Fun Things To Do In Maui Hawaii in 2024

Cultural Tours in Maui

When you want to take the family and learn about the beautiful Hawaiian culture, then the most popular thing to do in Maui is to take them on a fascinating cultural tour. There are a number of different options for you to select that range from learning about early plantation life in Kahului to the Pacific Ocean eco-system on an Atlantis Submarine ride to a fabulous luau that is family friendly and involves many tales of folklore that are portrayed through traditional hula dances as well as music. Other options include visiting Iao Valley where the ancient spirits still reside to a lei making class to watching a perfect performance at the Maui Theater of Ulalena Show to driving the Hana Highway. Whether you are looking to learn about the folklore of Hawaii, the importance of the Pacific Ocean or Polynesian cuisine, there is an ideal thing to do in Maui for your family.

Helicopter Tours in Maui

Helicopter tour are one of the most popular things to do in Maui for people who want to view all the beautiful scenery from a bird's eye perspective. You can choose a variety of flight times from 30 to 70-minutes in the air as you soar from one area of the island to another. Your adrenaline will be lifted to new highs as you take-off into the blue skies of Hawaii and view stellar places such as the Hana Highway, the tropical forests of the Iao Valley, the cascading waterfalls of Wailua Valley, the surreal landscape of Haleakala Crater and spectacular panoramic views of the tropical forest below. You will see gorgeous white sand beaches as well as an incredible vantage point to view the neighboring islands of Molokai, Lanai, Oahu and Kauai. During your flight you will enjoy interesting commentary about Hawaiian culture, history and the importance of the environment to native Hawaiian's.

Historical Tours in Maui

When you want to learn more about the history and context of the Hawaiian Islands, then the ideal thing to do in Maui is to book an incredible historical tour. These excursions are fantastic and offer several choices for you to choose from. You can decide to spend the day in Haleakala National Park also known as The House of the Sun where you can view a perfectly serene volcanic landscape that is surrounded by tropical forests. You can visit Ioa Valley State Park where King Kamehameha army defeated the warrior of Maui. Other options include taking a trip to Oahu and visiting Pearl Harbor and an added bonus for these tours is front of the line access. You can enjoy the personalized commentary as the big panoramic views of the neighboring islands of Molokai, Lanai and Oahu fill your soul with memories.

Luau in Maui

One of the best things to do in Maui to have fun and learn about the Hawaiian culture is to attend one of the many fabulous luaus. Luaus are packed with entertainment that features traditional cultural aspects from islands like Fiji, Tahiti, New Zealand and Hawaii. These cultural aspects are portrayed through stunning hula dance performances which are highlighted by beautifully designed traditional clothing as well as traditional music which highlights the beating of drums. Luaus are also famous for their wonderful food which usually starts with Kalua Pork, chicken long rice, taro rolls and poi as well as other incredible food from the Polynesian islands. You can enjoy a Tiki torch luau buffet-style or as a five course gourmet meal whichever is your preference. Luaus are a great way for families to smile, enjoy great food and learn about the traditions, culture and history of Hawaii as well as its neighboring Polynesian islands.

Day Trip to Oahu and Pearl Harbor from Maui

When you want to see one of the most important sites in American history and are staying on Maui, then the best thing to do in Maui is to take a day trip to Oahu and Pearl Harbor. Your 14-hour excursion begins at the Kahului Airport where you will be flown to the neighboring island of Oahu. While in the air you will have spectacular views of the tropical landscape of Oahu and Maui, Diamond Head Crater, the white sand beaches of Waikiki and you will be thrilled with the bird's eye view of Pearl Harbor as well as the Pacific Ocean. Once you land in Honolulu, you will travel to Pearl Harbor. You will board a ferry that will take you to the Arizona Memorial before taking a guided tour through the U.S.S. Missouri. You will have plenty of time to learn all the interesting facts about this place in American history. When you are finished at Pearl Harbor you will be driven through historic downtown Honolulu City to view the incredible architecture and historic buildings. Your last stop will at Punchbowl Crater where you will see the National Cemetery of the Pacific. Your fantastic day will conclude when your board your flight and travel back to Kahului Airport.

Molokini Snorkel Cruise in Maui

When you want to visit one of the world's premier snorkeling destinations, then the ideal thing to do in Maui is to take a Molokini and Kealewai Snorkel Cruise. Your 5-hour water adventure begins with selected hotel pick-up service where you will be driven to board your two-deck sailing vessel. Once on board you will listen to interesting commentary about the eco-system and enjoy a free continental breakfast. You will cruise toward the crater and be outfitted with snorkeling gear on the way. When you are at Molokini Crater you will be given plenty of time to absorb the beautiful underwater world of marine life while you snorkel or swim. If you are lucky you can view sea turtles in their natural habitat. When finished you will head to Kealewai and indulge in a complimentary BBQ lunch with unlimited libations. On your way back to shore you will have plenty of big views of Haleakala Crater and the tropical landscape of Maui. Your excursion ends with drop-off service back to your selected hotel.

Molokini Sail and Snorkel Adventure

One of the best things to do in Maui for families, couples and singles is to take the Molokini Sail and Snorkel Adventure. Your 5-hour water excursion departs from Ma'alaea Harbor where you will meet your captain before sailing off on an unique glass-bottom catamaran. As you sail you will indulge in a complimentary continental breakfast which is complete with Kona coffee. You can view the incredible marine life underwater as they swim in their natural habitat as you cruise above aboard this unique sailing vessel. Once at the crater you will be outfitted with snorkeling gear and given brief instructions before entering the water. You will have plenty of time at this crescent shaped crater to snorkel, swim, play with the waterslide or just relax on the sundeck. The Molokini Crater is a spectacular underwater playground that will leave you pleased with your choice. Before heading back to the harbor you will enjoy a free BBQ lunch which includes unlimited beverages. Your tour concludes when you arrive back at the Ma'alaea Harbor.

Road to Hana Tours in Maui

If you have always dreamed of taking a trip through one of the most gorgeous spots on the planet, then the best thing to do in Maui is to take one of the many Road to Hana tours. The Road to Hana or the Hana Highway is a fascinating trip on a 52-mile windy road that passes the most beautiful scenery on Maui. You can choose an excursion that makes stops at Twin Falls, the Hana Lava Tube, Honomanu Bay and Ho'okipa Lookout. Other tours will allow you to hike some of Wai'anapanapa State Park or stop at Ho'okipa Beach as well as a stop in the quaint town of Hana. You can select from a variety transportation modes like an exhilarating helicopter ride to a private limousine or a larger coach for transportation. Most excursions are full-day and you will experience lasting memories of spectacular scenery as well as learn a little history on the way.

Molokini Crater Tours in Maui

If you want to experience one of the world's top 10 diving and snorkeling sites, then the best thing to do in Maui is to book a Molokini Crater tour. This crescent shaped crater is packed with incredible marine life and beautiful coral reefs that will leave you awe struck. There are a number of ways to visit this spectacular place like sailing on a catamaran or taking a power raft or a larger vessel with two-decks. You will be thrilled when you enter the water to snorkel with the hundreds of tropical fish swimming around you as you view the gorgeous coral reefs. Some Molokini Crater tours include snorkeling stops at Kealewai and Turtle Town where you can swim with sea turtles. These excursions are perfect for families that are interested in learning about the Pacific Ocean and snorkeling in a virtual wonderland of marine life.

Haleakala Crater Tours in Maui

If you are interested in the natural landscape and want to see the world's largest dormant volcano, then the ideal thing to do in Maui is to try a Haleakala Crater tour. Located within Haleakala National Park, the circumference of this crater is massive and the landscape is surreal with cinder cones, numerous hiking trails as well as gorgeous vistas. There are several excellent excursions that can take you hiking through Iao Valley, the crater as well as to waterfalls along the Hana Highway. You can walk through the visitor's center and learn about the formation of Haleakala Crater as well as experience a sunrise hike or drive through the crater with stops at Lavender Farm and a wine tasting. Whether you want to get out into the natural world or enjoy a leisurely drive along the crater, you will enjoy the time spent at this remarkable natural wonder.

Makena Tours in Maui

One of the more popular places to visit with a plethora of things to do in Maui is Makena and surrounding coastline. Makena was the first site that a western explorer set foot on the island and was home to the largest population of indigenous Hawaiian's on the island and is packed with historical as well as cultural sites. You will be amazed at the number of excursions that range from kayaking in Makena Bay to snorkeling over colorful coral reefs with incredible marine animals to learning how to surf as well as choices that mix and match these adventures together for a perfect day of exploring. Other options include adding a hike to a cascading waterfall to a yacht disco on Friday night as you party on the Pacific Ocean. No matter what you are looking to do in Maui, you will find something exciting in Makena.

Maui Ocean Center in Maui

One of the best things to do in Maui for families who are looking for a great educational and fun experience is to visit the Maui Ocean Center. Located in Wailuku near the Maalaea Harbor, the Maui Ocean Center is also known as The Aquarium of Hawaii. The Maui Ocean Center is a superb venue with over 60 interactive exhibits that will leave you with a better understanding of the eco-systems that thrive around Maui and Hawaii. The Maui Ocean Center features a 750,000 gallon open ocean exhibit which has an exciting walk-thru tunnel that makes you feel like you are in the Pacific Ocean. The center is home to the world's largest collection of living Pacific corals as well as a large number of marine animals from sea turtles to reef sharks to whales to hundreds of colorful tropical fish. The Maui Ocean Center is the ideal place to take your family for a truly unique learning experience of the Pacific Ocean.

Whale Watching in Maui

If you like viewing marine animals in their natural habitat, then the perfect thing to do in Maui during the winter months is to go on a whale watching tour. Whale watching excursions are a fun way for families to mingle with fellow travelers while watching one of the world's most magnificent marine animals on the planet. You have a wide variety of choices when selecting a whale watching tour that range from an intimate sunset sail to a party atmosphere to a serene kayak paddle. These excursions also depart from many conveniently located places like Lahaina Harbor, Ka'anapali Beach, Ma'alaea Harbor and Kihei. You can decide whether you want to sail on a catamaran, a power raft or paddle a kayak and you will be pleased with the extra marine life you will see as you sail on the blue Pacific Ocean.

Atlantis Submarine in Maui

When you want to view the incredible underwater world that resides in the Pacific Ocean and don't want to get the family wet, then the ideal thing to do in Maui is to take an Atlantis Submarine ride. You and your family will thoroughly be thrilled sitting in a state-of-the-art submarine which has specialty viewing windows so you won't miss any of action. You will view gorgeous coral reefs, tropical fish and a variety of other marine like sea turtles, bottle-nose dolphins and reef sharks. Your family will be pleased listening to the informative narrative from your submarine's captain who will explain the various species of coral and marine life as well as the importance of conservation to the Hawaiian eco-system. Your family will thank you for taking them on this spectacular thing to do in Maui which will still leave you time to go to the beach before or after your underwater excursion.

Sailing Tours in Maui

If you like being in the open water of the blue Pacific Ocean with the wind at your back, then the best thing to do in Maui for you is to book a sailing tour. There are a wide variety of sailing options for you choose that range from a romantic sunset sail with cocktails to a whale watching sail to a full blown dinner sail. Other options include a sailing trip Molokini where you can go snorkeling in this amazing underwater volcano crater. As you sail you will be fascinated at the clarity of Pacific Ocean which allows you to watch hundreds of tropical fish and colorful coral reefs as you pass over them and don't forget the sea turtles as well as the spinner dolphins that will most likely follow your boat.

Dinner Cruises in Maui

One of the most popular things to do in Maui for couples is to take a romantic dinner cruise and watch the sunset. Imagine yourself having dinner with your loved one as you watch the gorgeous blue sky over the Pacific Ocean turn into a colorful canvas of pastel colors as the sunsets on the horizon. Dinner cruises offer a number of different dining formats that range from buffet-style appetizers to a full blown buffet-style meal to a four-course gourmet dinner and there is even a luau option with a land stop. These excursions also include plenty of beverages for you and live entertainment while you are on the boat. You can choose the type of boat as well which range from a luxury yacht to a catamaran. An added bonus is enjoying the beautiful tropical landscape of Maui from a unique vantage point and after dark the stars are amazing.

Hiking Tours in Maui

If you like being in the outdoors viewing beautiful scenery while getting in some exercise, then the ideal thing to do in Maui is to book a hiking tour. These excursions offer a variety of challenges for people of all skill levels and most are family-friendly. You can decide whether you want a long or short hike through Haleakala National Park, a drive down the Hana Highway and a hike to the Seven Sacred Pools or you can rappel down waterfalls after a short hike and you can even include a kayaking trip along the Makena coastline with your hike. While you are hiking your expert guide will inform you of the various plants and animals that you will see when you are on the trail. Most hikes are full-day excursions and you can be assured of seeing some of the island's premier landscape as well as waterfalls.

Horseback Riding in Maui

Horseback Riding is a great thing to do in Maui for families and people who want to experience the outdoors in a unique way. There are different options for you to choose from when selecting your excursion and start times which are ideal for families. You can decide to go Mendes Ranch where you will view some of Maui's highest waterfalls, the Pacific Ocean coastline as well as some of the finest tropical landscape on the island. There is also an option that starts in Lahaina which takes you through Launiupoko Valley where you will experience big views of Lani, Lahaina Harbor, Molokai and Koolavi in the distance. Most tours include a light snack and beverages as well as an add-on option for lunch. Horseback riding is an ideal way for families to bond as well as fun and will leave you plenty of time to still hit the beach before or after.

Zipline Tours in Maui

If you like to seek adventure that involves plenty of adrenaline then the perfect thing to do in Maui is to fly through the sky on a zipline. There is a wide variety of zipline parks on Maui which range from four to six lines and from 70 to 2,800-feet in length. You can reach speeds up to 40 miles per hour as you soar above and through the jungle canopy as you watch the beautiful tropical landscape race past you. Ziplines are located in several places such as Haiku, Haleakala, Makawao and Ka'anapali. You can add-on other adventures like bike riding through Haleakala National Park or hiking to a cascading waterfall. Zipline adventures are great thing to do in Maui for family and will certainly raise the level of your adrenaline flowing through your body.

Bus Tours in Maui

If you want to catch as many of the sites as possible in a full-day excursion, then the ideal thing to do in Maui is to take a bus tour. These excursions are perfect for first time travelers to Maui and allow for quick stops at such spectacular places such as Ioa Valley, Haleakala, the Hana coastline and Waianapanapa State Park. Other exciting viewing spots are the Keanae Valley Lookout, Puu Ulaula Overlook and the historic buildings in the city of Wailuku. Most tours are full-day and offer add-on options like breakfast or lunch and you will be transported in a comfortable air-conditioned coach. These tours are ideal in getting people familiar with Maui and allows for a more enjoyable vacation when you choose your other adventures.

Bike Tours in Maui

If you like to watch incredible scenery while getting some exercise in, then the best thing to din Maui is to book a fascinating bike tour. There are a number of bike tours available and most are family-friendly as well as geared toward various skill levels from novice to expert. Many of the tours are flexible and offer half or full-day adventures. You can peddle to such spectacular places as Haleakala National Park, Kula and Makawao. All excursions offer the necessary safety equipment for a fun and enjoyable ride through some of the most gorgeous tropical landscape anywhere in the world. You can choose from a sunrise ride, a guided or unguided ride and a thrilling downhill adrenaline filled speed ride. Whichever tour you decide to choose you will be pleased with the equipment and extra perks like snacks, lunch as well as plenty of complimentary beverages.

Kayak Tours in Maui

Kayak Tours are one of the best things to do in Maui when you want to get some exercise and view the beautiful scenery of the coastline from a different vantage point. There is a variety of places you can visit while paddling on the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean that include Olowalu, Makena Bay, Lahaina and the beautiful area of Papalaua Beach where you can see the Pali Sea Cliffs. Other forms of kayaking are available like paddling in an outdoor rigger canoe to Polo Beach in Wailea. As you paddle you will watch unbelievable marine life like sea turtles, spinner dolphins and maybe even a humpback whale. For added fun while kayaking, you can add-on a snorkeling trip, a surfing lesson or even a hike on land. No matter which excursion you choose, you will be thrilled with the adventure of paddling on the blue waters of the Pacific Ocean.

Snorkeling in Maui

Snorkeling is one of the best family friendly things to do in Maui to view the incredible underwater world of the Pacific Ocean. You will like the several options that you have to select from when deciding on what area of the Pacific Ocean is best suited for you. Choices include snorkeling at Molokini crater, Kealewai, the Makena coastline and Turtle Town. Other spectacular places you can snorkel at include Turtle Point, Mala Wharf, and the Cliff House. While you are snorkeling you will view beautiful coral reefs, thousands of tropical fish and marine life such as seat turtles as well as spinner dolphins in the crystal clear waters of the Pacific Ocean. An added bonus while snorkeling is the variety of ways to get there from sailing on a catamaran to a power boat to kayaking and you might even spot a humpback whale while you are watching the gorgeous Maui scenery.

Scuba Diving in Maui

Scuba diving is an exciting thing to do in Maui when you are interested in exploring the mysterious underwater world of the Pacific Ocean. There is a wide variety of scuba diving excursions for you to choose that will leave you in blissful state of mind. You can choose from a beginner's lesson and a beach dive to more advanced two-tank dives to a night dive that will make you smile. Novices will venture to places like Black Rock, Mala Pier, Ka'anapali Beach and expert divers will be thrilled with sites at Lanai, underwater lava tubes as well as the shipwreck of the Carthaginian. Although the Maui coastline mostly offers depths of around 30 to 40-feet there are a few spots where you can go deeper to 100-feet. You will be awe struck by the color of the coral reefs and the marine life is incredible as you scuba dive with turtles, hundreds of tropical fish as well as reef sharks.

Surfing in Maui

The number one watersport in Hawaii is surfing and is one of the most popular things to do in Maui. You will be thrilled with the variety of surfing that is available in Hawaii from board surfing to kite surfing to windsurfing. Hawaii is famous for its offshore waves and around Kite Beach the wind is perfect for other varieties of surfing as well as just lounging on the beautiful sand. Families will enjoy the time spent together learning about an exciting new watersport and parents will be pleased with the one-on-one time spent by each instructor which allows for a safe learning environment. Another great thing about surfing is you can mix and match this watersport with an additional one like kayaking, standup paddle boarding or even a land based hiking adventure. No matter which type of surfing you decide on, you will be provided with technical instruction, all the necessary equipment and all you do is provide the adrenaline.

Parasailing in Maui

Parasailing is one of the more adrenaline filled things to do in Maui and offers great panoramic views of the lush tropical scenery as well as family fun. You will be thrilled when you reach the boat and power off from the shoreline. While on the power boat you will enjoy the gorgeous scenery of Maui from a different vantage point. Most parasailing trips last only an hour and are a great way to add some fun time to your vacation while you are lounging on Ka'anapali Beach. You can fly 800 or 1,200-feet into the air by yourself with your partner as a pair or with three people. Parasailing is a great thing to do in Maui for families to bond as you soar through the skies as well as over the blue Pacific Ocean and the views of island are spectacular.