1. Haleakala Crater

Presenting some of the most breathtaking views on top of Maui, it is no surprise this is the number one must-see place on Maui for sunrise and sunset. If you are looking to catch the sunrise, make sure you have a reservation! Haleakala Crater offers education about the history of the crater and how it was formed, as well as camping options. Hosmer’s Grove, just past the entrance of the park, is a sweet little sanctuary of both native trees and eucalyptus trees where you can set up a tent and go on a nature hike around the campground. If you are looking for something more adventurous, book the cabins inside the crater! Check the website months in advance, as they are usually booked the day the availability is posted.

2. Boat Tours, Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Trilogy Excursions

With tours from both Lahaina, Maalaea, and Kaanapali beach, there are many options to choose from when going out with Trilogy. They have a 5-star rating on TripAdvisor, and offer morning snorkels, full day trips, and sunset sails.

Hawaiian Paddle Sports

Offering outrigger canoe experiences, kayak tours, paddle boarding tours, or private surf lessons, Hawaiian Paddle Sports give you the adventure of a lifetime from a locals’ perspective. Get away from the crowd and have a personalized tour catered for you and your group.

Pacific Whale Foundation

Departing from Maalaea and Lahaina Harbors, this nonprofit organization is the perfect family-friendly excursion. On board are certified trained marine naturalists who aim to not only provide great service, but educate your family about Hawaii’s marine environment and how you can protect it. Give back while on vacation and support nonprofits such as the Pacific Whale Foundation.

Dolphin/Whale Watching

Most boat companies in the winter will offer whale watching tours in honor of the majestic humpback whales returning to Hawaiian waters for the winter. Resident dolphins populations are usually located off the island of Lana’i. But plenty of boats leaving from Lahaina Harbor will take you over for both snorkeling and dolphin watching.

3. Zipline

Skyline Eco-Adventures: Haleakala and Kaanapali

Skyline Eco-Advenutres was the first company on Maui to join 1% for the Planet, an organization in which companies join and give back 1% of their sales to a nonprofit working toward protecting the planet. We have two zipline courses on Maui; Haleakala and Kaanapali. Our motto is “Do Good. Have Fun.” both of which are easy to attain on our award-winning zipline courses!

 4. Beaches

Kaanapali beach

On the west side of Maui fronted with many high-end hotels, restaurants, and a loading beach for catamaran excursions. Be wary of the potential big waves in the winter season, and bring plenty of sun protection as there is little shade!

Napili Beach

Also found on the west side of Maui north of Kaanapali Beach, however it is a much smaller bay and beach. It is known to have great snorkeling with plenty of turtles, and can also have big waves during the winter season. There are a few restaurants on either end of the bay, as well as hotels and condos.

Wailea Beach

Located in South Maui in front of the Grand Wailea hotel is this beautiful and iconic sandy beach perfect for families. Past the san, snorkeling is optimal on either end of the beach along the rocky corners where you can find sea turtles feeding on algae. Summertime can produce south swells which can affect the visibility and currents. Always snorkel with a buddy, never go alone!

Ho’okipa Beach Park

Popular surfing and windsurfing spot among locals and tourists alike, also great to view sea turtles at sunset that come onto the beach to rest. This is a more rocky beach with fewer entrances to get in the water, however has some of the clearest water around Maui, and offers great views of the tip of the West Maui Mountains. Mama’s Fish House is just around the corner, so make a stop before or after your reservation!

Kapalua Beach Park

A very protected bay perfect for families and beginner snorkelers. The bay is sheltered from most of the trade winds that come through Maui, and usually does not experience big waves. Merriman’s Restaurant sits elegantly on the south end of the bay, exhibiting stellar views of the island of Molokai and Kapalua Bay.

5. Surfing, Windsurfing and Kite Surfing

A great way to have a good time on Maui is to try something new! Test your fears, and get out of your comfort zone! There are many local professionals who have the patience to teach you new skills. Maui has multiple places that are perfect for beginner surfers like Launiuopoko Beach Park, The Cove, and Thousand Peaks. Many surf schools will take you out with an instructor who can teach you the basics and have you standing up on a wave or catching the wind in your sail in no time!

6. Wai’anapanapa State Park

Many who take the road to Hana look for the infamous black sand beach. This is the place to find it and explore among the lava rock, where lava tubes formed against the sea. Looking to stay in Hana for a night before making the long trek back? Camp in the cabins here, have a unique experience and wake up to some of the best views on the remote side of Maui.

7. Hikes

Pipiwai Trail

The Pipiwai Trail is located in the Southeast side of Maui in an area called Kipahulu, part of Haleakala National Park. The trail winds above Pipiwai Stream, over ‘O’heo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools), through bamboo forests, and leads you to a 400 ft waterfall, Waimoku falls. The hike is 4 miles roundtrip, and transports you to another world of natural wonder.

Kapalua Coastal Trail

The trail runs north from Kapalua Bay, over the sand dunes of Oneloa Bay, through the extravagant grounds of The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua, and ends at popular D.T. Fleming beach park. At the end of the Coastal Trail, you can start on the more strenuous Mahana Ridge Trail.

8. Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery

Made with deep ocean mineral water and organic sugar cane, Ocean Vodka is committed to sustainably and quality. Offering tours through its 80-acre property on the slopes of Haleakala give you breathtaking views of north and south Maui. Solar panels power the facility. Tours are offered and can be booked online through their website.

9. Banyan Tree Park

Located on Maui’s west side in historic Lahaina, the native banyan tree provides a wide park area to enjoy a picnic or take a rest after scouring the stores of Front Street. Local vendors will also set up tables to sell their handmade goods. Just in front of the park are historical sites and busy Lahaina Harbor where fisherman bring in their fresh catch and snorkelers are taken on a new adventure.

10. Maui Ocean Center

Dive deep and learn about Hawaii’s unique marine environment where 25% of coral species are found here and nowhere else in the world! Get up close and personal with sharks and rays in the shark tunnel. Or get to know some of the sea turtles who are being studied until they are 3 years old and then released back into the wild. Your love for the ocean will grow when you spend time at the Maui Ocean Center.

More About the Author: Skyline Eco-Adventures, the USA’s first Zipline Company, operates zipline tours on Maui, Kauai and the Big Island. Seeking an experience for the whole family? Check out https://www.skylinehawaii.com/ for more info, now!