Wondering what the best things to do on Maui are? The Valley Isle packs volcano sunrises, waterfall-lined drives, and some of Hawaiʻi's finest beaches into one unforgettable destination. Whether you have three days or three weeks, here are 15 things to do in Maui that locals and repeat visitors swear by.
1. Watch Sunrise at Haleakalā
Rising 10,023 feet above sea level, Haleakalā National Park offers a sunrise experience unlike anywhere else in the islands. Reservations are required, so book ahead and bring warm layers — it's cold up top.
2. Drive the Road to Hana
This legendary 64-mile drive winds past waterfalls, black sand beaches, and jungle overlooks. Give yourself a full day, and don't rush the stops.
3. Snorkel Molokini Crater
A crescent-shaped volcanic crater just offshore, Molokini is one of the clearest snorkeling spots in Hawaiʻi, teeming with tropical fish and coral.
4. Relax on Kaanapali Beach
Three miles of golden sand make Kaanapali one of Maui's most popular beaches for swimming, sunset walks, and cliff diving off Puʻu Kekaʻa (Black Rock).
5. Explore Lahaina
Once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom, Lahaina holds deep cultural history. Visit respectfully and support local businesses as the town continues to rebuild.
6. Visit Iao Valley State Park
Home to the iconic Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot volcanic spire draped in green, this short walk delivers big views.
7. Watch Whales (in Season)
From December through April, humpback whales migrate through Maui's waters. Whale-watching tours depart from Lahaina and Maalaea year after year.
8. Surf or Learn to Surf
From beginner-friendly Lahaina waves to the legendary big-wave break at Peʻahi (Jaws), Maui has surf for every skill level.
9. Stroll Through Upcountry Maui
Cooler temps, lavender farms, and paniolo (cowboy) ranch towns like Makawao offer a completely different side of the island.
10. Snorkel Honolua Bay
A marine life conservation district on the northwest coast, Honolua Bay offers some of the best shore snorkeling on Maui.
11. Catch a Sunset at Kapalua or Wailea
Maui sunsets are famous for a reason — grab a beach chair and watch the sky turn orange over the Pacific.
12. Visit a Maui Farm or Distillery
Tour a coffee farm, lavender farm, or the Hali'imaile Distilling Company for a taste of local agriculture.
13. Hike the Pipiwai Trail
Located past Hana, this trail winds through a bamboo forest to the towering 400-foot Waimoku Falls.
14. Paddle an Outrigger Canoe
Experience the ocean the traditional Hawaiian way with a guided outrigger canoe paddle along the coast.
15. Shop Local Maui Art and Apparel
Bring a piece of the island home with you — original Maui-inspired designs make a meaningful souvenir or gift.
Bring the islands home: Explore our Maui Collection — original designs from our Native Hawaiian–owned studio in Kailua-Kona, Hawaiʻi. Here are a few of the newest additions:
Maluaka Beach Cross Stitch Poster — a stitched-style tribute to Maui's south shore sands.
Olowalu Paisley Bandana Poster — a bold, patterned take on Olowalu's coastline.
Twin Falls Watercolor Gold Poster — golden watercolor art of one of the Road to Hana's favorite stops.