Top Things to do in Maui
What to do and see in Maui, Hawaii (HI): The Best Nature & Wildlife Areas
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. 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.
2. Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 240 reviews
A great snorkeling spot on the southern coast of Maui.
Reviewed By canter2u - Beaver Dams, United States
Ahihi Cove is my go-to snorkeling spot. I swear ive even seen the same Rainbow Parrot fish super male everytime Ive gone (He's got a chunk out of his back). I go here at least 2-3 times every trip because you can count on so many varieties of colorful friendly fish. As you head to the parking lot (which is now very nicely paved) the road narrows and a sign says yield to oncoming traffic - as you continue, it is this small cove on the right that is your snorkeling goal! Park in the lot, and walk back on the gravel path alongside the road from lot to the cove. The required entry point is marked ona handy map - there is a huge flat cement platform underwater that is an easy take offpoint. wear a rash guard and be careful of the random waves that could unexpectedly throw you against the rocks or coral. It of course is best earlier in the morning or day when teh waves are low and the sun is out. this past trip I even saw a snowflake moray eel.
3. Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 29 reviews
The waters around the main Hawaiian Islands constitute one of the world's most important humpback whale habitats and the only place in the U.S. where humpbacks reproduce. The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary protects these humpback whales, as well as coral reefs, sea turtles, and other marine life living within the sanctuary. The sanctuary is an amazing destination for wildlife enthusiasts as well as adventure seekers, as this site offers opportunities for diving, snorkeling, surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, boating, fishing, and more!
Reviewed By couplessPS - Seattle, United States
We went whale watching- it had been years since we did it. My husband initially didn't want to go- thought we wouldnt see much and it would be boring. But luckily, this experience exceeded our reservations. We saw two big breeches, a close vision of fins slapping the water,, several farther sightings of a mother and her calf, and a beautiful day with a talented narration of what was happening by the guide. People I suppose were scared to mingle in this time of Covid, so a boat that I am told can hold 42 people only had 21- what a blessing that was. ( for us, not the company). Everyone had a great seat- no one was worried about being able to see anything, and it was really a lovely experience from beginning to end. These are magnificent creatures- only seeing them in person do them justice- and hopefully, they make conservationists of everyone who visits.
4. Kapalua Coastal Trail
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,122 reviews
A two-mile walk along Maui's northwest coast, the trail begins and ends on a beach. In between, you'll see spactacular oceanfront and bountiful greenery on the dramatic coastline.
Reviewed By Lovef1906 - San Jose, United States
My family and I were on vacation in Maui (in the Lahaina area) and were looking for a spot to take our girls (5 & 7) out for an easy hike/walk where we could also take in some of the natural beauty of the coastline. The Kapalua Coastal Trail was exactly what we were looking for. It's a mostly flat walking trail that offers views of the beach, rock formations, flowers, plants and birds. There is beach access and a spot to go cliff diving. It takes 1.5-2 hours to explore the entire trial if you take your time and take it all in. Parking is free.
5. Hosmer's Grove
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 40 reviews
Reviewed By Toyota1994 - Chicago, United States
Hosmer Grove trail is a lush forest hike in Haleakala National Park. The trail goes through a forest of huge Eucalyptus trees and provides a bird watching platform equipped with binocular at about midpoint. It is a relatively short trail (about a mile) and not too strenuous but be watchful for roots. Picnic shelter is available at the trailhead. I would certainly recommend Hosmer Grove trail since it would be good diversion from the volcanic views in Haleakala. It is also good for bird-watching.
6. Ohe'o Gulch
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 673 reviews
Reviewed By Annastory808
Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls is a must go if you do a Road to Hana trip. Ohe'o Gulch is located at almost the end of the Road to Hana at Kipahulu - Haleakalā National Park. If you are doing a day trip then I highly recommended you to drive all the way to Kipahulu first then hike the Pipiwai Trail and check out the Waimoku Falls, the hike will take 1 hour if you keep on walking straight to the Waimoku Falls and longer if you stop and spend some time with the gigantic Banyan Tree and the beautiful long and winding bamboo forest. You can then check out the Ohe'o Gulch before heading back to the Road to Hana. The view at the lookout overlooking to the Ohe'o Gulch and the ocean will make you want to stay longer, keep an eye on time if you still have other sites to visit and to drive back to town before it gets to dark. Don't forget to pack water, snacks, bug repellent spray, hat and a poncho just in case the weather shifts, and wear a good trail shoes. Sandals are okay but not recommended, it can get slippery walking on the rocks and sometimes muddy ground.
7. Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 264 reviews
Reviewed By 2godio
My wife and I visited the Wildlife Refuge on the last day of our trip around 10am. Saw various birds from Coots,Stilt,Ducks and Black-crowned Night Herons.The rain came in limiting out visit to 45 minutes. Hope to return back soon.
8. Ke'anae Arboretum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 57 reviews
Reviewed By carment80919 - Colorado Springs, United States
We went to Ke'anae Arboretum mainly to see the Rainbow Eucalyptus trees. We found it fairly easily off the Hana Hwy. It's free! Parking can be tricky. It's an easy walk on an asphalt trail to see all the trees and plants they have. We especially enjoyed the beautiful tall and colorful rainbow eucalyptus trees.
9. Hawaii Nature Center of Iao Valley
10. Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary
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