Maui is an outdoor lover’s paradise, offering everything from beautiful beaches and lush rainforests to volcanic landscapes and dramatic coastal scenery. Wherever you stay, you’ll find plenty of Maui, Hawaii attractions to explore. With a little planning, you can enjoy the island’s best natural experiences from any home base.
Start with Where You’re Staying on Maui
Choosing the right area can make it easier to experience the things to do and see on Maui that best fit your vision for a Hawaii vacation. West Maui, including Kaanapali, Napili, and Kapalua, is ideal for beaches, snorkeling, and coastal adventures. South Maui, including Kihei and Wailea, offers sunny beaches and easy ocean access. Central Maui provides a convenient base for exploring multiple regions while cutting drive times, while Upcountry Maui puts you near Haleakala, farms, and scenic mountain landscapes. For lush scenery and waterfalls, consider staying near Hana on Maui’s eastern coast.
South Maui
South Maui is a great home base for experiencing some of the best sights Maui has to offer, from clear coastal waters to rugged volcanic landscapes. The area makes it easy to combine active adventures on land and sea.
Kayak and Snorkel Out of Mākena
Paddle along the coast from Mākena Landing and snorkel among tropical fish and Hawaiian green sea turtles. Hawaiian Paddle Sports offers guided Makena kayak and snorkel tours, including small-group and private options.
- Address: 81 Hale Kuai St, Kihei, HI 96753
- Phone: (808) 442-6436
- Kayak Tours
Cross the Lava Field on the Hoapili Trail
For a completely different landscape, hike the Hoapili Trail through an ancient lava field along the southern coast. The rugged trail delivers dramatic ocean views and a glimpse of Maui’s volcanic terrain.
Sail Out to Molokini Crater
Take a boat trip from South Maui to Molokini Crater, a partially submerged volcanic caldera surrounded by exceptionally clear water. Snorkeling here offers the chance to see abundant reef fish and vibrant underwater scenery. Check out Alii Nui Sailing Charters’ Molokini Deluxe Snorkel & Sail for a guided excursion.
West Maui
West Maui combines dramatic coastline, beautiful beaches, and rugged volcanic scenery, making it home to some of the most memorable Maui, Hawaii attractions.
See the Nākālele Blowhole
Located along the northern coast, the Nākālele Blowhole sends seawater dramatically through an opening in the lava rock. If you’re staying in one of our nearby Napili vacation rentals, the blowhole makes an exciting scenic drive and short coastal adventure.
Visit Puʻu Kekaʻa at Kāʻanapali
Known as Black Rock, Puʻu Kekaʻa is a famous snorkeling and cliff-diving spot at Kāʻanapali Beach. Staying in one of our Kaanapali vacation rentals puts you close to this beautiful stretch of coastline, where you can swim, snorkel, and watch the sunset.
Drive the Kahekili Highway to Kahakuloa
For spectacular scenery, take the winding Kahekili Highway toward the remote village of Kahakuloa. The narrow road passes towering cliffs, lush valleys, and dramatic ocean views.
Central Maui
Central Maui offers some of the most rewarding things to do and see on Maui, from lush valleys to rugged mountain trails. It’s an ideal area for travelers who want to explore beyond the beaches.
Hike the Waiheʻe Ridge Trail
This challenging hike climbs into the West Maui Mountains, rewarding hikers with sweeping views of Waiheʻe Valley, waterfalls, and the coastline. Start early for cooler temperatures and better visibility.
Walk Through ʻĪao Valley State Monument
Stroll through the lush ʻĪao Valley and admire the iconic ʻIao Needle rising dramatically above the surrounding rainforest. Short walking paths make this a good choice for experiencing Maui’s tropical interior without a strenuous hike.
Climb the Lahaina Pali Trail from Māʻalaea
For a more demanding adventure, tackle the Lahaina Pali Trail from the Māʻalaea side. The historic trail crosses dry, rugged terrain and offers expansive views over the central valley and Pacific Ocean.
- Difficulty: Hard
- Length: 5.1 miles
- Elevation Gain: 1,679 feet
- Trail Map
Upcountry
Upcountry Maui is home to some of the best sights Maui has to offer, with spectacular mountain scenery and access to Haleakalā National Park. The higher elevations also provide a completely different perspective of the island.
Rise Above the Clouds at Haleakalā Summit
Wake early and head to the summit of Haleakalā for an unforgettable sunrise above the clouds. Reservations are required for sunrise entry, so plan ahead. Alternatively, visit later in the day for sunset and stargazing.
Trek the Halemauʻu Trail to the Crater Rim
The Halemauʻu Trail descends through the high-elevation landscape of Haleakalā National Park before reaching spectacular overlooks of the volcanic crater. Watch for native silverswords and other unique plants along the way.
- Difficulty: Hard
- Length: 7.9 miles
- Elevation Gain: 2,391 feet
- Trail Map
Wander the Hosmer Grove Loop
Located near the park entrance, Hosmer Grove offers an easier introduction to Haleakalā’s unusual high-elevation environment. The short loop passes through native and introduced vegetation and provides opportunities for birdwatching.
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Length: .5 miles
- Elevation Gain: 91 feet
- Trail Map
North Shore
Maui’s North Shore offers a more laid-back coastal experience, with excellent opportunities to watch water sports, enjoy sandy beaches, and experience the island’s famous wind and waves.
Watch the Surfers at Hoʻokipa Beach Park
Hoʻokipa is one of Maui’s most iconic surfing spots, especially when winter swells bring powerful waves to the North Shore. Grab a spot along the overlook and watch experienced surfers and windsurfers tackle the water.
Swim at Baldwin Beach in Pāʻia
Baldwin Beach offers a beautiful stretch of golden sand just outside Pāʻia. The beach is popular for swimming and relaxing, although conditions can become rough, particularly during winter. Check the surf before entering the water.
Catch the Kitesurfers at Kanahā Beach
Near Kahului, Kanahā Beach is a favorite launching point for experienced windsurfers and kitesurfers. Even if you don’t participate, watching colorful sails and kites race across the water makes for an entertaining addition to a North Shore outing.
Book Your Maui Rental Today
From beaches and waterfalls to volcanic landscapes and scenic coastal trails, Maui makes it easy to embrace the outdoors. Stay close to the Maui, Hawaii attractions you want to experience when you stay in one of our Maui vacation rentals from Quam Properties. Contact us today to find your ideal Maui rental and start planning an unforgettable island getaway filled with outdoor exploration.