Things to Do in Maui - Top Hawaii Activities & Adventures | Outrigger

Maui offers an incredible variety of experiences, from world-renowned beaches to volcanic landscapes, making it one of Hawaii's most sought-after destinations. Whether you're planning your first visit or returning to explore more of the Valley Isle, the best things to do in Maui span everything from snorkeling with sea turtles to watching sunrise from Haleakala's summit.

Most of Maui's top attractions cluster within 30-45 minutes of the main resort areas along the west and south shores, which means less driving and more time enjoying paradise. From cultural experiences that connect you with authentic Hawaiian traditions to adventure activities that showcase the island's natural beauty, there's something for every traveler's interests and energy level.

Best beaches and snorkeling spots

Maui's beaches consistently rank among the world's best, and for good reason. Kaanapali Beach stretches for three miles along the island's west shore, offering calm waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The beach features lifeguards, restrooms and easy parking, plus you can often spot green sea turtles near the rocky areas at both ends of the beach.

For families with young children, Kapalua Bay provides the most protected swimming conditions on the island. The small, crescent-shaped beach is surrounded by rocky points that keep waves under two feet most days. Snorkel gear rentals are available nearby for $25-30 per day, and the clear water makes it easy to spot colorful reef fish just 20 feet from shore.

Wailea Beach offers a more upscale beach experience with golden sand and excellent snorkeling at the north end near the rocky outcropping. Parking can be challenging after 10am, so arrive early or plan for a 10-minute walk from overflow areas. The beach has no lifeguards, but the gentle slope and clear water make it suitable for confident swimmers of all ages.

Road to Hana adventure

The Road to Hana ranks as one of the most scenic drives in the world, winding 64 miles through rainforest, past waterfalls and along dramatic coastlines. The route includes 620 curves and 59 bridges, so plan 6-8 hours for the full round trip including stops. Start early (7am departure) to avoid traffic and afternoon rain showers that are common on the east side.

Key stops include Twin Falls (mile marker 2) for an easy 10-minute hike to swimming holes, and Wai'anapanapa State Park (mile marker 32) for its famous black sand beach. The park charges $5 per vehicle and requires advance reservations for entry. Hana Bay offers a good lunch stop with food trucks and restrooms, plus calm water for swimming.

Consider staying overnight in Hana to break up the drive and explore the area more thoroughly. The return trip via the back road (Piilani Highway) is faster but more remote. Make sure your rental car agreement allows this route, as some companies prohibit it.

Haleakala National Park sunrise and activities

Watching sunrise from Haleakala's 10,023-foot summit ranks among the top things to do in Maui Hawaii. The experience requires advance planning. Sunrise viewing requires reservations ($1 per vehicle) made up to 60 days ahead through recreation.gov, plus the $30 park entrance fee. Reservations are required for arrival between 3am-7am.

Plan to leave your accommodation by 3:30am for the 1.5-2 hour drive to the summit. Temperatures drop to 30-40°F before sunrise, so bring warm layers, blankets and hot drinks. The visitor center at 9,740 feet offers restrooms and shelter, but the actual sunrise viewing area is another 10 minutes up the road.

If sunrise feels too ambitious, sunset viewing requires no reservations and offers equally spectacular views with warmer temperatures. The park also features hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes, including the Sliding Sands Trail that descends into the massive crater.

Authentic Hawaiian cultural experiences

Maui offers numerous opportunities to connect with authentic Hawaiian culture beyond typical tourist activities. Many resorts and cultural centers offer daily programs led by Native Hawaiian practitioners who share traditions through hands-on learning experiences like hula dancing, lei making and Hawaiian language lessons.

Traditional outrigger canoe experiences provide both adventure and cultural education. These guided ocean adventures, available along Kaanapali Beach, teach participants about ancient Polynesian navigation techniques while paddling alongside experienced watermen. Sessions typically last 60-90 minutes and cost $75-95 per person, with age requirements starting at 8 years old.

For a deeper cultural connection, look for programs that include storytelling sessions about Hawaiian mythology and history, or garden tours that showcase native plants and their traditional uses in medicine, food and ceremony. These experiences often conclude with meaningful rituals like lei kukui ceremonies that reflect Hawaiian values of connection and return.

Adventure activities and water sports

Maui's consistent trade winds and varied coastline create ideal conditions for water sports year-round. Windsurfing and kitesurfing are most popular at Kanaha Beach Park near the airport, where steady 15-25 knot winds and shallow water provide perfect learning conditions. Lessons start at $89 for 2.5 hours and include all equipment.

Stand-up paddleboarding works well in calmer areas like Wailea or Kaanapali, where rental shops offer boards for $40-50 per day along with basic instruction. Early morning sessions (7-9am) typically offer the calmest water conditions before afternoon trade winds pick up.

For underwater adventures, scuba diving trips to sites like Cathedrals I and II off Lanai offer encounters with white-tip reef sharks, eagle rays and Hawaiian green sea turtles. Two-tank boat dives cost $130-160 per person, with gear rental adding another $40. Certification courses are available for beginners, requiring 3-4 days to complete.

Maui snorkeling spots comparison

What to do in Maui when it rains

Maui's weather patterns mean rain is most common on the north and east shores, while west and south Maui often stay dry even during storms. If you encounter rain, several indoor and covered activities keep the fun going without weather concerns.

The Maui Ocean Center in Maalaea offers 3 acres of indoor exhibits featuring Hawaii's marine life, including a 750,000-gallon walk-through tunnel with sharks and rays. Plan 2-3 hours for the full experience, and combine it with lunch at nearby restaurants that offer covered outdoor seating.

Shopping areas like the Shops at Wailea and Whalers Village provide covered walkways and indoor dining options during downpours. Many resorts also offer covered activities like cultural programs or spa treatments that work regardless of weather conditions.