Discover Maui Through Its Best Local Businesses and Activities
Whether you're a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, or someone who just wants to relax and enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Maui, there's something for everyone on this incredible island. Here’s a deep dive into some of the best businesses and activities Maui has to offer.
1. Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Capture Your Maui Memories with Shayla Tiare Photography
Make your Maui adventure unforgettable with Shayla Tiare Photography. Specializing in family portraits, weddings, maternity, engagement, and couples sessions, Shayla brings over a decade of experience and a deep love for the island to create stunning, natural images that capture your unique story. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion or want to remember your time on Maui, book a session with Shayla to ensure your memories last a lifetime. Visit shaylatiarephotography.com to learn more and schedule your session.
Rent a Bike from Krank Cycles
Krank Cycles offers an excellent selection of road and mountain bikes for rent. Whether you're planning to tackle the Haleakala Skyline Trail — one of the most thrilling downhill bike rides in the world — or explore the lush Makawao Forest, Krank Cycles provides high-quality bikes and expert advice to make your adventure unforgettable. Their friendly staff is known for ensuring you have the perfect gear and knowledge for your ride. With three locations island-wide, they’re hands down the best choice!
Whale Watching Excursions
Pacific Whale Foundation and Ultimate Whale Watch provide unparalleled whale-watching experiences from November to May, with peak season from mid-January to March. You’ll get to witness the majestic humpback whales during their annual migration, accompanied by educational insights from knowledgeable guides. Their tours are not only fun but also support whale research and conservation.
Snorkeling Tours
For exceptional marine life encounters, book a snorkeling tour with Maui Snorkeling, Trilogy Excursions, or Quicksilver Charters. These companies offer excursions to Molokini Crater and Turtle Town, two of Maui's premier snorkeling spots. Molokini Crater, a crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater, offers clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life, while Turtle Town is known for its friendly Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles.
2. Water Adventures
Sunset Dinner Cruises
Alii Nui and Pride of Maui provide top-notch sunset dinner cruises that combine gourmet dining, live entertainment, and stunning ocean views. As you sail along the coast, enjoy a feast of local cuisine and soak in the vibrant colors of a Maui sunset, making it an ideal experience for couples or families.
Helicopter Tours
For breathtaking aerial views, consider a helicopter tour with Air Maui, Maverick Helicopters, or Blue Hawaiian Helicopters. These companies offer scenic flights over Maui’s lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes, including the famous Haleakala Crater. It’s a unique way to experience the island's dramatic topography from above.
Surf Lessons
Learn to ride the waves with lessons from Maui Wave Riders. Be sure to request Ina — known for his patience, expertise, and infectious enthusiasm, he’ll have you standing up and catching waves in no time, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills.
Parasailing
Fly high above the waters of Maui with UFO Parasail. This adrenaline-pumping adventure offers stunning views of the island’s coastline while you soar hundreds of feet in the air. It's an experience that’s both thrilling and surprisingly serene.
Canoe Tours
Experience the ocean in a traditional Hawaiian way with a canoe tour from Hawaiian Paddle Sports. Guided by experts, you’ll learn about the history and culture of Hawaii while paddling through the pristine waters of Maui.
Fishing Tours
For those who love fishing, Maui Fun Charters and Start Me Up Sportfishing offer excellent charters. These tours cater to both beginners and experienced anglers, providing all the necessary equipment and local knowledge to help you land a big catch in Maui's fertile fishing grounds.
Scuba Diving
Dive into Maui's vibrant underwater world with companies like Maui Diving, Banyan Tree Divers Maui, and Lahaina Divers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, these companies offer tailored experiences to explore Maui’s coral reefs, sea turtles, and unique marine ecosystems.
3. Unique Experiences
Ziplining Adventures
Get your adrenaline pumping with ziplining tours from Jungle Zipline, Skyline Eco-Adventures, or Kapalua Ziplines. These companies offer exhilarating courses over Maui’s lush valleys and forests, giving you a unique perspective on the island's natural beauty.
Paragliding
Soar like a bird over the stunning landscapes of Maui with Paraglide Maui. Offering tandem flights with experienced pilots, this activity is perfect for thrill-seekers looking for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Golfing
Golf enthusiasts can tee off at some of Maui’s most beautiful courses, including the Wailea Emerald Golf Course, Kapalua Golf Course, Pukalani Country Club, and The Dunes at Maui Lani. These courses offer stunning views and challenging holes that will appeal to golfers of all levels.
Moped Rentals
Renting a moped is a fantastic way to explore Maui’s charming towns and scenic roads. Drive around Kihei, feel the wind in your hair, and enjoy the freedom to stop at local shops, cafes, and beaches along the way.
Hiking with Hike Maui
For a safe and guided exploration of Maui’s beautiful trails, book a tour with Hike Maui. Their knowledgeable guides will take you to hidden waterfalls, lush rainforests, and other off-the-beaten-path locations, all while sharing their expertise on the island’s unique flora, fauna, and geology.
4. Cultural and Relaxing Experiences
Luaus
Experience an authentic Hawaiian luau with Old Lahaina Luau or Feast at Lele. These renowned luaus offer traditional Polynesian performances, delicious local cuisine, and a magical setting against a Maui sunset. These events often book up well in advance, so make sure to get on the waiting list if your desired date is full.
Maui Wine at Ulupalakua Ranch
Head upcountry to Ulupalakua Ranch for a wine-tasting experience at Maui Wine. Savor locally produced wines, including their famous pineapple wine, while taking in the serene views of Maui's countryside.
Resort Day Passes
Enjoy luxury resort amenities without staying the night by purchasing a day pass at Andaz Maui or Fairmont Kea Lani. Lounge by the pool, book a cabana, and indulge in spa services for a day of ultimate relaxation.
Spa Experiences
Treat yourself to a day of pampering at Spa Montage Kapalua Bay or Grand Wailea Resort & Spa. These world-class spas offer a range of treatments, from massages to facials, in stunning settings.
5. Family-Friendly Activities
Maui Ocean Center
Visit the Maui Ocean Center, a beautiful and informative aquarium showcasing the diverse marine life of Hawaii. It’s a must-visit for families and anyone interested in the ocean’s wonders, featuring immersive exhibits, a large shark tank, and interactive experiences.
Maui Animal Farm
The Lahaina Petting Zoo at Maui Animal Farm is perfect for families with young children. Meet and interact with friendly farm animals, enjoy pony rides, and learn about local agriculture in a fun and engaging environment.
Mini Golf
For a fun and family-friendly activity, visit Maui Golf and Sports Park in Ma'alaea. This mini-golf course offers 36 holes of tropical-themed fun, complete with waterfalls, ponds, and bridges.
6. Free Activities to Enjoy on Maui
Explore the Beaches
Maui is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world. Spend a day at Ka'anapali Beach, Wailea Beach, or Makena Beach (Big Beach) for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. Don’t forget to catch a beautiful sunset at Ho'okipa Beach Park, a favorite spot for surfers and sea turtle sightings.
Visit Iao Valley State Park
Although non-residents are charged a small parking fee, Iao Valley State Park is still an affordable and scenic destination. Make sure to stop at the first parking lot to visit the heritage gardens, which showcase plants and cultural artifacts from various ethnic groups that have contributed to Hawaii's rich history. Then, drive up to the main parking lot to see the iconic Iao Needle and enjoy a short hike in the lush valley.
Drive the Road to Hana
While guided tours are available, driving the Road to Hana on your own is a fantastic way to explore Maui's breathtaking coastal views, waterfalls, and small Hawaiian towns at your own pace. Be sure to plan ahead, as this journey can take a full day.
Watch the Surfers at Ho’okipa Beach Park
Ho’okipa Beach Park is a renowned spot for surfing and windsurfing. Grab a seat on the cliffside and enjoy the spectacle of surfers and kiteboarders mastering the waves. This spot is also a prime location to see the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles basking on the shore.
Attend a Free Hula Show
Enjoy a traditional Hawaiian hula show at Lahaina Cannery Mall or Whalers Village. These events are usually held
Visit Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm
Nestled in upcountry Maui, the Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm offers stunning views, serene gardens, and fragrant lavender fields. Admission is just $3 per person, or you can support the Maui Food Bank by donating a non-perishable food item to waive the fee. It’s a peaceful spot to explore and enjoy a picnic while soaking in the island’s upcountry charm.
Experience Haleakala Sunrise or Sunset
Watching the sunrise from the summit of Haleakala is one of Maui’s most famous experiences, but it requires reservations between 3-7 am. If you can't secure a reservation, consider visiting at sunset for equally stunning views over the island. Alternatively, you can join a paid sunrise tour to avoid the reservation process.
Enjoy Shaved Ice at Ululani's Hawaiian Shaved Ice
No trip to Maui is complete without indulging in a refreshing shaved ice from Ululani's Hawaiian Shaved Ice, which has several locations around the island. This iconic treat is perfect after a long day of exploring, and it’s an affordable way to cool down while savoring unique Hawaiian flavors.
Drive the Road to Hana (RTH)
The journey along the Road to Hana is all about the experience, not just the destination. Take your time to enjoy the drive, stopping at waterfalls, beaches, and scenic viewpoints along the way. For an even more memorable adventure, consider driving all the way around to see the less-traveled backside of Maui, which is especially beautiful at sunset. Be sure to stop at Aunty Sandy's Banana Bread Stand in Keanae for a delicious snack!
Explore Olinda Forest
For an easy and beautiful walk, head to Olinda Forest. This serene spot offers gentle trails under a canopy of eucalyptus and pine trees, providing a peaceful environment perfect for a short, relaxing hike or nature stroll.
Hike or Bike in Makawao Forest
The Makawao Forest offers trails for hiking and biking, with options ranging from beginner to advanced. Biking enthusiasts will appreciate the pump track that caters to different skill levels, while hikers can enjoy meandering trails through dense forests and lush scenery.
Jaws/Peahi for Big Wave Surfing
If you’re visiting Maui during the winter months, make a trip out to Jaws (Peahi) to witness some of the biggest waves in the world. You'll need a 4x4 vehicle to access the viewing area, or you can find a local and pay them to hop on their 4x4 quad for a ride.
Seasonal Fun at Kula Country Farms
Depending on the time of year, Kula Country Farms offers fun seasonal activities like strawberry picking or visiting the pumpkin patch. The farm also has a year-round stand where you can buy fresh produce, homemade goods, and local crafts.
Nakalele Blowhole
Located on Maui's northwest coast, the Nakalele Blowhole is a natural geyser-like phenomenon where ocean water shoots up through a hole in the lava rock. The hike to the blowhole offers stunning coastal views, but be sure to keep a safe distance, as the blowhole can be unpredictable.
Snorkeling from Shore
Maui has fantastic snorkeling right off its shores. Some of the best spots include Ahihi-Kina'u Natural Area Reserve, Honolua Bay (on a calm day), and Oluwalu. These locations offer crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life, perfect for a snorkeling adventure without the need for a boat tour.
Hike the Kapalua Coastal Trail and Waihe'e Ridge Trail
The Kapalua Coastal Trail is an easy hike that offers breathtaking views along the rugged coastline, while the Waihe'e Ridge Trail provides a more challenging climb with panoramic vistas of the lush valleys and mountains. Both trails are free to access and offer unforgettable scenery.
Maui offers an incredible range of activities and experiences for every type of traveler. From adventurous outdoor excursions to cultural experiences and family-friendly fun, there’s truly something for everyone. Plan ahead and make the most of your Maui adventure by exploring these amazing businesses and activities. Don’t forget to support local, and enjoy the Aloha spirit that makes Maui so special!
