First Trip to Maui? Here Are 10 Things You Don’t Want to Miss!

Inside: All the best things to see and do on the magical island of Maui.

My favorite things to see and do capture Maui’s unique spirit and give you a taste of everything Maui has to offer – the culture, the adventure, and the natural beauty that make it one of the best Hawaiian islands to visit.

Here are the 10 best things to see and do on Maui:

It’s one of the world’s most famous scenic drives. The iconic 64-mile drive through the heart of Maui’s lush rainforest is not just about the destination but the journey. With 620 curves and 59 bridges, the Road to Hana is a thrilling (and sometimes a little scary!) adventure.

Get an early start and don’t rush – the magic is in the journey itself.

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. 

Don’t miss a hike to Twin Falls or a stop at Aunty Sandy’s for the best banana bread you’ve ever had in your life (note: they are closed on Sundays).

The biggest decision here is whether to drive yourself or book a guided tour. There are pros and cons to each.

I generally prefer to explore on my own schedule. But with this particular road, there’s a lot to be said for having an experienced local guide lead the way.

If you do decide to drive it yourself, I highly recommend downloading the Shaka Guide for the Road to Hana:

If you’re hesitant to drive it yourself, this Small Group Road to Hana Adventure Tour is the #1 Road to Hana tour on the island.

If you do drive yourself – don’t forget! – you’ll need a reservation to visit Wai’anapanapa State Park.

While the Road to Hana itself doesn’t require reservations, you must have one for the popular black sand beach that’s a must-see along the drive. The reservation system ensures visitors have access to parking and facilities without overcrowding.

Honestly, one of the most difficult things about driving the Road to Hana on your own is timing your day with your Wai’anapanapa State Park reservation time.

You must arrive in the first 30 minutes of your reservation time and because travel times on the Road to Hana are wildly unpredictable, that can be a real challenge.

Reservations are needed both for the parking lot and each person in the vehicle and can be made up to 30 days in advance on the Hawaii State Parks Website.

There’s no better way to start your day on Maui than by witnessing the awe-inspiring sunrise from the summit of Haleakala. Stand above the clouds at 10,023 feet and watch as the first rays of sunlight paint the sky in vibrant hues of orange and pink.

It’s a truly magical experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left the island.

​Watching the sunrise from the summit of Haleakalā is one of Maui’s most awe-inspiring experiences. But be prepared to arrive well before dawn and dress warmly, it’s cold at the summit!

After sunrise, stick around to explore its vast crater and the surrounding surreal landscape resembling the moon’s surface.

But while sunset at Haleakala is open to everyone, if you want to see the sunrise, you’ll need a reservation to enter the park between the hours of 3:00am – 7:00am.

Assuming you’re arriving by car, you’ll need two things:

1. A Private Vehicle Pass ($30)
2. A specific Sunrise Reservation (additional $1 fee).

To purchase both, you’ll need to create an account at Recreation.gov. Sunrise reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance beginning at 7:00am HST and often sell out in minutes. 

If you strike out trying to book a reservation, you can still visit for sunrise by booking a tour like this top-rated Haleakala Sunrise Tour.

For more detailed info about the reservations you’ll want to book in advance for a trip to Maui, be sure to read this: Headed to Maui? Here are 3 Reservations You Need to Make Now 🌺📆💻

3. Snorkel at Molokini Crater

This crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater is the top destination for snorkeling and diving in Hawaii. Molokini Crater is a marine sanctuary teeming with vibrant coral reefs and over 250 species of tropical fish.

Maui’s underwater world is a kaleidoscope of colorful fish, graceful sea turtles, and vibrant coral reefs and this is one day trip you don’t want to miss.

Wander through this lush, peaceful 4,000-acre state park to see the ʻIao Needle, a natural rock pinnacle, and learn about the valley’s significant cultural and spiritual history.

Advance reservations are also now required for the ʻĪao Valley State Monument. Luckily, this is the easiest reservation to get on Maui, it’s also the quickest and easiest natural attraction to visit. 

It’s just a 5-10 minute short walk up to the Iao Needle lookout point. After that, there’s a small botanical garden area to explore and another trail that leads down to the river.

If you’re short on time and want to squeeze this one into your itinerary, you can easily see the highlights in 30-45 minutes. Reservations can be made up to 30 days in advance on the Hawaii State Parks Website.

If you visit Maui during the winter months, a whale-watching trip is the #1 thing to do, hands down. Maui is one of the best places in the entire world to watch humpback whales in their natural habitat. 

Every year from November to May, thousands of humpback whales migrate to Maui’s warm waters to mate, nurse their newborn calves, and thrill locals and tourists alike with their playfulness and acrobatics. 

6. Experience an Authentic Hawaiian Luau

No visit to Hawaii is complete without experiencing the rich Hawaiian culture and traditions of the islands at a luau. And Maui has some terrific luaus.  

Sip a Mai Tai and feast on kalua pork, poi, and other island favorites while watching skilled dancers tell the stories of ancient Hawaii through hula and fire dancing. 

Known for its traditional approach, the Old Lahaina Luau is one of Maui’s best. I’m also a fan of the Te Au Moana Luau at The Wailea Beach Marriott Resort. Be sure to book well in advance, especially if you’re traveling over the peak seasons. 

7. Take a Day Trip to Lanai

If you’ve spent a few days exploring Maui and you’re looking for more fun things to do, a ferry trip to Lanai is a fantastic way to spend a day! 

There are no traffic lights, few tourists, and plenty of things to see and do to fill a day. My favorite stop is the amazing Lanai Cat Sanctuary but you’ll also find hikes, beaches, and a charming main town with friendly locals that will make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

With tourism numbers still lower than usual in the aftermath of the Maui wildfires, you don’t necessarily have to book your ferry tickets to Lanai in advance.

But this is one day trip that does require a bit of advance planning. Lanai has a very limited tourist infrastructure (which is a big part of what makes it great!) so you’ll need to book your transportation around the island in advance.

You can either rent a car or book an island shuttle but don’t get on that ferry without your ground transportation reserved.

Here’s everything you need to know to plan the perfect day trip from Maui to Lanai: 

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

8. Relax on Maui’s World-Famous Beaches

From the golden shores of Wailea to the dramatic black sands of Wainapanapa, the Valley Isle has the perfect beach for every kind of traveler. In fact, Maui is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches. 

So whether you’re looking for perfect waves, calm waters for swimming, or a quiet spot to sunbathe, you’ll find it here. In addition to the Road to Hana’s famous black sand beach, here are a few more of my favorite beaches on Maui:

Ho’okipa Beach – If you’re hoping to spot Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (honu) while visiting Maui, this popular beach on Maui’s north shore is the place to be.

Wailea Beach – Located in South Maui, Wailea Beach is known for its golden sands and clear, azure waters, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. 

Ka’anapali Beach – Famous for cliff diving ceremonies at sunset from the black rock, Kaanapali Beach also has excellent snorkeling with plenty of marine life. 

Kapalua Bay – On the northwest coast of Maui, this curved bay is a protected, tranquil spot perfect with gentle waves perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Read More: 5 Unforgettable Maui Beaches (Don’t Leave Hawaii Without Seeing #3)

Maui’s Upcountry is a refreshing change from the island’s beaches. It’s a great place to experience Maui’s unique agricultural side and for an off-the-beaten-path experience. Located on the slopes of Haleakalā, the Upcountry is known for its rolling hills, local farms, and panoramic views. 

With a cooler climate and scenic landscapes, the area is filled with activities that highlight Maui’s agricultural side. 

Here are a few of the top things to see Upcountry:

Ocean Vodka Distillery – This one is a personal favorite! This family-owned distillery crafts organic vodka using deep ocean mineral water and local sugarcane, creating a truly Hawaiian spirit. Take the tour to learn about the vodka-making process and enjoy tastings in a setting with stunning views of both the ocean and mountains (they also frequently have live music).

Ali‘i Kula Lavender Farm – Just down the road, this peaceful escape has over 45 varieties of lavender growing on its slopes. The farm offers guided tours, where you can learn about the uses and benefits of lavender and even try lavender-infused products like teas, lotions, and snacks. 

Surfing Goat Dairy – A local favorite, this charming goat farm where you can sample award-winning cheeses made from fresh goat milk. Visitors can meet the goats, see how the cheese is crafted, and even try their hand at milking. T.

These attractions, combined with Upcountry’s natural beauty and relaxed pace, make this area a must-see for those looking to explore Maui beyond the usual beach scenes.

10. Visit the Nakalele Blowhole

Located on Maui’s rugged northwest coast, the Nakalele Blowhole is a fascinating natural wonder. 

The journey to reach it involves a scenic, winding road that takes you through some of Maui’s most dramatic landscapes. It’s got “Road to Hana” vibes but without the tropical rainforest. 

Like the Road to Hana, the road is narrow in sections, so take it slow and be prepared for some sharp turns and occasional single-lane areas that add a bit of adventure to the drive. 

Once you arrive, a short hike down to the rocky coastline brings you face-to-face with the blowhole, which sends seawater shooting up through a natural opening in the lava rock. The blowhole’s eruptions vary with the tides and waves, so you might see anything from a gentle spray to a massive geyser shooting into the sky. 

Be sure to stay well back and keep a safe distance, regardless of how close you see other visitors get. The rocks can be slippery and the blowhole itself (like Mother Nature) is unpredictable. 

That’s a wrap on the best of Maui!

Maui truly is a destination that sticks with you long after the trip is over. 

From sunrise at Haleakalā National Park to the winding journey on the Road to Hana, Maui is an endless source of adventure. So while it can be tempting to enjoy the comforts of Maui’s lovely resorts, don’t miss the chance to get out and explore.

Maui has a way of connecting you with nature, culture, and pure island magic. And I hope you’ve found a few ideas here to add to your Maui Bucket List!

For more great things to do on Maui, check out all my favorite tours and activities here:

And for more information to plan your Maui vacation, be sure to check out my Ultimate Guide to Maui!

Share the Aloha!