10 Fun Things To Do In Maui That You Can't Miss Out On

When in Rome, do as the Romans do—so they say; the same applies to when you're in a place like Maui; you must not miss out on the fun things locals get to do easily.

Planning a trip to Hawaii can get quite overwhelming as there are many islands to choose from, but one thing you can never go wrong with is when you choose Maui. It's the second-largest island in the state and offers a little bit of everything, so it's a great choice for anyone who's looking for an unforgettable trip filled with all kinds of enjoyment.

And so, here are 10 of the most fun things to do in Maui that you ought to try out—whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular tourist, be sure to check out these things and tick them all off on your list.

10 Fun Things to Do in Maui

1. Hike the Scenic Honolua Ridge Trail

Located above the luxurious Kapalua resort area, this two-mile Honolua Ridge Trail takes you through the lush landscape of West Maui. The hike starts with a short van ride to the trailhead and then continues on foot through native foliage and majestic banyan trees, offering breathtaking ocean views. 

The trail then leads to the top of Pu’u Kaeo lookout, where you'll be met with a stunning view perfect for photo ops. On the way back, you'll get to enjoy a moderate descent through the forest—and wrap the trip up with some refreshing Maui Gold Pineapple.

2. Soak Up the Sun on Ka’anapali Beach

Ka’anapali Beach is a slice of paradise on Maui’s west shore—this three-mile stretch of white sand is perfect for all kinds of beach fun, from sunbathing and swimming to snorkeling around Black Rock. With nearby hotels, resorts, and Whalers Village for shopping and dining, you're guaranteed that there is always something to do.

If you're traveling with your family, then you will definitely love the calm waters around Black Rock, where you can lounge and relax. There's also a sunset cliff diving ceremony here, where a diver lights torches along the cliffs and leaps into the ocean—an ode of reenactment to Maui's warrior King Kahekili. 

3. ​Snorkel at the Molokini Crater

Molokini Crater is also a must-visit spot just off the coast of Maui, especially if you love snorkeling and diving. This crescent-shaped atoll, formed by a volcanic eruption about 230,000 years ago, boasts some of the clearest waters and vibrant marine life you'll find anywhere. 

Here, you can swim among schools of tropical fish and explore beautiful coral reefs. If you're seeking a little more excitement, the backside of the crater offers a thrilling wall dive that plunges hundreds of feet!

4. Explore the Maui Ocean Center

If you’re curious about Hawaii’s incredible marine life or want to take your kids somewhere educational, the Maui Ocean Center is the place to go. It’s one of the world’s largest tropical reef aquariums and is packed with interactive exhibits that make learning fun for everyone—they even have a massive 750,000-gallon Open Ocean Exhibit, where you can walk through a tunnel. They have activities and programs for all ages, so it’s definitely a fantastic spot for you and your family to explore the wonders of the ocean—all without getting wet!

5. Witness the Majesty of Maui's Humpbacks

Every year, from December to April—most especially during the peak seasons of February and March—the warm waters around Maui become a playground for migrating humpback whales. 

That said, it becomes the perfect time to hop on a whale-watching tour and witness these incredible creatures up close as they breach, tail slap, and put on an amazing show.

6. Catch the Sunrise at Haleakalā National Park

Seeing the sunrise from the summit of Mt. Haleakalā, Maui's highest peak, is a truly awe-inspiring experience. You do need to get up in the early hours of the morning, though—and if you're not a morning person, don't worry; the view is sure to take your grogginess away.

As you reach the summit, the sky will start to change colors, and the sun will rise above the clouds, casting a golden glow over the island. Make sure to dress warmly, as temperatures can be quite chilly there!

7. Ride the Waves and  Learn to Surf on Maui's Beaches

No trip to Maui would be complete without giving surfing a try, especially since it's one of Hawaii’s most iconic sports. The roots of surfing in Hawaii run deep—first documented by Westerners in 1779, it was originally known as “hee nalu” in the ancient Hawaiian language and considered a sacred activity reserved for royalty. Today, it’s open to everyone and remains a huge part of Maui’s culture.

Maui is perfect for surfers at any level, with plenty of surf schools and instructors ready to guide you on beginner-friendly beaches. However, if you're eager to see some impressive surfing, Ho’okipa Beach Park, Jaws, and Honolua Bay are where the pros show off their skills. 

8. Glide Across the Water with Stand Up Paddling

Stand-up paddling, or SUP, is a fantastic way to take in Maui's gorgeous coastline. With its calm, clear waters and amazing scenery, it’s an activity that anyone can enjoy, no matter their age or skill level. 

You can rent a paddleboard and head out on your own for a peaceful glide or join a guided tour to pick up some tips and discover hidden gems along the shore. And while you're out there, keep an eye out for sea turtles and other marine life that might pop up to say hello!

9. Bounce Around at Ultimate Air Trampoline Park

If you’re looking for a fun way to spend some time indoors in Maui, head over to Ultimate Air Trampoline Park. This place is filled with—you guessed it—trampolines, dodgeball courts, and foam pits, so you can jump, bounce, and flip to your heart’s content. 

It’s an awesome spot for all ages, giving everyone a chance to burn off some energy and have a great time. You can take on your friends in a game of trampoline dodgeball or just enjoy bouncing around—either way, you’re in for a blast!

10. Enroll in PWF Ocean Camps

If you have kids who are fascinated by the ocean and its creatures, the Pacific Whale Foundation’s Ocean Camp is a must-try! Perfect for children in 1st through 5th grade, this camp is an incredible way for them to explore Maui’s marine environment while making new friends and having a blast. 

Every morning starts at the Pacific Whale Foundation Discovery Center in Maalaea, where the kids jump right into themed activities before heading out for an adventure and a picnic lunch. The afternoons are then all about learning and creativity, with engaging science lessons, games, and projects. With a team of enthusiastic and caring staff, you can be sure your kids will have a safe and unforgettable experience. 

Conclusion

It's no secret that Maui provides a wide range of incredible adventures and unique experiences that you don't want to miss—and these ten are just at the surface of it! From exploring vibrant marine life to catching the sunrise at Haleakalā, there is always an overflowing list of fun things to do in Maui. 

So, get ready to dive in and discover all the amazing adventures that await you on this beautiful island!

Book Your Adventure with Helewai Eco Tours

Ready to explore Maui in a way that few get to experience? Helewai Eco Tours offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into Maui’s history, ecology, and future. Led by passionate guides, our tours take you into the heart of the Pu’u Kukui Watershed Preserve, the largest conservation area on the island. 

Here, you’ll learn about the fascinating balance between native and invasive species and discover the conservation efforts underway to protect this vital ecosystem.

Not only will you hike through some of Maui’s most stunning forests, but you’ll also gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s natural beauty and the importance of preserving it. Each tour aims to connect you with the land and inspire a commitment to malama ‘aina—caring for the land. Don’t miss your chance to see Maui like never before. 

Visit Helewai Eco Tours to book your adventure today!