9 Best Things to Do Near the Airport in Maui
Stuck near Maui’s airport with time to kill? We’ve uncovered some amazing things to do near Kahului Airport that’ll kickstart your island vibes. Whether you’re killing time before a flight or just arrived and can’t check in yet, these nearby attractions will have you saying “mahalo” in no time.
Ditch the boring airport lounge and get ready to squeeze some extra aloha into your Maui trip. Who said layovers had to be boring?
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1. Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge
Discover a peaceful oasis right near Maui’s airport at Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge. Stroll along the boardwalk and spot rare Hawaiian birds that call this sanctuary home.
The scenic views are a treat for nature lovers, and the lush surroundings make for a quiet sanctuary from the busier parts of the island. In the spring, you’ll see the pond come alive with the bustle of feathery residents!
2. Maui Ocean Center
At Maui Ocean Center you can come face-to-face with the marine life of Hawaii’s aquatic world. This state-of-the-art aquarium gives you the chance to see colorful fish, delicate sea jellies, and even sharks!
You get to learn about the rich ecosystems of the Pacific, all while walking through a transparent tunnel surrounded by the deep blue sea. It’s a living showcase teeming with every shade and shape you can imagine, and it’s ideal for visitors of all ages.
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3. Maui Tropical Plantation
The Maui Tropical Plantation, is a lively farm that’s brimming with life and color. Your curiosity about Hawaii’s lush agriculture comes to life as you explore gardens bursting with sugarcane, pineapples, and more!
Feel the island spirit as you hop aboard the Tropical Express Tram Tour, a journey that takes you into the heart of this working farm.
The scent of fragrant blooms and fresh fruits fill the air. Mingle with the wind as you whisk through the sky on exhilarating zipline rides.
4. Kanaha Beach Park
If you’re looking for a chill spot to catch some sun or ride the waves, Kanaha Beach Park is the place. Minutes away from Maui Airport, this beach park is a favorite for locals and visitors alike with wide stretches of soft sand.
The steady breezes make Kanaha a hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing. If it’s not you cup of tea, just watching the pros glide across the waves is pretty cool. Plus, there are full facilities, so you can rinse off and grab a bite after your beach adventures.
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5. Maui Arts & Cultural Center
If you’re near Maui airport with time to spare, a visit to the Maui Arts & Cultural Center is a must. Performances and events are a big hit here, showcasing everything from hula to hip-hop.
This hub of culture gives you a lovely peek at local talent and the rich artistic vibes of the island. It’s a perfect stop to enrich your day and add a dash of inspiration to your travel stories!
6. Iao Valley State Monument
Surrounded by green, misty mountains, Iao Valley State Monument is the backdrop for incredible stories from Hawaii’s past. The highlight here is the Iao Needle, a natural rock pinnacle that stands 1,200 feet tall.
Walking paths allow you to explore and soak in the stunning views. This area is rich with history, as it was once a sacred site for Hawaiian natives and also the location of an important battle.
7. Kahului Community Center Park
Take a break at Kahului Community Center Park. This spacious greenspace unfolds over 34 acres, offering you a refreshing outdoor spot to relax. If sports spark your interest, you’re in luck! Soccer and baseball fields await your energy, plus tennis courts for serving up some fun.
Families adore the new playground gear, while fitness enthusiasts appreciate the swimming pool. Frisbee fans can join in a lively game of disc golf, a unique way to bask in the Hawaiian sun.
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8. The Dunes at Maui Lani Golf Course
The Dunes at Maui Lani Golf Course await just a short drive from the airport. You’ll find rolling hills reminiscent of an Irish course interwoven with Maui’s tropical landscape.
Let your clubs meet the challenge of a course designed by Robin Nelson, who masterfully crafted the terrain to feel natural and unpredictable, ensuring an exciting game for golfers of every skill level.
With open fairways and strategic bunkers, this course offers breathtaking views and an enjoyable atmosphere for an afternoon under the sun.
9. Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum
The Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum is a wonderful spot to visit. Just a short drive from the airport, you can uncover the history of Maui’s sugar industry. It’s an exciting chance to see how sugar plantations shaped the island’s past.
You’ll find fascinating exhibits that paint a vivid picture of plantation life. It’s not every day you get to explore a part of Hawaii’s culture that influenced generations.
If you’re curious about Maui’s heritage, you’ll enjoy this museum. It captures a time when sugar was king, and it’s sure to spark your interest in this sweet slice of island history.
