Choose from 37 Fun Things to Do in Maui
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Kapalua
Situated on Maui’s northern tip past the sweltering shores of Lahaina, Kapalua is a luxurious enclave of beaches, golf, tennis and resorts. The signature beach—Kapalua Bay—has been voted America’s best, and the Plantation Golf Course regularly hosts the best in professional golf. Snorkel with sea turtles and colorful reef fish at hidden Namalu Bay, or hike the Village Walking Trails that climb their way up the ridge. Wherever you stand in Kapalua, the island of Moloka’i dramatically sits on the not-too-distant horizon, and whitecaps fleck the Pailolo Channel that separates the two islands. In winter, locals flock to Fleming Beach Park for the bodysurfing and waves, and secret, white sand Oneloa Bay is a sanctuary of footprints and silence. And, even though tony Kapalua is only 20 minutes from Lahaina, its exposure to the trade winds means it’s always cooler just a few minutes up the road.
Practical Info
Kapalua is located 10 miles north of downtown Lahaina. There is public parking at Kapalua Bay and DT Fleming Beach Park, and early mornings are always calmest before the afternoon trade winds pick up. The exposure to the wind means an increase in rain, although the showers usually only fall as short, passing bursts.
Address: Kapalua, Hawaii, USA
From $ 131
Kahului
The town of Kahului on Maui is often just the starting point for vacations on the island, but if you've got a bit of spare time there are some good reasons to explore Kahului before moving on.
Kahului is one of the main shopping destinations for Maui residents, and it's home to one of Hawaii's largest airports. Besides shopping, however, you can also check out the Kanaha Beach Park and Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary. The former is a relatively hidden beach (behind the airport), and the latter is a bird sanctuary with some endangered Hawaiian bird species. There's also a botanical gardens featuring solely native Hawaiian flora. The town's history is closely tied to the sugar industry, which you can trace at Kahului's Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum.
Many visitors to Kahului know it as the starting point for the scenic Hana Highway (also known as the Road to Hana), which winds more than 50 miles along the northern shore of the island from Kahului to Hana.
Practical Info
Kahului is Maui's largest town, the airport is Hawaii's second-busiest and the port is big enough for cruise ships.
Address: Kahului, Maui, Hawaii, USA
From $ 139
Little Beach
Little Beach is smaller and more sheltered than many of the beaches on Maui. It is accessed by walking from the neighboring Big Beach, though the two are separated by a large lava rock wall and a five-minute hike. Its fine, white stretch of sand is only slightly more difficult to access than the average beach, but crowds are reduced here. Conditions are often good for both surfing and boogie boarding, and lava rock trails around the beach area lead to some smaller coves and viewpoints of the beaches of Makena State Park.
Also known as "Puʻu Olai,” the beach attracts a free-spirited crowd, with drum circles and fire dancing every Sunday evening. Aside from the blue waters and fine sands, it is a great spot to do some snorkeling (pending current conditions) and watch a famous Hawaiian sunset away from the crowds.
Practical Info
Little Beach is located just north of Makena Beach (Big Beach) in South Maui. You can find it by walking on the sand after turning right from Big Beach. You will come upon a small, rocky cliff with a path leading over it that leads to Little Beach. Be aware that Little Beach has been known for its nude sunbathers, and if you’re going for sunset, be sure to bring a flashlight for the return walk.
Address: Kihei, Hawaii, USA
From $ 75
Lahaina
The city of Lahaina on the western coast of Maui is, today, sometimes seen as simply a way to get to the beaches of Kaanapali. If you're just passing through, however, you're missing the town's charms completely.
Lahaina was once the royal capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii, from 1820-1845, and many of the attractions in the historic district date from that era – including the old cemetery, where you'll find royal graves, and a defensive fortress with reconstructed walls. Later, the city's economy was built on the whaling industry. Visitors today, however, come by the thousands to go whale watching rather than hunting.
The Lahaina Historic District is the center of tourism in the town, with several 19th century attractions to check out, and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1962. In addition to the historic attractions and whale watching, you can also enjoy snorkeling, surfing, sightseeing cruises, and luaus.
Practical Info
Lahaina is well-known for its year-round sunny weather, but the popular whale watching cruises are only available in the winter when the humpback whales are migrating. If you're flying directly to Maui, chances are you'll land at Kahului Airport, which is about a 45-minute drive from Lahaina on Route 30.
Address: State Highway 30, Lahaina 96761, USA
Admission: Free
From $ 45
Iao Valley
The iconic rock pinnacle known as the Iao Needle is the focus of Maui’s Iao Valley State Park.
Rising 2,250 feet (675 meters) into the air, the unusual plant-covered peak rises from the Iao Valley floor, surrounded by rainforest-covered volcanic craters, pools and streams.
The pinnacle was used as an altar, and the evocative location was the site of a famous battle between Kamehameha and the warriors of Maui.
Come to the Iao Valley State Park to follow easy hiking trails along tumbling streams. Views take in the Iao Needle, all the way across the rainforest to the coast at Kahului.
Practical Info
The Iao Valley is on the western side of Maui, 3 miles (5 kilometers) from the regional town of Wailuku. To get here from Wailuku, head west along Iao Valley Road.
Address: Iao Valley Road, Wailuku 96793, USA
Hours: Open daily 7am - 7pm
Admission: Free
From $ 144
Maui Cruise Port
The second largest of the islands, Maui is known for its legendary Road to Hana (aka the Hana Highway). This scenic route past waterfalls and beaches is one of the most popular attractions on the island and makes a great shore excursion. Other shore excursions include snorkeling and trips to the Haleakala Crater, a well-known sunset spot.
Maui has great beaches, including white-sand Kaanapali Beach near Lahaina, so don’t be afraid to spend your whole day in port on the sand.
How to get to Maui
Ships dock in Kahului Harbor on the north coast or anchor off Lahaina on the west coast. If you’re not taking an organized tour, you’ll want a rental car to get around the island. Most of the rental companies have shuttles from each port to take you to one of the airports to pick up your car.
One Day on Maui
The Road to Hana is a must, so plan your day around that. The 68-mile (109-km) journey (technically highways 36 and 360) starts in Kahului and travels east along the northern coast of the island to the town of Hana, on the eastern end of the island. The road takes you through the lush rainforest and over nearly 60 bridges. Stop whenever you like to check out waterfalls and amazing coastal views.
When you reach Hana, continue about 45 minutes past town if you’d like to swim in Ohe'o Gulch, a series of pools and waterfalls in Haleakala National Park.
Make sure you keep an eye on the time. Each way, the journey can take 2.5 to 3 hours, longer when you make stops.
Maui has great beaches, including white-sand Kaanapali Beach near Lahaina, so don’t be afraid to spend your whole day in port on the sand.
How to get to Maui
Ships dock in Kahului Harbor on the north coast or anchor off Lahaina on the west coast. If you’re not taking an organized tour, you’ll want a rental car to get around the island. Most of the rental companies have shuttles from each port to take you to one of the airports to pick up your car.
One Day on Maui
The Road to Hana is a must, so plan your day around that. The 68-mile (109-km) journey (technically highways 36 and 360) starts in Kahului and travels east along the northern coast of the island to the town of Hana, on the eastern end of the island. The road takes you through the lush rainforest and over nearly 60 bridges. Stop whenever you like to check out waterfalls and amazing coastal views.
When you reach Hana, continue about 45 minutes past town if you’d like to swim in Ohe'o Gulch, a series of pools and waterfalls in Haleakala National Park.
Make sure you keep an eye on the time. Each way, the journey can take 2.5 to 3 hours, longer when you make stops.
Port Information
The currency in Hawaii is the US dollar. English is the official language, as is Hawaiian, which many locals also speak.
Address: Kahului Harbor, Kahului, HI, USA
From $ 89
Haleakala Crater
Dubbed “House of the Sun” by native Hawaiians, Haleakala Crater is the world’s largest dormant volcano and the highest peak in Maui. Set in Haleakala National Park, here you can see a lunar landscape, admire cinder cones and endangered silversword plants, and trek wild hiking trails.
The Basics
Haleakala sunrise tours are the most popular way to see the crater, offering a unique look amid the orange and red-colored dawn, and saving visitors the hassle of navigating to the volcano’s summit in the dark. Many Haleakala Crater tours include pre-arranged sunrise-viewing passes for Pu’u’ula’ula Summit, the highest point on Mt. Haleakala. Sunrise bike tours typically provide one-way bus transportation to the peak, allowing you to enjoy the view and then cycle down 6,500 feet (1,981 meters) to the ocean.
Aside from early morning visits, other tours dodge the pre-dawn crowds with daytime trips, guided hikes across the crater floor, or full-day excursions to the crater and other destinations within Haleakala National Park. You can also visit Haleakala Crater on a combo tour that also stops at other top Maui sites such as Iao Valley or the Road to Hana.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Sunrise tours typically require very early start times, with most tours starting hotel pickup around 2 or 3am.
- The weather can be chilly at Mt. Haleakala’s high elevations, especially before sunrise and after sunset. Bring layers and comfortable shoes, and be prepared for rain.
- There are no gas stations or outlets to purchase food within Haleakala National Park.
- Some facilities at the summit are accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, including the Park Headquarters Visitor Center, Haleakala Visitor Center, and Hosmer Grove picnic area.
How to Get There
Haleakala Crater is located within Haleakala National Park on Maui. The only way to get there is by road, and it takes roughly 2.5 hours to reach the summit from the town of Kahului. From Kahului, take Route 37 to Highway 377, then transfer to Highway 378. Haleakala Crater access is at the end of the road within Haleakala National Park.
When to Get There
Haleakala National Park is open 24 hours per day, year-round. While temperatures in Maui remain fairly constant, winter (December through March) brings the coldest and rainiest weather, with average lows of 42°F (5.6°C) and upwards of seven inches (18 centimeters) of rain per month. Sunrise and sunset are the most popular times to visit the crater; opt for a daytime visit to avoid crowds.
Exploring Upcountry Maui
Upcountry Maui, the region around Mt. Haleakala, offers plenty to do after a sunrise crater tour. Head to the town of Kula to walk through lavender fields at Alii Kula Lavender Farm, stop by a Maui winery, or visit Hawaii Sea Spirits Organic Farm and Distillery, the makers of OCEAN Vodka. You can also seethe western-themed town of Makawao to enjoy some of the region’s best boutique shopping.
Address: Haleakala National Park, State Highway 330, Kula 96790, USA
Hours: Open daily
Admission: US$12 per person or US$25 per vehicle
From $ 144
Maui Tropical Plantation
Set amid 500 acres (202 hectares) of farmland in Waikapu Valley, Maui Tropical Plantation is a working plantation and agricultural theme park where more than 40 different crops and native plants are grown and harvested. Located on the grounds of a former sugarcane plantation, the park offers a glimpse into Maui’s agricultural past.
The Basics
Visitors have several ways of exploring the plantation grounds. Take a tram ride around the beautiful grounds to learn about the island’s agricultural past and Hawaii’s native plants and tropical fruits, watch a live coconut-husking demonstration, zipline above the plantation, or shop for seasonal organic produce, including tasty tropical fruit, macadamia nuts, and other made-in-Maui products. Admission to the park is free, although each attraction or experience has its own fee, allowing travelers to customize their visit. The plantation tour is included on the Maui Value Pass, along with entry to the Atlantis Maui Submarine Adventure, Maui Ocean Center, and Bailey House Museum.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Maui Tropical Plantation is a must-see for families.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Much of the plantation is wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
Maui Tropical Plantation is situated in Central Maui in the town of Waikapu, about 30 minutes from Wailea and 40 minutes from Lahaina by road. The easiest way to get there is to drive.
When to Get There
Maui Tropical Plantation is open daily. The summer season (July to September) sees the least rainfall in Maui, making it a good time to experience the plantation’s outdoor attractions. Be sure to book ahead if a cruise ship is in port—the plantation is a popular excursion.
Dining at the Maui Tropical Plantation
Come hungry, because the plantation grounds offer several culinary experiences. Sip a small-batch Hawaiian coffee at the Mill House Roasting Co., tuck into a multicourse meal at Maui Chef’s Table, dine on farm-to-table fare by a quiet lagoon at The Mill House, or satisfy a craving for something sweet at The Scoop, known for its ice creams and smoothies, all freshly made with plantation-grown ingredients.
Address: 1670 Honoapiilani Highway, Waikapu 96793, USA
Hours: Open daily 8am - 9pm
Admission: Adults: US$20, Children (3-12yrs): US$10
From $ 20
Alii Kula Lavender Farm
When most people think of lavender farms, they don’t think of Hawaii. But this farm’s fragrant seaside breezes and sweeping ocean vistas might make you forget all about France and merge the colorful purple blooms forever in your mind with memories of Maui. The (relatively) tiny Alii Kula Lavender Farm welcomes visitors for daily tours of its 13.5-acre cliff-side plot sporting 45 different varieties of the calming herb. It’s location in Kula, 4,000 feet above sea level in the Island’s elevated central region, enjoys a Mediterranean climate and also grows olive trees, hydrangea, South African protea and succulents.
Explore the farm on your own via their lavender treasure hunt or take a guided walking or golf-cart property tour departing several times each day (additional costs apply). In case you needed another way to relax on Maui, the farm house’s large lanai (porch) overlooking its gardens, white gazebo and the sea provides the perfect spot to indulge in lavender tea, a pre-packed gourmet picnic lunch featuring a special lavender-infused dessert or other organic botanical products from the onsite gift shop.
Practical Info
Alii Kula Lavender Farm is open daily from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. It is located at 1100 Waipoli Road—past the Kula Forest Reserve gates following the signs around the loop road. The last tour departs at 2:30pm. Golf cart tours departing twice daily ($25). General admission is $3 with discounts for Hawaii residents, military, seniors, and groups. Kids 12 and under are free.
Address: 1100 Waipoli Rd, Kula, Hawaii, USA 96790, USA
Hours: Open daily 9am-4pm
Admission: General Admission: $3; Walking Tour for Adults: $12
From $ 169
La Perouse Bay
La Perouse Bay is a stretch of coastline bordering the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve on Maui’s south shore. It was named for the French explorer Jean-François de La Pérouse, the first European to set foot on Maui in the 18th century. The bay is the site of Maui’s most recent volcanic activity, and the landscape is covered in jagged, black lava rock intermixed with pieces of white coral. Though there isn’t much of a beach visitors can hike this area using the King’s Trail, which winds past several small coves.
As its waters are protected from fishing by state law, aquatic life is abundant and excellent snorkeling spots can be found off its rocky coast. Spinner dolphins sightings are frequent in the bay. When waters are calm, it can be a great spot for swimming and kayaking.
Practical Info
La Perouse Bay is located at the end of Makena Alanui Road, at mile marker 7 just south of Wailea. There is a parking lot at the end of the road, but other facilities are limited. Arrive early for optimal hiking and snorkeling conditions before winds pick up in the afternoon.
Address: Wailea, Hawaii, USA
From $ 145
Hana
Hana is a community on the eastern end of Maui, and it might remain largely isolated if not for the spectacular scenery on the Hana Highway that draws visitors in droves.
Hana Town itself has a small population, although there's a constant influx of travelers. It's hot and humid year-round, but you'll be able to escape the tropical conditions at any one of the many excellent beaches in and around Hana – including a black sand beach at Waianapanapa State Park, and Hamoa Beach (sometimes called Hawaii's most beautiful beach).
The Hana Highway – also known as the Road to Hana – meanders more than 50 miles along the northern shore of Maui and leads to the community of Hana. If you've got the time, the best way to travel the Hana Highway is slowly, stopping frequently to check out waterfalls, beaches, and breathtaking views.
Along with the many attractions along the Road to Hana, there are also historic and scenic points of interest in Hana Town itself – including the Kahanu Garden, a 294-acre botanical garden that's also home to the 14th-century Pi'ilanihale Heiau temple, the largest such temple in Hawaii.
Practical Info
Hana Town is at the end of the 52-mile Hana Highway that starts in Kahului, but the drive takes at least 2.5-3 hours – even if you don't make frequent stops – because of all the twists and turns. Plan to take your time.
Address: Hana, Maui, Hawaii, USA
From $ 170
Makena
As the population center for South Maui's original inhabitants, Makena is heavily steeped in ancient history and culture. And although much of modern Makena has been developed with waterfront resorts and homes, this history is still evident at places such as Keawala’i Church—a Congregational church established in 1832—where sermons are still held in the Hawaiian language. Similarly, at the end of the paved road in Keone’o’io Bay (La Perouse Bay), the trailhead begins for the ancient King’s Highway, a rocky path that once wrapped around the entire island.
Makena is home to some of Maui's best beaches, including Big Beach—one of the only stretches of Maui's shoreline that has been entirely protected from development—and nearby Little Beach, which is known as the island's clothing-optional outpost and hosts drum circles led by sun worshippers. Snorkeling is also especially popular in Makena, and pods of spinner dolphins have been known to frequent the waters of Keone’o’io.
Makena is home to some of Maui's best beaches, including Big Beach—one of the only stretches of Maui's shoreline that has been entirely protected from development—and nearby Little Beach, which is known as the island's clothing-optional outpost and hosts drum circles led by sun worshippers. Snorkeling is also especially popular in Makena, and pods of spinner dolphins have been known to frequent the waters of Keone’o’io.
Although Makena is only a 10-minute drive from the mega-resorts of nearby Wailea, it manages to retain a rural charm that draws everyone from hikers to hippies and surfers to sightseers. It’s a dry, volcanic stretch of rocky shore where travelers can still catch glimpses of the island’s past along the southern coast.
Practical Info
Address: USA
From $ 75
Kaeleku Caverns
Also known as the Hana Lava Tube, these subterranean caverns were created when lava once cooled on the surface here but continued to flow underneath the ground above. Now there are hundreds of unique rock formations throughout the half mile long cavern system, including stalagmites and stalactites. The Kaeleku Caverns are the largest accessible lava tubes on Maui. It is estimated that the caves were formed nearly 30,000 years ago, and legend would tell us they are the work of Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire.
Water drips from the ceilings of the caves, but bats and insects are noticeably absent from the environment. Much of the caverns look as though they’ve been coated in chocolate. It’s an underground landscape that feels almost otherworldly, waiting to be explored. Above ground, there is a unique red Ti botanical garden maze that is also easy to get lost in.
Practical Info
The Kaeleku Caverns are located near mile marker 31 on the Road to Hana (Hana Highway). To reach the visitor’s center, turn left on Ulaino Road from the highway and drive about a half mile. The caves are open Monday to Saturday from 10:30am to 4pm, and admission costs $12. Handrails are present along the walking path, and flashlights or headlamps are both recommended and provided with entry. Bring a jacket, as temperatures inside the caverns can be quite cool.
Address: Hana, Hawaii 96713, USA
Hours: Mon–Sat 10:30am–4pm
Admission: $12
From $ 270
Bamboo Forest
Even in the middle of a sunny day, hikers here will often find they are strolling along in near darkness. The towering bamboo is so thick in places that it nearly blocks out the sun, and it creaks and whistles high in the branches as it blows in the East Maui wind. The dense jungle of bamboo aside, what makes this hike such a Maui favorite is the multiple waterfalls and swimming holes. Reaching the waterfalls can be treacherous, however, as the trail leading down from the highway to the falls is steep, slippery, and dirt. Even the entrance requires skirting a fence that has been cleared for easier entry, and it’s a “proceed at your own risk” type of trail that isn’t officially marked.
For those who choose to visit, however, four different waterfalls splash their way through a forest is laden with bamboo and guava. Each waterfall has a small swimming hole where you can escape the midday heat, and the bottom two falls are the most accessible for hikers who are simply visiting on their own. The uppermost falls are more difficult to reach as they require scaling ladders and ropes, and flash floods can sometimes occur in the narrow upper canyon. It’s best to only attempt these falls if visiting with a local or guide. Even only visiting the two bottom pools, however, is an enchanting tropical outing, and is a great way to get out and stretch your legs on the winding road out to Hana.
Practical Info
The Bamboo Forest is at mile marker 6.5, just past the village of Wailua. Parking is located along the mauka (mountain side) of the road, and overflow parking can be found around the bend by the Rainbow Eucalyptus trees. Accidents can—and do—happen when hiking along this trail, so be sure to exercise extra caution when setting out on the hike.
Address: Pipiwai Trail, Wailua, Hawaii, USA
From $ 173
Kaumahina State Wayside Park
This 7.8-acre park is a popular stop along the Road to Hana, with several hiking trails, covered picnic facilities and scenic views of the coast. There are dozens of native Hawaiian plants and birds to see as you walk through the forested area, so take a break from the drive and get some perspective from an overlook of the Ke’anae Peninsula and the nearby village.
There are several scenic spots to catch views of the bright blue sea and the winding coastline. Trails lead down to the ocean and loop back around, so there’s space to stretch your legs while enjoying the tropical environment here. Bring your walking shoes, your camera or binoculars and a picnic to enjoy some time at this park on your way up to Hana.
Practical Info
Kaumahina State Wayside Park is located on the north coast of Maui, 28 miles from the Kahului Airport at mile marker 12 along the Hana Highway. It is open from 6 am to 6 pm daily and has restroom facilities.
Address: Maui, Hawaii, USA
Hours: 6 am to 6 pm daily
From $ 125
Kaanapali
Hawaii’s first planned resort town, Kaanapali is a consistent favorite with visitors, with numerous hotels and condominium complexes sharing the prime waterfront location along Kaanapali Beach. Once named America’s Best Beach, the spot offers three miles of sand and warm, swimmable water. Families play on the shores, keeping eyes open for a possible whale swimming in the distance. Tour boats depart directly from the sand during whale-watching season, which runs through the winter.
Along with numerous restaurants, there are a variety of stores located in Kaanapali’s open-air Whalers Village shopping mall. Throughout the day, free Hawaiian entertainment, like hula dancing and lei-making lessons, are offered to guests. A walkway runs in between the beach and the line-up of resorts and businesses, making it easy to forget about the car and stroll from one spot to the next. There’s always a fun crowd of folks moving about.
Practical Info
Kaanapali Beach is just under an hour’s drive from Maui’s Kahului Airport. It’s considered by most to be West Maui’s signature beach town.
Address: Maui, Hawaii, USA
From $ 111
Maalaea Harbor
Most Maui visitors will spend some time at Maalaea Harbor, the launching point for many of the Island’s best sunset and dinner cruises, fishing charters, snorkeling adventures to the Molokini Crater—a submerged volcanic crater atoll—and more. The 89-slip harbor is the focal point of a quiet bay in the southern nook between the West Maui Mountains and towering Haleakala.
Between late November and early April, head to the scenic lookout between mile markers 8 and 9 to the west of the harbor for sweeping vistas of leaping humpback whales, or any time of the year to spot the dolphins that sometimes ride waves alongside harbor-departing cruises. The Pacific Whale Foundation, organizers of the annual World Whale Day celebrations, have their headquarters in Maalaea Harbor for a reason. Have some time to kill while waiting for your boating adventure? Set back from the sea is the popular Maui Ocean Center, an aquarium highlighting Hawaiian sea life from sharks to sea turtles, corals and more in over 60 indoor-outdoor exhibits. Or, grab some award-winning barbecue from the Beach Bum's Bar & Grill then explore the strips of adjacent Harbor Shops.
Practical Info
Maalaea Harbor is located at 101 Maalaea Boat Harbor Road, a 10-mile straight shot south of Kahului across the Isthmus. The Maalaea Harbor shops are open daily from 9:30am until 9:30pm and harbor facilities include restrooms and showers. Each boat is individually operated, but most sell tickets at the Maalaea Harbor Activities booth dockside near slip 47 between 9am and 8pm. For the best chance of spotting wildlife opt for a boat departing the harbor early morning. Because of the lay of the land here, funneling down between two mountains, it can be quite windy—hold onto your hat when the local trade winds pick up midday.
Address: 101 Maalaea Boat Harbor Road, Maalaea, Hawaii 96793, USA
From $ 45
Kaanapali Beach
Kaanapali Beach is perhaps the most well-known beach in all of Maui. Situated on west the west coast, these three miles of soft, golden sand have been called the best beach in America. It was once the retreat for the royal family of Hawaii, and it is now home to some of the most famous Hawaiian resorts.
There are countless ways to enjoy the beautiful beach, from a stroll on the sand to swimming and snorkeling in the clear, warm sea. There is a paved walkway along the length of the beach, but it’s hard to resist walking on the sand. If you’re in the water, keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles—they’re common visitors to the area. During whale season, humpback whales can be seen breaching from the shore.
At the northern end of Kaanapali, Black Rock has some of the beach’s best snorkeling. Every night at sunset cliff divers can be seen performing the Hawaiian ritual here, lighting torches along the cliff before leaping into the ocean.
Once you’ve had your fill of the beach activities, head up to nearby Whalers Village for some of Maui’s best shopping and dining, as well as a whaling museum with history of the area.
Practical Info
Kaanapali Beach is located in northwest Maui, roughly a 50-minute drive from Kahului Airport. Blue shoreline access signs point to public beach access points and limited free parking. There are showers located along the beach but no public restrooms. Water activities are available from vendors lined up along the shore.
Address: Kaanapali Beach, Lahaina, Hawaii 96761, USA
From $ 73
Honolua Bay
Honolua Bay sits peacefully with its vibrant turquoise and deep blue, warm waters off the northwestern coast of Maui. Preserved as a Marine Life Conservation District, fishing is strictly prohibited here, making the diversity and amount of marine life particularly strong. With its rocky volcanic cliffs sheltering from winds, the bay remains calm and the water clear and excellent for snorkeling. Colorful tropical fish such as parrotfish, damselfish, Moorish Idols, snapper, and wrasse, as well as tuna, sea turtles, and eels are commonly sighted. The rock formations and abundant corals make this a scenic place to explore underwater. It is also a popular surfing spot, particularly in the winter months, due to the long waves that crash at its coast. There is a small black sand beach, but most of the coastline is jagged rock. Visibility in the water tends to improve the farther you swim from the coast.
Practical Info
The drive to Honolua Bay from Kahalui takes just over one hour. There are two small parking lots on site. There aren’t public facilities available, so be sure to bring your own gear if you plan to snorkel. Signs mark the path from the road down to the beach access.
Address: Maui, Hawaii, USA, USA
From $ 131
Kalaupapa National Historical Park
Just off Maui’s shore on the island of Molokai, Kalaupapa National Historic Park is the former site of two leper colonies. People living with Hansen’s disease (leprosy) have been quarantined here since the days of King Kamehameha, and a community of cured patients still inhabits the Kalaupapa Settlement, scenically surrounded by steep Pali cliffs. The park is dedicated to preserving the experiences of the past so that they might be learned from in the present and future.
Father Damien, a Belgian missionary, first came to Molokai in the 19th century and cared for the afflicted until his death. In doing so, he brought awareness of the disease to the rest of the world. Once completely isolated, the peaceful area is now a center for education and reflection. Historic churches, homes, and cemeteries can still be seen. Out of respect for the residents, the number of visitors is limited to 100 per day.
Practical Info
Kalaupapa is accessible only by tour, and must be traveled to by mule, hiking, or small plane. It is open Monday to Saturday and is not accessible by car.
Address: Kalaupapa, Hawaii, USA
From $ 189