Top Things to do in Maui
What to do and see in Maui, Hawaii (HI): The Best Things to do Adventurous
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. The Skyline Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 24 reviews
Reviewed By tjg442
Rent some bikes from Donnie at Maui Cyclery and ride this amazing trail. Maui Cyclery is the only shop I will go to on Maui! I've lived here 15 years and worked in a few of the shops as well. Be advised... Don't rent from the shop in Makawao as they will try and cheat you out of your money. They often try and switch bikes to lesser quality the day of your rental. Watch out cause they will charge you more than you agreed to. Enough negatives. This trail is amazing but also at 10,000 feet. It can be MUCH colder than sea level. Please check the weather before you go and ride safe :)
4. Waimoku Falls
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 68 reviews
Reviewed By rhealey007 - Charlotte, United States
I can't overstate this unbelievable experience, from a hikers perspective. It's one of my top 5 in the United States and I've hiked all over in the U.S. The diverse landscapes you hike through are simply incredible. And while some might prefer wide vistas, as I do, but I still go chasing waterfalls. Lol. The pictures don't do this place any justice. Spend an overnight in Hana to arrive early and have this place to yourself... it's worth it. If you don't mind the risk and pay attention to weather reports to avoid any flooding then you can hike right up to the base of the 400 foot Waimoku Falls. The mist and roar of the water is exhilarating!
5. Sliding Sands Trail
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 145 reviews
Reviewed By MikeH305 - Phoenix, United States
Walking down here is eerie to me. First of all you're at 10000 feet so if you use the rule of thumb 1 hour down 2 hours up it is more like 3 because of the altitude unless you live in higher elevations. Make sure you have good shoes and warm clothes and a last worning don't go in the rain. The landscape is moonlike and pretty barren. We didn't do the entire trek but did enough to know a little of what to expect. We had clear weather but it was cold. Definitely huffed and puffed on the way back up.
6. 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.
7. 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!
8. 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.
9. The Spa at Black Rock
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 836 reviews
Come join us for an intimate relaxing spa treatment located at the secluded Sheraton Resort. Take in ocean breezes with open air rooms, breathtaking views of historic Black Rock, and scenic lush greenery.
Reviewed By Explorer36016245818
I had one of the best massages yesterday that I’ve had in a long time at The Spa at Black Rock at the Sheraton in Kaanapali. Eliana was my massage therapist. When she first started out I thought “Ok, she’s good.” Then shortly after I thought “Actually, she’s very good.” She then really focused on those areas of my body that I’ve been having issues with over the last few years and she became excellent! Her techniques for addressing pain and stiffness were so good that for the first time in a long time I woke up pain free today! Thank you Eliana! I’m definitely coming back to you for another massage!
10. Bamboo Forest
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 229 reviews
Located at Oheo Gulch, the Bamboo Forest offers good hiking.
Reviewed By Cnorton22
Great hike through the bamboo forest, and spectacular waterfall at the end. Just to note wear runners as we did it in flip flops and it was not the terrain for loose footwear.
