Maui has long been a favorite destination for holidaymakers because it has everything you would expect from a fun, relaxing holiday – idyllic beaches, beautiful volcanoes, and scenic forests. As the second biggest island of Hawaii, much of Maui’s charm comes from its biodiversity and natural landscapes. Here, you can explore its two massive volcanoes and diverse marine life and discover the island’s remote and undeveloped parts.
Given the various attractions and exciting activities to do in Maui, planning your holiday can be a bit daunting. So, here’s what to do in Maui on your holiday vacation getaway.
Learn to Surf
Maui is one of the world’s most popular destinations for surfing. Thus, one of the best things to do in Maui is to surf. If you’re brave enough, conquer the gigantic waves at some of the island’s most famous surfing spots, such as in Ho’okipa Beach Park, Honolua Bay, and Peahi.
If you are still new to surfing and want to learn some tips from the pros, consider taking a private surfing lesson in Maui. You can take these lessons together with your friends and family. Indeed, there’s nothing more exciting than riding your very first wave at Maui’s top surfing spots! An expert surfer will teach you everything you need to know for a successful first surf session.
Witness the Beautiful Haleakala Sunrise
Haleakala is the highest point on Maui Island. It is the world’s largest dormant volcano reaching an impressive height of 10,023 feet, attracting thousands of hikers all year round. While a 2 AM wake-up call might not sound appealing for most people, the views up there will make it truly worth it!
You can opt for a guided biking tour to Haleakala at sunrise if hiking is not your thing. Pedal your way through Upcountry, winding above the summit of Haleakala Crater, and arrive just in time to witness the sky dramatically change its color. Don’t forget to pack your camera and bring plenty of water. However, most tours will already include light snacks and a water bottle.
Book a Snorkeling Cruise
You have probably tried snorkeling and perhaps have gone cruising as well. But would you be interested in doing both in a single tour? If so, then consider booking a snorkeling cruise in Molokini and Turtle Town. On this tour, you will be aboard a catamaran as you travel to the Molokini Crater and Turtle Town, two of the most popular snorkeling spots in Maui.
The Molokini Crater is a natural crescent home to various marine life, frequented by snorkelers and scuba divers. Meanwhile, Turtle Town is a series of underwater lava formations home to abundant protected Hawaiian green sea turtles. While on the boat, you will have access to some facilities like waterslides, a glass-bottomed viewing room, and more! Your tour will also include delicious meals, which usually consist of boxed Continental breakfast and Deli-style lunches.
Explore the Road to Hana
The Road to Hana is a winding road of more than 600 turns and fifty narrow bridges. Traveling through this winding road is not like any other activity you will experience. It will lead you through 68 miles of lush rainforests, home to beautiful waterfalls and an ideal spot for avid nature lovers.
In between your trip, stop along the way to hike through bamboo forests, visit organic fruit farms, explore freshwater caves, and take a dip at the waterfalls. While driving is the best way to explore the Road to Hana, there are Road to Hana tours that you can book if driving your own car is not possible.
Go Whale Watching
If you are visiting Maui between December and April, don’t miss out on the opportunity to witness humpback whales swimming from Alaska to Hawaii! Each year, these beautiful creatures will migrate to the island to give birth and nurse their calves in the warm and shallow waters of Maui. The best way to witness this spectacular phenomenon is to book a Deluxe Whale Watching Tour.
The Auau Channel, located between Lanai and Maui, is one of the most popular spots to witness humpback whales. You can witness these majestic animals from your boat and cruise along the Maui waters to enjoy the breathtaking views of Maui, Lanai, and Molokai. You will also learn more about the humpback whales from your guide and enjoy delicious snacks and drinks on board.
Witness a Fun Luau Party
Your holiday to Maui will not be complete without experiencing a great luau party. While there are many places on the island where you can witness a luau, the Oceanfront Polynesian Luau in the North Shore offers guests a more intimate and authentic luau experience.
Taking place at the historic town of Paia, in the heart of Maui’s North Shore, this activity will showcase the local Hawaiian culture, music, and dance. Luau is a traditional Hawaiian feast or party usually accompanied by fun entertainment. Your experience will also include a delicious dinner buffet and interactive stations. The best part is that you will be surrounded by the beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean.
Experience Fun Horseback Riding
One of the most exciting activities you can enjoy in Maui is horseback riding in Upcountry Maui, home to the Hawaiian cowboys or paniolos. Paniolos have been riding their horses in Upcountry’s wide-open upland fields since late 1800. Nowadays, various companies offer horseback riding excursions all over Maui. One of these is the Mendes Ranch Maui Aloha Horseback Rides.
For this activity, you’ll experience a fun and unforgettable horseback riding adventure at the scenic valley down to the Maui coastline, where you will be passing along the stunning Pacific Ocean. You will be with a trail guide who will share interesting stories of the places you will pass by and take photos of you with the backdrop of Maui’s most stunning sites. This activity is ideal for groups of friends and families with kids seven years old and up.
So, whether you are looking for a relaxing holiday or an action-packed adventure, Maui has something to offer everyone. With its stunning beaches, lush rainforests, and an amazing array of activities, Maui is the perfect place to spend your next holiday. Have you decided what you are going to do in Maui yet?
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