Top Things to do in Maui
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Top 10 Nature & Parks in Maui, Hawaii (HI)
The Hawaiian island of Maui is a destination for true nature lovers. The ethereal bamboo forest and churning waterfalls in Haleakala National Park can be explored via the Waimoku Falls Trail. Stretch out on warm, golden sands or hit the surf for an unforgettable windsurfing or snorkeling session. Driving the scenic road to Hana along the island’s northeastern shore will be among the most spectacular journeys of your life. Time stands still at the Hawaiian village of Keanae, definitely worth a visit.
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1. Pipiwai Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,267 reviews
A scenic hiking and horseback riding trail that features major waterfalls, beautiful pools and an eerie bamboo forest.
Reviewed By dmccubbins
One of the must do's on the road to Hana. It took us a solid 2 hours round trip to complete and we were moving pretty fast on the way back as we were fighting day light. It's a great hike though and the bamboo forest and the waterfall at the end is definitely worth the hike. I'd say it's moderate to difficult depending on your fitness level as you walk up a hill a bunch and it's a tad rocky in parts.
2. Keawakapu Beach
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 536 reviews
Reviewed By Happel - Frisco, United States
This beach was walking distance to the Wailea Beach resort. It was a lively beach where you can boogie board, snorkel or play in the soft sand.
3. Haleakala National Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2,460 reviews
Reviewed By robertdX4400QY - Oahu, United States
Towering over the island of Maui and visible from just about any point, Haleakala Crater is a force of nature in every sense. At 10,023 feet above sea level, this dormant volcano is the stage for a breathtaking range of landscapes—and skyscapes. Haleakala means "house of the sun" in Hawaiian, and legend goes that the demigod Maui lassoed the sun from its journey across the sky as he stood on the volcano’s summit, slowing its descent to make the day last longer. Many visitors wake up early to drive to the Haleakala Visitor Center, the best spot to watch what may be the most spectacular sunrise on earth. As the sun peeks over the horizon, an ever-changing swirl of color and light dance across the vast sea of clouds—a sight described by Mark Twain as “the most sublime spectacle I have ever witnessed.” Perhaps just as impressive are Haleakala’s sunsets and the bright, starry skies revealed at night. Remember, the National Park Service now requires a reservation for personal and rental vehicles to view the sunrise from the summit district. Your reservation is for parking at the summit and doesn’t include the required national Park entry fee. Drive times from Kaanapali and Wailea to reach the summit average 2 hours. Sunrises and sunsets are only two of the many reasons to pay Haleakala National Park a visit on your trip to Maui. Spanning more than 30,000 acres of public land, the stunning landscapes range from Mars-like red deserts and rock gardens near the summit to lush waterfalls and streams in the park’s coastal Kipahulu section, near Hana. There are numerous hiking trails that offer solitude and scenic vistas, while guided hikes and horseback rides provide an expert's insight in addition to the natural beauty. There are more endangered species here than any other park in the National Park Service, like blooming ahinahina (silversword) and nene (Hawaiian goose), the state bird. Visitors can also camp here, with separate campgrounds and cabins available.
4. Haleakala Crater
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7,954 reviews
A dormant volcano measuring 10,000 feet above sea level, it is Maui's highest point.
Reviewed By waynemQ1946NK - Chester, United States
Although you have to wake up very early to make it to the top of the crater to watch the sun rise above the clouds, this is a must do- once in a lifetime opportunity. Well, maybe you can go more than once in your lifetime... It is amazing once you realize that you are above the clouds and then to see the beautiful colors as the sun rises up. It is cold, but you will survive with a sweatshirt.
5. Maui Ocean Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,102 reviews
Named “Top 10 Aquariums in the World” by TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards, Maui Ocean Center is the premier destination to encounter and learn about Hawaii’s marine life. Home to one of the world’s largest displays of live Pacific corals, the Aquarium exhibits only marine life found in Hawaiian waters including tropical fish, sea turtles, sharks, stingrays, octopuses, sea jellies, and more. The Aquarium highlights the beauty of Hawaii’s undersea world while perpetuating the deep connection between the Hawaiian people and the sea. The Aquarium’s mission is to foster understanding, wonder, and respect for Hawaii’s marine life.
Reviewed By M6869VMmargaretk - Parksville, Canada
This is a fabulous aquarium with beautifully presented displays.Loads of lighting and informational displays and the highlight was the shark tank with manta rays and sharks swimming above you in the tunnel.An added bonus for cruise visitors is that you can catch a bus opposite the small port terminal and buy a day pass for $4. The bus takes about 30 minutes to the Ocean centre.
6. Honolua Bay
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 915 reviews
Reviewed By Shutterbug444
Honolua Bay is a great place to snorkel! There is free parking just off the main road but it's hit and miss getting a spot because it's a popular spot. Getting here early is a good idea. From there, you walk through a beautiful and peaceful rainforest, which is the Honolua Bay access trail, to reach the bay. I had as much fun exploring the rainforest as I did at the bay. There are many chickens and baby chicks running around.
7. Bamboo Forest
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 229 reviews
Located at Oheo Gulch, the Bamboo Forest offers good hiking.
Reviewed By Cnorton22
Great hike through the bamboo forest, and spectacular waterfall at the end. Just to note wear runners as we did it in flip flops and it was not the terrain for loose footwear.
8. Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 240 reviews
A great snorkeling spot on the southern coast of Maui.
Reviewed By canter2u - Beaver Dams, United States
Ahihi Cove is my go-to snorkeling spot. I swear ive even seen the same Rainbow Parrot fish super male everytime Ive gone (He's got a chunk out of his back). I go here at least 2-3 times every trip because you can count on so many varieties of colorful friendly fish. As you head to the parking lot (which is now very nicely paved) the road narrows and a sign says yield to oncoming traffic - as you continue, it is this small cove on the right that is your snorkeling goal! Park in the lot, and walk back on the gravel path alongside the road from lot to the cove. The required entry point is marked ona handy map - there is a huge flat cement platform underwater that is an easy take offpoint. wear a rash guard and be careful of the random waves that could unexpectedly throw you against the rocks or coral. It of course is best earlier in the morning or day when teh waves are low and the sun is out. this past trip I even saw a snowflake moray eel.
9. Ho'okipa Beach Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,529 reviews
Ideal for surfers and windsurfers.
Reviewed By ZoeyLambeauReggie - Plymouth, United States
Great place to hang out for several hours just watching the huge waves and great surfers! We went here before heading to the airport for our flight home. Nice place to relax and fairly close to the airport. This beach gets crowded so parking can get tricky....head down to lower lot if needed, plenty of spots there (usually).
10. Wai'anapanapa State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,966 reviews
Waianapanapa State Park is on the road to Hana, Maui.
Reviewed By rhealey007 - Charlotte, United States
Absolutely incredible!! It's a can't miss stop. The drive in from Hana Highway is bumpy but well worth it. Go check out the massive waves at the unique black sand beach... WARNING... the waves will occasionally cover the entire sand part of the beach, so be careful where you store your towels, bags, and shoes. Go up top and see the impressive blow hole... be careful of where you choose to stand or you will get drenched. Then continue passed the blow hole and hike, yes hike, a gorgeous short trail that embodies what you think of when you think about Hawaii... lush greens and bright flowers against lava rock and ocean waves. Upon returning to the beach, don't miss the sea arch and the walk-in cave off to the right, directly on the beach.
