The second largest island in Hawaii, Maui is famous for its spectacular beaches, dramatic scenery and wonderful climate.

When it comes to finding things to do in Maui, visitors are spoilt for choice.

From hiking in a splendid rainforest to cruising azure waters at sunset, there are plenty of attractions to keep you entertained.

Here’s a look at 24 top things to do on your next Maui vacation.

Table of Contents

1. Molokini Crater

Explore Molokini Crater on a snorkeling tour in Maui.

Snorkeling at Molokini is a truly unique experience.

The waters are calm and the marine life is abundant.

After exploring the ocean underworld, refuel on a delicious lunch of freshly-made Hawaiian cuisine and beverages.

The experienced boating crew will ensure that you have a safe and memorable excursion.

The tour will also include a visit to Turtle Town.

Here you can see a wide variety of colorful tropical fish and other marine animals.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 5 hour tour.
  • Entry to Molokini Crater.
  • Breakfast, lunch and beverages.

Cruise Sail Rafting

2. Maui Atlantis Submarine Adventure

Explore the Pacific Ocean floor on this submarine tour in Maui.

Your tour will begin at Lahaina Harbor where you’ll board an open air boat.

The cruise will take you out to the diving site and sub.

You will then descend over 30m in an air-conditioned sub.

Press your face against the circular port holes looking out for reef sharks and colorful fish.

Enjoy the sights, sounds and scenes of the world beneath the waves.

During winter, you may be able to spot whales.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 2 hour tour.
  • Submarine dive.
  • Narration.
  • Entry to Atlantis Submarines Maui.

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3. Maui Sunset Dinner and Dance Cruise

Experience Maui like never before on this sunset dinner and dance cruise.

Your tour will begin at the Lahaina Harbor where you will board the Maui Princess.

This romantic cruise will take you along the Maui shoreline.

Here you can enjoy panoramas of the West Maui Mountains and a golden sunset.

Tableside waiters will serve you food and drinks as a musician provides live entertainment.

Conclude your evening under a blanket of stars during the slow cruise back to shore.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 2.5 hour tour.
  • 3-course dinner cruise.
  • Cocktails.
  • Live music and dancing.

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4. Kayak and Snorkel – Maui West Shore

Explore the waters of Maui’s West Shore on this kayak and snorkeling tour.

Your tour will begin after a safety briefing and orientation from your guide.

Paddle the calm shallow waters of the west shoreline enjoying views of Ukumehame Valley.

After that, go snorkelling over coral reefs in search of sea turtles and colorful fish.

This guided tour is ideal for families and all skill levels.

Included are all kayaking and snorkelling gear.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 2.5 hour tour.
  • Expert guide.
  • Quality kayaks.
  • Snorkel equipment.
  • Refreshments.

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5. Whale Watching

Whale watching is one of the most popular activities to enjoy in Maui.

Visitors will go on a catamaran cruise from the historic Lahaina Harbor or the Ma’alaea Harbor.

The excursion will take you out on the waters that are home to humpback whales.

You can listen to them singing through hydrophones.

In addition, you can watch the males competing for mates and the mothers calving.

You never know what’s in store on this adventure that guarantees sightings of whales.

Seeing these magnificent ocean giants is an unforgettable experience.

What’s included on this tour?

  • Live commentary.
  • All fees, taxes and handling charges.

Lahaina Harbor Ma’alaea Habor

6. Ka’anapali Zipline Adventure on Maui

Enjoy some of the best panoramas of Maui on this Ka’anapali zipline excursion.

Your tour will begin in Ka’anapali where you will meet your guide.

Leave the sandy shores behind and take a drive up the West Maui Mountains.

This off-road journey will take you up the slopes of Mauna Kahalawai.

You will go on a course of 8 different ziplines that span deep, eroded ravines.

From way up high, you can enjoy views of Lanai, Molokai and the entire coastline of West Maui.

You will also learn the history of the island and its native wildlife and plants.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 3.5 hour tour.
  • Zipline adventure at Ka’anapali.
  • Expert guide.

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7. East Maui Waterfalls and Rainforest Hike 

Enjoy some off-beat exploration of the hidden beauty of Maui on this nature excursion.

Your tour will begin with a pickup from your hotel or in Kahului.

You will then go on a drive past Paia and the Ho’okipa lookout as you head deep into the rainforest.

The journey takes you to one of the lush valleys of the island.

During the tour, your friendly guide will lead you to secret pools and waterfalls.

Go on a moderately difficult trek through the rainforest.

You’ll come across waterfalls where you can stop for lunch and a swim.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 7 hour tour.
  • Lunch and snacks.
  • Expert guide.
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off.

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8. ATV Adventure

Explore the rugged terrain of Maui on this adrenaline-filled ATV excursion.

Before you begin your tour, you will get oriented to the vehicle.

Next, head out for the top of the valley.

From here you can enjoy distant views of the waterfalls.

Continue on down the mountainside to the coast to soak up panoramas of the shoreline.

There are areas where you can speed up for some fun.

Along the way, your friendly guide will provide interesting commentary.

Travelling via ATV will enable you to access parts of the valley that typical vehicles can’t reach.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 1.5 hour tour.
  • ATV tour.
  • Beverages.

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9. Road to Hana Tour

With miles of black sandy beaches, bamboo jungles and waterfalls, the Road to Hana is a must for any visitor to Maui.

The route offers panoramic views, an abundance of excursions and some of the most beautiful scenery in Hawaii.

Points of interest on this tour include the Seven Sacred Pools of Oheo and the Twin Falls waterfalls.

Make the most of your trip with a full day tour.

Your guide will provide fascinating commentary on the legends and history of the region.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 8 hour tour.
  • Lunch.

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10. Explore Maui from a Helicopter and Plane

The island of Maui is best appreciated by air.

Visitors can go on a complete island tour via helicopter or plane.

Soar above the waterfalls and valleys that are inaccessible overland.

The flight will take you deep inside the West Maui Mountains.

From the air, admire the colorful cinder cones of the Haleakala Crater.

Off the Hana coast, marvel at the tumbling waterfalls, hidden coves and white sandy beaches.

You will also catch a glimpse of the Molokai Crater nearby.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 1 hour tour.
  • 180 degree aerial views of Maui.
  • Expert pilot-guide.

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11. Old Lahaina Luau Maui

Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture and history at the Old Lahaina Luau in Maui.

Visitors are welcomed with a Hawaiian lei and tropical drink before settling in for lively sunset entertainment.

Wander the spacious grounds, pausing by the sea wall to watch the sea turtles.

Enjoy hula dance performances in the oceanfront setting.

After that, gather around the underground imu for the unearthing of the pig.

Tantalize your taste buds with a delicious buffet of fresh island fillets and other traditional Hawaiian dishes.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 3 hour tour.
  • Dinner.
  • Welcome drink.

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12. Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton

Experience the magic of the famous Hawaiian Luau at the Sheraton.

This Ka’anapali luau features a sumptuous buffet and exotic dances within an oceanfront setting.

Visitors are welcomed with a fragrant lei.

Feel the rhythmic beating of drums as the sun descends in the sky.

Then, enjoy Polynesian dance performances as tiki torches flicker in the night.

Brace yourself for the popular Samoan fire and knife show.

For dinner, gather around the steaming imu where the traditional Hawaiian dishes are cooked underground.

Pile your plate high at the all-you-can-eat buffet.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 3 hour tour.
  • Welcome drink.
  • Traditional Hawaiian buffet.

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13. The Feast at Lele

Go on a journey of discovery across Polynesia at the Feast at Lele.

The event will take you on a culinary exploration of the Polynesian islands.

The setting for this luau is close to a white sandy beach at Lahaina’s famous Front Street.

Visitors are greeted with a fragrant lei and welcome drink.

You can either sit at the open bar or enjoy views of the Pacific.

The feast is complemented by song and dance performances set against a gorgeous sunset backdrop.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 3 hour tour.
  • Welcome Lei and drink.
  • 5-course dinner.
  • Live performances.
  • Entry to Feast at Lele.

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14. Haleakala, Iao Valley and Central Maui Day Tour

Experience the very best of Maui on this guided day tour.

The tour is ideal for those who want to see Maui but are short on time.

Climb up to the summit of the dormant volcano of Haleakala Crater.

Here you can enjoy lush, sweeping panoramas of the surroundings.

Next, head over to the Iao Valley State Park to marvel at the dramatic Iao Needle.

You will also visit the historic Kaahumanu Church and Wailuku.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 9 hour tour.
  • Transportation via coach.
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off.
  • Driver/ guide.
  • Entry to Haleakala Crater.

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15. Maui Haleakala Sunrise Bike Tour

Go biking against a sunrise backdrop in Haleakala on this bike tour.

Your excursion will begin with an early morning pickup from your Maui hotel.

Enjoy some snacks and beverages before you board your vehicle.

Settle in for the ride to Haleakala National Park.

On arrival, you’ll head to the rim of the crater to catch the breathtaking sunrise.

Your bike tour will then begin, leading you to the sands of Paia Bay with points of interest along the way.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 8 hour tour.
  • Snacks and beverages.
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off.
  • Expert guide.
  • Bike and helmet.
  • Entry to Haleakala Crater.

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16. Oahu Day Trip to Pearl Harbor from Maui

Journey back to when the United States entered World War II on this day tour from Maui.

Your excursion will begin with a 30 minute flight to Oahu.

Tour the historic grounds of Pearl Harbor where Japanese planes bombed America’s Pacific fleet.

Wander around the decks of the USS Missouri.

This tour also includes an exploration of downtown Honolulu.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 14 hour tour.
  • Narration by driver/ guide.
  • Round-trip air travel.
  • Entry to Pearl Harbor National Memorial.

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17. Maui Ocean Center

Explore the Maui Ocean Center, one of the best aquariums in the world.

The impressive facility features over sixty interactive exhibits.

Visitors can enjoy close up views of marine life at the Turtle Lagoon and Nursery Bay.

Learn about the incredible underwater world of Hawaii.

Discover octopuses, sea jellies and tropical reefs.

Trained naturalists give presentations at the exhibits to enhance the experience.

This tour includes skip-the-line access so proceed directly for admission at the front gate.

What’s included in the pass?

  • Skip the line access.
  • Cultural Activities and Programs.
  • Marine Naturalist Presentations.
  • Entry to Maui Ocean Center.

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18. Alii Kula Lavender Farm

Alii Kula Lavender Farm

Discover the agricultural beauty of Maui on this food tour.

Your scenic farm tour will begin in Kahului.

You will travel through the last working sugar plantation in Hawaii.

Taste the popular, sweet Maui Gold pineapple.

Savor delicious scones with coffee or tea at the Alii Kula Lavender Farm.

For lunch, head over to the Ulupalakua Ranch.

Here you can try the Maui Cattle burger or the taro burger for vegetarians.

You may then enjoy some complimentary wine tasting at the King’s Cottage.

Finally, stop by the Kula Country Farms that overlook all of West Maui.

What’s included on tours to Alii Kula Lavender Farm?

  • 6 hour tour.
  • Food tasting.
  • Expert guide.
  • Pickup in Kahului.
  • Entry to Alii Kula Lavender Farm.

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19. Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery

Explore the world of vodka on this day trip from Maui.

Located on the stunning slopes of Mount Haleakala, the Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery is the knowledge hub for all things vodka.

From the farm, visitors can also enjoy panoramas of both the north and south shores of Maui.

Visitors will learn how vodka is made, as well as other fascinating facts.

You can also enjoy tastings at the end of the tour.

What can you expect on a tour to Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery?

  • 5-6 hour tour.
  • Lunch, snacks and beverages.
  • Vodka tastings.
  • Expert driver/ guide.
  • Live commentary.
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off.
  • Entry to Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery.

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20. Kaeleku Caverns

Explore the one-of-a-kind Kaeleku Caverns on this day trip along the famous Road to Hana.

Drive down and enjoy unbeatable panoramas of the Pacific coast and magnificent rainforests.

You will then stop at the Kaeleku Caverns, the largest accessible lava tubes in Maui.

The caverns are home to hundreds of unique rock formations such as stalactites and stalagmites.

Enjoy exploring this underground landscape that truly feels otherworldly.

What’s included on this tour?

  • 10 hour tour.
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off.
  • Transport via luxury limo-van.
  • Picnic lunch.
  • Snacks and beverages.
  • Cave tour with gear.
  • Expert guide.

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21. Maui Tropical Plantation

Discover the fruits and plants of Hawaii at the Maui Tropical Plantation.

The excursion will have you looping around a lagoon and through the plantation.

You will cruise through open acres of farmland set against a mountain backdrop.

Here you can enjoy views of areas of the plantation that are only available from the vehicle.

Along the way, you will learn about the bountiful produce of Hawaii.

Make a stop at a tiki hut for a demonstration on coconut husking.

What can you expect at Maui Tropical Plantation?

  • 45 minute tour on the tropical express.
  • Samplings of fresh fruit.

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22. Surf Lessons

Learn to surf in Maui with private surf lessons away from the crowds.

On the warm waters of Lahaina harbor, you will learn different surfing techniques and timing.

Enjoy some of the world’s best surfing conditions as you sit in the shallow, clear surf.

The expert instructors are thorough and patient with their instruction.

Included is quality equipment to practice with.

At the end of the lesson, you can purchase photos of your experience.

What can you expect during surfing classes?

  • 2 hour lesson.
  • Surfing equipment.
  • Plenty of surf time until you learn how to ride a wave!

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23. Maui Horseback Riding

Experience real ranching and riding out in the Maui countryside on this horseback riding tour.

Take in the breathtaking sights of the Pacific Ocean and Hawaiian countryside.

Follow your friendly guide along scenic trails past plantation homes and through taro patches.

Canter across pastures as you soak up views over the island’s north shore.

Finally, go trekking in a valley with hidden waterfalls that tumble through the West Maui rainforest.

What’s included on this tour?

  • All equipment.
  • Expert guide.

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24. Maui Fishing Charters

Go fishing in the azure blue waters of Maui on a fishing charter tour.

Your captain will haveyears of experience fishing the Hawaiian waters and will lead the tour.

The crew will provide fascinating commentary on the biology of Maui’s underwater world.

Visitors can fish for fun or keep their catch. Either way this tour guarantees fun for the whole family.

Included are bait, tackle, ice chests and all other fishing equipment.

What’s included on this tour?

  • All equipment.
  • Experienced captain and crew.
  • Plenty of big fish!

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Visitors to Maui will never run out of things to do.

Adventure lovers can explore the underwater world on a submarine, or go on a zipline excursion.

For a more laid-back experience, visit a luau or go on a sunset dinner and dance cruise.

Whatever you’re in the mood for, you are bound to find it in Maui.

So go ahead and plan your activities and sightseeing with this list of Maui attractions.

Let this guide help you choose the best tours for an unforgettable experience in Maui.

To see what else Hawaii has to offer, read some of these guides:

For all new cities, I go overboard on my itinerary, just to see every major attraction. Countries I've visited include New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, Cambodia, Japan and Thailand. Mostly Asian countries. Next target - Europe!