Things to do in Maui County

Maui

Maui is known as the "Valley Isle" due to its landscape of alternating valleys and coastlines. The island is warm year-round, and coastal areas are suitable for water activities in all seasons; however, if you plan to ascend to the summit of Haleakalā for sunrise in the early morning, the altitude is approx. 3,000 meters, and the temperature is significantly lower. The island's highlights are focused on natural scenery: the eastern Haleakalā National Park extends from the alpine zone to the coast, and the dormant volcanic crater at the summit, with its desolate, moon-like landscape, is a classic spot for watching the sunrise above the clouds; the Hana Hwy on the north coast winds between rainforests and sea cliffs, with sharp turns, one-lane bridges, waterfalls, and black sand beaches along the way—a self-drive trip here is like a rainforest adventure in itself. If you want to get in the water, you can take a boat to the crescent-shaped Molokini Crater not far offshore; this marine preserve has clear water and schools of tropical fish, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Kaanapali in the west and Wailea in the south are known for their long white sand beaches and resort atmosphere, which are perfect for sunbathing and surfing. There are also long-standing traditions to experience on the island: every day at sunset, a cliff-diving ceremony takes place at Black Rock at the north end of Kaanapali Beach, where divers light torches and leap into the sea—a scene many tourists wait specifically to see. Every winter, humpback whales return in groups to the warm waters around the island to breed and raise their young, and you have a chance to see them breaching from the shore or a whale-watching boat. If you want a change of pace, you can also visit the Iao Valley in the west, where the valley is lush and green, and the iconic Iao Needle rises abruptly, making it suitable for a relaxing short hike.

No. 20 of Best Things to Do in Hawaii

Haleakalā National Park

Haleakalā National Park is located in the southeast of Maui. The park is divided into two main sections, which must be accessed via different entrances. The summit area is located near the crater, where visitors can hike and admire the moon-like landscape. It is also a great place to watch the sunrise and sunset. The way to visit the protected areas in the park is to join a guided hike.

No. 2 of Family-friendly Attractions in Hawaii

Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii

Maui Ocean Center, The Aquarium of Hawaii is located in the heart of Maalaea, perfectly situated between the major resort areas on the west and south shores of Maui. Here, you can view thousands of marine creatures and experience the magnificence of the ocean world. 8 major exhibition areas A major feature of the aquarium is that the exhibition areas are divided based on the different depths at which the creatures live in the ocean. It includes 8 zones such as the Tide Pool, Coral Reef, Touch Pool, Turtle Lagoon, Ray Bay, Hawaii & the Sea, and the underwater tunnel, leaving a lasting impression. Underwater tunnel The 8 major exhibition areas here mimic the habitats of marine animals. The underwater tunnel offers a 240-degree view, where you can see many colorful tropical fish, crystal-clear jellyfish, and aquatic animals such as sea turtles and walruses.

PacWhale Eco-Adventures

The Pacific Whale Foundation is an environmental organization based in Hawaii, dedicated to protecting marine life and raising public awareness about environmental protection. It promotes marine life conservation by hosting indoor events, training courses, and marine tourism activities (such as cruises, ocean adventures, etc.).

Lanai

The island is small, but there are two high-end resorts both owned by the Four Seasons hotel group. The wedding of Bill Gates, the richest man in the world, was held here. This probably gives a quick indication of the island's specs.

Hana Hwy

The Hana Highway is located on Maui's rugged east coast, with about 600 turns and 54 bridges. The winding Hana Highway snakes between tropical valleys and towering cliffs, with beautiful scenery along the way. There are hiking trails along the way that go deep into the dense jungle, and you can see rushing waterfalls and clear pools. From Pa'ia all the way east, there will be fewer and fewer houses, replaced by sugarcane fields. After passing the 16-mile sign on Hwy36, the Hana Highway sign begins to change to Hwy36, and the sign numbers begin to return to zero.

Redline Rafting

Ho'okipa Beach Park

Ho'okipa Beach Park is one of the best surfing spots onMaui. Winter brings big waves, perfect for surfing. Summer winds are gentler, ideal for windsurfing. Nearby, there's a hilltop lookout where you can take in the ocean views.

Nakalele Blowhole

Located in Hawaii, USA, the Nakalele blowhole is a very famous local natural landscape. In addition to admiring the spectacular blowhole, visitors can also watch the exquisite heart-shaped stones or overlook the endless sea.

ʻĪao Valley State Monument