
32+ Things To Do In Maui
32+ things to do in Maui: drive the Road to Hana, watch whales in season, snorkel Molokini, see Haleakalā sunrise, and relax on golden beaches.

Discover the best of Maui, Hawaii
Maui combines golden beaches, volcanic landscapes, rainforest roads, waterfalls and small coastal communities into one of Hawaii's most varied island destinations. You can watch the sun rise above the clouds at Haleakalā, drive the Road to Hana, or spend the day snorkeling, paddleboarding and relaxing around Wailea or Kāʻanapali.
The island is ideal for mixing sightseeing with outdoor experiences. Haleakalā National Park covers both the volcanic summit and lush Kīpahulu coast, while ʻĪao Valley offers an easy introduction to Maui's greener interior. Offshore, Molokini and the waters around South and West Maui are popular for snorkeling, sailing and seasonal whale watching.
Food and culture add plenty away from the beach too, from Upcountry farms and local produce to Hawaiian music, hula and island-grown ingredients.
Maui is a year-round destination, although the best time to visit Maui depends on whether you are prioritising beaches, whale watching, hiking or lighter crowds.
Our Maui vacation rentals provide a convenient base for exploring the island.
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Best things to do in South Maui
1. Spend the day at Wailea Beach
Location / Neighborhood: Wailea
Best For: Couples, families, swimming and relaxed beach days
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours
Cost / Entry: Free
Wailea Beach is one of South Maui's most attractive places to spend a slower day beside the Pacific. The broad shoreline sits in front of landscaped resort grounds, with clear water and views towards neighbouring islands on bright days.
Swimming conditions can be inviting when the ocean is calm, while the surrounding Wailea area makes it easy to combine beach time with lunch or an evening meal nearby. The beach is also particularly appealing late in the day when temperatures soften and the western horizon begins to catch the sunset. It works especially well after a more demanding day spent hiking or driving across the island.
Insider tip: Arrive earlier if you want easier parking, especially during the busier winter and spring travel periods.

2. Explore Makena Beach State Park
Location / Neighborhood: Makena, South Maui
Best For: Beach walks, scenery and couples
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours
Cost / Entry: Parking or entry arrangements may apply
Makena Beach, often called Big Beach, offers a much less developed setting than many of South Maui's resort beaches. The long stretch of sand sits beneath volcanic slopes and provides plenty of room for walking, sunbathing and taking in wide coastal views.
The shorebreak can become powerful, so this is not automatically the best swimming beach for every visitor. Ocean conditions should always be taken seriously, particularly if there are warning signs or lifeguard instructions in place. Its scale and dramatic surroundings are the real attraction, making Makena particularly worthwhile for photography and long shoreline walks.
Insider tip: Treat the ocean with caution here. If the surf looks rough, enjoy the scenery rather than feeling you need to swim.

3. Snorkel around Ulua Beach
Location / Neighborhood: Wailea
Best For: Beginner snorkelers, couples and families
Estimated Time Needed: 1–3 hours
Cost / Entry: Free with your own equipment
Ulua Beach is a useful South Maui choice for visitors who want to add some snorkeling without booking a full boat excursion.
Rocky sections around the shoreline can attract reef fish, while calmer mornings often provide the most comfortable conditions for beginners. Because conditions change from day to day, visibility and swell should always be checked before entering the water.
The beach's location around Wailea also makes it easy to combine an early snorkel with breakfast, shopping or a second beach later in the day.
Insider tip: Go earlier in the morning when winds are often lighter and the water may be clearer.
4. Walk the Wailea Beach Path
Location / Neighborhood: Wailea
Best For: Couples, walking, sunrise and sunset
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours
Cost / Entry: Free
The Wailea Beach Path provides one of South Maui's easiest scenic walks, following the coast between beaches, landscaped resort grounds and ocean viewpoints.
It is a good choice when you want to stay active without committing to a serious hike. Early mornings are quieter and cooler, while late afternoon offers beautiful changing light across the water.
The route also makes it easy to explore several parts of Wailea without repeatedly getting back into the car, and you can stop at beaches along the way whenever the conditions look inviting.
Insider tip: Walk one direction before sunset and return as the light changes rather than tackling it in the strongest midday heat.
5. Learn to surf in Kihei
Location / Neighborhood: Kihei
Best For: Beginners, families and active travellers
Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours
Cost / Entry: Lesson and equipment fees
Kihei is one of Maui's most convenient places for first-time surfers to book a lesson. Several beaches along the South Maui coast can offer manageable conditions, and local instructors can choose suitable locations according to the day's surf. A proper lesson covers board handling, positioning, safety and basic technique before you attempt to catch waves independently. Even if you only manage a few short rides, learning to surf in Hawaii can become one of the most memorable parts of the trip. Conditions vary, so responsible operators may change lesson locations or timings when necessary.
Insider tip: Choose an early lesson when winds are often lighter and you still have the rest of the day available.

Best things to do in West Maui
6. Relax on Kāʻanapali Beach
Location / Neighborhood: Kāʻanapali, West Maui
Best For: Beach days, swimming, couples and families
Estimated Time Needed: Half day
Cost / Entry: Free
Kāʻanapali Beach remains one of West Maui's best-known stretches of coastline, with a long sandy shore backed by hotels, restaurants and a pedestrian beach walk.
You can spend several hours swimming, walking along the sand or simply settling in with views across the channel towards neighbouring islands. Black Rock sits towards the northern end of the beach and is a recognisable landmark, although ocean conditions should always determine whether swimming or snorkeling is sensible.
The concentration of restaurants and facilities nearby makes Kāʻanapali particularly easy for families or visitors who do not want a completely remote beach day.
Insider tip: Walk the full beach rather than staying directly beside the busiest access point
7. Explore Napili Bay
Location / Neighborhood: Napili
Best For: Families, couples and swimming
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours
Cost / Entry: Free
Napili Bay curves around a compact sandy beach backed by low-rise accommodation and greenery. Its more intimate scale gives it a different feel from the long resort beaches around Kāʻanapali.
When conditions are calm, the bay can be inviting for swimming and snorkeling, while the crescent-shaped shoreline makes it an attractive place simply to relax.
Parking is limited compared with larger beach areas, so arriving early can significantly improve the experience. As everywhere on Maui, check the ocean before entering rather than assuming the bay will always be calm.
Insider tip: Morning is generally the easiest time to find space and enjoy calmer conditions.

8. Snorkel at Honolua Bay
Location / Neighborhood: Northwest Maui
Best For: Snorkeling and experienced swimmers
Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours
Cost / Entry: Free
Honolua Bay is one of Maui's best-known snorkeling locations, particularly when summer conditions are calm.
The bay's rocky shoreline and protected setting can provide good visibility and opportunities to see reef fish around the underwater landscape. There is no broad sandy beach here, so visitors should come for the water rather than expect a traditional beach day.
During winter, the area can experience significant surf and may be much better suited to watching waves than snorkeling. Conditions should always take priority over your original itinerary.
Insider tip: Check local ocean conditions before driving out. Honolua can be excellent one day and completely unsuitable for snorkeling the next.

9. Drive the Northwest Maui coast
Location / Neighborhood: West and Northwest Maui
Best For: Scenic drives, photography and couples
Estimated Time Needed: Half day
Cost / Entry: Free apart from fuel
The coast north of Kāʻanapali reveals a wilder side of West Maui, with ocean views, cliffs and small communities appearing as the road moves away from the main resort areas.
You do not have to complete a huge loop to enjoy the drive. A more relaxed outing can include viewpoints, coastal stops and lunch before returning the way you came.
Some roads in the farther northwest become narrow and demanding, so check your rental-car agreement and current road advice before choosing a route. Scenic does not always mean easy driving.
Insider tip: Don't automatically follow a map around the entire island. Turn back if the road becomes uncomfortable or conditions deteriorate.
10. Visit Lahaina respectfully during its recovery
Location / Neighborhood: Lahaina, West Maui
Best For: Returning visitors, local businesses and cultural context
Estimated Time Needed: Varies
Cost / Entry: Free to explore open public areas
Lahaina continues to recover and rebuild following the devastating 2023 wildfire, so it should not be presented as the same historic sightseeing stop found in older Maui guides.
Front Street reopened to traffic in August 2026, and commercial activity is gradually returning, but rebuilding continues and some roads, properties and areas remain restricted. Visitors who choose to stop should support open local businesses, respect fencing and private property, and remember that this remains a community in recovery rather than simply an attraction.
Insider tip: Check current Maui County recovery information before visiting because access can change as rebuilding progresses.

Road to Hana and East Maui
11. Drive the Road to Hana
Location / Neighborhood: North and East Maui
Best For: Scenic drives, couples and first-time visitors
Estimated Time Needed: Full day
Cost / Entry: Free apart from fuel and attraction reservations
The Road to Hana is one of Maui's defining experiences, but the journey matters far more than simply reaching Hana itself.
The winding route passes rainforest, sea cliffs, streams, waterfalls and small roadside stops as it follows Maui's northeastern coast. Although Hana is only around 52 miles from Kahului, the drive can take several hours because of narrow bridges, curves and the number of places worth stopping along the way.
Trying to see everything usually creates a rushed day. Choose several priority stops in advance and leave space for unexpected viewpoints or food stands.
Insider tip: Start early and avoid blocking roads or parking on private land. East Maui communities deal with heavy visitor traffic every day.

12. Visit Waiʻānapanapa State Park
Location / Neighborhood: Near Hana
Best For: Coastal scenery, hiking and photography
Estimated Time Needed: 1½–3 hours
Cost / Entry: Paid entry and parking for non-residents
Waiʻānapanapa State Park is one of East Maui's most distinctive coastal landscapes, combining a small black-sand beach with volcanic shoreline, sea stacks, native vegetation and hiking opportunities.
Non-Hawaii residents must book entry in advance, and drivers also need an appropriate parking reservation. Same-day entry is not available, making this one Road to Hana stop that cannot simply be added spontaneously. Hawaii DLNR
Allow enough time to explore beyond the beach itself. The rugged shoreline and coastal trails are a major part of the park's appeal.
Insider tip: Build your Road to Hana schedule around the reserved time slot rather than hoping to fit the park in whenever you arrive.

13. Explore Hana town
Location / Neighborhood: Hana, East Maui
Best For: Slower travel, food stops and scenic drives
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours
Cost / Entry: Free
Hana is often treated merely as the turnaround point of its famous highway, but slowing down in town helps prevent the Road to Hana from becoming nothing more than a checklist of roadside stops.
The area retains a much quieter, more rural atmosphere than Maui's major resort districts, with local food stands, small businesses and tropical surroundings forming much of its appeal. Visitors should be especially mindful that Hana is a residential community. Respect private property, park legally and support local businesses rather than treating every roadside area as public access.
Insider tip: Build in time for lunch or a snack in Hana instead of racing straight through towards the next attraction.

14. Hike the Pīpīwai Trail
Location / Neighborhood: Kīpahulu District, Haleakalā National Park
Best For: Hikers, waterfalls and rainforest scenery
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours
Cost / Entry: Haleakalā National Park admission
The Pīpīwai Trail is one of Maui's most rewarding hikes, moving through lush vegetation and a remarkable bamboo forest before continuing towards the area around Waimoku Falls. This part of Haleakalā National Park feels completely different from the dry volcanic summit, demonstrating just how varied the national park is across the island.
Trail conditions can become muddy or slippery after rain, and visitors should remain on the designated route rather than entering closed areas. The Kīpahulu District is reached from the Hana side and cannot be driven to directly from the summit district within the park. National Park Service
Insider tip: Give yourself plenty of daylight for the return drive rather than beginning a long hike too late in the afternoon.

15. See the Pools of ʻOheʻo from the trail
Location / Neighborhood: Kīpahulu District
Best For: Scenic walks and national park visitors
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours
Cost / Entry: Haleakalā National Park admission
The Pools of ʻOheʻo are part of the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park and can be viewed from the Kūloa Point Trail.
Older Maui guides sometimes describe swimming in the pools, but that information is outdated. The National Park Service currently states that they are not accessible for swimming, so visitors should enjoy them from the approved trail and viewpoints instead.
The short walk also provides coastal and tropical scenery, making it easy to combine with a longer visit to the Pīpīwai Trail.
Insider tip: Ignore old travel posts suggesting a swim here and follow current National Park Service signs and closures.
Haleakalā and Upcountry Maui
16. Watch sunrise at Haleakalā
Location / Neighborhood: Haleakalā Summit District
Best For: First-time visitors, couples and photographers
Estimated Time Needed: Half day including driving
Cost / Entry: National park admission plus sunrise reservation
Watching sunrise from high on Haleakalā is one of Maui's most famous experiences, with the summit sitting above the cloud layer on clear mornings.
It requires considerably more planning than simply driving up before dawn. Vehicles entering the Summit District between 3am and 7am require an advance sunrise reservation, which can be booked online up to 60 days beforehand.
Temperatures near the summit can fall below freezing, even when conditions at the beach are warm, so dressing properly is essential.
Insider tip: Bring far warmer clothing than you think you need. Shorts and a beach hoodie are not enough for a cold, windy pre-dawn summit.
17. Watch sunset from Haleakalā
Location / Neighborhood: Haleakalā Summit District
Best For: Couples, photographers and visitors without sunrise reservations
Estimated Time Needed: Half day
Cost / Entry: National park admission
Sunset provides an excellent alternative for visitors who do not want a 2am alarm or cannot secure a sunrise reservation. Drive up in daylight, spend time exploring overlooks and the volcanic summit landscape, then remain as the sun sinks over the clouds and distant Pacific.
Unlike sunrise, the National Park Service currently does not require a separate sunset reservation, although the standard entrance fee still applies.
Staying after dark also provides opportunities for stargazing when conditions are clear, but the winding drive back down requires patience.
Insider tip: Arrive well before sunset rather than driving straight to the summit minutes before the sun disappears.

##18. Hike the Haleakalā summit trails
Location / Neighborhood: Haleakalā Summit District
Best For: Hiking, geology and experienced walkers
Estimated Time Needed: 2 hours to full day
Cost / Entry: National park admission
Haleakalā's summit trails take visitors into a stark volcanic environment of cinder cones, lava formations and wide open views that feel completely different from Maui's beaches and rainforest. Shorter walks allow visitors to experience the landscape without committing to an all-day trek, while longer wilderness routes demand considerably more preparation.
The altitude is important. Even fit hikers may notice the reduced oxygen, and the weather can change quickly. The summit rises to more than 10,000 feet and conditions may range from intense sun to freezing temperatures.
Insider tip: Start conservatively. Hiking back uphill at high altitude can feel much harder than the initial descent.

19. Explore Makawao
Location / Neighborhood: Upcountry Maui
Best For: Local shops, food and a slower afternoon
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours
Cost / Entry: Free
Makawao gives visitors a chance to experience Upcountry Maui away from the island's resort corridors. The small town is associated with Maui's paniolo, or Hawaiian cowboy, heritage and today mixes local shops, galleries, cafés and restaurants with a distinctly different landscape from the coast.
It works best as one part of an Upcountry itinerary rather than a full-day attraction by itself. Combine it with nearby farms, Kula or a Haleakalā visit depending on your route. Insider tip: Stop here for breakfast or lunch while travelling through Upcountry rather than adding a separate drive later.
20. Explore Kula and Upcountry Maui
Location / Neighborhood: Kula
**Best For: **Food, farms, views and couples
Estimated Time Needed: Half day
Cost / Entry: Varies by stop
Kula sits on the slopes of Haleakalā, where cooler temperatures, agricultural land and sweeping views create a very different Maui experience from Kihei or Kāʻanapali.
A half-day drive through the area can include farm stands, locally grown produce, cafés and scenic stops overlooking central Maui. The region is particularly good for visitors interested in how food is grown on the island rather than simply where to eat it.
It also combines naturally with Makawao or a later journey towards Haleakalā.
Insider tip: Avoid cramming too many farm visits into one day. Two or three well-chosen stops give you far more time to enjoy the area.

21. Visit Aliʻi Kula Lavender
Location / Neighborhood: Kula
Best For: Gardens, couples and Upcountry scenery
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours
Cost / Entry: Admission arrangements vary
Aliʻi Kula Lavender provides a quieter Upcountry experience on the slopes of Haleakalā. Gardens, lavender plantings and broad views across Maui make the property suitable for a relaxed walk rather than an action-packed attraction. It can be particularly pleasant when paired with other Kula stops, allowing visitors to experience several sides of Maui's agricultural landscape during the same outing.
Because flowering conditions vary through the year, visitors should not expect every section to look identical in every season.
Insider tip: Check current opening arrangements before driving up, as farm hours can differ from major tourist attractions.

22. Visit Maui Tropical Plantation
Location / Neighborhood: Waikapū
Best For: Families, gardens and local agriculture
Estimated Time Needed: 1–3 hours
Cost / Entry: Grounds and activities vary
Maui Tropical Plantation gives visitors an accessible introduction to the plants and crops associated with Hawaii's tropical climate. The landscaped property sits beneath the West Maui Mountains and has historically offered opportunities to learn about crops such as pineapple, coffee and other tropical produce. Restaurants and additional activities make it easy to build the stop into a wider central-Maui day.
Rather than treating it as an intensive agricultural tour, think of it as a relaxed combination of gardens, scenery and island-grown food.
Insider tip: Pair it with ʻĪao Valley because both are in central Maui and can fit comfortably into the same day. Best water activities in Maui
23. Snorkel Molokini Crater
Location / Neighborhood: Offshore from South Maui
Best For: Snorkeling, boat trips and clear-water experiences
Estimated Time Needed: Half day
Cost / Entry: Paid boat excursion
Molokini is a partially submerged volcanic crater offshore from South Maui and one of the island's best-known snorkeling destinations. Most visitors reach it on organised boat trips leaving from South Maui harbours, often in the morning when sea conditions can be calmer. The protected shape of the crater can provide clear water and opportunities to see reef fish and other marine life.
As with any ocean excursion, conditions vary and captains may alter itineraries when weather or swell make a particular site unsuitable.
Insider tip: Choose an early-morning departure if snorkeling quality is your priority rather than sleeping in for a later cruise.
24. Go snorkeling at Turtle Town
Location / Neighborhood: South Maui coast
Best For: Snorkelers and boat excursions
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours
Cost / Entry: Boat tour or independent access depending on location
The name Turtle Town is commonly used for snorkeling areas along Maui's southern coastline where Hawaiian green sea turtles may be encountered.Boat operators often combine these sites with Molokini, creating a varied half-day excursion that includes both open-water snorkeling and coastline reefs.
Wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, and turtles should be given plenty of space rather than chased or touched. The strongest experiences come from observing them naturally and following the instructions of guides.
Insider tip: Choose operators that clearly explain wildlife-distance rules before guests enter the water.
25. Go stand-up paddleboarding
Location / Neighborhood: South and West Maui
Best For: Beginners, couples and calm-water mornings
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours
Cost / Entry: Equipment hire or lesson
Stand-up paddleboarding is a simple way to get onto the water without committing to a full boat tour or surf lesson. On calm mornings, sheltered sections of the South and West Maui coast can provide manageable conditions for beginners. Lessons help with balance, steering and ocean awareness, while experienced paddlers can rent equipment independently when conditions are suitable.
Wind often builds later in the day, which can make returning to shore much harder than expected.
Insider tip: Book an early session and ask local rental staff which beach is safest for the conditions that morning.
26. Kayak along Maui's coast
Location / Neighborhood: Wailea, Makena and other sheltered coastal areas
Best For: Couples, active families and outdoor travellers
Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours
Cost / Entry: Hire or guided tour
Kayaking provides a slower, more active way to see Maui's coastline from the water. Guided trips around South Maui may combine paddling with snorkeling stops, while independent rental works best for experienced visitors familiar with local ocean conditions. The perspective from offshore is completely different from standing on the beach, with Haleakalā and the West Maui Mountains often visible from the water on clear days.
Wind and swell can change quickly, so longer routes should never be attempted solely because they looked easy on a map.
Insider tip: For your first Maui kayak outing, book with a guide rather than guessing at currents and suitable launch points.
27. Take a seasonal whale-watching cruise
Location / Neighborhood: Waters around Maui
Best For: Winter visitors, couples and families
Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours
Cost / Entry: Paid boat tour
Winter brings one of Maui's most famous seasonal experiences as humpback whales migrate through Hawaiian waters. Whale-watching cruises operate during the main season, giving visitors opportunities to see blows, tail flukes and occasionally breaches from the water. Sightings vary from trip to trip because these are wild animals, not a scheduled performance. Whale watching Is a December-to-April activity; operators can provide the most current seasonal schedules. Insider tip: Take binoculars even on a boat trip. Whales may appear well beyond the vessel as well as close by.
28. Take a sunset sailing cruise
Location / Neighborhood: West or South Maui
Best For: Couples, groups and relaxing evenings
Estimated Time Needed: 2–3 hours
Cost / Entry: Paid cruise
A sunset cruise lets you experience Maui's coastline without turning the outing into a high-energy water activity. Boats depart from different parts of the island and usually spend the early evening offshore as the light changes across the West Maui Mountains, Haleakalā and neighbouring islands.
Some cruises focus primarily on sailing and views, while others include drinks or dinner, so compare the style before booking.
Insider tip: Don't choose solely by price. A smaller sailing vessel and a large dinner cruise can feel like completely different experiences.
Best hikes and nature in Maui
29. Explore ʻĪao Valley State Monument
Location / Neighborhood: Central Maui Best For: Easy walking, families and lush scenery Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours Cost / Entry: Reservation and fees may apply to non-residents
ʻĪao Valley provides one of Maui's easiest introductions to the dramatic green landscape of the West Maui Mountains. Short paved and stepped trails lead towards viewpoints overlooking the famous ʻĪao Needle and surrounding valley. The visit does not require the time or fitness needed for a major mountain hike, making it particularly useful for families or travellers balancing several active days.
The valley is also culturally significant, so visitors should treat it as more than simply a photo stop.
Insider tip: Check the current Hawaii State Parks reservation requirements and park status before setting out, as closures and access arrangements can change.
30. Walk the Hoapili Trail
Location / Neighborhood: South Maui / La Perouse Bay area
Best For: Hiking, volcanic scenery and active travellers
Estimated Time Needed: 2–4 hours
Cost / Entry: Free
The Hoapili Trail reveals a stark side of Maui that contrasts sharply with the rainforest around Hana. The coastal route crosses old lava flows and dry volcanic terrain with views towards the ocean and Haleakalā's southwestern slopes. There is little shade, making sun exposure one of the biggest challenges rather than steep elevation. Sturdy footwear is important because the lava underfoot can be rough and uneven, and hikers should carry far more water than they would for a shaded forest walk. Insider tip: Begin early in the morning. The exposed black lava becomes extremely hot later in the day.
31. Explore the coastal trails at Waiʻānapanapa
Location / Neighborhood: East Maui
Best For: Coastal walking and volcanic scenery
Estimated Time Needed: 1–2 hours
**Cost / Entry: **State park reservation and fees
The black-sand beach receives most of the attention at Waiʻānapanapa, but the surrounding coastline deserves just as much time.
Trails pass volcanic rock, native hala forest, sea stacks and other rugged features that show why this part of Maui feels so different from the polished beaches around Wailea.
The Hawaii State Parks service highlights an ancient coastal trail, seabird habitat, sea stacks, blowholes and cultural sites among the park's features. Hawaii DLNR
Insider tip: Wear proper shoes even if you mainly came for the beach. The surrounding volcanic terrain can be sharp and uneven.
Cultural and local things to do in Maui
32. Experience a Hawaiian lūʻau
Location / Neighborhood: Various Maui locations
Best For: First-time visitors, families and cultural experiences
Estimated Time Needed: 3–4 hours
Cost / Entry: Ticketed
A well-run lūʻau can introduce visitors to Hawaiian food, music, storytelling and hula within a single evening. There are several options across Maui, and they vary considerably in scale and approach. Rather than simply choosing the biggest production, look at what each experience emphasises and whether Hawaiian history and cultural interpretation are central to the programme.
Insider tip: Book earlier in the trip rather than your final night so you have flexibility if plans need to change.
Seasonal events in Maui
Maui County Fair and community events
Community events held around Maui can add food, entertainment and local atmosphere to a trip outside the island's headline attractions. Exact schedules vary year to year, so check current Maui event listings before travelling rather than relying on previous dates.
Maui Film Festival and film events
Film screenings and cultural events periodically take place around Maui, providing an alternative evening activity for travellers interested in arts and entertainment. Current programmes and venues can change, so this is best treated as something to check around your travel dates rather than a guaranteed fixed annual schedule.
Whale season in Maui
The annual arrival of humpback whales is effectively one of Maui's biggest natural seasonal events. Winter visitors can watch for whales from viewpoints around the coast or book dedicated cruises during the main season. Peak activity varies, but the broader season generally runs through the winter and early spring.
Hawaiian cultural events and hula
Maui hosts Hawaiian music, hula and cultural programmes throughout the year at different community and visitor venues. These events can offer a much more meaningful addition to an itinerary than simply spending every evening at a restaurant or resort.
Plan your Maui trip
Maui is a tropical paradise full of stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and unforgettable cultural experiences. From scenic hikes and waterfalls to snorkeling, whale watching, and island adventures, there’s no shortage of things to do in Maui.
Beaches & Coastal Things To Do
1. Relax at Kaanapali Beach
Sunbathe on golden sands or paddleboard across turquoise waters at one of Maui’s most iconic beaches.

2. Swim at Wailea Beach
Enjoy calm waters and stunning sunsets along this scenic coastline, perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
3. Explore Napili Bay
Snorkel in clear waters or simply relax on this family-friendly crescent beach.

4. Visit Makena Beach (Big Beach)
Take in dramatic scenery, walk along wide sandy shores, and snap unforgettable photos.
5. Wander Baldwin Beach Park
Discover tide pools, play in the surf, or enjoy a picnic under swaying palms.
6. Snorkel at Honolua Bay
Dive into a protected marine reserve and see colorful fish and coral reefs up close.

Outdoor Things To Do
7. Drive the Road to Hana
Take a scenic road trip through waterfalls, rainforests, and dramatic coastal views.

8. Hike Haleakalā National Park
Trek volcanic trails or catch a breathtaking sunrise above the clouds.
9. Explore Iao Valley State Park
Walk among lush greenery and marvel at the iconic Iao Needle formation.

10. Trek the Bamboo Forest
Follow the Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls through a serene bamboo canopy.
11. Surf in Lahaina
Catch your first wave or improve your skills in this historic surf town.

12. Zipline above Maui’s valleys
Soar through treetops and over waterfalls for a thrilling aerial adventure.
Water & Marine Things To Do
13. Snorkel Molokini Crater
Dive into clear waters to see tropical fish, coral formations, and vibrant marine life.

14. Go scuba diving
Explore reefs, underwater caves, and abundant marine life on a guided dive.
15. Paddleboard or kayak
Glide across calm bays or along the coastline for a peaceful water adventure.
16. Take a whale watching tour
Spot humpback whales during the season from December to April.

17. Join a dolphin or whale cruise
See dolphins and whales up close on a guided boat tour.
18. Try deep-sea fishing
Cast a line for tuna, marlin, or mahi-mahi on Maui’s rich waters.
Cultural & Local Things To Do
19. Attend the Old Lahaina Luau
Experience Hawaiian culture with hula dancing, music, and traditional cuisine.

20. Stroll Lahaina Historic Town
Browse galleries, shops, and historic landmarks along this charming street.
21. Visit Upcountry Maui
Explore farms, lavender fields, and local markets in Maui’s scenic uplands.

22. Celebrate at local festivals
Enjoy music, hula, and cultural events throughout the year.
23. Tour Maui Tropical Plantation
Learn about local agriculture, ride the tram, and taste fresh tropical fruits.

24 . Discover Maui Ocean Center
Walk through interactive exhibits and see sharks, rays, and tropical fish.
Relaxation & Unique Experiences
25. Watch the sunset at Wailea or Kaanapali Beach
End the day with a spectacular view of the Pacific horizon.

26. Indulge in spa treatments
Enjoy massages, wellness sessions, and relaxation at resort spas.
27. Take a helicopter tour
See waterfalls, valleys, and volcanic landscapes from above.

28. Sample wines at Ulupalakua Winery
Taste locally produced wines while enjoying scenic Upcountry views.
29. Ride horseback through Maui’s landscapes
Experience Upcountry pastures and mountain trails on horseback.
30. Enjoy a beach bonfire or picnic
Relax under the stars with music, food, and the sound of the waves.







