Top 10 Free Things To Do and Attractions in Maui

"Here, kiawe trees give the unspoiled area a robust flair while the outlying atoll of Molokini seems close enough to touch. To fully appreciate this side’s grandeur, brave the ruttier parts of Makena Road to witness Keone’o’io Bay. Regularly referred to as La Perouse, this rocky province is the result of Haleakala’s most recent eruption, which is evidenced in miles of alien-esque lava formations and tide pools brimming with unusual species. Intrepid swimmers can paddle out for the chance to swim near dolphins, while the red-tinged edges of Kaho’olawe dazzle in the distance."

"Boats usually visit two sites: the crystal clear Molokini Crater and a second reef for spotting sea turtles. During the winter, whale watching is included. We recommend booking with the intimate and family-owned Aqua Adventures. Paddlers may prefer kayak and snorkel excursions along the coastline, offered by companies like Maui Ecotours."

"Start the day with an express tour of snorkeling at Molokini Crater, as some boats, like Kai Kanani, have you back before 9 a.m. From there just focus on one part of the island, whether it’s experiencing Lahaina, beach-hopping in Wailea or simply taking the entire day to drive the Road to Hana."

"The most significant stop on the entire Road to Hana, this site combines a 294-acre ethnobotanical garden with the magnificent Piʻilanihale Heiau, the largest temple in all of Polynesia. A must-do tour provides fascinating details of the extraordinary relationship between the ancient Hawaiians and their environment. This is perhaps the best opportunity in Hawaii to really understand what traditional Hawaiian culture was like prior to contact with the West. Amazingly, very few people visit."

"But if you want to really see Haleakala, to get to know this mountain, then a descent into its belly is required. We walked 2 ½ miles down the Sliding Sands trail towards the crater bottom. And to say the landscape looked alien, wouldn’t quite do it justice. Yes, it did look out of this world."

"Google MapsFacilities: All 3 have showers and restrooms Lifeguards: YesActivities: Swimming, laying out, bodyboarding, and snorkeling. This beach park is a set of 3 beautiful beaches near Kihei referred to as “Kam I, II, and III.” It is a popular beach with tourists and locals because of its facilities, proximity to town, and the fact they are really nice!. Kam I is the largest of the three beaches and is great for swimming!"

"Our day ended at Waianapanapa State Park. Spending a night (or two), is definitely necessary if you want the real Road to Hana experience. But since hotel prices can be high, we decided to camp at Waianapanapa. Having its perfect black sand beach to ourselves was definitely worth sleeping on the hard ground."

"MACC always hosts world-class entertainment on a regular basis. Consider the MACC schedule before booking your trip and enjoy top names in live music, dance, visual arts, and film on your Maui vacation."

"Check out the listings for the historic Iao Theater nearby, or the concerts and festivals at Maui Arts and Cultural Center. Both venues are bound to give you a fresh taste of Maui’s magnetism."

"In the later afternoon, drive south to La Perouse Bay to hike and watch sun set along the ruins and lava fields – remnants of Haleakala’s most recent eruption in 1790. On the way back to hotel, grab a Mexican dinner with a Hawaiian twist at Maui Tacos in Kihei or Lahaina."

"Incredibly scenic, the Makena Landing Park is a perfect place for launching a kayak. Located close to the main road, the park has a small beach along with facilities such as bathrooms, showers, car parking and kayak rentals. It is popular with night scuba divers as well."

"To fully appreciate this side’s grandeur, brave the ruttier parts of Makena Road to witness Keone’o’io Bay. Regularly referred to as La Perouse, this rocky province is the result of Haleakala’s most recent eruption, which is evidenced in miles of alien-esque lava formations and tide pools brimming with unusual species. Intrepid swimmers can paddle out for the chance to swim near dolphins, while the red-tinged edges of Kaho’olawe dazzle in the distance."

"Once you’ve explored Kihei, drive further down the South Side and enjoy the golden sands of Makena Beach aptly known as Big Beach, and then continue on South towards La Perouse. Park up at the furthest point and take a hike through rugged lava fields along the coast by La Perouse Bay."

"In the later afternoon, drive south to La Perouse Bay to hike and watch sun set along the ruins and lava fields – remnants of Haleakala’s most recent eruption in 1790. On the way back to hotel, grab a Mexican dinner with a Hawaiian twist at Maui Tacos in Kihei or Lahaina."

"Pacific Whale Foundation offers a variety of incredible ocean experiences for the whole family. Their eco cruises are a great way to explore Maui’s oceans while learning about Maui marine life, and the diverse ecology of Maui’s coral reef systems. They operate two main tours out of Lahaina Harbor: Honolua Bay Snorkel Sail and a Lanai Snorkel & Dolphin Watch."

"Patrick McFeeley, an adventure photographer, was born in the territory of Hawaii on the island of Oahu. His work has been published on the cover of National Geographic magazine (Nov. 1998). He is also the creator and photographer for Maui`s most famous coffee table books called JAWS MAUI, a 276 page scenic master piece honoring the island of Maui and world famous giant waves at Jaws, on Maui`s north shore."