Maui: Places to Visit

Maui has not only magnificent beaches along its coast, but also opportunities to cool off when you journey into the mountainous area. Superb snorkeling and scenic drives are just a few of the memory-making things to do in Maui, also known as the “Valley Isle.”

Visit Haleakala National Park

This remarkable and sacred spot is a must-see on Maui. And the best time to experience the beauty of Haleakala, a dormant volcano, is from its summit in the early morning, when the sun breaks through the clouds and rises above peaks to the east. You’ll need reservations to enter the park between 3 a.m. and 7 a.m. (yep, it’s an early wake-up call!). If you don’t want to rent a car and do it alone, plenty of tour operators offer excursions with transportation — and often breakfast — to witness this spectacle.

Head Into The High Country

In addition to exploring Haleakala National Monument, there are some remarkable things to do in Maui away from the beaches. Consider touring the Ali’i Kula Lavender farm, visiting Maui Wine to sample pineapple and other fruity varieties, or visiting the art galleries of Makawao of “upcountry” Maui.

Drive The Road To Hana

With one-lane bridges, switchbacks, and hairpin turns, the Road to Hana — a 52-mile stretch of pavement hugging the coast from Kahului to Hana — is not for the faint of heart. In fact, the tourism folks at the Hawaii Tourism Authority recommend making this excursion with professional guides on an organized tour. With someone else behind the wheel, you can more safely admire the gorgeous passing scenery! Neat stops along the way include cascading waterfalls, a stand of rainbow eucalyptus trees, and fresh food stands.

Go Whale Watching

Prime time for whale watching in Maui is the winter and early spring, when the majestic humpback whales migrate to the area from the northern Pacific. Book a whale-watching boat tour to learn from onboard naturalists, or try to spot them frolicking in distant waves from the shores of Kaanapali, Makena, and Wailea beaches.

Snorkel Around Molokini

Off the coast of Makena Beach, on the southwest side of Maui, is Molokini Crater. The crystal-clear waters around this crescent-shaped landmark are a great place to experience snorkeling in Maui, with the abundant number of colorful fish here. Several companies offer snorkeling tours to the region; typically a catamaran trip also includes a stop at Turtle Town, where you can spot green sea turtles hanging out in the coral reef.