Team Out of Town
Popular Tourist Spots, Best Activities to do, and Amazing Places to Visit in Maui, Hawaii
Traveling to Hawaii is always easy in terms of identifying the bucket list of places to go. One of the most popular destinations in the state of Hawaii is Maui, the second largest island in Hawaii and the 17th largest in the whole of the United States. The island is famous for its striking beaches, dramatic landscapes, and beautiful climate throughout the year. Maui is located on the western side of the Big Island and is separated by the Alenuihaha Channel. It covers 1797 square kilometers with more than 190 kilometers of stretches of coastline. Maui is one of the most visited islands in Hawaii.
The hilly landscape of the island creates weather variations all year round. The high temperatures are around 30 degrees Celsius and lows 16 degrees Celsius. The weather and unique landscapes make Maui a dream destination for every traveler.
15 Best Things to Do in Maui
Watch the sunset/sunrise at Haleakala Observatory
I know I have already mentioned this numerous times but Maui has really beautiful landscapes, which make sunsets and sunrises sights to behold. The best place to enjoy these glorious views is the Haleakala Observatory, where you can either hike up if you feel adventurous or drive.
The trick is to start the journey earlier because there are also a lot of things along the way that will make you stop, especially when you go beyond the clouds.
Hope you packed a camera!
Try zipline
Ziplines are virtually everywhere on the island thanks in big part to their mountainous nature. Ziplining is just one of the many adventurous activities you can do in Maui and get to explore the island’s vast evergreen vegetation. You will also enjoy hiking up top to the starting point as well as having fun with the informational guides from which you learn about different plants, birds, and animal species you encounter.
Swim like a mermaid
Have you ever seen photos of people swimming like mermaids in Hawaii and wished to also try? Well, anyone can swim in those popular costumes. The experience is unforgettable and all-encompassing, but you will have to learn first from a certified instructor.
Take a tour of the stars
Maui’s skies are usually clear at night. To enjoy this dumbfounding display by Mother Nature, sign up for a guided astronomical tour offered by Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa. You will spend the night gazing at the stars with the start of the art telescopes.
Explore the reefs at Maui Ocean Center
Discover the unbelievable marine life of Maui Island. Here at Maui Ocean Center, you will see living reefs as well as exceptional corals and turtle lagoons. You will also get to watch rays, sharks, and the interaction of larger fish.
The highlight of the center is however the three-dimensional humpback whale ball, which allows you to fully experience the immersive aquatic life.
Maui Ocean Center also exhibits several original pieces of art and the store nearby sells a wide range of souvenirs.
Visit the Molokini Island Preserve
Located just off the coast of Maui, Molokini is an uninhabited island formed as a result of the volcanic eruption that created Maui Island. It is quite tiny but amazing to explore. Though you can’t visit the island itself, you can snorkel in its bay and even spot turtles.
Explore Hana Village
A visit to Maui Island is not complete with taking a road trip to the remote village of Hana. Due to its inaccessibility, the town has been able to preserve its original Hawaii touch before the mass tourism invasion of the island. It is peaceful, with lavish green parks and gardens.
The main attraction of this journey is the drive itself, which follows along the iconic Hana Road. It starts from Pa’ia town and passes through a rainforest filled with waterfalls. The distance from Pa’ai to the village is about 40 miles but a round trip journey can take more than 4 hours thanks to the curvy road.
Check out the Waianapanapa State Park
Along the coast of Hana, you will find the Waianapanapa State Park. It features beaches with black sands, rocky coastline, camping facilities, hiking trails, and lodging. The park is an idyllic spot to enjoy nature. Though hiking trails are mostly hard, they are worth it because of the spectacular views along the way.
Chill at Makena Beach
The Big Beach, as it is commonly known in Maui, is among the longest yet undeveloped coastlines on the island. Located in the southern region of Kihei in Makena village, the beach offers an ideal alternative to Wailea beaches, which are usually notoriously crowded.
It is also a great spot for couples to spend some time together away from distractions.
Or try Wailea Coastline
Wailea beaches are arguably one of the busiest beaches in Hawaii. They are located in the southern area of the island and feature diverse activities and things to see. The coastline features a number of beaches including Wailea Beach, which is normally frequented by travelers who want privacy; Polo Beach, which attracts snorkelers and swimmers. For couples stroll, Ulua Beach Park is perfect thanks to its position facing the sunset.
Take a helicopter tour
One way to experience Maui Island is through a helicopter ride. After exploring the atoll through fish eyes, it is time to try birds’ eyes. The tour is not cheap, but you can’t put a price on a life-changing experience like this.
Play golf at one of Maui Golf Courses
If you prefer greens to sand and water, you will not be short of options to put your club to good use. The island is known for its splendid golf courses including Old Blue, Gold, and Emerald at Wailea while Kapalua boasts courses such as Plantation and Bay.
Relax at Banyan Tree Park
Banyan Tree Park is located in Lahaina town on the northwestern coast of the island. This small park is home to one of the biggest and oldest banyan trees in Hawaii. The tree was first brought to Maui in 1873 from India and stands at 60 feet. Its canopy offers an ideal spot beneath for relaxation.
Try Shaved Ice
Shaved ice is one of the most popular treats on the island and you find lots of shops selling them. Due to the popularity of shaved ice, there are always long queues.
Explore Iao Valley
This little paradise is located on the western side of Wailuku. The valley used to be a place of worship for the Hawaiians. But the reason you want to visit it is the Iao Needle, a jagged lump of basalt standing over 2,000 feet. The rock was used to be an altar during the prehistoric era.
Maui Travel and Tour Packages
To help you plan out your visit to Maui, Hawaii, we listed places to visit and other amazing activities to do in Maui. We also listed some of the best travel and tour packages, as well as excellent flight deals and accommodation.
Searching for the best hotels, resorts, and affordable flights in the nearby Cities? Check out our list of affordable Maui hotels and resorts via Agoda, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
Want more updates about new tourist attractions in Maui, Hawaii USA? Follow #TeamOutofTown, on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest for more travel ideas.
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