Families, adventurers, and honeymooners love Maui. With its world-famous beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanic terrain, it seems to promise a lifetime of exploration.
Whether you’re looking for waterfalls along the well-known Road to Hana, snorkeling with sea turtles in Molokini Crater, or watching the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park, this island offers unique experiences.
Key Takeaways:
- Hop in the car to take a scenic drive on the famous Road to Hana with stunning coastal vistas.
- Explore crystal-clear waters while snorkeling at Molokini Crater or Honolua Bay.
- Take in a stunning sunrise or sunset at Haleakalā Summit.
- Kick back on Maui’s most popular beaches, including Kaanapali and Wailea.
- Get a taste of the real Hawaiian culture at a luau.
Drive the Scenic Road to Hana
One of the too-many-to-list things to do in Maui is to drive the famous Road to Hana – a 64-mile scenic route that meanders through the most breathtaking scenery of the island. This is a more journey than destination sort of coastal experience, offering unlimited chances to scramble up a waterfall, along a jungle trail, or look out over the ocean and stumble across a gem hidden away off the beaten track.
With more than 600 curves and close to 60 one-lane bridges, it’s a slow, immersive journey — in the best sense, a journey that opens to those who surrender some patience.
Must-Stop Attractions Along the Way:
Twin Falls
Your adventure begins here. Twins Falls, just off the highway near mile marker 2, is the ideal warm-up hike, with cascading waterfalls and freshwater swimming pools accessible just a short walk from the trailhead. And don’t forget to pick up a smoothie or a fresh coconut from the farm stand at the trailhead.
Garden of Eden Arboretum
A green botanical oasis at milepost 10.5. This private garden offers immaculate walking trails, exotic tropical plants, and grand views of the Pacific and local waterfalls. Fun fact: the Jurassic Park movie was filmed here!
Waiʻānapanapa State Park
This stunning coastal park is a must-see near mile marker 32. Home to Maui’s well-known black sand beach as well as sea caves formed by lava tubes and blowholes that erupt during high tide, Waiʻānapanapa combines natural beauty with Hawaiian legend. You’ll need a reservation, so plan accordingly.
Hana Town
The peaceful, remote town of Hana sits at the center of East Maui. It’s tiny and local and ridiculously cute. Pause for a plate of fresh poke, shop for handmade crafts, or just sit back and take in the leisurely pace of life. If you’ve got time, visit the Hana Lava Tube and nearby Red Sand Beach.
Kaumahina State Wayside Park
Located near mile marker 12, this peaceful rest stop offers sweeping ocean views, shaded picnic areas, and a welcome bathroom break. It’s a perfect place to stretch your legs and take in the lush coastal scenery before continuing deeper into East Maui.
Pro Tip: Begin your tour at less than 7 A.M. If you do, you’ll beat the traffic and tour buses, and you’ll have a solid day of light. Leave yourself 10–12 hours round trip — or better yet: stay overnight in Hana to relax and linger in this natural paradise.
Snorkel at Molokini Crater & Honolua Bay
Maui boasts some of the best snorkeling spots in Hawaii, with vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Top Snorkeling Locations:
| Location | Highlights | Best For |
| Molokini Crater | Pristine visibility, tropical fish | Advanced snorkelers |
| Honolua Bay | Sea turtles, calm waters | Beginners & families |
| Kapalua Bay | Gentle waves, colorful reefs | All skill levels |
Expert Insight: Molokini’s crescent-shaped crater offers 150-foot visibility—perfect for spotting reef sharks and octopuses.
Watch Sunrise at Haleakalā National Park
It’s a spiritual journey to watch the sunrise from Haleakalā, the dormant volcano on Maui. At 10,023 feet, you will be above the clouds, watching the golden first light spill over the otherworldly lunar-like landscape. Timing matters—if you’re wondering about the best time to visit for optimal weather and visibility, planning ahead can make all the difference.
When the sky changes from inky indigo to fiery orange and pink, the cauldron-like crater below glows quietly and dramatically. It’s a humbling, almost otherworldly experience, and above and beyond the Contraptions of Maui — it’s the experience that some say is the most memorable of their time on Maui.
Visitor Tips:
- Reservations: Sunrise access is reservation only through Recreation.gov. Spots book far in advance, so reserve early, as long as 60 days out.
- Arrive Early: Aim to arrive at least 90 minutes before the sun comes up so that you have enough time for the drive, parking, and visual positioning. The best spots go fast!
- Bundle Up: It gets quite chilly, sometimes below freezing, even in summer. And please: Bring a warm jacket, hat, and gloves, if you will be standing outside for any length of time.
Alternative Experience: Not a morning kind of person? Sunset at Haleakalā is equally, if not more, bewitching, with the golden light playing long shadows over the crater. Hang out after dark for amazing stargazing: With its high elevation and low-light pollution, the summit is one of the best spots in the Pacific for viewing constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way.
Relax on Maui’s Best Beaches
From golden to secret, Maui’s beaches are legendary and every one of them will give you a taste of paradise. Whether you want to sunbathe, snorkel with sea turtles, or simply listen to the waves, there’s a beach that’s just right.
Top Beaches in Maui:
Kāʻanapali Beach
A Hawaiian royalty retreat in the day, this 3-mile expanse of powdery-white sand on West Maui is great for swimming and snorkeling on the lava outcropping (home to a surplus of marine life) known as Black Rock. At sunset, be sure to witness the traditional clifftop dive ceremony in homage to ancient Hawaiian customs. It’s also within steps of resorts, restaurants, and the beachfront walking path.
Wailea Beach
Situated in front of some of Maui’s most glamorous resorts, Wailea Beach is famous for its gentle surf, mirrorlike condition, and beautiful sunsets. Good for families or people who just want a laid-back day with direct access to upscale amenities. You can paddleboard and snorkel in the gentle surf, and maybe even see a sea turtle or two.
Makena Beach (Big Beach)
Widely considered one of Maui’s most beautiful — and wildest — beaches, Big Beach is every bit as large as is implied by its name, with wide, dark sands, jagged cliffs, and a remote feel. Situated in Makena State Park, this place has a more rustic, untouched feel, with some very strong shore break and deceptively strong waves.
Safety Note: While Maui has beautiful beaches, be sure to check ocean conditions and posted signs before going in the water. Rip currents, shore breaks, and unexpected high waves can also happen, particularly at more exposed beaches such as Big Beach or during winter swells.
Attend a Traditional Hawaiian Luau
What trip to Maui would be complete without a luau—an event that is a merry mix of food, music, and dance, and a celebration of Hawaiian culture in one entertaining evening? It’s an opportunity to get a taste of the spirit of aloha up close, under the stars, and often with the ocean as your backdrop.
A typical luau will include:
- Kalua Pig – The main feature of the party, this melt-in-your-mouth pork is roasted low and slow in an underground imu oven and emerges with trace elements of a smoky flavor.
- Hula Dancing & Fire Knife Performances – Hear the natural drums that tell stories of Polynesian history as the dancing and fire knife performances are made, revealing history with the hypnotic sway of grass skirts and esprit celebration are beautifully explained with mesmerizing fire shows that will illuminate the night.
- Live Hawaiian Music – Delight in the sounds of the ukulele and the haunting chords of the traditional hula and dance drum as they beckon you to join in the festive song and dance.
Best Luaus in Maui:
- Old Lāhainā Lūʻau (Most Authentic)
Located on the historic Lāhainā waterfront, this luau is beloved for its cultural integrity and traditional hula, offering a respectful and enriching experience true to Hawaiian roots. - Feast at Lele (Gourmet Dining)
A more exclusive, private affair featuring table favor and a culinary journey via Polynesia, with classes defining Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa, and New Zealand. Ideal for food lovers seeking to pair joy with fine dining.
Explore ʻĪao Valley State Park.
A short drive from Kahului, ʻĪao Valley State Park is a green, serene dive into Maui’s natural beauty and history. This holy place long ago saw a battle between the Hawaiians, and it is still a rich cultural hotspot.
Highlights include:
- ʻĪao Needle — A striking 1,200-foot-tall lava rock pinnacle ringed by misty emerald peaks. It is one of the most iconic natural features on Maui.
- Very Easy Hiking Trails – Paved trails wind through the tropical rainforest, over otherworldly streams, and to panoramic viewpoints—ideal for a stroll or a quick photo opportunity.
Perfect for: Nature lovers, photographers, and people seeking peace in the mountains.
Take a Whale-Watching Tour (Seasonal: Dec–Apr)
More than 10,000 humpback whales relocate every winter from Alaska to the warm wetness of Maui to breed and give birth, which is why it’s one of the best whale-watching goals in the world. To see these amazing beasts jumping and playing, hardly a stone’s throw from shore, is a view to behold.
Top Tour Operators:
- Pacific Whale Foundation – Provides eco-certified tours with marine naturalists. A good choice for families and viewers who like to learn while they watch.
- Ultimate Whale Watch – The go-to for intimate, small-group tours aboard rafts that move fast, ideal for visitors looking for an up-close adventure.
Pro Tip: Tours in the morning tend to be on calmer seas with improved visibility.
Conclusion
Maui is a traveler’s heaven, offering everything from road trips along the meandering Hana Highway to tackling Molokini’s crystal-clear crater. Explore bamboo woods, see the sun rise over the shadows, or unwind on a beach where the only sound is the waves. This tiny oasis delivers an amazing experience, whether you’re seeking an experience or island relaxation.
Ready to explore more? Get our [Hawaii Travel Guide] for more insider recommendations, local favorites, and all the details for planning your dream trip. What would be the first Maui experience at the top of your bucket list? Let us know in the comments − we’d love to know what’s drawing you to the Valley Isle!