Your Choice of Maui Hawaii Activities Can Make or Break Your Trip

With so many Maui Hawaii activities to choose from, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of how to best fill your days while on the island. The choices are truly amazing.

Several times a year for the past ten years, I have been fortunate enough to spend time on Maui with my family. Even with the many noteworthy trips we have had, there are many activities yet to be experienced.

It is good to know what you would like to experience while on the island. If you have some prioritized activities in mind, you will be able to experience a trip that energizes you and adds lifetime memories for you.

See the checklist below for recommended activities for those who would like to experience a range of tantalizing activities while on Maui:

Trilogy

Trilogy offers snorkeling trips, day trips, whale watches, and even sunset sails and cruises. The most exhilarating excursion that Trilogy offers (in our opinion) is the Discover Lanai Sunset Sail. You can actually sleep in and still make it to Lahaina Harbor in time to leave for the sail. The catamaran departs at approximately 10 a.m. and motors to the island of Lanai (next to Maui) to enjoy one of the highest rated beaches in the world on Lanai.

The Discover Lanai sail serves both lunch and dinner in the price. The cruise back to Maui takes place over sunset and is romantic and serene. If the winds exist, the sails go up. If not, the catamaran is motored back. Champagne is served and friendships are formed.

The Old Lahaina Luau

Not only is this Luau rated the best on Maui by visitors and locals alike, it is also the top rated of all of the Hawaiian islands. Because of the attention to detail, authenticity, and quality, celebrities frequent this luau.

Northwest Coastal Drive

Driving the northwest coast of Maui offers jaw-dropping ocean views from cliffs and is like a step back in time. It is like a drive back through ancient Maui in certain places. Not only is it breathtaking, it is free so you can save money for other activities and shopping.

The Road to Hana

Though this drive is so highly publicized, it really is a must do at least once during your time on Hawaii. If you are looking for the perfect picture under a Maui waterfall, this drive is for you. You will experience black lava beaches, tropical rainforests, and too many tropical plants to count.

Haleakala Sunrise

The sunrises from the summit of Haleakala are alluring. The sun seems to be right at eye level and accent the clouds. You may envision this to be similar to what heaven would look like. The clouds can be the difference in the quality of this experience.

It is good to arrive at least one hour prior to sunrise to ensure a decent parking space is remaining. If not, you can find other places to park (for example, the upper visitor center). Still, it is much more convenient at the summit. Ensure that you bring warm clothing as it can be chilly in the mornings. You may also want to pack flashlights or lanterns as it is extremely dark when you first arrive. It is good to plan for approximately a two hour drive time from the south part of Maui and the west sides of the island. The stars are incredible when it is still dark and when there are no clouds.

Nakalele Blowhole

Nakalele Blowhole was created when the shore below the lava shelf wore down over the years. The water is compressed and shot through a hole in the lava shelf. This sprays water into the air like a violent volcano eruption. The tides and wave patterns will determine the height of the water being displaced and shot out of the hole. The best bet is to park and make the short hike down (200 feet and is exactly 1,200 feet from the road) to view the blowhole at close range. You will find Nakalele Blowhole off Highway 30 at one half mile past mile marker 38.

Outrigger Canoe Experience

If you have not yet booked your lodging, one incredible place to stay on Maui is the Fairmont Kea Lani Resort in Wailea. The resort offers the Outrigger Canoe Experience as a free amenity. You can Experience Hawaii the way that the early Polynesians did. You are an assigned member of a rowing team. If you decide to stay at the Fairmont Maui and want to participate in this activity, be sure to let the hotel know as soon as you can.

La PerouseBay

When you drive south past Wailea, you will encounter narrow roads that carve through massive lava fields. It is lunar-like! Drive south as far as the road will take you and you will reach your destination. The area is great for hiking, and you can find some incredible snorkeling. The views are stunning.

Molokini Crater

Molokini is approximately 3-4 miles off the south coast of Maui. Maalaea Harbor offers the most of the trips to Molokini and is about 10 miles away. In the mornings before the trade winds start, the snorkeling is hard to beat due to the amazing line of sight (visibility). On great days you can see up to 180 feet below the surface! The average is about 100 feet. You will see a large range of fish.

These are just a few Maui Hawaii activities choices to get you started. It is important to plan activities that fit your style and those that bring joy for you. Depending on the time you have available and the budget you have planned, there are activity choices that will match your agenda. Be sure to take time to pre-plan what you would like to do when you arrive on Maui. It is easy to get there and miss some of the inspiring activities due to time getting away from you.

Daryl Moore invests a great deal of time to traveling with his family. Maui is his home away from home. If you want to create a magical travel experience to Maui, visit Daryl's website at www.ideal-maui-vacation.com for free tips and advice. For great pricing on air, car and hotel pricing for Maui, visit Daryl's top pick at www.unitedvacations.com