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Planning a trip to Maui? You’re in the right place!
Maui is known as the “Valley Isle,” and yes, it’s every bit as dreamy as you’d imagine! After exploring the island ourselves, we can confidently say it’s packed with unforgettable adventures. Think of snorkeling alongside sea turtles, touring a historic pineapple farm, and spotting humpback whales!
But with so much on offer, where do you even start? Well, we’ve got our top 10 picks for things to do in Maui here, plus the need-to-know info about each activity. From ocean thrills to cultural gems, we’ll cover it all, so grab your sunnies and let’s go!
Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!
Our personal FAVORITE thing we did in Maui was this small-group Road to Hana tour! From lush rainforests to dramatic coastlines, we explored hidden gems like Ke’anae and Waiʻanapanapa State Park. With waterfalls, history, and jaw-dropping views around every curve—plus lunch and a local guide—it was pure magic.
- Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!
- Things to do in Maui, Hawaii
- 1. Tour a historic pineapple farm in Hali'imaile
- 2. Explore the iconic Road to Hana and more on a full-day adventure
- 3. Go whale watching on an eco-raft
- 4. Watch the sunrise over Mount Haleakala
- 5. Go snorkeling at Molokini Crater and Turtle Town
- 6. See Maui from the sky on a private flight
- 7. Get your adrenaline pumping on a North Shore zipline
- 8. Go on an ATV adventure
- 9. Enjoy a traditional Luau
- 10. Go hiking through the rainforest and waterfalls
- Where to Stay in Maui
- Thanks for reading!
- Why We Book Tours with Viator
- Renting a Car in the USA
- Don't Forget Travel Insurance!
Things to do in Maui, Hawaii
1. Tour a historic pineapple farm in Hali’imaile
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: 9:30 am, 11:45 am, and 1:45 pm
- Highlights: Visiting the plantation town of Hali’imaile, guided tour of a working pineapple field, learning about Hawaii’s pineapple farming heritage, trying lots of Maui Gold pineapple
- Inclusions: Local guide, plantation access, pineapple samples, full fresh pineapple to take home
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 2,500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
If you’re even remotely curious about how pineapples go from the field to your fruit bowl, this Maui Pineapple Farm Tour in Hali’imaile is an absolute must. We had so much fun exploring a historic plantation with our guide, Shiloh, who knew an astounding amount about pineapples!
Our tour began with a walk through the pineapple fields, which were filled with rows and rows of Maui Gold pineapples. They stretched almost as far as the eye could see, so this is an amazing photo opportunity.
As we explored, Shiloh taught us a lot about Hawaii’s pineapple history and explained the different growing cycles to us. We got to try Maui Gold pineapples at different stages in their life cycle and learned how to tell when a pineapple is perfectly ripe. It was so interesting to notice all of the differences in texture and flavor!
We also got a behind-the-scenes look at the packing facility, where we saw how the fruit is sorted and prepared for shipping. Best of all, we got a whole pineapple each to take away and enjoy later!
We had so much fun on this tour, and we think it’s a fantastic activity for families to enjoy together. It’s fun, educational, and definitely gave us a newfound appreciation for Hawaii’s most famous fruit. No wonder it has over 2,500 5-star reviews!
Grab your spot on this top-rated pineapple tour here and enjoy FREE cancellation!
2. Explore the iconic Road to Hana and more on a full-day adventure
- Duration: 10 hours
- Time: 7 am
- Highlights: Cruising along the world-famous road to Hana, passing Ho’okipa Beach Park and Waikani Falls, visiting Pua’a Ka’a State Park, Wai’anapanapa State Park, Ke‘anae Point, trying Aunty Sandy’s famous banana bread
- Inclusions: Hotel or port pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, breakfast, bottled water, professional guide, lunch, snacks
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 2,500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: No
- Price: Check price here!
If you only do one thing in Hawaii, make it this Road to Hana tour! This was hands-down my favorite experience in Maui, and I would recommend it to anyone. It’s such an amazing way to explore the island’s diverse scenery, from lush jungle to black sand beaches, hidden waterfalls, and traditional villages. It was pure magic!
The Road to Hana is an incredibly scenic drive, but it’s very dangerous, with blind corners and steep drop-offs. I wouldn’t recommend tackling it yourself. You’re much better off going with a local driver who knows the road.
Speaking of which, our driver, Justin, was amazing. He was hilarious and navigated the Road to Hana’s 600+ curves and single-lane bridges as if it were nothing!
Meanwhile, the scenery took my breath away. Wai’anapanapa State Park was surreal with its jet-black sand and volcanic coastline. We also got to swim in an emerald green waterfall pool at Pua’a Ka’a State Park and visit the fishing village of Ke’anae. I really enjoyed watching local fishermen casting lines from the jagged lava rocks.
We got breakfast and lunch on this tour, but the real foodie highlight was the banana bread from Aunty Sandy’s. Gordon Ramsay himself gave this place his stamp of approval, so that should tell you something!
This tour was epic from start to finish. If I only had one day in Maui, I would book this tour because it really showcases the best of the island. Whatever you do, don’t miss it!
Book our FAVORITE Maui tour here!
3. Go whale watching on an eco-raft
- Duration: 1.5–2.5 hours
- Time: Multiple time slots between 6:45 am and 4:30 pm (dates vary)
- Highlights: Spotting humpback whales and dolphins, coastal views of West Maui, expert narration from a marine naturalist, listening to whale song through hydrophones
- Inclusions: Eco-raft cruise, hydrophone, marine naturalist guide, life jackets
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,900 reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
This whale-watching tour from Lahaina was unforgettable. There’s no other way to describe it!
It was honestly one of the most magical experiences we had in Maui, so this is a total must-do, especially if you’re visiting during whale season, which is from December to April. Still, the tour runs twice a week between May and November, too, because you still may well be able to spot some late departures or early arrivals.
What we love about this tour is that it uses a small and low-to-the-water eco-raft which is able to get much closer to marine life than a big boat ever could. Plus, it causes much less disturbance to the whales and dolphins that call Maui’s waters home, which we’re all for.
We also loved the relaxed vibe of the cruise. It was way better than being on a crowded ship! But of course, the best part was seeing tons of humpback whales. Within minutes of setting off, we spotted our first humpback in the distance! Soon, we saw a second, and then we even got to see a baby—or calf, to use the proper term.
We had a marine naturalist guide on board to teach us all about whale behavior, and we even got to listen to the humpbacks communicating underwater via the onboard hydrophone. How cool is that?
I would do this tour every day if I could! And I’m not the only one who loved it—check out almost two thousand 5-star reviews here!
Check availability and book this once-in-a-lifetime whale tour here!
4. Watch the sunrise over Mount Haleakala
- Duration: 10 hours
- Time: 2 am or 2:30 am
- Highlights: Watching the sunrise from the Mt. Haleakala Visitor Center, scenic drive through the Kula District, breakfast at a local restaurant
- Inclusions: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned transport, professional driver and guide, Haleakala National Park entrance fee, coffee and snacks during sunrise, breakfast at a local restaurant
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 1,800+ 5-star reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here
This sunrise tour gave us front-row seats to one of the most unforgettable sunrises we’ve ever experienced. Watching the first light break over the summit of Mt. Haleakala was absolutely surreal—an experience we think every Maui visitor should have.
The tour made everything super easy. We were picked up from our hotel about three hours before dawn (yes, it’s early!) and driven straight to the summit. No stress, no planning—just sit back, bundle up, and enjoy the show.
We bundled into a comfy minibus and headed along the winding roads of the Kula District. I won’t lie, we nodded off a bit on the way there, but on the way back, you’ll definitely want to stay awake and enjoy the views of this beautiful area in the daylight.
We parked up at the visitor center and settled in to wait for the sunrise to begin. Seeing the sky start to glow was magical, and our guide, Preston, gave us some coffee and cookies to enjoy. He also entertained us with stories about the island as we marveled at the spectacular sunrise.
Afterwards, Preston took us to a cute local spot for breakfast before we headed back to our hotel for a nap. It was truly the ideal morning in Maui, and 100% worth the early start! You don’t have to take our word for it, either, because you can read over 1,800 5-star reviews here.
Book this epic sunrise tour here and enjoy free 24-hour cancellation!
Related Read: Need help planning an epic Maui vacation? Have a look at our detailed 5-day itinerary that goes over everything you need to know!
5. Go snorkeling at Molokini Crater and Turtle Town
- Duration: 5 hours
- Time: 7 am
- Highlights: Boat cruise to an extinct volcanic crater, snorkeling among a diverse array of marine life, visibility up to 55 meters (180 feet), seeing rays and tropical fish, visiting the Turtle Town snorkel site
- Inclusions: Boat transport, local instructor and guide, use of snorkeling equipment, breakfast, lunch
- Rating: 5 stars (check 1,400+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
Maui is home to some incredible snorkeling, but how do you find the very best spots? With this snorkeling tour, that’s how!
This tour took us snorkeling in the Molokini Crater, a crescent-shaped volcanic crater that’s partially submerged in the water. The marine life is absolutely amazing, and snorkeling here is not something that other tours offer, so grab this opportunity with both hands.
The best thing about the crater is that since there’s no loose soil, the visibility is incredible. We’ve done a lot of snorkeling and I don’t think we’ve ever experienced such perfectly clear waters! This is a once-in-a-lifetime snorkeling spot.
And as if that’s not enough, we also got to snorkel with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles at the famous Turtle Town spot. There were turtles gliding around everywhere we looked!
As well as the first-class snorkeling, we also had a fantastic crew on board who took great care of us, and the included meals were a lot better than we expected. We got cinnamon rolls and fresh fruit for breakfast, and yummy wraps for lunch. Everything was taken care of for us, so all we needed to do was bring sunscreen and towels.
At the right time of year, you can also spot dolphins and whales on this snorkeling tour. Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better! And we’re not the only ones who had a blast—this tour has well over a thousand glowing reviews.
Book this popular snorkeling tour here before it sells out!
6. See Maui from the sky on a private flight
- Duration: 1.5 hours
- Time: Multiple time slots between 9 am and 3 pm
- Highlights: Private small plane flight over the islands of Maui County, aerial views of Maui, Honolua Bay, Makena State Park, Molokini Crater, Wailea Beach, Nakalele Blowhole, lala fields, live commentary from the pilot
- Inclusions: Private flight, headsets, soft drinks, landing and facility fees, parking fees
- Rating: 5 stars (check 750+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
I still can’t believe how magical this scenic flight in Maui was! It’s hands down the most surreal and breathtaking way to experience the Valley Isle.
Our pilot, Eric, greeted us with a warm smile and handed us our headsets, and then before we knew it, we were off! As we lifted away from the ground, the scenery unfolded beneath us, and our jaws basically hit the floor.
We love exploring Maui on the ground, but seeing its green valleys, black lava fields, and gorgeous coastline all at once from up in the sky really hammers home just how diverse and beautiful this island is.
We flew over iconic spots like Honolua Bay, Molokini Crater, Makena State Park, and even the Nakalele Blowhole. The views were absolutely mind-blowing. I really don’t think you can fully grasp the scale of Maui’s beauty until you’ve seen it from above!
Meanwhile, the commentary through the headset added real depth to the experience. Eric taught us about the island’s history and shared some fun facts with us, as well as a few personal stories. Best of all, this is a private tour, so it offers a super personal experience.
Honestly, if you’re going to take a scenic flight anywhere in the world, let it be here. Maui deserves to be seen from the sky! You won’t regret a single second.
Check availability and snap up your private sightseeing flight here, with FREE cancellation!
7. Get your adrenaline pumping on a North Shore zipline
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: Multiple time slots between 9 am and 3:30 pm (not available Sunday)
- Highlights: Ziplining above the treetops, enjoying ocean views, exploring a historic World War II base, experiencing a high-altitude suspension bridge and obstacle challenges, learning about Maui’s wildlife and culture
- Inclusions: All zipline equipment, all taxes and fees, professional guides
- Rating: 4.7 stars (check 1,500+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This zipline adventure at the historic Camp Maui takes adventure to new heights—literally! I’ve done a lot of ziplining before, but I must say, this tour was pretty unique.
After all, the course is located at a historic World War II base that has now been transformed into a zipline playground. There’s even a museum on site where you can go and learn more about the men and women who served here.
We had so much fun flying across seven different zip lines that zigzagged through the treetops. We also encountered a high-altitude suspension bridge and some other fun aerial obstacles along the way. I actually think the bridge had my heart racing almost as much as the lines themselves!
Meanwhile, we learned so much WWII history on the way around. We were fascinated to learn about Camp Maui’s role in the war. In fact, we found out that the division that served here was the most highly decorated Marine Corps division of the war!
So with history, adrenaline, and beautiful views to boot, we think this ziplining tour has a lot going for it. It’s such a great experience and it’s family-friendly, too, with kids as young as 5 being welcome to join in the fun!
Check availability and book this historic zipline tour here!
Why We Book Tours with Viator
Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:
- Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
- Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
- Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
- Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
- Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.
Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.
8. Go on an ATV adventure
- Duration: 2 hours
- Time: 9 am, 12 pm, or 3 pm
- Highlights: Exciting UTV ride, exploring the west side of Maui, riding through Pu’u Kukui Watershed Preserve, small group tour
- Inclusions: Use of UTV, safety equipment, professional guide
- Rating: 4.8 stars (check 1,300+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
This Lahaina UTV tour is an amazing way to explore the west side of Maui! We had a blast racing around the island in a UTV, which is a utility task vehicle. It’s similar to an ATV, but it has a roof and can carry more passengers, making it an ideal choice for families and groups of friends. You still get all the thrills and views without the mud splatter in the face (well… less of it, anyway).
We started in Lahaina and embarked on an adventure through the island’s wild and rugged terrain. We even got to stop in the Pu‘u Kukui Watershed Preserve, which was just amazing. We had gorgeous ocean views on one side and lush Hawaiian mountains on the other!
Our guide, Ray, was super knowledgeable and shared lots of facts about the island’s unique ecosystem and rare native plants. He taught about the reforestation efforts happening in the area, and as a fun surprise, we even got to plant a tree!
You’ll get dirty and dusty on this tour, but that’s all part of the fun. It’s an adrenaline-fuelled adventure that allows you to see the island’s gorgeous scenery from a new perspective.
We loved the chance to get off the tourist trail and see some untouched areas we wouldn’t have been able to access otherwise! In fact, we’re already planning to do it again the next time we’re in Maui.
Reserve this exciting UTV tour here!
9. Enjoy a traditional Luau
- Duration: 3–4 hours
- Time: 4:30 pm, 5 pm, or 9 pm (dates vary)
- Highlights: Participating in a luau, watching traditional stories play out on stage, pre-show entertainment, three-course family-style dinner, fire knife performance
- Inclusions: Traditional luau meal, souvenir lei, pre-show music and entertainment, festive menus for special occasions, live music and dancing, three-course dinner
- Rating: 4.6 stars (check 1,000+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check price here!
We’ve all heard of Hawaii’s famous luaus, and you just can’t leave Maui without experiencing one for yourself. We weren’t sure how to snag an invite to such an event, but then we came across this top-rated luau experience in Wailea!
This adventure was wonderful from start to finish. We received a traditional lei made of fresh flowers on arrival, and the staff made us feel more like friends than paid guests. We arrived early enough to catch the pre-show entertainment and then, since we selected the 5 pm show, we got to enjoy a stunning sunset over the ocean as we ate our traditional three-course dinner.
The menu changes from night to night, but we enjoyed an amazing family-style meal that included lomi salmon, molokai sweet potatoes, and huli huli chicken. It was a true feast!
Then came the show itself, Te Au Moana: The Ocena Tide. The performers portrayed ancient Polynesian stories about voyaging and fishing through dancing, chanting, and music. And then came the highlight, a fire knife performance. It was absolutely electric!
The evening was not only super entertaining, it was full of heart, too. We loved this luau because it felt like a real celebration of Polynesian culture. By the time we left, we were grinning from ear to ear, and we both agreed that we would definitely come back and do this again. It’s the best way to spend an evening in Maui!
Don’t miss out—book this exciting luau before it sells out!
10. Go hiking through the rainforest and waterfalls
- Duration: 5 hours
- Time: 9:30 am
- Highlights: Exploring East Maui, cruising along the Hana Highway, trekking through the rainforest, visiting secret waterfalls, climbing basalt rock formations, swimming in freshwater pools
- Inclusions: Local naturalist guide, lunch, snacks
- Rating: 4.9 stars (check 1,200+ reviews here)
- Free cancellation: Yes
- Price: Check prices here!
West Maui is the most popular part of the island, but don’t overlook the eastern side while you’re here. In fact, this rainforest hike in East Maui was easily one of the highlights of our trip.
We booked the option with transfers, which made everything super easy, but if you’re renting a car, you can also drive yourself to the meeting point in Kahului to meet the tour group. Then, it’s into a comfy minivan and out for a drive along the winding Hana Highway, which has to be one of the most stunning drives in North America, if not the world.
Then, you’ll get out for a hike through Maui’s lush, dense jungle. Our guide, Randalyn, helped us spot tropical flowers and local wildlife and taught us about the cultural significance of the area.
She also showed us hidden waterfalls, which were totally magical! Some were tucked away in quiet corners of the valley, while others opened up into wide, cascading drops.
We also got to clamber up unique basalt rock formations, which is definitely not something you get to do every day! It gets warm in the jungle, so we were also glad of the chance to jump in some freshwater pools for a swim.
The whole day was an epic adventure, and since a fresh, local lunch was included, we really didn’t have to worry about anything. We can’t recommend it enough!
Book this top-rated hiking adventure here and enjoy FREE cancellation!
Where to Stay in Maui
Maui is a beautiful island with lots of well-rated hotels, but honestly, we found all this choice was a bit overwhelming the first time we visited! However, we do highly recommend staying in Wailea in West Maui or Kihei in south Maui, as these areas give you easy access to tours and attractions, as well as tons of great shops and restaurants.
To simplify things for you, we picked three of the island’s top hotels, with an option for every budget.
Luxury – $$$
If you’re looking for luxury, it doesn’t get much better than the Four Seasons Resort Maui in Wailea, West Maui. This stunning property has epic beach, ocean, and volcano views, so you’ll never forget that you’re in paradise! The rooms are sleek and modern with huge windows, and some categories come with private pools. But honestly, we would struggle to tear ourselves away from the giant main pool!
Rooms at the Four Seasons Resort Maui typically range from $800–$1,600+ USD per night. Check availability and book your stay on Booking.com.
Mid-range – $$
Aston at the Maui Banyan is a laid-back, mid-range resort in South Kihei, just steps from Kamaole Beach Park II. Perfect for families or couples, it offers spacious suites with full kitchens, two outdoor pools, hot tubs, BBQ areas, and balconies—some with ocean views. Guests love the location for its walkability to beaches, restaurants, and shops, plus the added bonus of onsite parking and tennis courts.
Nightly rates generally range from $300–$600 USD. Check your dates and book easily on Booking.com.
Budget – $
Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas is a fantastic budget-friendly resort in Lahaina, offering two outdoor pools, a hot tub, and an on-site restaurant right by the beach. Rooms are spacious and well-equipped, with options that include full kitchens and private balconies. Guests also enjoy free trolley service around the Kaanapali area—perfect for exploring without the hassle.
Rates typically start around $250 USD per night. Head to Booking.com to check current prices and availability!
For more options, check out all of Maui’s listed hotels here.
Renting a Car in the USA
The United States is a vast country with diverse landscapes, from bustling cities to scenic national parks. While public transportation exists in major cities, renting a car is often the best way to explore the country’s wide-open spaces and hidden gems.
We always book with Discover Cars and can’t recommend them enough. It’s super easy to compare prices, check company ratings, find the right vehicle for your needs, and add affordable full coverage insurance. If you want a full breakdown, check out our Discover Cars review here.
Tips for Renting a Car in the USA
- Drive on the right: In the U.S., vehicles drive on the right-hand side of the road, and the driver’s seat is on the left. If this is different than your home country, take some time to adjust before hitting busy streets!
- Know the local rules: Speed limits, road signs, and driving laws can differ between states. For example, turning right on red is generally allowed after a complete stop, unless a sign indicates otherwise. Always check the specific rules for the states you’ll be driving in.
- Add full insurance: We always recommend full coverage rental insurance, especially in the U.S., where long distances, varying road conditions, and unpredictable weather can lead to unexpected situations. Discover Cars makes it easy (and affordable!) to add this peace of mind when you book.
- Choose the right car: Consider the nature of your trip. For city driving, a compact car is convenient, while for road trips or national park visits, an SUV might be more comfortable. With Discover Cars, it’s easy to filter by vehicle type, transmission, fuel efficiency, and more to find the perfect fit.
What You Need to Rent a Car in the USA
- A valid driver’s license from your home country.
- An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended if your license is not in English or uses a non-Roman alphabet. Some rental companies may require it, so it’s best to check in advance.
- A credit card in the driver’s name is typically required for the security deposit.
- Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with a young driver surcharge applicable for those under 25. Some companies may have higher age requirements, so make sure you double-check.
Ready to hit the road? Book your car with Discover Cars here and discover the freedom of exploring the USA on your own terms!
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!
If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.
SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.
SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.
Thanks for reading!
We hope this list has helped you plan an incredible Maui getaway! These were some of our favorite experiences when we wanted to soak up the island’s magic, whether that meant diving into underwater worlds, zipping through treetops, or learning about local culture. You really can’t go wrong with any of these adventures.
Planning more time in the States? Be sure to check out all our USA travel guides here. Or browse some of our top picks below for destinations near Maui you might want to explore next!
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