When travelers think of traveling to Hawaii, their image more often than not focuses on the stunning island of Maui. A client of mine planning a week-long trip to the island recently asked what would be my top five things to do in Maui. Though a challenging task, I narrowed down so many things to see and do to just five.
Go to the Top of Haleakala
An inactive volcano, it provides the perfect spot to stargaze or watch the sunrise. The top of Haleakala is the highest point on Maui and the views are wonderful. It works best to plan a sunrise visit to Haleakala the first or second morning of your vacation, particularly if you are coming from the mainland. You'll be jet lagged and have no problems waking up early enough to catch some star gazing before sunrise. With the elevation of Haleakala summit being over 10000 feet above sea level, temperatures are chilly compared to Maui's beaches. Be prepared by bringing a jacket or sweater.
Spend a Day Touring the Road to Hana
This coastal road winds through a rain forest. You'll see beautiful beaches, lava cliffs, and waterfalls. Everyone calls this curvy drive "the road to Hana", but don't stop in Hana. You should actually drive 10 miles beyond Hana on Highway 31 to the Kipahulu area, which is also part of Haleakala National Park. On you arrive at Kipahulu, you can do some short hikes along the coast and to the Oheo Gulch. (Oheo Gulch is also known as the "seven sacred pools", but that's not the correct Hawaiian name and there is nothing sacred about them.) If you have time (2.5 hours) and energy available, hike the Pipiwai Trail through a bamboo forest up to towering Waimoku Falls.
There are loads of great stops along the road. As you return back to your resort from your drive to Hana, if you have time and daylight, take a few minutes to watch the windsurfers at Hookina Beach Park just east of Paia on Hana Highway.
Take a Snorkeling or Diving Cruise/Sail to Molokina
This crescent shaped to of an extinct volcano is a bird and marine sanctuary. It is one of the top snorkeling spots in Hawaii. In addition to the good snorkeling, taking the boat ride out to the crater offers wonderful views of Maui. In winter months, the boat ride often ends up being an unofficial whale watching cruise, too. I recommend booking this excursion for early morning when channel water is typically the smoothest.
See the Iao Valley State Park
The park is beautiful, impressive and rich with Hawaiian history. The star of the park has to be the velvet Iao Needle, that stands 2250 feet high.
Watch for Humpback Whales
One of the most popular Maui seasonal activities; with peak months being January through March, but you may see the whales from around December through April. You can either watch from shore or take a whale watching tour.
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