Top Things to do in Maui
10 Things to do Good for Big Groups in Maui That You Shouldn't Miss
The Hawaiian island of Maui is a destination for true nature lovers. The ethereal bamboo forest and churning waterfalls in Haleakala National Park can be explored via the Waimoku Falls Trail. Stretch out on warm, golden sands or hit the surf for an unforgettable windsurfing or snorkeling session. Driving the scenic road to Hana along the island’s northeastern shore will be among the most spectacular journeys of your life. Time stands still at the Hawaiian village of Keanae, definitely worth a visit.
Restaurants in Maui
1. Pipiwai Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 1,267 reviews
A scenic hiking and horseback riding trail that features major waterfalls, beautiful pools and an eerie bamboo forest.
Reviewed By dmccubbins
One of the must do's on the road to Hana. It took us a solid 2 hours round trip to complete and we were moving pretty fast on the way back as we were fighting day light. It's a great hike though and the bamboo forest and the waterfall at the end is definitely worth the hike. I'd say it's moderate to difficult depending on your fitness level as you walk up a hill a bunch and it's a tad rocky in parts.
2. Haleakala National Park
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2,460 reviews
Reviewed By robertdX4400QY - Oahu, United States
Towering over the island of Maui and visible from just about any point, Haleakala Crater is a force of nature in every sense. At 10,023 feet above sea level, this dormant volcano is the stage for a breathtaking range of landscapes—and skyscapes. Haleakala means "house of the sun" in Hawaiian, and legend goes that the demigod Maui lassoed the sun from its journey across the sky as he stood on the volcano’s summit, slowing its descent to make the day last longer. Many visitors wake up early to drive to the Haleakala Visitor Center, the best spot to watch what may be the most spectacular sunrise on earth. As the sun peeks over the horizon, an ever-changing swirl of color and light dance across the vast sea of clouds—a sight described by Mark Twain as “the most sublime spectacle I have ever witnessed.” Perhaps just as impressive are Haleakala’s sunsets and the bright, starry skies revealed at night. Remember, the National Park Service now requires a reservation for personal and rental vehicles to view the sunrise from the summit district. Your reservation is for parking at the summit and doesn’t include the required national Park entry fee. Drive times from Kaanapali and Wailea to reach the summit average 2 hours. Sunrises and sunsets are only two of the many reasons to pay Haleakala National Park a visit on your trip to Maui. Spanning more than 30,000 acres of public land, the stunning landscapes range from Mars-like red deserts and rock gardens near the summit to lush waterfalls and streams in the park’s coastal Kipahulu section, near Hana. There are numerous hiking trails that offer solitude and scenic vistas, while guided hikes and horseback rides provide an expert's insight in addition to the natural beauty. There are more endangered species here than any other park in the National Park Service, like blooming ahinahina (silversword) and nene (Hawaiian goose), the state bird. Visitors can also camp here, with separate campgrounds and cabins available.
3. Punakea Palms
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 426 reviews
Coconut Farm Tasting Tour! Come Experience the sights and tastes of an authentic, working coconut farm. Learn the vast usefulness of the coconut tree and how to extract its bounty. Participate in all the stages of coconut cultivation and consumption, all while basking in the natural beauty of our farm. Take home fresh, hand-made coconut products from a truly authentic experience.
Reviewed By DayTrip617979
Located in Lahaina this coconut farm tour was an awesome way to learn about the life of a coconut and explore more of Maui. Our experience started with fresh coconut milk cold brew coffees and from there we walked the farm and eventually settled in to learn more about coconut life stages. Our guide, Kai, cracked open juvenile coconuts so we could drink fresh coconut water and enjoy the coconut meat before moving on to mature coconuts, highlighting the differences between the two. We learned the process of making coconut milk and also tried mature coconut meat. We had the chance to walk the grounds and were able to enjoy all the coconuts our hearts (and stomachs) desired. They did a wonderful job of following safety protocols with Covid and the small group tour made it intimate and amazing! They also have a very cute gift shop and once the café fully opens will be the perfect spot to enjoy fresh coconut themed snacks and beverages among sweeping views of the ocean and the iconic coconut palms. If you are considering an awesome local experience on the island book this tour ASAP! We can't wait to take our friends.
4. Haleakala Crater
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7,954 reviews
A dormant volcano measuring 10,000 feet above sea level, it is Maui's highest point.
Reviewed By waynemQ1946NK - Chester, United States
Although you have to wake up very early to make it to the top of the crater to watch the sun rise above the clouds, this is a must do- once in a lifetime opportunity. Well, maybe you can go more than once in your lifetime... It is amazing once you realize that you are above the clouds and then to see the beautiful colors as the sun rises up. It is cold, but you will survive with a sweatshirt.
5. Maui Ocean Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,102 reviews
Named “Top 10 Aquariums in the World” by TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards, Maui Ocean Center is the premier destination to encounter and learn about Hawaii’s marine life. Home to one of the world’s largest displays of live Pacific corals, the Aquarium exhibits only marine life found in Hawaiian waters including tropical fish, sea turtles, sharks, stingrays, octopuses, sea jellies, and more. The Aquarium highlights the beauty of Hawaii’s undersea world while perpetuating the deep connection between the Hawaiian people and the sea. The Aquarium’s mission is to foster understanding, wonder, and respect for Hawaii’s marine life.
Reviewed By M6869VMmargaretk - Parksville, Canada
This is a fabulous aquarium with beautifully presented displays.Loads of lighting and informational displays and the highlight was the shark tank with manta rays and sharks swimming above you in the tunnel.An added bonus for cruise visitors is that you can catch a bus opposite the small port terminal and buy a day pass for $4. The bus takes about 30 minutes to the Ocean centre.
6. Hana Highway - Road to Hana
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9,634 reviews
A scenic and often dangerous road popular with the more adventurous visitor.
Reviewed By MauiSteve96713 - Hana, United States
Ok, I see a lot of mixed reviews on this Road To Hana, and while some are valid, others are not. A lot of people seem to 'not get it'., so here I am...as a resident reviewing my side of the island. The road to Hana is just that. Nothing more. Hana itself is not the destination. The draw to the attraction IS the road and all it has to offer...NOT what's at the end. Keep an open mind, leave for your drive as early as possible...even sunrise or before...and get a jump on traffic and crowds. Get your gas tank topped off in Paia, and bring a cooler of drinks and some snacks. As far as the nightmares you've heard about the local drivers tailgating, all you need to do is slow down or pull over and motion them to let them pass. We've all seen it, we live here and it's a long drive for us to even go to Walmart. Most of us can drive this road blindfolded since we've done it so many times. We want you to enjoy your drive at your leisure, but we don't appreciate other drivers not allowing us to pass. Wave to us as we pass...we'll wave back! Appreciate your day. If it's raining, it's Maui. Can't have waterfalls without the rain. If it's sunny, then many of the waterfalls may not be flowing. Best time to drive it? The first sunny day after a few days of rain. Sun AND waterfalls! Take it easy and slow. There is no rush. Consider spending the night in Hana. LOTS to do and see along the drive and in Hana and further. Pace yourself. If you make no stops, it's still nearly two hours to Hana from Paia. Consider a CD tour or book that gives you the sights by mile-marker. They are not all there, but enough to know where you are. Some of the best waterfalls are back toward the Nahiku area and Hana. Make the stops and take lots of photos. If you need facilities, there are three along the way at wayside stops, The Half Way to Hana stand, Ka'ahumina wayside, and one between MM 22/23....but you won't be arrested if you need a privacy tree in an emergency. There are plenty of those. The drive has access to plenty of waterfall views and hikes, oceanfront areas in Ka'anae, an arboretum, quaint early 1800's churches, pounding surf, gorgeous views, delicious banana bread, flowers and flower farms, quaint neighborhoods, fruit stands, black-sand beach, caves, BBQ stands, gift shops, coffee shop, Nahiku Tropical flower farm, Glenn's organic and vegan ice cream stand, bamboo hikes, Seven Pools, several absolutely delicious food trucks in Hana, Red Sand Beach, Hana Bay,...the list goes on... Main thing is to come early, take your time and relax in Hawaiian Time like no other...and yes, consider spending the night. Many places don't need reservations, as many folks have bungalows out back you can inquire about. And if you need to pass, just give your horn two little taps. Beep Beep...as you pass. and don't forget to wave! Enjoy!
7. Honolua Bay
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 915 reviews
Reviewed By Shutterbug444
Honolua Bay is a great place to snorkel! There is free parking just off the main road but it's hit and miss getting a spot because it's a popular spot. Getting here early is a good idea. From there, you walk through a beautiful and peaceful rainforest, which is the Honolua Bay access trail, to reach the bay. I had as much fun exploring the rainforest as I did at the bay. There are many chickens and baby chicks running around.
8. Ho'okipa Beach Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,529 reviews
Ideal for surfers and windsurfers.
Reviewed By ZoeyLambeauReggie - Plymouth, United States
Great place to hang out for several hours just watching the huge waves and great surfers! We went here before heading to the airport for our flight home. Nice place to relax and fairly close to the airport. This beach gets crowded so parking can get tricky....head down to lower lot if needed, plenty of spots there (usually).
9. Wai'anapanapa State Park
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,966 reviews
Waianapanapa State Park is on the road to Hana, Maui.
Reviewed By rhealey007 - Charlotte, United States
Absolutely incredible!! It's a can't miss stop. The drive in from Hana Highway is bumpy but well worth it. Go check out the massive waves at the unique black sand beach... WARNING... the waves will occasionally cover the entire sand part of the beach, so be careful where you store your towels, bags, and shoes. Go up top and see the impressive blow hole... be careful of where you choose to stand or you will get drenched. Then continue passed the blow hole and hike, yes hike, a gorgeous short trail that embodies what you think of when you think about Hawaii... lush greens and bright flowers against lava rock and ocean waves. Upon returning to the beach, don't miss the sea arch and the walk-in cave off to the right, directly on the beach.
10. Maui Tropical Plantation
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,400 reviews
The Village at Maui Tropical Plantation is open! Please join us Tuesday - Saturday from 9AM - 4PM. This includes The Rolling Mill Food Truck, Mill House Roasting Co., Soley Aloha Boutique and Gallery, Visitors Kiosk, and Kumu Farms Stand.
Reviewed By jbpCal - Coto de Caza, United States
Brought my elderly mom to Maui for her first-ever Hawaiian vacation and we did plenty of restaurants, boat cruises, pool and beach days, etc...but our day at the Maui Tropical Plantation really stood out from the rest! The grounds are lovely and filled with historical pieces from the bygone sugar cane industry, and the tram ride through the groves of banana, coconut, mango, and pineapple really showed a unique side of the island. Everything was wonderful!
