Bucket List Maui: 40 Awesome Things to See, Do & Eat! 🏖️🌺🍹

That’s exactly why I’ve created this Maui Bucket List with 40 of my favorite must-do activities, sights, and eats around the island.

So whether you’re a first-time visitor or an island regular, these picks will help you make the most of your time on the Valley Isle.

And yes, you’ll need a car to explore the island. Here’s my pick…

Ready to explore to best beaches, eats, and treats on Maui?

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will likely blow on mai tais, poke, and shave ice.  All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you. 

Let’s get started!

You can’t talk about the best things to do on Maui without starting with the island’s #1 day trip.

One of the most famous road trips in the world, the Road to Hana is a full-day adventure through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and along dramatic coastal cliffs. With over 600 curves and 50 one-lane bridges, it’s more about the journey than the destination.

Whether you choose to drive it yourself or book a guided tour like the popular Small Group Road to Hana Adventure Tour, this scenic drive is an epic day trip.

Take your time, make plenty of stops, and enjoy the ride. Just be forewarned, this curvy drive is NOT for everyone. Here’s what you need to know before you go.

Read More: Maui’s Road to Hana: Iconic Adventure 🌈 or Risky Road Trip? ⚠️

Watching the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala is a surreal, once-in-a-lifetime experience. At over 10,000 feet, you’ll be above the clouds as the sun paints the sky with dazzling colors. Just be sure to make a reservation in advance and dress warmly—it’s freezing at the top!

Oh, and if getting up at 3:00am on your vacation isn’t your idea of a good time, it’s totally OK to skip this one. Tip: Go for sunset instead. There’s no reservation required and it’s much warmer!

Read More: Yes, it’s OK to Skip These 3 Super Popular Maui Experiences (Here’s Why)

3. Explore Iao Valley State Park

Home to the iconic Iao Needle, this lush valley is steeped in Hawaiian history and natural beauty. Walk the short trail to the lookout, where you’ll be surrounded by towering green peaks and a serene stream.

There are several easy trails and a small botanical garden to explore. It’s a peaceful and culturally significant stop on any Maui itinerary.

Just remember that you do need an advance reservation for this one!

Read More: The Emerald Peaks of Iao Valley State Park Are a Must-Visit on Your Maui Vacation

Ok, so this is not technically a thing to do ON Maui. But a day trip to Lanai is still one of the best things I’ve ever done FROM Maui. So it counts.

Hop on the Expeditions Ferry from Maalaea Harbor for a day trip to explore the charming island of Lanai.

Spend the day relaxing at Hulopo’e Beach, off-roading to the otherworldly Garden of the Gods, and visiting the incredible Lanai Cat Sanctuary. Like the cats (known as the Lanai Lions), the locals are super friendly and welcoming.

The island is easy to explore in a day. It’s the perfect escape from the tourist crowds of Maui and a great way to experience a quieter, more authentic side of Hawaii.

Read More: How to Plan a PURRfect Day Trip from Maui to Lanai ⛴️🍍🐈

This crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater is home to some of the clearest snorkeling waters in Hawaii. Swim alongside vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and even reef sharks in this protected marine sanctuary.

Early morning tours have the calmest conditions for snorkeling and the Molokini Snorkeling Adventure Aboard Calypso is the most popular day trip to book. My husband and I did this tour on our last weekend trip to Maui and really enjoyed it.

Nestled in Upcountry Maui, this fragrant lavender farm offers stunning views, beautiful gardens, and a peaceful escape from the crowds. Stroll through the fields, sip lavender tea, and pick up some locally made lavender-infused treats.

Read More: You Haven’t Really Seen Maui Until You’ve Explored its Stunning Upcountry🌿

7. Surfing Goat Dairy Tour

Visit this quirky farm in Upcountry Maui to meet friendly goats and learn about Maui’s award-winning goat cheese. Take a tour, try your hand at milking a goat, and taste delicious cheese varieties. There’s also a terrific gift shop featuring goat’s milk products.

It’s a fun, family-friendly experience, and yes – the goats do like to surf!

Tip: Try the truffles, they are amazing.

8. Hike the Pipiwai Trail

This 4-mile round-trip hike in Haleakala National Park leads you through a bamboo forest, past a massive banyan tree, and to the stunning 400-foot Waimoku Falls. It’s one of the best hikes on Maui and well worth the effort.

9. Take a Scenic Helicopter Flight

For a truly jaw-dropping perspective of Maui, take a helicopter tour over the island’s dramatic landscapes. You’ll fly over waterfalls, volcanic craters, and the rugged coastline of the West Maui Mountains.

Some tours even include flying over Molokai and landing in a remote, untouched location. One of the top helicopter tours is the West Maui and Molokai Special 45-Minute Helicopter Tour.

10. Visit the Nakalele Blowhole

This natural wonder is a powerful ocean blowhole that shoots water high into the air with each crashing wave. Located on Maui’s northwestern coast, it’s an impressive sight—just be sure to keep a safe distance, as the waves can be unpredictable.

Read More: Maui’s Famous Nakalele Blowhole is an Explosive Display of Nature’s Power 🌋🌊

11. See Twin Falls

One of the first waterfalls you’ll encounter on the Road to Hana, Twin Falls is an easy-to-access spot for a refreshing swim. The short hike takes you to two picturesque waterfalls surrounded by lush rainforest.

If you’re not up for the full Road to Hana drive, this is one of the most popular stops and it’s located near the start of the drive.

12. Ocean Vodka Distillery

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Visit this organic vodka distillery in Upcountry Maui, where sugarcane meets sustainability. Learn about their eco-friendly production process, sample their award-winning spirits, and enjoy scenic views of the island.

They also frequently have live music on the lawn and the restaurant serves great food. This is a terrific stop for lunch if you’re exploring Maui’s scenic Upcountry.

13. Maui Pineapple Farm Tour

Ever wondered how pineapples grow? Take a tour of Maui’s last remaining commercial pineapple farm to learn all about the process—and taste the sweetest pineapples fresh from the field.

14. Learn to Surf in Kihei

Kihei’s gentle waves and sandy-bottom beaches make it one of the best places to learn how to surf. Take a lesson with a local instructor and ride your first wave in paradise.

This Group Surf Lesson with Two Hours of Beginners Instruction in Kihei is the most popular lesson to book.

15. Spot a Nene in the Wild!

The nene, Hawaii’s endangered state bird, can be spotted in places like Haleakala National Park. These rare geese are unique to the Hawaiian Islands and a special sight for wildlife lovers.

16. Explore Haleakala National Park

Beyond the famous sunrise, Haleakala National Park offers hiking trails, stunning landscapes, and a chance to experience a volcanic crater up close. The vast, otherworldly terrain feels like stepping onto another planet.

17. Snorkel at Turtle Town

Located along Maui’s southern coast, Turtle Town is one of the best places to snorkel with Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu). The calm waters and abundant marine life make it a must-visit for underwater explorers.

18. See ‘Ohe’o Gulch (7 Sacred Pools)

Located in the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park, these cascading pools are a refreshing stop along the Road to Hana. While swimming is sometimes restricted due to safety concerns, the views alone are worth the visit.

19. Visit the Kula Botanical Garden

This serene garden in Upcountry Maui features unique tropical plants, colorful flowers, and a peaceful atmosphere. Open daily from 9:00am – 4:00pm, the Kula Botanical Garden is a hidden gem for nature lovers and photographers.

20. Winter Whale Watching

From December to April, humpback whales migrate to Maui’s warm waters to breed and give birth. Take a boat tour for an up-close view or watch them breach right from the shore in places like Maalaea and Kaanapali.

Read More: The Everything Guide to the Best Maui Whale Watching Tours

21. Stroll the Kapalua Coastal Trail

This scenic coastal walk takes you along Maui’s rugged northwest shoreline with stunning ocean views, lava rock formations, and even a chance to spot whales in winter. It’s an easy and rewarding way to experience Maui’s beauty.

22. Malasadas at Sugar Beach Bake Shop

Start your morning with warm, pillowy malasadas from Sugar Beach Bake Shop in Kihei. These Portuguese-style donuts, coated in sugar and sometimes filled with tropical flavors, are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.

Every Hawaiian island has THE go-to place for malasadas. On Oahu, it’s Leonard’s Bakery. And on Maui, it’s the Sugar Beach Bake Shop. Just be sure to get there early, they’re often sold out before 10:00am.

Read More: Why You Need Malasadas in Hawaii (& Where to Find Them)

23. Dinner at Mama’s Fish House

One of Maui’s most famous restaurants, Mama’s Fish House serves ultra-fresh seafood in a beautiful oceanfront setting. While it’s a splurge, the food, ambiance, and impeccable service make it a dining experience worth every penny.

This is one of the toughest reservations to get on Maui. Regular visitors book their reservations at Mama’s as soon as they book their flights.

This bustling breakfast spot with locations in Kihei and Lahaina is famous for its massive portions and island-inspired dishes. Try the banana macadamia nut pancakes or the loco moco for a true taste of Hawaii. But I also love their fluffy omelets.

The thing that always amazes me about Kihei Caffe is how quickly your order comes out. You order at the counter and I swear by the time you get your drink and find a table your food comes out of the kitchen piping hot.

Located along the Road to Hana, Aunty Sandy’s is home to some of the best banana bread on the island. Baked fresh daily and served warm, it’s the perfect snack for your scenic drive.

I’m also a big fan of the banana bread at Halfway to Hana. A stop for warm banana bread is a must along the Road to Hana.

26. Poke Bowl at the Like Poke? Truck

This food truck serves up some of the freshest poke on the island, with locally caught fish and flavorful marinades. If you love raw fish, this is a must-stop in Maui.

Aloha Mixed Plate offers classic Hawaiian comfort food, like kalua pork, loco moco, and plate lunches, with a gorgeous oceanfront view. It’s a casual, local favorite that serves up big flavors. It’s the perfect place to grab lunch after a whale-watching trip or dinner after a day at the beach.

28. Pad Thai at Thai Mee Up Truck

For some of the best Thai food on the island, head to the Thai Mee Up food truck in Kahului. The pad Thai is legendary, and the portions are more than generous.

29. Dinner at Mala Ocean Tavern

Sure, Mama’s Fish House gets all the press on Maui. But this small oceanfront restaurant in Lahaina is my favorite dinner spot when we visit. Known for fresh seafood, handcrafted cocktails, and a relaxed vibe, Mala Ocean Tavern is a perfect evening out on Maui.

And while I do love the seafood (especially the scallops!), the braised pork shank is one of the best meals I’ve ever had in my life.

Tip: Try to get a table by the water for a front-row seat to the sunset and some great turtle-watching.

30. Shave Ice at Ululani’s

No trip to Hawaii is complete without shave ice, and on Maui, Ululani’s is the gold standard. Made with fine, fluffy ice and real fruit syrups, their shave ice is the perfect way to cool off on a hot Maui day.

My favorite order? The “Sunset Beach” (passion orange, mango, and guava) with mochi and Li Hing Mui powder.

31. Attend the Old Lahaina Luau

Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture with a traditional luau featuring hula performances, Hawaiian music, and a feast of island dishes. The Old Lahaina Luau is one of the most authentic and beloved luaus on the island.

Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop is famous for its homemade pies, and their cream pies—like banana, coconut, and chocolate macadamia—are a must-try. A stop at Leoda’s is the perfect sweet treat after a day of exploring.

33. Dinner at Star Noodle

Star Noodle in Lahaina serves up incredible Asian-inspired dishes, including ramen, steamed pork buns, and garlic noodles. It’s a favorite among locals and visitors alike, so go early or make a reservation.

34. Sip a Mai Tai at Monkeypod Kitchen

With locations in Wailea and Kaanapali, this is one Maui restaurant you can’t miss when you visit. And while the farm-to-table creations from Chef Peter Merriman are a treat for the taste buds, the real star here is their unique take on the Mai Tai.

At Monkeypod Kitchen, the signature Monkeypod Mai Tai cocktail is blended with fresh tropical juices and topped with a show-stopping honey-lilikoi foam. Pair it with fresh fish tacos or a wood-fired pizza for a perfect island meal.

In my opinion, this is not only the best Mai Tai on Maui, it’s also the best Mai Tai on Oahu (and all of Hawaii for that matter!).

Read More: The 5 Best Mai Tais in Waikiki (Do NOT Leave Hawaii Without Trying #3)

Ho’okipa Beach is a prime spot to see Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu) basking on the sand. Visit in the late afternoon when the turtles come ashore to rest, but be sure to keep a respectful (and required) 10′ distance.

36. Waianapanapa Black Sand Beach

One of the most stunning beaches on Maui, Waianapanapa State Park features dramatic black sand, sea caves, and rugged lava rock formations. It’s a must-stop along the Road to Hana.

Kaanapali Beach is one of Maui’s most famous stretches of sand, with soft white sands, crystal-clear waters, and plenty of beachfront resorts and restaurants nearby. It’s also a great place for snorkeling near Black Rock.

38. Sunset at Wailea Beach

Wailea Beach is pure luxury with soft golden sand, calm waters, and some of the best sunset views on the island. Bring a blanket, sit back, and watch the sky light up in shades of pink and orange.

After Kaanapali, Wailea is Maui’s 2nd most popular resort area. The pristine beach is lined with 5-star resorts and you’ll find plenty of high-end shops and excellent restaurants nearby.

Nestled between two lava rock outcroppings, Kapalua Bay is a postcard-perfect beach with calm, clear waters. It’s perfect for snorkeling, paddleboarding, or simply relaxing in paradise.

This marine reserve is one of the best snorkeling spots on Maui, teeming with colorful fish, sea turtles, and coral formations. The best snorkeling is in the summer when the waters are calm and visibility is at its peak.

Start Your Maui Adventure Now!

This Maui Bucket List is just the beginning—I could easily write a list of 100 fun things to see, do, and eat on Maui! So yes, there’s always more to discover on the Valley Isle.

Read More: The Ultimate Travel Guide to Maui Hawaii (2025)

Take your time, soak it all in, and let Maui work its magic on you. Because this is one island that will stick with you long after you return home.

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