Explore Maui - Top 5 Things To Do

HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK

Stretching across east Maui, Haleakala National Park is home to Haleakala Crater, the largest dormant volcano on earth. Rising over 10,000 feet above sea level, Haleakala's graceful slopes can be seen from just about any point on the island. Haleakala means "House of the sun" in Hawaiian, and legend has it that the demigod Maui lassoed the sun itself from its summit to slow the sun's journey across the skies.

The park itself covers a range of natural environments. You can travel atop the highest peaks of Haleakala Crater and walk above the clouds or you can hike across richly colored landscapes, desolate deserts, and untamed wilderness. As the park stretches out to the coast nearer to sea level, you can even visit lush tropical areas full of waterfalls and streams.

Many visitors and locals wake up early to drive up to Haleakala Crater to watch the sunrise. On a clear morning, seeing the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala is an unforgettable experience. Perhaps just as spectacular are Haleakala's sunsets and the bright, starry skies revealed at night.

You can explore Haleakala at your own pace by car, bike, or by foot. The long, winding road to Haleakala National Park takes some time to drive up, but is well worth the effort. There are numerous hiking trails that offer solitude and scenic vistas, while guided hikes provide an expert's guidance and insight. This is one of Maui's most popular visitor attractions.

HANA
From Kahului take the Hana Highway (HI-360 turns into HI-36) east down the coast. From Kahului Airport to Hana it's roughly 2.5 hours. From Kihei it's roughly 3 hours. Add time for scenic stops.

On Maui's rugged eastern coastline, the peaceful town of Hana welcomes its many visitors... but getting there requires some effort. The legendary road to Hana is only 52 miles from Kahului, but the drive takes anywhere from 2 to 4 hours to complete because it's fraught with narrow one-lane bridges, hairpin turns, and incredible island views.

The Hana Highway (HI-360) has 600 curves and 54 bridges. The road leads you through lush landscapes full of flourishing rainforests, flowing waterfalls, and dramatic seascapes. There are plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the lovely views, so get an early start and take your time on your drive. 

Once you arrive in Hana you'll have time to explore this heavenly, undeveloped town. Swim and sunbathe at Hana Beach Park. Snorkel at Waianapanapa State Park, a beautiful black sand beach. Or hike to the secret and isolated Kaihalulu Beach, also known as Red Sand Beach, for its red cinder sand.

About nine miles beyond Hana at Haleakala National Park in Kipahulu are the popular pools of Oheo Gulch, also known as the Seven Sacred Pools. Take a swim in one of these tranquil natural pools or take a hike up the Pipiwai Trail to the 400-foot Waimoku Falls.

MOLOKINI
Tours leave from Maaleaa Harbor, Lahaina Harbor, and Kihei Boat Ramp

This small, crescent moon-shaped island lies just three miles off of Maui's southern coast. Just over 18 acres and rising 160 feet above reef-filled waters, Molokini offers visitors snorkeling and diving amongst a kaleidoscope of coral. Because of its natural abundance, Molokini was named a State Marine Life and Bird Conservation District.

Tours are available from nearby Maalaea Harbor, Kihei, and Lahaina. Early morning is the best time of day to explore this pristine reserve. If you're an underwater enthusiast, a visit to Molokini is a Maui must.

THE BANYAN TREE, LAHAINA

Cool down in the shade under one of the largest banyan trees in the world. Imported from India and planted in 1873, this sprawling tree is the size of an entire city block. If it gets too hot outside, you can walk for two-thirds of an acre under the shadow of the banyan tree’s elongated branches.

A flowering of the arts blooms every second and fourth weekend among the dangling roots and twelve trunks of this arboreal giant. At Art in the Park, browse for affordable paintings, limited edition prints, and a wealth of crafts in the heart of old Lahaina.

IAO VALLEY STATE PARK
Take Kaahumanu Road (HI-32) west out of Wailuku in central Maui. This turns into Iao Valley Road. Follow signs to the park.

Towering emerald peaks guard the lush valley floor of Iao Valley. Located in Central Maui, this peaceful state park is home to one of Maui's most popular landmarks, the 1200-foot Iao Needle. This iconic rock peak overlooks Iao stream and is an ideal attraction for easy hiking and sightseeing.

Aside from its natural tropical beautiful, sacred Iao Valley has great historical significance. It was here in 1790, at the Battle of Kepaniwai, that King Kamehameha clashed with Maui's army in his quest to unite the islands. Kamehameha defeated Maui's forces in a ferocious battle that ultimately changed the course of Hawaiian history.

There is a well-marked path from the parking lot to view Iao Needle and the ridge-top lookout provides incredible views of the valley. The Needle is often covered in clouds, so an early start is your best bet for a good view. Families can also take a rainforest walk or explore interactive exhibits at the Hawaii Nature Center, which is also located within Iao Valley.