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Aloha!
Maui has a lot to offer its visitors, from black sand beaches, amazing sunsets, whales galore, and a plethora of activities to keep even the most active of visitors busy for their entire trip. But what activities and excursions are right for you?
I’ve put together a few of the most popular Maui excursions, to get you started on planning your activities on your upcoming trip to Maui.
As a Travel Agent, I use and recommend my clients book activities through Project Expedition, which has verified and highly rated excursions available throughout the world. Today, though, we are focusing on Hawaii’s Valley Isle, Maui.
Private Trip to Hana & All The Way Around
It’s my personal opinion that no trip to Maui is complete without driving the famous Road to Hana. The very best part about this trip is that it takes you ALL THE WAY around Haleakala, which is a rarity, as your car rental contract will forbid you from driving the southern side of the route. This is a real treat! And be sure to keep your eyes open for the rainbow eucalyptus. They are my favorite!
Enjoy a private drive along the famous road to Hana to see some of Hawaii’s most beautiful sights. Your first stop is at Hookipa Beach where sea turtles can be spotted in groups lounging on the beach. Enjoy a swim at the base of the three tiered Waikani waterfall, and explore an underground path through an ancient lava flow. Eat and shop your way through the Nahiku Marketplace (be sure to have some coconut pineapple bread!). Arrive in Hana town, an area favored by Hawaii’s 15th century Royalty. Then, continue beyond Hana, around the opposite side of the island back to the starting point, but not before you stop at Tedeschi Winery. This 10 hour trip costs $390pp, with discounts for larger groups. To book, or for more information, go here.
Molokini & Turtle Arches Snorkel
When most people think of visiting Maui, the imagine swimming with sea turtles and snorkeling at the many coral reefs the island has to offer. Being able to take a trip out to Molokini is an added bonus.
Molokini, Maui’s iconic crescent-shaped islet, is a beautiful reef known for its crystal clear waters, abundant coral, colorful fish, and resting seabirds. A protected marine conservation area, this volcanic crater is only accessible by boat with a certified tour operator. The Turtle Arches tour offers a bonus snorkel site with its underwater lava formations and frequent turtle sightings. Continental breakfast is included, and a delicious BBQ lunch is prepared onboard. This 5 hour trip is $89 for children ages 7-12, and $143 for 13+. To book, or for more information, go here.
Whale Watching from Ma’alaea
If you’re lucky enough to be in Maui during Humpback Whale season (winter), and aren’t content watching them from your lanai, be sure to schedule a whale watching trip.
Sail with Maui’s top rated eco tour from Ma’alaea Harbor to see these amazing creatures in their natural wild habitat. Tours are led by certified Marine Naturalists for fun and informative interpretation. Whale sightings are guaranteed or go again for free. $36 for ages 7-12, $56 for 13+. For more information, or to book, go here.
Guided Morning Haleakala Bike Tour
The dormant Haleakala Volcano looms over the western side of Maui, and one of the most popular things to do is take a sunrise bike ride down the side of the volcano. If you’re not an early riser, this version is perfect for you!
This tour includes a luxury van tour to Haleakala National Park, with a bike ride beginning at the 6,500 foot elevation and ending in Paia Town. You will enjoy approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes of cycling, and can view Haleakala in daylight catching the extensive views on the way up and down. Pick up is between 7 & 8am. Minimum age is 12 years, and riders must be 5′ tall. The ride costs $225, and includes a bicycle, helmet, gloves, and a windsuit. For more information, or to book, go here.
Private Iao Valley Excursion
Maui’s west mountains are home to the Iao Valley, a lush, river cut valley that is known for its tropical vegetation and streams.
Explore the stunning and lush beauty of the Iao Valley on this 3 hour private tour. You will begin with a visit the ruins of a luakini heiau, a sacraficial temple. This is followed by a hike that follows a trail running along the Iao Stream to Iao Needle, a 1200 ft basalt tower. You will also have the opportunity to visit the cultural heritage gardens. Run by a local family, this tour costs $240 per person. For more information, or to book, go here.
Of course, there are many other options when visiting Maui, which can be found by following this link.
I hope this gave you some good ideas, and as always, if you need any assistance in booking your Hawaii vacation, please don’t hesitate to contact me. I have partnerships with amazing companies and am always happy to help book my clients a memorable Hawaii vacation!
I also have a list of recommended activities for Oahu or The Big Island!
