Snorkel Molokini and Turtle Arches

One of Maui's Best Snorkel Spots

To really experience snorkeling at its best, take a charter boat from Ma’alaea Harbor out to the unspoiled reef of Molokini Crater. Its crescent shape helps protect against unpredictable swells and currents, and its clear waters often have up to 100 feet of prime snorkeling visibility. Turtle Arches, affectionately known as Turtle Town, is another popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Head there for lava formations, coral reefs, and schools of brightly colored fish. If you’re lucky, you’ll see bales of green sea turtles (honu) and playful spinner dolphins galore.

Local tip: If it’s your first time snorkeling, practice a few times off-shore on Maui’s beaches before heading out into the open ocean. Summer is one of the best times to visit Turtle Town when the weather tends to be calmer, but the honu can be found there year-round.

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Relax on Kaanapali Beach

Voted the #1 beach in the U.S. by TripAdvisor

If you have time to visit one beach on Maui, let it be Kāʻanapali in West Maui. It’s a leisurely three-mile stretch of white sand where you can beach read, swim, and get your glow on. Afterwards, throw on a coverup and head into Whalers Village to find souvenirs and stop by any of the local restaurants and boutiques along the way for the perfect Maui day.

Local tip: You’ll see locals cliff jumping off of Black Rock but be careful when snorkeling nearby due to strong currents and limited visibility.

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Drive the Road to Hana

Where historic Maui stays true

If Kāʻanapali is the spot for beach-lovers, Hana is for those in search of old Hawaii and its endless trove of stories. The Road to Hana is a winding journey from Paia Town to Hana – dotted with quaint roadside stands, dazzling waterfalls, and incredible vistas. You can do it yourself or join a guided tour to leave the steering to the experts.

Local tip: Give yourself at least 2.5 to 5 hours to enjoy the scenic stops along the way and bring cash to shop and support the roadside stands.

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Go Whale Watching

Meet the gentle giants of the sea

From fall through March, North Pacific humpback whales (Kohola) begin their annual winter migration from Alaska to Hawaii, and lucky you, Maui is in the heart of the action. These majestic mammals are incredibly intelligent and choose Hawaii’s safe waters to raise their calves. Keep your eyes open for playful newborns mimicking their moms’ movements and breaching by your tour boat.

Local tip: Catamarans are smaller quieter vessels that will give you a more intimate whale watching experience.

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Attend a Lūʻau

Celebrate Hawaiian history

A trip to Hawaii isn’t complete without experiencing a lūʻau – a traditional Hawaiian feast that has evolved into a contemporary celebration of culture, music, storytelling, and creative expression. Often paired as a dinner and a show, lūʻau can be found at all price points around the island. Expect spellbinding multicultural performances like Samoan fire knife and Tahitian dancing, and bring your appetite: poi, haupia (coconut pudding) and succulent kālua pig are must-try lūʻau dishes.

Local tip: Most lūʻau are held in the evening outdoors so dress comfortably and casual attire is usually welcome.

Visit Haleakalā National Park

Soar above the clouds

Translating to the “house of the sun,” Haleakalā National Park is divided into the Summit District and Kīpahulu District. Its star landmark, Haleakalā, is a magnificent dormant volcano that’s famous for breathtaking sunrises, stargazing, hiking and biking trails, and bird’s eye views of Maui’s regal landscapes. Check another item off your bucket list by taking a bike ride down the longest, paved road climb in the world (36 miles!), right from Haleakalā’ summit.

Local tip: If you’re planning to catch a sunrise, you’ll need a reservation to enter the park between 3 to 7 a.m.

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