Top 10 Things To Do, Activities 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."

"This 1927 church has a colorful interior depicting a Hawaiian Madonna, an outrigger canoe and Hawaiian farmers harvesting taro. The open-air sides are ideal for the balmy climate."

"There are plenty of good spots along the coast, off Ka’anapali Beach or the beach parks just outside of Lahaina, like Launiupoko Beach Park. If you’ve never done either before, I’d recommend getting a lesson."

"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."

"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."

"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."

"Some of the trails are closed due to flooding, but from the path near to the car park, you’ll be able to see the ‘Iao Needle (named after the daughter of Māui and the goddess Hina, whose merman lover was turned into a stone ‘needle’), learn about the Battle of Kepaniwai and see a number of native flowers and trees. Parking is currently $5."

"When Mark Twain saw this park, he dubbed it the Yosemite of the Pacific. Yosemite it's not, but it is a lovely deep valley with the curious…"

"At sunset, it’s fun to walk down to the Sheraton to watch the torch-lighting ceremony and see cliff jumpers diving into the sea from Black Rock (Pu’u Keka’a). TOP TIP: You might want to eat early and stay close to home on your first night, as you’ll likely fall asleep in your dinner (see below for some recommended places to eat)."

"Cliff jumping: Black Rock on Kaanapali Beach or the Cliff House in Kapalua. When cliff diving, watch someone else go first. It can be dangerous depending on the height of the tide and possible debris on the surface or just below it. Kapalua is beautiful, but can get crowded."