Best Things To Do In Maui

You really can’t go wrong with Maui no matter what you do.  What I love about this island and really the rest of Hawaii is that you don’t need to do much planning.  Let island time kick in and when you feel like exploring just take this list and plan your day.

Here are the top things to do in Maui!

Seven Top Things To Do In Maui

Being based out of Lahaina for our trip, we drove all around to do a little bit of relaxing and a little bit of adventuring.

1 – Pipiwai Trail

This is perhaps the most amazing hike trail on the island that features a huge banyan tree, a smaller Makahiku Falls, dense bamboo forest which ends in the climax of Waimoku Falls.  There is also the Seven Sacred Pools at Ohe’o so make sure you make the short walk there.  If you’re feeling like taking a dip, this is the perfect spot.  Make sure you bring your swim suit and towel!

You can get to here from the southern road if you’re not looking to do the full Road to Hana.  Make sure you plan to be here for a good 3-4 hours.

2 – The Southern Road To Hana

Traditionally people will do the Road to Hana to well…get to Hana which follows the northern coastal road, but we actually enjoyed the southern road quite a bit more.  It’s a lot more rugged and raw (portions unpaved) and there were a lot of opportunities to stop and take photos.

If you’re feeling a bit lazy or don’t have a car rental, book one of these full day sightseeing tours on the Road to Hana.

3 – Ululani’s Shaved Ice

We lost track of how many times we ended up going here.  Shaved ice is a staple in Hawaii and, while this is a chained shop, it is unanimously known by locals as the best on the island, and we completely concur. 

Our personal recommendations are to make sure you taste the mochi, and try their calamansi lime, and mango. Their locations can be found on the Ululani’s website.

4 – Haleakalā Summit

We had the pleasure of watching the sunrise twice here (that’s how crazy we are) and each time it was completely different.  The key here is to wake up as early as you can (leave your hotel latest 3AM).  It’s a magical moment when you get to watch the fog lift as the sun peeks through the horizon.

Personally, we think the best spot to watch the sunrise is to park in the first lot (not the upper one near the observatory) and make the small spiral climb up to the hill and perch yourself on the rocks there.  The hike up looks long but it’s only 5 minutes and pretty easy.

This guided sunrise tour takes the stress out of planning and lets you soak in every golden moment from Maui’s highest peak, not to mention, breakfast is included!

5 – Koiso

If you are a lover of sushi and have always wanted to know what it would be like to dine in Tokyo, then you absolutely cannot miss Koiso in Kihei.  We’re not even exaggerating how good it is here.  Their omakase (chef’s selection) is $90 USD and they have many other great options on their menu. 

Just keep in mind that they’re typically booked several weeks out so make sure you make reservations in advance, which you can only do by calling in (808- 875-8258).

6 – Sea Turtles And Molokini

While marketed heavily all around the island, half day boat trips out to the crescent shaped caldera jutting out of water is worth the money.  Sure, you’re contending with hordes of snorkelers in the morning, but it’s all worth it when you get to the end of the trip and hanging out with a family of sea turtles in amazing warm water.

It’s a memorable experience of stunning marine life that you’ll never forget.

To see a full list of what’s available, make sure to check out all of the Molokini tours, including this Molokini & Turtle Town snorkeling tour with lunch included! and check out our post, Best Snorkeling In Maui.

7 – Leoda’s Kitchen And Pie Shop

Leoda’s is located just outside of Lahaina; this was one of our favorite shops to stop by on our way out of town.  There was also a good reason to drop in to buy a different personal dessert pie each time.  Their sandwiches and coffee are pretty darned good too, so this also makes for a great lunch spot.

Make The Most Of Your Maui Adventure

Whether you’re chasing waterfalls along the Road to Hana, catching a fiery sunrise over Haleakalā, or diving into crystal-clear waters with sea turtles, Maui delivers unforgettable experiences at every turn.

With no time to spare on the island, every moment counts—so soak in the views, embrace the aloha spirit, and let the adventure guide you. Here’s to your best week ever in Maui!

Traveling To Maui After The Fires

In August 2023, devastating wildfires swept through parts of Maui, with Lahaina suffering the most heartbreaking losses. This historic town, once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom, was nearly leveled. The fires tragically took lives, displaced thousands of residents, and deeply impacted the local community, many of whom are still grieving and rebuilding.

While Maui continues to recover, it’s important to understand that tourism remains a critical part of the island’s economy. Local businesses, tour operators, restaurants, and countless families depend on visitor support to stay afloat. Visiting Maui—responsibly and respectfully—is one of the best ways to help the island heal.

If you’re planning a trip:

• Avoid the burned areas in Lahaina, which are still closed to the public out of respect and safety.
• Choose locally owned accommodations and businesses to ensure your dollars directly support recovery efforts.
• Be kind, patient, and sensitive in your interactions—many residents are still navigating personal loss and trauma.
• Consider donating to verified organizations helping with long-term recovery, such as the Maui Strong Fund by the Hawai‘i Community Foundation.

Maui is still as beautiful, warm, and welcoming as ever. Your visit, when done with care, can make a real difference.

Map Of Maui

To make your trip planning even easier, we’ve put together a handy interactive map with all the attractions mentioned in this post pinned for you. Use it to navigate your Fort Lauderdale adventure with ease

Where To Stay In Maui

There are a number of impressive properties to take a look at.  If you’re in Lahaina, check out the Ka’anapali Alii or the Westin Maui Resort & Spa, which are both very impressive beach properties and mainstays of the strip.

If you’re looking to stay on the other end, which could put you in Wailea, we’d recommend the Castle Kamaole Sands or Residence Inn by Marriott Maui Wailea.

Sufficed to say, there’s a lot to do in Maui.  What we love about it is that it honestly doesn’t take much planning at all.  You can wake up each day and decide what you want to do, hop into your rental car and away you go.

What To Pack For Maui

This being a tropical getaway, you really won’t need to pack heavy. As long as you have your swim stuff, you’re pretty much set for Maui!

• Shell jacket: Depending on the season you’re going to need a waterproof shell jacket in case of rain. This will also double as an additional layer. Shells like this are perfect for traveling because they’re versatile, light and easy to pack.
• Pocket cap: The Outdoor Research Radar Pocket Cap is a great travel hat simply because you can fold the brim. Keep the sun out of your eyes and off your face easily.
• Comfortable sandal: We have reviewed the Rainbow Sandals extensively before, but we can’t go on a summer trip without them. Another great option is the KEEN H2 Newport Sandal, which we have reviewed them as one of the best sandals on the market, they’re just so versatile in summer conditions.
• Travel toiletries case: We’ve been very happy with this Muji toiletries organizer because of its simplicity in design and comprehensiveness in terms of pockets, zippers and elastic holders.  The must-have feature for any toiletry’s organizer is the hook. Hanging your bag is always a better option than letting it sit on the sink.
• Insect repellant: Beach destinations and mosquitoes often go hand in hand. Pack the Repel Mosquito Repellent to be prepared.
• Packable Towel: Hotels don’t like it if you bring their towels to the beach so pack your own. This one is great because it’s large (XL in fact), packs into a small form factor, and dries quickly. No risk of drying yourself with something the size of a hand towel.
• Clothes – Maui is a tropical destination which means it’s going to be hot and sunny, so think light when packing clothes. Pack plenty of t-shirts.
• Swimsuit – An absolute must in Maui. Most activities we suggest are water related, like snorkeling!
• Sun Protection – Sunscreen and sunglasses are a must!
• Buff – We take this on every trip as it comes in handy for multiple things. Sweat wicking, sun protecting and more!

Frequently Asked Questions