With miles of sandy beaches along the Pacific Ocean and some of the best snorkeling beaches to view exotic fish, it's no wonder tourists travel to Maui to explore its majestic beauty. Aided by the warm-weather climate, locals and tourists alike enjoy hiking and exploring some of Maui's historic landmarks, including the O'heo Gulch along the Road to Hana or viewing the sunrise over the Haleakala Crater.
Beaches
Between Eastern, Western and Central Maui, there lies 120 miles of coastline and over 30 miles of white, red, and black sandy beaches. In West Maui, the region's premier beach, Kaanapali Beach, features three miles of white sand, and the northern corner of the beach, known as Puu Kekaa, is ideal for snorkeling. Wainapanapa State Park in East Maui offers guests a gorgeous black-sand beach with good snorkeling conditions, freshwater swimming pools and camping sites.
Snorkeling
Maui features 15 beaches that offer ideal snorkeling conditions. Some of the locations are safe for beginners to snorkel or dive by themselves, while for other dive locations, it is recommended that you begin on a boat tour--such as the Molokini Crater, which is only accessible by boat. As you dive under water, gaze the different species of marine life, including coral, tropical fish, turtles, monk seals and white-tip sharks.
Hiking
Maui features a plethora of hiking and nature trails for you to appreciate the true beauty of the island, though most tourists attempt the Road to Hana, which encompasses 68 miles round-trip from the center of Maui to the town of Hana. Choose whether you want to drive your rental car, or book a van tour and stop along some of the scenic spots like the Waikani Falls, 70-foot waterfalls, or the seven sacred pools of O'heo Gulch.
Biking
If you want to see the sunrise over the Haleakala Crater, book a 38-mile bicycle tour that starts at the top of the volcano; ride downhill while you experience the colorful sunrise, picturesque mountains and blue ocean waters of the Pacific. As you ride down the volcano, stop at select spots to take photos and gaze at Maui's Central Valley Mountains.
Local Plantations
Local farmers in Maui pride themselves on growing fresh produce and herbs. While on the island, visit one of the local plantations and attend a tour where you can learn how the farmers grow their fruits in the plantation. On many tours, you can sample some of the exotic fruits. The Maui Tropical Plantation even hosts a demonstration teaching you how to husk a coconut. Maui also houses a lavender farm, with informative tours about the benefits of lavender oil in aromatherapy.
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