15 of Our Favorite Things to Do on Maui

There’s a local saying (at least on the Valley Isle): “Maui nō ka ʻoi,” essentially meaning “Maui is the best.” Of course, I agree—but I’m biased. I’m fortunate to have been born and raised on the island famous for its beautiful beaches, diverse landscapes and rich heritage.

Maui is the second-largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago and the third-most populated. From hiking into Haleakalā National Park to snorkeling at Molokini—a partially submerged volcanic crater off the coast—the island’s unique geography makes for some epic excursions. And after your adventures, you can always wind down and relax on one of Maui’s famous beaches.

Here are 15 of my favorite things to do on Maui.

1. Drive the Road to Hāna

This scenic highway stretches 52 miles from Kahului to the quiet town of Hāna on Maui’s east side. Weaving through lush tropical forests, you don’t even have to leave your car to witness cascading waterfalls and dramatic sea cliffs. Still, there are plenty of farm stands and stops worth pulling over for. I always make a pit stop at Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread in Keʻanae for a buttery loaf.

READ MORE: Your Checklist for Driving the Road to Hāna

2. Visit Waiʻānapanapa State Park

One of Hāna’s many natural wonders, Waiʻānapanapa State Park’s volcanic landscape, black-sand beach and crystal-clear waters take my breath away every time I’m there. The park makes a great place to picnic or just to stretch your legs before continuing on with your drive. Out-of-state visitors need reservations information about the reservation system can be found here.

READ MORE 7 Must-Visit Sites in Waiʻānapanapa State Park

3. Witness the Sunset from the Summit of Haleakalā

While many travelers book reservations to catch the sunrise from the summit of Haleakalā—which is incredible—seeing the sun from the highest point on the Valley Isle is just as magnificent. From just about 10,000 feet above sea level, you can watch streaks of orange and red paint the sky as the sun dips below the Pacific. nps.gov/hale.

4. Hike into Haleakalā Crater

Haleakalā National Park is breathtaking, but it only becomes more extraordinary once you begin to explore. The summit district boasts more than 30 miles of trails that range from 10-minute strolls to overnight trips. Some of my favorite hiking trails on Maui are in Haleakalā National Park. Hikers can explore various paths through native shrubs and forests that descend into the cinder desert of the enormous dormant shield volcano. nps.gov/hale.

5. Snorkel at Molokini Crater

About 3 miles off the coast of Maui lies a partially submerged cinder cone that’s also one of the best snorkeling spots in the Islands. Molokini stretches about 18 acres, with a peak elevation of just 160 feet. But it’s surrounded by pristine waters, coral reefs and plenty of marine life. In the water surrounding the island, there are more than 250 species of tropical fish, including humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa.

READ MORE: 7 Tips for Snorkeling Molokini

6. Lounge at Kāʻanapali Beach

It’s no surprise that Kāʻanapali Beach is a favorite among locals and visitors. Stretching 3 miles on Maui’s West Side, there’s plenty of space to lay out your towel and lounge on the soft white sand. In the winter months, visiting humpback whales put on spectacular shows. Kāʻanapali Beach is also one of the best places to snorkel on Maui.

READ MORE: The 5 Best Beaches on Maui in 2025

7. Swing by Kula Country Farms

Kula Country Farms is one of my favorite spots to stop and soak in the crisp Upcountry air. The charming local farm is perched on the slopes of Haleakalā with sweeping views of the Valley Isle. Many families visit the farm in the fall to pick pumpkins and in the spring to pick strawberries. But regardless of the month, it’s always a good time to swing by Kula Country Farms. I always pick up locally harvested honey and fresh jams at the farm stand. kulacountryfarmsmaui.com.

8. Stroll Through Makawao Town

Strolling down Baldwin Avenue in Makawao is like stepping back in time. Here, cowboy culture lives on—but that’s not all. With its beautiful blend of old-school eateries and hip boutiques, the old paniolo (cowboy) town is one of my favorite places on the island. It’s home to T. Komodo Store, famous for its cream puffs. Just across the street is Maui Cookie Lady, known for her ginormous treats. There’s also a fun variety of art galleries and trendy boutiques like Holoholo Surf and Tribe Maui.

9. Sip Spirits at Waikulu Distillery

The Valley Isle produces world-class beer, wine and spirits with local ingredients, resulting in some truly one-of-a-kind creations. But Waikulu Distillery is the only distillery in Hawaiʻi that produces blue agave spirits. While tequila and mezcal are terms exclusively used for spirits made in Mexico, Waikulu’s offerings provide distinct flavors thanks to ingredients grown on Maui.

10. Watch the Surfers at Hoʻokipa Beach Park

On lazy afternoons, one of my favorite activities is just sitting on the sand at Hoʻokipa Beach Park and watching as folks from around the world ride the waves, whether on traditional surfboards, wind boards or kite boards.

11. Shop in Pāʻia

Pāʻia is Maui’s quirky, laid-back beach town, home to cute cafés, poke spots and a popular health food store. There’s also a variety of local boutiques here, perfect if you’re looking for beach apparel, Island-inspired jewelry and other unique finds.

12. Enjoy a Sunset from Mākena

Also known as Big Beach, Mākena on Maui’s south shore is a favorite among residents and visitors. The golden beach boasts crystal-clear waters, and in the distance, you’ll spot Molokini just offshore, and the uninhabited island of Kahoʻolawe. You can easily spend an entire day at Mākena, and you don’t want to miss sunset—it’s spectacular.

13. Go on a Whale-Watching Tour

Every winter, between to mate, raise their young and in the Islands’ warm waters. And these playful whales put on spectacular shows for beachgoers.

Humpback whales can be spotted offshore from any of the Hawaiian Islands, but Maui is considered one of the best places in the world from which to see these beautiful creatures. Sign up for a whale-watching tour for an up-close look at these massive mammals—which weigh up to 33 tons—as they slap their tails and breach.

READ MORE: Our Tips for Whale-Watching in Hawaiʻi

14. Enjoy a Free Concert at The Branches

Since November 2024, Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows has been welcoming guests and the local community to its outdoor music venue known as The Branches. Set under the canopy of a beautiful banyan tree, you can enjoy live music performed by local musicians. royallahaina.com.

READ MORE: This Resort Might Just Be the Ultimate Retreat in Kāʻanapali

15. Eat at Maui’s Best Restaurants

From hole-in-the-walls like Sam Sato’s to fine-dining establishments like Mama’s Fish House, the Valley Isle’s culinary scene is diverse and delicious. New restaurants are also making waves, from Makawao Public House to Nobu Grand Wailea.

READ MORE: 15 Dishes Every Traveler to Maui Should Try

 

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Grace Maeda is the editor of HAWAIʻI Magazine.