23 Best Activities In Maui – For An Unforgettable Adventure

Welcome to our guide to the Must-Try Activities in Maui.

Planning activities in Maui can be overwhelming, especially with so many incredible options for things to do. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or someone looking to relax, Maui has something for everyone. But with so much to choose from, how do you decide where to start? That’s where we come in.

Our team of seasoned travelers and researchers, who have explored Maui’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture, are here to help you navigate the island’s top activities. We’ve spent years uncovering the best experiences on Maui, ensuring that this guide offers you firsthand insights and practical advice.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the must-do activities on Maui, from exploring the famous Road to Hana to snorkeling in crystal-clear waters. By the end, you’ll have a clear plan for making the most of your Maui adventure.

Read our FULL MAUI GUIDE to find:

• 15 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in Maui
• 15 Cheap Hotels In Maui
• 18 Best Restaurants in Maui

Vibrant

Molokini Crater Snorkeling

Pristine Waters

Marine Life

Volcanic Caldera

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Scenic

Road to Hana Guided Tour

Waterfalls

Rainforest

Black Sand Beaches

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Breathtaking

Haleakalā National Park

Panoramic Views

Volcanic Summit

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10 Best Picks For Must-Try Activities In Maui

• Best for Marine life exploration in Maui: Molokini Crater Snorkeling. When it comes to activities in Maui that focus on marine life exploration, Molokini Crater Snorkeling tops the list.

• Best For a scenic adventure: Road to Hana Guided Tour. Embark on a full-day journey along the Road to Hana, where you’ll discover hidden waterfalls, lush rainforests, and dramatic coastal views.

• Best for beautiful views: Sunrise at Haleakalā National Park. Experience the awe-inspiring sunrise from the summit of Haleakalā, a dormant volcano offering panoramic views above the clouds.

• Best for Maui exploration: Maui Helicopter Tour. Take to the skies on a helicopter tour for an unparalleled view of Maui’s diverse landscapes, including cascading waterfalls, volcanoes, and lush valleys.

• Best for Romantic experience: Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise. Enjoy a romantic evening on a sunset dinner cruise, complete with gourmet dining, live entertainment, and stunning views of the Maui coastline.

• Best for wildlife observation: Maui Whale Watching Cruise. Set sail on a seasonal whale-watching cruise to witness the majestic humpback whales as they migrate through Maui’s warm waters.

• Best for thrilling experience: Maui Zipline Adventure. Soar above Maui’s tropical landscapes on a zipline, offering a thrilling adventure with breathtaking views of the island’s natural beauty.

• Best for cultural immersion: Maui Luau Experience. Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture at an authentic luau, featuring traditional hula dancing, fire performances, and a feast of local delicacies.

• Best for Island exploration: Lanai Dolphin and Snorkel Tour. Explore the neighboring island of Lanai, where you can snorkel in pristine waters and observe playful dolphins in their natural habitat.

• Best for hiking: Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls Hike. Hike through a bamboo forest on the Pipiwai Trail, culminating in the spectacular Waimoku Falls, one of Maui’s most stunning natural sights.

23 Must-Try Activities In Maui

ADVENTURE

Maui Zipline Adventure

Among the many activities in Maui, the Maui Zipline Adventure lets you fly above lush landscapes, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the island’s natural beauty.. It’s not just a thrill ride—it’s an immersive way to see Maui’s diverse scenery, in a completely new way. This experience blends adventure with the island’s natural wonders, making it a must-do for anyone seeking a unique perspective of Maui.

Start your adventure with a short hike through a tropical forest, guided by experts who share insights about the local plants and animals. Then, the real excitement begins as you zip from platform to platform, each offering stunning views of Maui. Imagine soaring over sugarcane fields and catching glimpses of the ocean in the distance. The longest zipline stretches over half a mile, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the ride. Throughout, the guides add depth to your adventure with stories and cultural tidbits that make the experience both fun and educational.

Maui ATV Adventure

The Maui ATV Adventure offers a thrilling way to explore the island’s rugged terrain. If you’re looking to see a side of Maui that few tourists experience, this off-road adventure is for you. It’s all about connecting with the island’s natural beauty while getting an adrenaline rush as you navigate through challenging landscapes.

You start with a quick safety briefing and an introduction to handling your ATV. Once you’re ready, you hit the trails. The guided tour takes you through muddy paths, rocky terrain, and open fields. You get incredible views of Maui’s valleys, hills, and coastlines. Along the way, your guide shares interesting facts about Maui’s history and environment, making the ride educational as well as exciting. There are several stops where you can take photos or just take in the scenery.

Maui Waterfall Rappelling

Maui Waterfall Rappelling is an adventure that lets you combine the thrill of descending a waterfall with the beauty of Maui’s rainforests. If you’re looking to challenge yourself and connect with nature, this activity delivers an unforgettable experience.

You start with a hike through the lush rainforest, led by expert guides. After a quick lesson and safety briefing, you’ll gear up and begin with smaller practice falls. Once you’re ready, you’ll rappel down a towering waterfall. As you descend, cool water rushes around you, and you’ll see stunning views of the jungle, cliffs, and pools below. The combination of adrenaline and natural beauty makes each rappel unique and memorable.

Kaanapali Surf Lessons

Kaanapali Surf Lessons let you experience Hawaii in a new way. Never surfed before? Want to get better? Kaanapali Beach is where you start. The waves welcome you, and as you catch them, you’re surrounded by the views of the West Maui Mountains and nearby islands.

Your surf lesson kicks off on Kaanapali Beach. Instructors show you the basics, like paddling and standing up on the board. They guide you step by step, starting with practice on the sand before you head into the water. Whether you’re a beginner or someone with experience, they’ll help you feel ready to take on the waves. The thrill of catching your first wave, combined with the scenery, creates a moment you won’t forget.

Haleakalā Crater Hike

Among the top activities in Maui, the Haleakalā Crater Hike takes you into one of the island’s most stunning landscapes. Located in Haleakalā National Park, this dormant volcano offers a one-of-a-kind hiking adventure, making it a must-do when exploring the best Maui excursions. You’ll explore the crater’s vast terrain, see amazing geological features, and experience the calm beauty of Maui’s highest peak.

Your hike starts at the summit, where you’ll descend into the crater. As you walk, you’ll move through a variety of environments, from rocky terrain to green areas with rare plants like the silversword. Trails like the Sliding Sands Trail or Halemau‘u Trail guide you through this awe-inspiring landscape, filled with cinder cones, lava flows, and deep valleys. The quietness and solitude of the crater make it feel like you’ve stepped into another world. The views are unforgettable, stretching across Maui and out to the ocean.

Maui Kayak and Snorkel Adventure

The Maui Kayak and Snorkel Adventure gives you a close-up look at Maui’s coastline and underwater world. This guided tour combines peaceful kayaking with thrilling snorkeling. Paddling through calm waters, you’ll get the chance to explore coral reefs, see tropical fish, and maybe even swim alongside sea turtles.

Your journey starts with a paddle along Maui’s beautiful coast, often from spots like Makena, Wailea, or Olowalu. The clear waters let you take in stunning views of beaches and volcanic landscapes. Your guide leads you to prime snorkeling spots, where you’ll anchor the kayak and dive in. The coral reefs here are full of life—schools of tropical fish, colorful corals, and Hawaiian green sea turtles are common sights. In winter, you might even spot humpback whales in the distance.

Maui Scuba Diving Experience

Maui Scuba Diving offers a thrilling dive into one of the world’s most diverse marine ecosystems. The island’s clear, warm waters reveal beautiful coral reefs, unique volcanic formations, and a wide variety of marine life. This adventure lets you explore Hawaii’s underwater beauty up close, from colorful fish to sea turtles, and sometimes even reef sharks.

Your diving adventure usually starts with a boat ride to top dive spots like Molokini Crater, Turtle Town, or the Cathedrals near Lanai. Molokini Crater, a partially submerged volcanic caldera, stands out for its visibility and rich marine life. As you dive, you’re surrounded by schools of tropical fish, vibrant coral gardens, and maybe even manta rays or humpback whales. The underwater landscape, featuring lava tubes, arches, and caves, adds to the thrill, making each dive memorable. If you’re new to diving, many operators offer introductory dives in calm, shallow waters to help you gain confidence.

NATURE & EXPLORATION

Molokini Crater Snorkeling

Molokini Crater Snorkeling offers a chance to explore one of Maui’s most unique underwater environments. This crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater lies just off Maui’s southwest coast. Molokini Crater is a marine sanctuary and a top snorkeling destination. The clear visibility, often reaching up to 150 feet, makes it a must-visit spot for snorkelers.

Your adventure begins with a boat ride from Maalaea or Kihei. As you approach the crater, you’ll notice its distinct crescent shape, which protects a thriving ecosystem home to over 250 species of fish, many unique to Hawaii. Once in the water, you’ll swim among colorful fish, rays, and maybe even spot a sea turtle. The inner side of the crater, with its gentle slope, is great for beginners, offering calm waters and easy access to the coral reefs. More experienced snorkelers can explore the outer wall, where the deeper waters provide a chance to see larger species against a dramatic underwater backdrop.

Lanai Dolphin and Snorkel Tour

The Lanai Dolphin and Snorkel Tour offers a thrilling adventure that combines dolphin watching with snorkeling in Hawaii’s pristine waters. Lanai, a quieter island near Maui, is known for its unspoiled marine environment and resident spinner dolphins. This tour gives you a unique chance to explore Lanai’s underwater world while enjoying the spectacle of dolphins in the wild.

The tour begins with a scenic boat ride from Maui, often departing from Lahaina or Maalaea Harbor. As you head towards Lanai, keep an eye out for spinner dolphins, famous for their acrobatic spins. Seeing these dolphins in their natural habitat is a highlight of the trip. After dolphin watching, you’ll stop at top snorkeling spots like Manele Bay or Shark Fin Cove. These areas are known for their clear waters and vibrant marine life, including tropical fish, coral reefs, and sea turtles. The rugged cliffs of Lanai provide a stunning backdrop as you snorkel in these beautiful waters.

Road to Hana Guided Tour

The Road to Hana Guided Tour takes you on one of Maui’s most famous adventures. This journey leads you through lush rainforests, past stunning waterfalls, and along Maui’s rugged coastline. A guided tour is a stress-free way to experience the Road to Hana, letting you focus on the breathtaking scenery without worrying about the challenging drive.

Your tour begins early, with a pickup from your accommodation. As you travel along the winding Road to Hana, your knowledgeable guide shares stories and facts about Maui’s history, culture, and nature. With 620 curves and 59 one-lane bridges, the road offers a thrilling ride with incredible views at every turn.

The tour stops at several must-see spots. You might explore the Garden of Eden Arboretum with its exotic plants, visit the black sand beach at Waianapanapa State Park, or marvel at Wailua Falls. Some tours also visit the Seven Sacred Pools (Ohe’o Gulch), where you can take a refreshing dip in natural pools. Your guide may also reveal hidden gems like secret waterfalls and local spots for Hawaiian treats.

Sunrise at Haleakalā National Park

Watching the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park is one of the most beautiful experiences on Maui. From the summit of this dormant volcano, over 10,000 feet above sea level, you’ll witness the dawn break in a way that feels almost magical. Known as the “House of the Sun,” Haleakalā is a place of deep cultural significance in Hawaii, and seeing the sunrise from above the clouds is an experience you won’t forget.

Your adventure starts early, around 3:00 AM, as you begin the drive up the winding roads to Haleakalā’s summit. The road takes you through different climate zones, from tropical forests to a landscape that feels like another planet. When you reach the top, you’ll find the temperature can be surprisingly cold, so bundle up as you wait for the sunrise. As the sky begins to lighten, the colors shift from deep purples to fiery oranges, illuminating the vast crater and the sea of clouds below. The sight of the sun emerging over this landscape is breathtaking and often accompanied by the sound of traditional Hawaiian chants, adding to the experience.

After sunrise, you might explore the summit trails, where you can see rare plants like the silversword or catch a glimpse of the nēnē, Hawaii’s state bird. Some visitors also take a guided hike or visit the Haleakalā Visitor Center to learn more about the park’s unique features.

Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls Hike

The Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls Hike rank among Maui’s top outdoor adventures, leading you through vibrant rainforests and across picturesque streams. This 4-mile round-trip trail, located in Haleakalā National Park’s Kipahulu District, rewards your effort with a view of the stunning 400-foot Waimoku Falls, one of the island’s most breathtaking sights.

Starting near the Kipahulu Visitor Center, the trail takes you through dense bamboo groves, where the tall stalks create a unique, peaceful atmosphere. As you hike, the sounds of rustling leaves, birds, and distant waterfalls fill the air, immersing you in the natural beauty around you. The trail offers well-maintained boardwalks that guide you through challenging spots, making the hike accessible and enjoyable.

As you progress, you’ll pass smaller waterfalls and pools that invite brief stops for photos or a rest. The final part of the trail brings you to Waimoku Falls. This towering waterfall cascades down a sheer lava rock face, surrounded by lush greenery. The sight of Waimoku Falls is the perfect reward for your hike, leaving you with a sense of awe and accomplishment.

Maui Whale Watching Cruise

The Maui Whale Watching Cruise lets you witness the humpback whales that migrate to Maui’s warm waters each winter. This seasonal adventure is unique to the island, offering a chance to observe these incredible giants of the sea as they breach, tail slap, and spout in their natural habitat. It’s one of the most unforgettable wildlife experiences you can have in Hawaii.

Maui’s shallow, warm waters attract humpback whales, creating an ideal environment for them to breed, calve, and nurse. Your cruise typically starts in the morning when the seas are calm. As you head out, the excitement builds, with the crew sharing fascinating facts about whale behavior and migration. Anticipation peaks as spouts appear on the horizon. You’ll be amazed as these massive creatures surface, sometimes breaching out of the water with a splash. Seeing a 40-ton whale leap from the ocean is breathtaking. You may also witness tail slaps, fin waves, and even a mother teaching her calf to swim. Many cruises include hydrophones so you can listen to the whales’ haunting songs, adding a magical layer to the experience.

RELAXATION 

Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise

The Maui Sunset Dinner Cruise offers breathtaking ocean views and a gourmet dining experience. As the sun sets over the Pacific, this cruise provides a peaceful, romantic evening on the water. Whether you’re with family, friends, or that special someone, it’s an ideal way to enjoy Maui’s stunning beauty while savoring delicious food.

Boarding in the late afternoon, you’ll feel the warm Hawaiian breeze as the boat sails along Maui’s coastline. The sun sets in hues of orange and pink, painting the sky as you relax on deck. Sometimes, playful dolphins join the view. As the sun dips below the horizon, you might even catch the elusive green flash, a rare optical phenomenon.

Dinner on board is a highlight. You’ll enjoy a multi-course gourmet meal featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Everything is prepared in a Hawaiian style. Live music adds to the ambiance, creating a soothing atmosphere. You might also enjoy a complimentary drink upon boarding, with more options available for purchase.

Maui Helicopter Tour

A Maui Helicopter Tour lets you admire the island’s beauty from above, offering an unforgettable view of Maui’s diverse landscapes. This aerial adventure shows you parts of Maui that are often hidden from the ground. 

Your adventure starts with a safety briefing, followed by an introduction to the helicopter. Once you’re in the air, you’ll soar over Maui’s most iconic landmarks. One highlight is Haleakalā Crater, the world’s largest dormant volcano. Seeing its vast landscape from above is breathtaking, giving you a view that’s impossible to match from the ground.

The tour also includes Maui’s beautiful coastline, where you’ll spot hidden beaches, rugged cliffs, and the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. Flying over the West Maui Mountains, you’ll see waterfalls cascading down cliffs, some only accessible by air. The contrast between the green rainforests and the volcanic landscapes showcases the island’s incredible diversity. Depending on your tour, you might also fly over Molokai, home to the world’s tallest sea cliffs. Your pilot, who also serves as your guide, will share interesting facts about Maui’s geology, history, and culture throughout the flight.

Maui Submarine Adventure

The Maui Submarine Adventure lets you explore the ocean’s depths without getting wet. This experience is perfect if you want to see the wonders of the underwater world while staying dry. It’s one of the rare places where you can board a real submarine and descend over 100 feet below the surface. This adventure offers a unique, unforgettable way to see Maui from a completely different angle.

On the Maui Submarine Adventure, you’ll board a state-of-the-art submarine built for underwater exploration. As the submarine descends, large viewing windows give you a clear view of Maui’s vibrant marine life. You’ll glide past coral gardens filled with colorful fish, spot sea turtles, and maybe even see a sunken shipwreck. The crew provides insightful commentary throughout the journey, sharing fascinating facts about the marine ecosystem and the history of the underwater sites.

CULTURAL & HISTORICAL

Maui Luau Experience

The Maui Luau Experience is a must-do to immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture. It’s a celebration that highlights the island’s rich heritage through traditional food, dance, and music. Attending a luau perfectly connects with Hawaii’s history and customs in a festive and memorable setting.

When you arrive, you’ll receive a warm aloha welcome and a traditional lei. The evening begins with cultural activities like the imu ceremony, where the roasted pig is unearthed from the underground oven. You might also have the chance to learn some hula moves or watch craft demonstrations. As the sun sets, the main event kicks off—a grand buffet featuring Hawaiian favorites like kalua pork, poke, lomi lomi salmon, and haupia. The entertainment is the evening’s highlight, with hula dancers, fire-knife performers, and live music that narrates Hawaii’s legends and history. The combination of food, music, and dance creates an engaging, fun, and educational atmosphere.

Lahaina Historic Walking Tour

The Lahaina Historic Walking Tour lets you step back in time to explore the rich history of Lahaina, once the royal capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom and a whaling village. This tour takes you on a journey through centuries, showcasing the town’s transformation from an ancient Hawaiian settlement to a lively center of commerce and culture.

Your tour begins at the Lahaina Visitor Center, where you’ll start exploring key historical sites like the Baldwin Home Museum, Lahaina Courthouse, and the famous Banyan Tree, which has stood tall for over 150 years. The tour also takes you to the Old Lahaina Prison, or Hale Pa‘ahao, where rowdy sailors were once held, and the Wo Hing Museum, which highlights the town’s Chinese heritage. As you stroll down Front Street, you’ll pass by old missionary homes, royal residences, and other historic buildings that have witnessed Lahaina’s storied past. Local historians often guide these tours, sharing intriguing tales about whalers, missionaries, and Hawaiian royalty.

Maui Chocolate and Farm Tour

The Maui Chocolate and Farm Tour lets you dive into the world of chocolate right where it’s grown. You’ll discover how cacao transforms from bean to bar while exploring a farm that uses sustainable practices. This tour is a treat for your taste buds and a great way to learn about Maui’s agricultural side.

Your tour begins with a walk through the cacao orchards, set against Maui’s lush landscapes. Here, you’ll see how cacao beans are cultivated and harvested, gaining insight into how Maui’s unique climate contributes to their growth. Next, you’ll move to the chocolate-making area, where you’ll watch as the beans are fermented, dried, and roasted. You’ll see how cacao nibs are ground and transformed into smooth, rich chocolate. The tour includes a tasting session, where you can sample different chocolates, each with flavors that showcase the island’s terroir. Some tours even pair these chocolates with local fruits, coffee, or wine for an extra flavor adventure.

Maui Pineapple Tour

The Maui Pineapple Tour gives you access to the last pineapple plantations in the U.S. You’ll see firsthand how pineapples grow and learn about their journey from field to table. This tour is a tasty dive into Maui’s agricultural heritage and lets you enjoy the island’s famous sweet pineapples right from the source.

Your tour begins with a guided walk through the pineapple fields. Here, you’ll learn about the entire cultivation process—from planting to harvesting. As you explore the fields, you’ll see pineapples at different stages of growth and discover the unique techniques used to grow them in Maui’s rich volcanic soil.

ECO & EDUCATIONAL

Maui Eco-Friendly Farm Tour

The Maui Eco-Friendly Farm Tour gives you a glimpse into sustainable agriculture on the island, where local farmers work hard to protect the environment while growing organic products. This tour stands out because it connects you directly with Maui’s green efforts, promoting eco-conscious living and offering a unique farm-to-table experience.

Your tour begins with an introduction to the farm’s mission and the crops grown, such as organic vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers. You’ll learn how these crops are cultivated using methods like permaculture, companion planting, and composting—without relying on harmful chemicals.

As you walk through the farm, you’ll see sustainability in action, from rainwater harvesting to solar energy systems. You might even get your hands dirty, planting seeds, harvesting produce, or making compost. This hands-on experience deepens your understanding of eco-friendly farming.

A highlight of the tour is sampling fresh produce straight from the farm. Whether it’s a ripe piece of fruit or a freshly picked herb, the flavors are exceptional. Some tours might also include a farm-to-table meal or snack, showcasing the farm’s bounty in dishes prepared by local chefs.

Oahu Day Trip from Maui

The Oahu Day Trip from Maui lets you explore another of Hawaii’s famous islands in just a day. You’ll visit iconic sites like Pearl Harbor, Waikiki Beach, and the North Shore, all while returning to Maui by evening. This adventure is perfect for experiencing the diverse culture and scenery of Oahu without the need for an extended stay.

Your day starts with an early morning flight from Maui to Oahu, landing in Honolulu. From there, a guided tour leads you to some of Oahu’s most significant sites. The first stop is often Pearl Harbor, where you can visit the USS Arizona Memorial. Here, you’ll learn about the World War II attack that forever changed history. It’s a powerful and educational experience that leaves a lasting impact.

After Pearl Harbor, you might head to Waikiki Beach, famous for its stunning shores and lively vibe. You can stroll along the beach, browse the shops, or grab a quick bite at one of the beachfront cafes. Some tours include a visit to Diamond Head Crater, where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean.

The journey continues to the North Shore, known for its legendary surf spots like Banzai Pipeline and Sunset Beach. Depending on the tour, you might watch surfers tackle massive waves or relax at a quieter beach. The North Shore is also home to Haleiwa, a charming town with local shops, art galleries, and food trucks serving Hawaiian specialties like shave ice.

Throughout the day, knowledgeable guides share stories and facts about Oahu’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. After a full day of exploration, you’ll return to Honolulu for your flight back to Maui, bringing back incredible memories of your Oahu adventure.

Maui Horseback Riding Tour

The Maui Horseback Riding Tour is one of the most peaceful activities in Maui. It’s a scenic way to explore the island’s natural beauty. Riding through Maui’s landscapes on horseback lets you experience the island from a unique perspective, far from the usual tourist paths.

You’ll start your journey by mounting your horse and heading out into Maui’s varied terrain. Depending on the tour, you might ride along the slopes of Haleakalā, through the charming town of Makawao, or along scenic coastal trails. As you ride, your guide shares stories about the island’s rich history, cultural heritage, and the land itself, making the experience educational as well as enjoyable. Whether you’re winding through lush valleys or taking in ocean views from a hilltop, the combination of riding and learning makes this tour a memorable way to connect with Maui’s natural environment.

Conclusion

When visiting Maui, planning your activities in Maui ahead of time ensures you don’t miss out on the island’s incredible experiences. Whether you’re exploring historic Lahaina, enjoying a thrilling helicopter tour, or relaxing on a sunset cruise, each adventure offers something unique and unforgettable.

Take the time to explore what Maui has to offer, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The island’s beauty, culture, and adventure await—start planning your perfect Maui getaway today!

Frequently Asked Questions