Maui Things to Do

Maui things to do and things to know. Aloha and welcome to the 'Valley Isle.' Maui is called such because of the large isthmus that spans between the West Maui Mountains (Pu`u Kukui of Mauna Kahalawai) and Haleakala. 'Maui no ka oi,' or Maui is the best, is a common saying on the island, and for good reason - many visitors worldwide believe Maui to be the highlight of the Hawaiian Islands. We can't say we disagree. Also dubbed "The Magic Isle," Maui is home to a vast array of scenery ranging from volcanic craters to lush tropical rainforests, windswept plains to pristine beaches that stretch as far as you can see. Maui has something for everyone, from upscale resorts to quaint Inn's scattered around the island.

Things to Know

Maui's main action spot is the former whaling town of Lahaina. Here you can shop in world class boutiques or visit some eclectic art galleries. Over a dozen golf courses dot the island, offering golfers that unique chance to play a round in the islands. The Hana Highway, also known as the Road to Hana, offers visitors the chance to escape from it all as they take the long and winding road to Hana town and beyond. For those willing to rise early on their vacation, the sunrise at Haleakala is a once in a lifetime experience. The hike into the crater is equally rewarding for those who venture there. If you visit during the winter months, be sure to keep your eyes on the ocean - the humpback whales make this their winter home and can often be seen jumping in the water off shore. Ka`anapali is an especially good location to capture a glimpse of these remarkable creatures. Maui's west coast is home to luxury resorts while East Maui is home to Mother Nature in all her glory. Waterfalls, lush valley's and even a black sand beach await you there.

Maui is the second largest of the major Hawaiian Islands, and ranges in elevation from sea level to over 10,000 feet atop Haleakala. A winter coat is needed in the early morning hours if visiting Haleakala, where temperatures can dip near freezing, while a bathing suit will do just fine for most of the rest of the island where it's a balmy 70-85 degrees year round. Home to seven of the world's climate zones at Haleakala alone, Maui has a unique climate pattern. Temperature, wind, rain, and sun can vary dramatically from one location to the next on the island.

Maui is the perfect destination for visitors who want diversity and variety in their activities, who desire the modern amenities of the mainland while still keeping the intimacy of a natural retreat. The unique and diverse landscapes of Maui are sure to provide visitors with plenty of variety on their trip. Maui offers you the chance to head out for a challenging hike in the morning, and come back for a pampering lomi lomi massage in the evening before heading to dinner and a show. For many visitors, Maui is the island that really hits the spot.

Things to Do

Haleakala Crater, or House of the Sun, rises to an impressive 10,023 feet above sea level. You can find this volcanic beauty in the Haleakala National Park in up country Maui.

The Maui Ocean Center is a wonderful place to visit with the family if you're fascinated with the underwater life forms that dwell around the Hawaiian Islands. Their large 750,000 gallon aquarium, including one part you can walk through, is sure to impress everyone who visits there.

If heaven had a highway, the Road to Hana would be pretty close. This incredible 56-mile drive is all about the journey, not the destination. And beyond Hana town are some of the most incredible waterfalls and coastal areas on the island. The Pipiwai Trail is the most popular trail on Maui, and can be found at the `Ohe`o Gulch, just 15 minutes beyond the sleepy town in the bay.

If you've ever wanted to snorkel in Hawaii, Molokini Island is your best bet. Molokini is a crescent-shaped tiny island off of Maui's coast that is home to a large variety of ocean life. The area is protected from surf and is ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving.

The Iao Valley offers you the chance to step back in time to learn about Maui's past, all while offering stunning views of the verdant valley, famously known for the Iao Needle within.

Big Beach along south Maui's coast is sure to give you plenty of room to stretch your beach fun. The nearly mile long beach is just the right size for those looking for a little beach seclusion.