Top Maui Experiences

Top Maui Experiences

Hike Haleakala

Be humbled as you trek down into Haleakala National Park's massive bowl and see proof of how very powerful the earth's exhalations can be. You won't see landscape like this anywhere, outside of visiting the moon. The barren terrain is deceptive however -- many of the world's rarest plants, birds, and insects live here.

Kick back in Hana

"Kicking back," or relaxing, is an art perfected by Hana residents. Try it: around town, wave to pedestrians, and "talk story" with locals in line at Hasegawa store. Watch offshore rainstorms roll in and turn to mist when they hit Hana mountain. It's easy to forget what day it is while exploring the multi-colored beaches, waterfalls, and taro patches.

Finding Nemo

Snorkeling is a must. Wherever you duck under, you'll be inducted into a mesmerizing world underwater. Slow down and keep your eyes open: even fish dressed in camouflage can be spotted when they snatch at food passing by.

Makena (Big Beach)

This is the sand dreams are made of: deep, golden and pillow-y. Don't be discouraged by the crammed parking lots, there's more than enough room. Big Beach is still wild. There are no hotels, mini-marts, or even public restrooms nearby -- instead there's crystal clear water, the occasional pod of dolphins, and drop-dead gorgeous scenery (including the other sunbathers).

Tropical fruit at a roadside stand

Your first taste of ripe guava or mango is something to remember. Delicious lychees, mangos, starfruit, bananas, passion fruit, and papaya can be bought on the side of the road with the change in your pocket. Go on, let the juice run down your chin. No one's looking!

Resorts, resorts, resorts

Indulge your inner rock star at the posh resorts and spas around the island. Sip a "Tommy Girl" in the hot tub at the Four Seasons or get massaged poolside at the Grand Wailea. Even if you don't stay the night, you can enjoy the opulent gardens, restaurants, art collections, and perfectly cordial staff.

Escape to a B&B

Being a shut-in isn't so bad at a secluded B&B. It's a sure way to get a taste of what it's really like to live in Paradise: ripe fruit trees outside your door, late night tropical rainstorms, a wild chicken or two. Rather than blasting the AC in a stuffy hotel room, relax with the windows open in a historic plantation house designed to capture sea breezes.

Whale Watch

Maui is the cradle for hundreds of humpback whales, who return every year to frolic in the warm waters and give birth. Watch a mama whale teach her one-ton calf how to tail-wave. You can eavesdrop on them too; book a tour boat with a hydrophone or just plunk your head underwater to hear the strange squeaks, groans, and chortles of the cetaceans.

Listen to Hawaiian music

Before his untimely death, Israel Kamakawiwoole or "IZ" woke the world to the sound of modern Hawaiian music. Don't leave without hearing it live. The Ritz-Carlton's Slack Key Guitar Festival features guest performers who play Hawaii's signature style. Willi K throws Irish ballads and Jimi Hendrix into the mix at Hapa's. The "Wailea Nights" show at Mulligan's might be the best -- great dinner with unforgettable music by HAPA.

Surfing on the West Side

The first thing your friends at home will ask is: did you learn to surf? Don't disappoint them. Feel the thrill of a wave rushing beneath your feet at any one of the beginner's breaks along Honoapiilani Highway. You can bring surf wax home as a souvenir.

Tour the Upcountry

The Old Lahaina Luau performers won the hearts of TV viewers when they danced hula at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade. This luau has a warm heart -- and seriously good poke (chopped, pickled raw tuna tossed with herbs and other seasoning.) Tuck a flower behind your ear, mix a dab of poi with your lomi lomi salmon, and you'll be living like a local.

Kayaking on the South Shore

Kayaking alone can be an unintended study in survival, but with a good tour company kayaking is just about the best introduction to Maui's marine world.

Tour the Upcountry

Diehard beach lovers might need some arm-twisting to head up the mountain for a day, but the 360-degree views are ample reward. On the roads winding through ranchlands, crisp, high-altitude air is scented with eucalyptus and lavender. Forget the spa! Just drive Upcountry and inhale!

Ono-kine grinds

"Ono-kine grinds" is local slang for delicious food you'll find at a dozen restaurants island-wide. Maui chefs take their work seriously, and they have good material to start with: sun-ripened produce and seafood caugt the very same morning. While munching on the freshest ahi you've ever had, you might find yourself inventing words to describe it. Sample as many types of fish as you can and don't be shy; try is raw.

Windsurfing at Kanaha or Hookipa

You might not be a water-sports legend, but that doesn't mean you can't get out on the water and give it a try. In the early morning, some of windsurfing's big-wave spots are safe for beginners. Don't settle for the pond in front of your hotel -- book a lesson on the North Shore and impress yourself by hanging tough where the action is.