Must Do Activities on Maui

As you might know, I used to be a travel agent. More importantly, I am a self-proclaimed Hawaii expert. This post is about must do activities on Maui.  Remember, I don't ever tell you about things I have not done and I never make money off these recommendations.  If you have questions, leave me a comment!

Maui baby!

I am really bias about Maui.  It's my favorite island.  It's the one I visit most.  I have trouble finding things I dislike.  This list is the hardest narrowing down I have ever done.  You can also check out my must dine spots and brewery, distillery, and winery reviews.  I recommend taking a side trip over to Lanai, but that's another post for another day.  I also won't mention the Road to Hana in this list because I wrote an entire blog post just about that.  It is definitely must do!  I will, however, start with a  must do hike along the road to Hana.  It's mentioned in that other post but it is so great, it warrants another mention...

Pipiwai Trail

The Pipiwai Trail is located in the Kipahulu area of Haleakala National Park and is one of the best island hikes with multiple trail stops. You'll pay a $10 fee here but save the receipt because it will get you up to Haleakala Crater too! A few waterfalls and a banyan tree and a bamboo forest. Eventually you come to the end, slicing 400 feet down the back of a three-way sheer wall of lava, Waimoku Falls marks the instantaneous beginning of this canyon. Eat your picnic lunch here before turning around.  Once back down, check out 'Ohe'o Gulch, AKA the “seven sacred pools”.  (AT TIME OF PUBLICATION, 'OHE'O GULCH IS CLOSED INDEFINITELY DUE TO ROCK SLIDES.) Both are must stops!  But both are crowded!

Haleakala Summit

While I am on the subject of hiking and Haleakala National Park, the summit is another must stop.  The drive up to the 10,000' level is adventure enough and there are dozens of trails up here for every skill level.  We have done several.  If you're feeling particularly adventurous, take the Sliding Sands trail down into the crater.  Just remember, you have to hike back out and it will take twice as long.  Also, remember that the air is very thin up here.  I recommend being up here at sunset rather than the often recommended sunrise, which is way way way too crowded.  Guess what?  Both times are equally beautiful.

Snorkeling is abundant on Maui.  There are "great" spots that totally suck and then there are my two must snorkel locations.  The first is Black Rock.  Sure, it can be crowded, but it's worth it.  The snorkeling is the best shore snorkeling on the island.  You'll see variety including sea turtles and it's relatively protected.  Not to mention that you can do this...

Yes, that's me jumping off of Black Rock.  Yes, it's dangerous and yes, it's scary, but holy crap is it awesome!

Pacific Whale Foundation

My second, must snorkel spot is Molokini, which is an atoll off the coast of Maui.  It requires a boat to get to but the waters are clear for a hundred feet down.  I recommend taking a Pacific Whale Foundation tour over because I feel like they provide the biggest bang for your buck AND because your money goes towards conservation.

Surfing Goat Dairy

Back on dry land, head to upcountry for the next two stops.  The 1st stop is Surfing Goat Dairy.  It's a goat farm. On Maui.  It's awesome.  Do the $28 Grand Dairy Tour and you get to sample different goat cheeses and milk a freaking goat!  It's amazing.

Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm

The 2nd Upcountry stop is Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm, which offers outstanding views of the island plus a gorgeous botanical garden.  Drink and dine on lavender infused goodies while you tour the grounds.  It's $3 a person.

Nakalele Blowhole

If you are feeling adventurous and don't mind a very dangerous drive, head around the Northwest side of the island and hike out to Nakalele Point.  There's an awesome blowhole and the vista is breathtaking.  Don't be an idiot while you're there.

Remember, there is a lot more to do on the island.  If you want me to plan the perfect itinerary for you, drop me an email.  A small fee will apply.