Surfing, Snorkeling, Ziplines, and More: Your Guide to Adventure on Maui
If you love outdoor adventure, you’ll love Maui.
No matter which part of the island you explore, there’s so much for active travelers to do. It wasn’t easy deciding on an itinerary for your next trip to Maui, but here are seven of the Blue Hawaiian team’s favorite things to do on land, in the sea, and from the sky to help you plan an epic trip.
1. Catch a wave
Surfing is arguably Hawaii’s most iconic sport. You can rent a surfboard on your own or sign up for lessons from a seasoned pro.
If surfing isn’t for you, there are more ways to ride Maui’s waves. Standup paddleboarding is relatively easy (but still awesome) and rentals can be found around the island. You can also rent kayaks or join a kayaking tour. No matter how you get on the water, you’ll have a blast.
2. Go scuba diving or snorkeling
Maui is home to an active underwater world that you can discover with a mask and snorkel or Scuba diving gear.
There are countless spots to choose from, and you could spend a lifetime exploring the sea. One excellent option is Molokini Crater, which is a protected refuge off Maui’s southwest shore. It’s teeming with aquatic life and colorful coral reefs.
3. Drive the Road to Hana
Rent a car and get ready for a road trip you’ll never forget. The Road to Hana is a magnificent route along Maui’s east coast, and it takes you to lovely beaches, rainforest hikes, and impressive waterfalls.
The trip to Hana and back can technically be done in a single day, but it would be a grueling journey. Spend at least one night in Hana if you’re able.
4. Soar on a zipline
Ziplining is another fun adventure activity on Maui, and courses can be found all over the island. There are family-friendly courses that even small children can join, spots for adrenaline junkies, and everything in between.
5. Visit Haleakalā National Park
Visiting the crater at the summit of Haleakalā is at the top of many Maui bucket lists. Sunrise is the most popular time to make the journey, but you need to make a reservation to get a spot at the summit. Reservations are available online up to 60 days in advance.
For a more adventurous trip, get out and see the rest of the park. There are several hiking trails, different types of campgrounds, and even three wilderness cabins that can be rented for overnight stays.
6. Go whale watching
Every winter, Humpback Whales migrate from Alaska to warmer waters, where they mate and give birth. You can see them in the sea around Maui from November through May, and some lucky visitors even catch glimpses of breaching whales from the beach.
But, the best way to see the whales is from the water or from the air. You can book a traditional whale watching tour on a boat, or opt for a heli-whale experience. Helicopter tours are great because they give you a unique aerial perspective and let you see more of the water, which means more whales.
7. Take a helicopter tour over Maui
We might be biased, but there’s no other adventure activity that compares to a helicopter tour of Maui. It’s the best way to see the island’s diverse topography, including roaring waterfalls, pristine beaches, dense green rainforests, and so much more.
