If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, spectacular hiking trails, vibrant local culture, and world-class surfing, Maui is the place to be. As someone who has spent considerable time on this beautiful island, I can say with confidence that Maui offers something for everyone—whether you’re an adventure seeker, a culture enthusiast, or someone simply looking to relax.
In this guide, I’ll take you through the best things to do in Maui, sharing hiking trails, sunrise and sunset spots, surfing locations, and other must-see attractions. I’ll also cover some hidden gems, local tips, and family-friendly experiences, so you can make the most of your trip.
Let’s dive into your ultimate Maui travel guide! The Natural Beauty Of Hawaii, The Paradise of Eearth , Maui My Love.
Table of Contents
- Maui Hiking Trails
- Sunrise and Sunset Spots
- Surfing in Maui
- Maui’s Must-See Attractions
- Local Culture and Hidden Gems
- Family-Friendly Activities
- Seasonal Activities and Festivals
- Maui’s Best Food and Drink
- Travel Tips and Recommendations
1. Maui Hiking Trails
Maui is a hiker’s paradise, with trails ranging from easy coastal walks to challenging treks that lead you deep into lush rainforests and volcanic craters. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a scenic stroll, you’ll find plenty of Maui hiking trails to explore.
Top Hiking Trails in Maui
Pipiwai Trail: Through Bamboo Forests to Waimoku Falls
- Location: Kīpahulu District, Haleakalā National Park
- Length: 4 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Moderate
This hike is a must-do when you’re in the Hana area. The Pipiwai Trail is one of the most famous Maui hiking trails, offering a beautiful journey through a dense bamboo forest and ending at the majestic Waimoku Falls. The towering falls at the trail’s end make the effort completely worth it.
Pro Tip:
- Wear sturdy shoes as the trail can be muddy.
- Bring water and snacks for the journey—there are no services along the way.
Sliding Sands Trail: A Journey into the Crater
- Location: Haleakalā Summit
- Length: Up to 11 miles (round trip)
- Difficulty: Challenging
If you’ve ever dreamed of hiking through an otherworldly volcanic landscape, this is the trail for you. The Sliding Sands Trail takes you deep into Haleakalā Crater, where you’ll walk through vast fields of volcanic cinders and colorful rock formations.
Pro Tip:
- Start early to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
- Bring a hat and sunscreen—there’s little shade in the crater.
Kapalua Coastal Trail: Easy Access, Gorgeous Views
- Location: Kapalua
- Length: 1.75 miles (one way)
- Difficulty: Easy
This is an ideal choice if you’re looking for a short and relatively easy hike with incredible coastal views. The Kapalua Coastal Trail takes you along the cliffs, with dramatic ocean views, tide pools, and native vegetation.
Pro Tip:
- Keep an eye out for turtles in the water, especially near the rock pools.
Other Noteworthy Trails in Maui
- ʻĪao Needle Hike: A short but rewarding hike in the ʻĪao Valley with stunning views of the valley and the iconic Needle.
- Waihee Ridge Trail: A moderate to challenging hike that offers stunning vistas of the lush West Maui Mountains and valleys.
2. Sunrise and Sunset Spots in Maui
Maui is famous for its unforgettable sunrises and sunsets. Whether you’re a photographer, a romantic at heart, or just someone who loves the beauty of nature, Maui has the perfect spot to watch the sun rise or set.
Best Sunrise Spots
Haleakalā Summit
- Best For: Dramatic views and sunrise lovers.
- What You’ll Experience: Watching the sun rise over the volcanic crater is one of the most magical experiences in Hawaii. The Haleakalā National Park is home to a massive dormant volcano, and its summit offers a stunning view of the sun emerging from the clouds, casting light over the unique landscape.
Pro Tip:
- The sunrise at Haleakalā requires a reservation. Be sure to book well in advance!
- It’s cold at the summit, so bring a jacket and blanket.
Other Great Sunrise Spots
- Hāna Beach Park: For a quieter sunrise, head to this park in East Maui for sweeping views of the ocean and coastline.
- Kaanapali Beach: If you’re staying on the West side of the island, Kaanapali Beach provides a peaceful morning view of the water and distant islands.
Best Sunset Spots in Maui
Kaanapali Beach
- Best For: Relaxing sunsets with a view of Lanai.
- What You’ll Experience: Kaanapali Beach on Maui’s West Coast is famous for its stunning sunsets. The sky bursts with colors, and the backdrop of the island of Lanai makes it an ideal spot for an evening photo op.
Lahaina Harbor
- Best For: A vibrant sunset near the action.
- What You’ll Experience: The historic town of Lahaina offers great sunset views over the harbor. Afterward, you can walk the streets of Lahaina, checking out shops and restaurants.
Secret Sunset Spots
- Makena Cove: This romantic spot offers a quiet escape with a beautiful view of the setting sun behind volcanic rocks.
- La Perouse Bay: Known for its rugged, dramatic landscapes, this is a perfect location for a more rugged, less crowded sunset experience.
3. Surfing in Maui
Maui’s waves are some of the best in the world, drawing surfers from all over the globe. Whether you’re a beginner looking to catch your first wave or an expert surfer seeking some adrenaline-pumping rides, Maui’s coastline has the perfect wave for you.
Best Surf Spots in Maui
Lahaina Breakwall
- Best For: Beginners and intermediate surfers.
- What You’ll Experience: The Lahaina Breakwall is a sheltered spot with gentle waves, making it ideal for those just starting out or for people looking to practice their skills.
Kīhei Cove
- Best For: Newbies to intermediate surfers.
- What You’ll Experience: Kīhei Cove offers small, consistent waves, making it another top choice for beginner surfers. You can also find surf schools here that provide lessons for all skill levels.
Honolua Bay
- Best For: Advanced surfers.
- What You’ll Experience: Honolua Bay is renowned for its powerful waves and long rides, making it a must-visit for experienced surfers. It’s one of Maui’s most famous surf spots and hosts the World Surf League contests.
Ho’okipa Beach
- Best For: Windsurfing and advanced surfing.
- What You’ll Experience: Ho’okipa is one of the world’s best spots for windsurfing, but it’s also known for great waves for advanced surfers.
Pro Tip:
- Always check surf conditions and respect local surfers’ space.
- Consider hiring a local surf instructor if you’re new to the sport.
4. Maui’s Must-See Attractions
There’s much more to Maui than hiking and surfing. The island is rich in history and culture, and there are many must-see attractions that will leave you awestruck.
The Road to Hāna
- Length: 64 miles of winding roads, bridges, and scenic vistas.
- What You’ll Experience: One of the most famous scenic drives in the world, the Road to Hāna offers panoramic views, waterfalls, lush valleys, and the unique black sand beach at Waiʻānapanapa State Park.
Pro Tip:
- Start your drive early to avoid the crowds and take your time—there’s a lot to see!
Molokini Crater
- What It Is: A crescent-shaped volcanic caldera off the coast of Maui, home to incredible snorkeling and diving.
- What You’ll Experience: The water around Molokini is so clear that you can see dozens of fish species and corals just by looking below the surface.
ʻĪao Valley State Monument
- What It Is: A lush, green valley that is historically significant.
- What You’ll Experience: The ʻĪao Needle is a natural landmark, and the valley itself played a critical role in Hawaiian history, especially during the Battle of Kepaniwai.
5. Local Culture and Hidden Gems
Beyond the major tourist attractions, Maui is home to numerous hidden gems and cultural experiences that will enrich your trip.
Maui’s Upcountry
- What You’ll Experience: Upcountry Maui offers a rural, peaceful vibe. Visit the charming towns of Makawao and Pāʻia, known for their art galleries, local boutiques, and Hawaiian cowboy culture.
Traditional Hawaiian Luau
- What It Is: A festive feast and cultural experience with traditional Hawaiian music, dance, and food.
- Where to Go: The Old Lahaina Luau is one of the most authentic and popular on the island.
Pro Tip:
- Book your luau experience well in advance, as they fill up quickly.
6. Family-Friendly Activities
Maui is also a fantastic destination for families. Whether you have toddlers or teens, there’s something for everyone.
- Maui Ocean Center: This family-friendly aquarium showcases marine life from around the island, including sharks, turtles, and rays.
- Atlantis Submarine Tour: Dive underwater without getting wet! Take a family-friendly submarine tour to see Maui’s marine life in its natural habitat.
7. Seasonal Activities in Maui
Maui’s seasons are mild year-round, but certain activities are best enjoyed in specific months.
Whale Watching (December to April)
- What It Is: During the winter months, humpback whales migrate to Maui’s waters, offering incredible opportunities for whale watching.
- Where to Go: Head to the waters off Lahaina or Kīhei for the best viewing opportunities.
- Pro Tip: Book a whale watching tour with a knowledgeable guide for the best chance of seeing these majestic creatures.
Maui Film Festival (June)
- What It Is: An annual event in Wailea that celebrates film, food, and music, with a focus on independent films.
- Why It’s Special: Enjoy films under the stars, dine on local cuisine, and attend celebrity-hosted events.
- Pro Tip: Check out the festival’s website for ticket info and special events.
8. Maui’s Best Food and Drink
No trip to Maui is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. From fresh seafood to tropical fruits, Maui offers a variety of food experiences that reflect the island’s diverse culture.
Must-Try Dishes
- Poke Bowls: A raw fish salad with rice, vegetables, and a variety of seasonings.
- Loco Moco: A traditional Hawaiian dish made of rice, a burger patty, fried egg, and gravy.
- Huli Huli Chicken: Chicken cooked in a delicious marinade, often served at food trucks.
9. Travel Tips and Recommendations
- Best Time to Visit: April through May and September through November are ideal for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. During these months, you can also take advantage of off-season pricing for accommodations and activities. Avoid the peak tourist season in winter (December to March) to steer clear of the largest crowds and higher prices.
- Transportation: Renting a car is essential for exploring the island at your own pace, especially if you plan on exploring the Road to Hāna or visiting more remote areas. Many attractions are spread out across the island, so having your own vehicle gives you the freedom to see more.
- Packing Tips: Maui’s weather is warm year-round, but bring layers if you’re planning to hike or visit Haleakalā, as temperatures can drop significantly at higher altitudes. Don’t forget your sunscreen, swimwear, and a good camera to capture the stunning views.
Final Thoughts
Maui offers a beautiful balance of outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, and relaxation. Whether you’re hiking through lush forests, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or simply enjoying the island’s stunning sunsets, you’ll find that there’s no shortage of incredible things to do. Each day on the island provides the opportunity for something new and exciting, and there are always hidden gems to discover.
No matter your interests, Maui is sure to offer experiences that will stay with you long after you’ve left the island.
So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready for an unforgettable Maui adventure!
Aloha and happy travels!
