24 Apr Top 10 Sites on Maui
Maui is a popular spot for weddings, honeymoons, and family vacations. The beautiful island ) is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking beaches, stunning mountain vistas, incredibly friendly locals, and more. Below is our list of the top 10 sites every first visitor to Maui must see, in no particular order.
1. Kaanapali Beach
Kaanapali Beach is a 3 mile beach on northwest coast and is Hawaii’s first planned resort area. Today it features several notable hotels and restaurants, two championship golf courses and the Whalers Village open-air shopping center.
2. Road to Hana
The Road to Hana, aka Highway 360, is a scenic drive that twists through the lush rainforest and past the stunning waterfalls that line the island’s eastern shore. Most people start their trip in Kahului with the intention of driving 55 miles to Hana.
3. Haleakala National Park
Haleakala National Park is home to the world’s largest dormant volcano of the same name. The entire park contains 30,000 acres of land. Don’t miss a world-famous sunrise at the summit. Once you reach the top, you can continue on to explore all the way into the mouth of volcano.
4. Napili Beach
Napili Beach is a crescent-shaped beach especially popular with families. The waters here are much calmer than at other Maui beaches, so swimming and other water activities are popular. This beach has a quiet, laid-back atmosphere.
5. Waianapanapa State Park
The jet black sands are what make Waianapanapa State Park famous. Composed of volcanic sediment, it acts as a stunning contrast to the bright blue waves and lush jungle. Most visitors make a quick stop here for a photo op before continuing along to the Road to Hana.6. Wailea Beach
Wailea Beach is a classic Hawaiian beach where visitors go to swim and relax. The shoreline is home to several resorts and it feels much less rugged than some of Maui’s other beaches. Lined with palm trees and a paved walkway, it is easily accessible to the area’s hotels, shops, and restaurants.
7. Hookipa Beach
Hookipa Beach is popular with hardcore surfers in the wintertime, and those who just like to watch the extreme sport from the sand. Located at Mile 9 of the Road to Hana, you can stop here to watch the action. The beach is also known to attract sunbathing sea turtles, especially in the afternoon.
8. Banyan Tree Park
In the town of Lahaina sits a tiny the tiny Banyan Tree Park, centered around one of the largest banyan trees in the country. The tree was brought to the island from India in 1973. Great for a photo op and spot to relax with a picnic lunch.
9. Old Lahaina Luau
At the Old Lahaina Luau, you’ll find a fun evening full of Hawaiian culture and food, including kalua pua’a (pork roasted in an underground oven), fresh mahi-mahi and poi (mashed taro plant). The reason we like this luau is that it is known to be very traditional. Entry rates are somewhat steep, but it is worth the cost for the award-winning dancing and music.
10. The Town of Lahaina
Be sure to make time on your itinerary to explore the historic town of Lahaina. Once the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii, Lahaina is one of the most-visited areas in all of Hawaii. From stunning beaches and oceanfront restaurants, to a stroll through Lahaina’s famous Front Street – there is much to do and explore.
Call us today to talk to one of our Hawaii specialists! 402-281-3022.