures. As you traverse this diverse landscape, you’ll be treated to views of towering cliffs, bluffs, and rugged coastline. Your adventure will lead you to Haleakalā National Park and the Pools of ‘Oheʻo, where you can take the Kuloa Point Trail to witness the crashing waves at the stream’s mouth.
Embark on a four-mile hike through the famed Bamboo Forest, marveling at 200-foot and 400-foot waterfalls along the way, and admire an immense Banyan tree. Learn about indigenous plants and non-native species as you savor local, seasonal exotic fruit at the Ono Farms Produce Stand. Arrive in Hāna town, the seat of power for all of Maui in the 15th century and once favored by Ali’i (Hawaiian royalty). Explore Waiʻanapanapa State Park, touch a real black sand beach, and swim if you choose.
Walk to a blowhole along the rugged coastline and enter a sea cave that exits at the Pacific Ocean. Stop at Coconut Glen’s for delicious ice cream and candy. Set out on the scenic coastal drive of the Road to Hāna, where you’ll witness numerous waterfalls, shoreline views, rainforest, and diverse flora and fauna.
Unique Maui Tours | Explore Maui Nature – 7 Sacred Pools & Bamboo Forest Hike
This tour is perfect for adventurers and hikers eager to explore beyond the typical postcard views and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Maui! The 7 Sacred Pools & Bamboo Forest Hike offers an unforgettable 10-11 hour road trip filled with thrilling adventures, majestic waterfalls, a mesmerizing bamboo forest, a stunning black sand beach, delicious local treats, and breathtaking views of the Valley Isle.
Partnering with their sister company, Explore Maui Nature, they are now one of only two private tour companies with a hiking permit into Haleakalā National Park. This exclusive tour takes you to the Kipahulu section of the park, where you can marvel at the world-famous Seven Sacred Pools, also known as ‘Ohe’o Gulch (note that the pools may not be open for swimming).
You’ll hike up the valley on the Pipiwai Trail, encountering amazing waterfalls, traversing through a dense bamboo forest, and passing by an ancient banyan tree. This tour promises a unique and immersive experience of Maui’s most spectacular natural wonders!
Conclusion of Fun Things to Do in Maui (Part 1)
Maui offers a diverse array of unforgettable experiences that cater to every kind of adventurer. Start your journey with a breathtaking sunrise tour at Haleakalā, where the vibrant colors of dawn illuminate the island’s highest peak. Spend your days basking on the pristine beaches of Kaanapali, Wailea, and Makena, each offering unique beauty and activities from snorkeling to sunbathing.
For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, hiking through Maui’s lush forests, including the enchanting bamboo groves and trails leading to majestic waterfalls, provides a serene and awe-inspiring escape. Whether you’re chasing the first light of day, enjoying the coastal splendor, or exploring verdant landscapes, Maui promises a rich tapestry of memories that will last a lifetime.
Come back next week for more fun things to do in Maui where you’ll read more about snorkeling, whale watching, and the famous Road to Hana! Can’t wait? Check out our Maui activity page here for fun things to do on Maui!