TOP 10 THINGS TO DO ON MAUI

From exquisite beaches to the lush tropical rain forests, the natural beauty of Maui is beyond words. The Valley Isle is perfect for honeymooners but is also a great family-friendly spot with an incredible mix of outdoor activities, resort experiences, and charming seaside towns.

Here are my top 10 things to do on Maui

Haleakala National Park

Haleakala National Park is my favorite activity on the island of Maui. Watching the sunrise above the clouds from the top of Haleakala is an experience like no other. If you go for sunrise, reservations need to be made in advance. If you go for sunset, make sure you stay until it gets dark, because it is a prime location for stargazing.

Road to Hana

I have mixed feelings about my experience(s) to the Road to Hana. The trip will take you the entire day and is not for the faint of heart. The Road to Hana is a 64-mile long drive with 617 turns and 46 one-lane bridges located on Hawaii Routes 36 and 360 from Kahului to the town of Hana in Maui. The road is very narrow but winds through some of the most beautiful scenery of small towns, beaches, waterfalls, gardens and even a national park.

However, there are some considerations one should look into before taking on the trip. The Road to Hana is ranked #5 for the Most Dangerous Roads in the World. The road is only two lanes wide, with sharp turns, one-lane bridges and steep drop-offs. Another danger is the risk of landslides. The road is situated in a rainforest with heavy rainfall that can cause landslides that block the road. The road to Hana averages 68 deaths a year and 550 hospitalizations a year.

Ka'anapali Beach

It is no question why Ka'anaplai Beach was once named America's Best Beach. The beach lies on multiple Ka'anapali hotel and resorts and is a popular getaway for multiple travelers from across the world. One of the beaches most famous attractions is the daily cliff diving ceremony that takes place on Pu'uKeka'a or sometimes known as Black Rock. Starting at sunset, a cliff diver will light a torch along the cliff and dive off Black Rock in a reenactment of a feat by Maui's revered King Kahekili.

Molokini Crater

A trip to Maui would not be complete without snorkeling. Molokini Crater is the island's most famous place to go snorkeling. The crater is one of only three volcanic calderas in the world. The quality of water surrounding the crater provides an unsurpassed clarity often up to 150 feet. Molokini is rock, with no soil that would wash down into the water. There are numerous tours that offer daily trips out to the cove but some tours will also add other great snorkeling spots such as Turtle town.

Wai'anapanapa State Park

Wai'anapanapa State Park is widely known for its beautiful black sand beach. However, there are numerous other attractions visitors can see. These include seabird colonies, lava tubes, blowholes, freshwater caves, and a natural stone arch.

Seven Sacred Pools of 'Ohe'o

The Pools of Ohe’o, also known as the Seven Sacred Pools. They are a popular destination for tourists and locals alike along Maui’s famous Hana Highway. The pools are located in Haleakala National Park and are situated in a rainforest ravine where stunning waterfalls cascade from one pool into the next.

Kaihalulu Beach

Kaihalulu Beach is a red sand beach in Maui that is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. This hidden gem is worth the trek to get there and will leave an impression that you will never forget.

Iao Valley State Park

The Iao Valley State Park is located in central Maui and is home ot the Iao Needle also called Kuka’emoku. The cliffs of this state park were used as a burial site for Hawaiian royalty. A visit here can be quick. There is a .6 mile trail to a viewpoint of the Needle. Entrance fees are $5 for non-residents and free for residents and children under the age of 3. There is also a $10 parking fee for non-residents.

For information on hours and pricing, visit the official website.

Maui Ocean Center

The Maui Ocean Center was established in 1988. The center provides educational programs and exhibits to teach visitors about the local sea life. In this small aquarium, you can learn about and see Hawaiian coral, sea turtles, reef fish, and hammerhead sharks. One of my favorite experiences was the Sphere which is a 3D experience where you get to swim with humpback whales.

For information on hours and pricing, visit the official website.

Pipiwai Trail

The Pipiwai Trail is a 4 mile roundtrip trail that is located in the Kipahulu section of Haleakala National Park. Throughout the hike, visitors can see two waterfalls, a large Banyan tree and walk through a bamboo forest. I'd recommend this location as a starting point on the Road to Hana because it can get crowded.

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