SamMaui is known for its stunning beauty. From reefs and beautiful beaches, to valleys and lush green mountains, there is so much to explore throughout this island. Having spent months on Maui, here are all of the things you must do and see during your time on the island. You will leave having fully experienced the best that Maui has to offer!
Whale Watching
During the months of December through March, Maui becomes a hotspot for humpback whales. Whales from all over the pacific migrate to these warm coastal waters every winter to breed and give birth. The high activity levels make the waters off Maui one of the best places to whale watch in the world!
If you are visiting during these months, you absolutely cannot miss out on a whale watching tour. Humpback whales are very curious, playful, and social creatures. The whales are known for putting on a show, so if you get lucky you may see some breach for you. Interacting with them in their natural habitat is an incredible experience that you will never forget.
Road to Hana
The Road to Hana is a world renowned scenic road on the western side of Maui. Featuring 620 curves and 59 bridges over the course of the 52 mile road, the Road to Hana is not for the faint of heart. It truly is the “hawaiian rollercoaster ride.”
The crazy road, in combination with the bounty of waterfalls, lush greenery, and scenic views are something you can’t miss out on.
There is so much to see along the Road to Hana, but it can be hard to fit it all in. Therefore, I highly suggest purchasing the audio tour of the Road to Hana through the Shaka Maui App. The app will narrate the entire trip, sharing historical, cultural, and geological facts about the landscape surrounding you.
Stops you can’t miss:
- Coconut Glens
- Wailua Falls
- Koke Beach (for the best huli huli chicken on the island)
- Wai’anapanapa State Park *reservations required*
- Lava Tubes
- Pipiwai Bamboo trail
If you are going to take on the Road to Hana, I highly suggest spending a night in Hana. There is so much to explore and you will not want to feel rushed. The slow paced of Hana is what the experience is about.
Haleakalā National Park
There is a magical presence within Haleakalā National Park. While there is a lot to do in the park, the best way to experience the beauty is by far to watch the sunrise at the summit of the mountain.
Haleakalā crater is an incredibly unique ecosystem, with lots of endangered flora and fauna thriving in its rarity. There are very few places in the world where you can experience the sunrise above the clouds, let alone in such an extraordinary landscape.
The sunrise ritual at the summit of Haleakala is a magical experience. The park rangers perform a native chant as the sun rises above the horizon. Breathing in the mountain air while listening to the beautiful words leaves you feeling more deeply connected to the land and the culture of Maui.
Explore the Ocean
Take a look into the deep blue by giving snorkeling a try! Maui is full of rich reef systems, and is one of the best places within the Hawaiian Islands to snorkel. With many opportunities, from beginner to advanced, Maui has endless opportunities for underwater exploration. This is the best way to get an intimate look at the magic of Maui’s reefs. With a bounty of fish and turtles, you are sure to have a great experience.
To find the best areas to snorkel based on the daily weather, check out the snorkel report. This report is updated each morning and gives an insight into the areas on the island with the best water conditions. I would note that these ratings are targeted towards beginner snorkelers, so keep that in mind when they warn of strong currents and bad conditions. You know your abilities best!
For more info on the best snorkel sites to explore on Maui, stay tuned for a detailed post of my personal favorites!
Ho’okipa Beach
A magical place on the north shore of Maui, Ho’okipa beach is known for big waves and turtles! This is a really fun place to check out. The high surf and winds lends it to being a popular spot for surfers, wind surfers, and kite surfers alike. There are few places on the island where you can watch these athletes in action.
In addition to the surf action, this beach is known for being a green sea turtle resting site. Tens of turtles gather on this beach to bask in the warm sun. It is a spectacular sight.
‘Iao Valley
‘Iao Valley State Monument is a beautiful valley rich in native culture and history.
The major attraction of the park is the ‘Iao Needle, or Kuka‘emoku. Shooting above the landscape, an abrupt 1,200 ft, it is an amazing geologic feature within the valley. Not only is this a stunning landscape to witness, but the area is incredibly important to the natives and the history of the islands. The sacred valley is home to the 1790 battle between King Kamehameha I and Maui’s army in the king’s quest to unite all of the Hawaiian islands. Kamehameha defeated Maui’s forces, a pivotal moment in Hawaiian history.
Alongside a stream, the park features a 0.6 mile easy trail through a beautiful garden. The trail ultimately leads to the ‘Iao Needle Lookout. This is a great stop to enjoy the natural beauty of Maui and take in the rich history that encompasses the island.
Sunset Cruise
Seeing Maui from the water is a serene and spiritual experience. There is no better way to enjoy an evening in Maui than to embark on a sunset cruise. The mountains of Maui look beautiful in the golden glow of sunset, and the ocean breeze makes the experience all the better.
I highly recommend taking a cruise with Trilogy. My family and I have been out with them multiple times now, and we have always had nothing short of the best time. The crew is fantastic, and the drinks and food are always delicious.
I hope you enjoy exploring these magical places and experiences during your next trip to Maui! Leave a comment below sharing your favorite thing to do on Maui. There is so much to explore, and I love hearing what you all enjoy the most.
