While a visit to Maui is a great way to leave your worries behind, it often comes with a whole new set of issues thanks to numerous enticing activities to sample. The luaus alone require much consideration, with nearly 10 to choose from. And that’s just the strap of the coconut bra.
There are more activities than you can possibly fit into a limited schedule. The difficult part is deciding which ones to choose for your present vacation and which ones to save for next time. We’re here to help. The following article will reduce the mindboggling array of choices to a manageable 10 and help you enjoy your visit to the fullest.
Snorkeling Molokini
Molokini, an ancient volcanic caldera two miles offshore from
South Maui, offers some of the clearest water for snorkeling anywhere in the world. The incredibly clear water is due to its location in the middle of the channel and the lack of any sand deposits around the islet.
Ziplining through the jungle
Ziplining is an exciting way to experience the Maui jungle. Just strap on a harness and clip into a pulley that zips along a wire between two fixed points at up to 25 miles per hour. Most zipline operators have age and weight limits, but Maui Zipline accepts kids as young as 5.
Parasailing
Parasailing requires no experience and nothing to learn. You begin your flight seated on the back deck of the boat, your harness attached to the parasail. As the boat begins to accelerate, you feel the vessel sliding out from underneath of you and whoosh – off you go! Parasailing season runs May through December.
Attending a luau
A luau is a must-do event for the first-time (or longtime) visitor. The most important thing about attending a luau is where you sit. If you are ordering a few weeks before your vacation, book reserved seating. It is really nice to walk on the luau grounds before the show starts knowing you have a great seat.
Seeing Maui by helicopter
Most of Maui is remote and inaccessible. The only way to really see it is from above. Most helicopter operators take visitors over the jungle. Some head to the top of Haleakala, the island’s largest volcano. We recommend morning flight times when clouds are less of a factor.
Touring Haleakala National Park
Haleakala is an active shield volcano that hovers above Maui. The crater and the summit are Haleakala’s main attractions, and sunrise is breathtaking. You can hike, bike or horseback ride – either individually or as part of a combo tour.
Sunrise, crater and summit tours are also available. No matter how you experience it, Haleakala is a must.
Learning to surf
Maui is a great place to learn how to surf. Learning isn’t particularly difficult, but you shouldn’t try to teach yourself. There are important fundamental steps you aren’t likely to master on your own. Take a lesson and you are sure to catch more waves!
Driving Hana Highway
The winding 68-mile stretch between Kahalui and Hana speeds past dense jungle, along deserted beaches (some with black sand) and through quaint villages. Drive Hana Highway yourself or take a bus tour to better absorb the sights. You’ll see why Maui is considered the most majestic of the Hawaiian Islands.
Riding a sailing canoe
Outrigger sailing canoes are the modern equivalent of the vessels in which ancient Hawaiians explored the islands. Today, sailing companies use the sleek crafts for sightseeing tours. You’ll see all kinds of ocean life and if you’re lucky have the chance to snorkel with sea turtles. Tours vary in length but are generally two to three hours.
Watching whales (seasonal)
Humpback whales congregate between December and April in the waters of Maui to mate and give birth. It is common to see whales from shore, but take a whale watching cruise for the best view. By law boats must stop 100 yards away from a whale. Humpbacks are incredibly curious, however, and frequently approach much closer than that. It’s an experience you will never forget.
See your concierge for more information on these and other activities.