Top Things to do in Maui
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What to do and see in Maui, Hawaii (HI): The Best Things to do
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.
Restaurants in Maui
1. 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.
2. Hana Highway - Road to Hana
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9,634 reviews
A scenic and often dangerous road popular with the more adventurous visitor.
Reviewed By MauiSteve96713 - Hana, United States
Ok, I see a lot of mixed reviews on this Road To Hana, and while some are valid, others are not. A lot of people seem to 'not get it'., so here I am...as a resident reviewing my side of the island. The road to Hana is just that. Nothing more. Hana itself is not the destination. The draw to the attraction IS the road and all it has to offer...NOT what's at the end. Keep an open mind, leave for your drive as early as possible...even sunrise or before...and get a jump on traffic and crowds. Get your gas tank topped off in Paia, and bring a cooler of drinks and some snacks. As far as the nightmares you've heard about the local drivers tailgating, all you need to do is slow down or pull over and motion them to let them pass. We've all seen it, we live here and it's a long drive for us to even go to Walmart. Most of us can drive this road blindfolded since we've done it so many times. We want you to enjoy your drive at your leisure, but we don't appreciate other drivers not allowing us to pass. Wave to us as we pass...we'll wave back! Appreciate your day. If it's raining, it's Maui. Can't have waterfalls without the rain. If it's sunny, then many of the waterfalls may not be flowing. Best time to drive it? The first sunny day after a few days of rain. Sun AND waterfalls! Take it easy and slow. There is no rush. Consider spending the night in Hana. LOTS to do and see along the drive and in Hana and further. Pace yourself. If you make no stops, it's still nearly two hours to Hana from Paia. Consider a CD tour or book that gives you the sights by mile-marker. They are not all there, but enough to know where you are. Some of the best waterfalls are back toward the Nahiku area and Hana. Make the stops and take lots of photos. If you need facilities, there are three along the way at wayside stops, The Half Way to Hana stand, Ka'ahumina wayside, and one between MM 22/23....but you won't be arrested if you need a privacy tree in an emergency. There are plenty of those. The drive has access to plenty of waterfall views and hikes, oceanfront areas in Ka'anae, an arboretum, quaint early 1800's churches, pounding surf, gorgeous views, delicious banana bread, flowers and flower farms, quaint neighborhoods, fruit stands, black-sand beach, caves, BBQ stands, gift shops, coffee shop, Nahiku Tropical flower farm, Glenn's organic and vegan ice cream stand, bamboo hikes, Seven Pools, several absolutely delicious food trucks in Hana, Red Sand Beach, Hana Bay,...the list goes on... Main thing is to come early, take your time and relax in Hawaiian Time like no other...and yes, consider spending the night. Many places don't need reservations, as many folks have bungalows out back you can inquire about. And if you need to pass, just give your horn two little taps. Beep Beep...as you pass. and don't forget to wave! Enjoy!
3. Makena Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 982 reviews
Reviewed By LisaO1555 - San Diego, United States
Makena beach, also known as Big Beach, is hands down the best beach in Maui. Long, wide, and sandy beach that offers a break from the crowds in Kaanapali and Kihei. Big parking lot with portable toilets. The beach is perfect for both couples and families.
4. Ka'anapali Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9,220 reviews
One of the best beaches in Maui, a favorite for relaxation as well as water sports.
Reviewed By Walnutwoman - Sacramento, United States
Sunshine kissed, cool trade breezes, water sports galore and stunning beaches, what more could you ask for.... wait, it’s there too, a short walk to whalers village gets you shopping, dining and more. P.S. Macy’s in the Hyatt is perfect for resort wear and things forgotten for a trip.
5. Wailea Beach
6. Nakalele Blowhole
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,251 reviews
Reviewed By ToolChick92
Check the waves report every day during your stay. Pick a big swell or windy and wavy day. This will maximize the blowhole activity watching. Wear hiking shoes, take water. If you are not fit enough to climb down slippery and sometimes rocky parts that you will later have to climb back up sometimes pulling yourself up the rocks then watch the blowhole from the top just a short ways from the parking lot. There is an Ohana selling banana bread and coconut water at the parking lot. Park at mile marker 38.5 not 38 ! Much closer more trafficked and apparently safer from the break ins that are common in the area, take your valuables and leave glove compartment open. At mile marker 38 you can park and walk down a short way to see the other side of the rocky structure that has the blow hole for a magnificent view of the water pools and rocky bridge connecting them. It's an amazing feat of nature! Do not get close to it, stay on dry ground, it has massive suction, also a powerful jet of water that sometimes spews rocks, also do not go near the edges by the ocean waves. There have been people know to have fallen in the ocean due to a wave surprising them and tumbling in. There is no rescue here ans no cell service. On the day we went it shot up 60 ft in the air there were a couple of explosions that reached 100 ft. Respect mother nature and keep your eyes on the ocean. Great viewing stops along the way, especially surfer watching at Honolua Bay.
7. Maui Swap Meet
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 660 reviews
The biggest outdoor market on Maui since 1981
Reviewed By Pathfinder476103 - Spokane, United States
Maui Swap Meet is a great location to purchase island fresh produce, craft items, island clothing and other island inspired items. Get there early as the swap meet is very popular.
8. Kamaole Beach Park 3
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,100 reviews
Reviewed By Swimfamily642 - Hillsdale, United States
A nice beach, plenty of parking, with a lifeguard station, outside shower, bathroom, swings, picnic tables and small changing area. Down below the beach is wide enough between the rock jetties to swim and boogie board on, and also plenty of space to sit and watch and relax. We only had one bad day where the orange flags were up due to bad wave angles. A nice beach in a nice shore town. The great thing about Kihei is it knows what kind of town it is and doesn't pretend to be Waikiki by any stretch, which is a good thing IMO.
9. Kapalua Coastal Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,122 reviews
A two-mile walk along Maui's northwest coast, the trail begins and ends on a beach. In between, you'll see spactacular oceanfront and bountiful greenery on the dramatic coastline.
Reviewed By Lovef1906 - San Jose, United States
My family and I were on vacation in Maui (in the Lahaina area) and were looking for a spot to take our girls (5 & 7) out for an easy hike/walk where we could also take in some of the natural beauty of the coastline. The Kapalua Coastal Trail was exactly what we were looking for. It's a mostly flat walking trail that offers views of the beach, rock formations, flowers, plants and birds. There is beach access and a spot to go cliff diving. It takes 1.5-2 hours to explore the entire trial if you take your time and take it all in. Parking is free.
10. Maui Brewing Company
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,045 reviews
Maui Brewing Co is Hawaii's largest craft brewery! We make handcrafted ales & lagers brewed with aloha. Swing by and check us out, enjoy a pint on the lanai.
Reviewed By Dlloyd4114 - Cedar Rapids, United States
It seemed odd to spend an hour in Hawai’i visiting a brewery but was well worth the time. Some of the standard stuff but our guide was very engaged and did an excellent job of telling Maui Brewing’s beginning and evolution. I am very impressed that they are off the grid and very committed to the environment. The outstanding beer was impressive as well. The flagship beers are excellent and we also sampled the Imperial Coconut Porter and Land of Rainbows Saison at the brewpub which is also worth the stop. Also they are very accommodating. We had tour reservations and needed to change them twice, they were very friendly and accommodating when I called to make changes.
