Maui is one of the world's most beautiful travel destinations and there are an incredible amount of experiences you can involve yourself in when in Maui. A trip to Maui can involve sampling the tasty food, hitting up the splendid beaches, swimming in the crystal clear waters, or just lounging by the pool. We have curated a list of our favourite things to do while going on a trip to Maui.
Here Are Our Favourite Things to Do on a Trip to Maui:
1. Sunrise at Mount Haleakala
Watching the sunrise from Mount Haleakala summit, stationed at 10,000 feet above sea-level, is a must experience while going on a trip to Maui. Mount Haleakala, the largest dormant volcano in the world, is just 1.5 hours from Kahului. Start your journey in the dawn to see the sun bulging from the mountain tops at around 03:00 AM. Prior reservation is required in the Haleakala National Park to enter between 03:00 AM to 08:00 AM in the morning. Surely check the local sunrise timing before embarking on the journey and do pack up warm clothes for spending time in the higher altitudes. Tickets are charged as per each vehicle entering the parking lot.
2. A Visit to Paia
Located on Maui’s north shore, this quaint little historic town of Paia is the home to 3,000 residents. A perfect stop for wanderers on their way from Maui to Hana, Piai is regarded to be the lap of emerging hippie culture in the Valley of Isle. You can either visit Baldwin Beach Park on the way to Kahului or take a break at Hookipa beach on the way to Hana. The history of the town goes back to the 1800s. This town lures its tourists to visit this cosmopolitan village for its breezy weather, most applicable for windsurfing. Also, explore the exquisite dining options at Mama’s Fish House, Cafe Des Amis, and some peaceful live music at Charley’s Saloon.
3. Whale Watching
The North Pacific humpback whales wandering in the ocean are a breathtaking view to experience. The best time to witness whales flapping the blue water is between December to April during their winter migration. The humpback whales embark on their journey from the Gulf of Alaska to Hawaii during their breeding season in the warm waters. In the Auau Channel, you can see the 40 feet high whales flipping their 40 tons of body from boats, kayaks, and standup paddleboards. Avoid being near to the whale, disrupting their natural course, and maintain silence on witnessing this beautiful encounter.
4. Savoring Local Delights
The local food talks a lot about the city’s culture, and so is the same with Maui’s local delicacies. To grab a local- deli-style lunch by the beachside, visit Joy’s Place. Sato’s family’s famous Sam Sato Noodles and Plate lunches will serve you with super ono plate lunches. To experience some Maui coffee in the upcountry locale, do not forget to visit Grandma’s Maui Coffee, serving you freshly brewed Arabica coffee. Add in your travel itinerary to taste some pancakes from Tasty Crust and fresh seafood from the fish market, too.
5. Visiting a Lavender Farm
Opting for an offbeat Lavender tour in Ali’i Kula Lavender of Maui on the slopes of Haleakala will be enchanting. Curated by Agricultural artist Ali’s Chang, this 13.5 acres of land is covered with violet hues of lavender. Focusing on agritourism, AKL blooms nine variegates of lavender around the year. Not only can you grasp the heavenly atmosphere of the farm, but you can also buy souvenirs and gifts with the touch of lavender. Guided tours of the farm along with gourmet picnic lunches are available. The general admission fee is $3 per person, and farm visits are open from Friday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 04:00 PM.
6. Stopping by Lana'i Islands
In search of serenity, you can surely stop by Lana’i, the sixth-largest island of Hawaii, just 9 miles from Maui. Also known as Pineapple Island because of its past plantation of pineapples, this little island is crowded with top-class resorts for welcoming tourists. The 18 miles long coastline of the island is an affirmed place of paradise where you can see turtles crawling on the beaches. Hulopoe Beach of South Lanai and Polihua beach of North Lanai will entice you to spend days on Lanai island. You can explore the hidden hiking trails, try horse riding, snorkeling in tide pools and savor local dishes.
7. Experiencing Old Lahaina Luau
Luau is a Hawaiian grand fiesta of entertainment, and in Maui, you cannot leave this island without experiencing a traditional old Lahaina Luau. Currently operated by four friends in Lahaina, the Ola Lahaina Luau brings you the culture of Hawaii in front of travelers through their traditional dance, entertainment activities, and food. You can savour the best tropical cocktails accompanied by the view of the setting sun. EIther you can enjoy a traditional style of eating while being seated on the ground or prefer normal seating. The view of the ocean and a bite of Pua’a Kalua - Imu Roasted Pork will make your experience memorable.8. Camping Under the Maui Stars
In Maui, you can find the fascinating camping sites in Hawaii, be it beside a volcano or on the black sand sea beaches. You can choose the Waianapanapa State Park to camp beside the gushing waves near the rugged topography. There are 12 campsite furnished cabins charging $90 per night for non-residents of Hawaii. You can also book tents at $18 per night. For a private campsite experience, you can choose Camp Olowalu, a privately owned campsite in Lahaina. Beachside tenting will require $20 per night, while cabins charge around $750 per night. There are also other popular camping sites like Camp Keanae, Polipoli Springs State Recreation Area, and Haleakala National Park.
Have we missed out on any of your favourite things to do on a trip to Maui? Let us know in the comments below!