17 Best Excursions in Maui to Add to Your Bucket List
Maui is a popular destination for many people, especially for those who love to explore. And not everything involves the beach!
Whether you are looking to fly high above the tropical rainforests and sun-kissed sandy shores or looking to burn that extra energy on adventurous thrills, look no further. Here are some of the best excursions in Maui that you’ll remember for a lifetime.
1. Sunrise Tour at Haleakala National Park
Maui is home to many beautiful sites, and Haleakala National Park is one of them. Located on the island’s east side, this park is home to Maui’s most beloved landmark, Haleakala Crater, which forms 75% of the island!
The reward at the top is a spectacular sunrise view of all that makes Maui so special, including Hana Bay, Lahaina and Ka’anapali Beach.
Craving more thrills? Ride a mountain bike down the dormant volcano – guaranteed it’s an experience that you will never forget!
2. Go Snorkeling at Molokini Crater
Molokini Crater is one of the best places for snorkeling in Maui. It’s a protected marine sanctuary that allows snorkelers to get up close and personal with some of Hawaii’s most diverse sea life.
The volcanic crater is crescent-shaped and is located about 2.5 miles from the southeast coast of Maui, measuring about 1 mile across and 600 feet deep. You can also go scuba diving at Molokini Crater if you are experienced enough too!
Is it possible to go snorkeling in Maui without knowing how to swim?
The answer is, yes of course! A snorkel vest is provided with your gear, so rest easy knowing that you can float all your worries away.
3. Spend the Day at Maui Ocean Center
Located near Ma’alaea Harbor, the Maui Ocean Center is a private, non-profit marine education facility and aquarium. This aquarium will take you on a tour from Hawaii’s deep blue waters to its deepest depths as it explores the island chain’s geology, marine life and history.
The oceanarium is a great place to visit if you’re interested in learning more about the marine ecosystem in the Hawaiian islands.
4. North Shore Zipline Tour
A zipline tour of Maui’s North Shore is a fun and exciting way to see the Hawaiian rainforest from above. Great for adventurers of all ages, you will be harnessed in and zipping through the forest at high speeds on 7 different lines.
Soar through lush forests and across valleys as you zip from one platform to another. This excursion is great for thrill-seekers and those looking to experience something new while vacationing in Maui.
5. Maui Helicopter Tour
Looking for a different way to experience the island of Maui? Hop aboard a helicopter and take in the sights from above! From the top of Haleakala Crater to the lush valleys, and even the rugged coastline of West Maui, you’ll see it all.
You’ll get a chance to see the neighboring island of Molokai, and if you’re lucky you may even see a whale or two! This tour is great for those who want to see Maui from a different perspective.
6. Explore the Ocean Floor in a Submarine
No matter how many times you visit Maui, there is always something new to discover. And what better way to explore the underwater world than by taking a submarine tour?
Submarine tours take you down right into the ocean floor, allowing you to see the amazing coral reefs and marine life up close and personal.
A unique way for you to get an in-depth look at what’s below without having to get your feet wet – something you may have otherwise missed. Make your own discoveries while getting some great photos as well!
7. Cruise the Road to Hana
The Road to Hana, one of the most scenic drives in America, goes through some of Hawaii’s most beautiful scenery, including waterfalls, streams, beaches, and rainforests.
Your tour guide will tell stories about Maui’s history and culture as you drive along this scenic route with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean in every direction.
This driving tour takes about half a day and includes all the iconic Road to Hana stops, taking a dip at a black sand beach, and plenty of scenic views to fill your camera roll. It’s an adventure that will be remembered for years to come!
8. Waterfall & Rainforest Guided Hiking Tour
If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and experience some of Maui’s most beautiful natural areas, this guided hiking tour is for you.
This tour begins on the Road to Hana, taking you through the lush rainforest of eastern Maui to discover the island’s most stunning waterfalls. You’ll get to explore the lush beauty of these natural wonders in a way that only a few people ever will!
9. Go on an ATV Adventure in Lahaina
Looking for a fun way to get off the beaten path and away from the crowds? Then you will love taking an ATV tour of West Maui.
The island is a paradise for those who like to take on the trails with their own two feet, or in this case, wheels! The rugged terrain and dense forest make it the perfect place for a great adventure.
It’s a great way to see the island in a different light and avoid some of the more tourist-packed activities.
10. Go on a Sunset Dinner Cruise
If you’re looking for a romantic activity or simply just something to do in Maui at night, book a sunset dinner cruise.
Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the island from the water and watch the setting sun over the ocean while you dine on delicious food and sip cocktails. There’s no better way to end your day in paradise!
11. Go on a Whale Watching Tour
Whale watching is one of the most popular things to do in Maui. You’ll get a chance to see humpback whales in their natural habitat off the coast of Lahaina.
This activity is best in the winter months (December to May) when the whales come to Maui to breed. Watch them playfully interact with each other while swimming near the surface. Guaranteed whale sightings or you get to go again for free!
12. Go Hiking at Haleakala Crater
Haleakala Crater is a dormant volcano that stands 10,023 feet above sea level. This Haleakala National Park tour will take you on a guided hike through two amazing trails, stopping at the summit observation center.
The journey up the volcano offers an incredible view of the island below. A great activity for those who want to get a good workout in and definitely cannot be missed if you like hiking!
13. Go Horseback Riding
Horseback riding is another one of the most popular things to do in Maui. It’s a great way to explore the island’s rural and greener side. The horses are well-trained and gentle, a great activity for beginners that haven’t done it before.
The tour will take you into the valleys of the West Maui Mountains and down to the coast of the Pacific Ocean, passing breathtaking waterfalls along the way.
14. Explore the Historical Town of Lahaina on a Segway
Who said exploration has to be tiring? Give your feet some much-deserved rest, and instead, explore Lahaina on a guided segway tour.
Lahaina is a historical town on the west side of Maui, featuring an eclectic mix of old and new, from the quaint shops and Front Street restaurants to the old whaling ships at the Lahaina Harbor.
It is also home to some of the best beaches in Maui, including Ka’anapali Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Hawaii.
15. Snorkel With Sea Turtles
The warm waters of Maui makes it a perfect destination for snorkeling. And what better way to experience this than by snorkeling with sea turtles?
Located in Lahaina Turtle Town, this is one of the best places in Maui to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures. The waters are calm and clear, making this location perfect for those who have never snorkeled before.
16. Learn to Surf Like a Pro
Surfing is synonymous with Hawaii; there’s no denying that. And there’s no better place in the world to learn how to surf than Maui!
Whether you’re an experienced surfer or have never tried it before, you’re in good hands when you’re taking lessons from the best surf instructors on the island.
17. Rappel Waterfalls and Rainforest Cliffs
If you’re looking for a thrilling adventure, this is it. Rappel down the breathtaking waterfalls and cliffs along the Hana Highway.
Don’t worry – the experienced tour guide will teach you all you need to know to stay safe, like watching your footing and keeping an eye on your surroundings while navigating through the area. You’ll get to see parts of Maui that most tourists will never get to see!
