Hiking and Camping

Maui's greatest landmark is also home to some of its greatest adventure opportunities. Thousands of visitors gaze down into the vast interior of the dormant beast, but few will venture beyond. For those willing to get their boots dusty, a remarkable journey awaits.

Haleakala
1-3 Days

Hiking Haleakala can be challenging – weather conditions can change in moments, and at an elevation of over 9,000 feet, the reduced oxygen is a factor. But if you come prepared (dressed in layers, with ample sunscreen and water,) you will definitely enjoy your trek into this terrain of stark and wondrous beauty.

Camping is also possible in Haleakala National Park. Overnight facilities include two drive-in campgrounds, two wilderness campgrounds, and three wilderness cabins. The campgrounds are rustic, and offer wood burning stoves and padded bunks. The truly remote wilderness cabins, a 10-mile hike into the park, can be reserved through the National Park Service by lottery only.
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Snorkeling

After exploring the volcanic wonders of Haleakala, try a more refreshing but not less wondrous adventure – snorkeling. Maui's underwater life is as vibrant and fascinating, and snorkel equipment is widely available for rent or purchase along Maui's western and southern shores, where most of the snorkeling hot spots are to be found. Several Maui dive companies also offer a great alternative to snorkeling called snuba diving. A combination of snorkeling and scuba diving, snuba allows you to venture up to 20 feet below the surface without an oxygen tank strapped to your back.

Molokini
3.5 hours

There are dozens of places to snorkel on Maui, most of them accessible just off shore or by kayak. For a truly memorable experience, look into a charter to visit Molokini Crater – one of the best dive sites in the Pacific. You might also consider a day trip to Hulopoe Bay on the island of Lanai – a pristine marine preserve.
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Hulopoe bay
5 hours (Including Ferry Ride)

On Lanai, Hulopoe Bay is a favorite for many snorkel fans. In the winter the waves are often too rough to allow much access, but on a calm day, this spot offers excellent visibility, some wonderful coral formations, and plenty of fish.
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Kaanapali / Puu Kekaa
3 hours

The famous Puu Kekaa or Black Rock of Kaanapali Beach is another popular destination. The massive lava outcropping is home to lots of colorful fish and sea turtles, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot an octopus.
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Surfing

Having spent some time below the waves, while not try riding a few? There is perhaps no more authentic activity in Hawaii than surfing. Practiced for centuries across the islands, this thrilling sport is a way of life for many on Maui.

And if you've never surfed before, Maui also happens to be one of the best places to learn.

The island's southern and western shores offer gentle breaks perfect for first-timers. Several surfing schools offer reasonable lessons and board rentals. You'll want to start with a longboard – it's easier to stand up on and maintain your balance. And while it may look easy, it does take some practice. You will fall – often – so be patient and relax... your wave will come.

Many surfing schools operate out of Lahaina Harbor.

Honolua
3 hours

For experience surfers, Maui has some brilliant breaks – one of the most popular being Honolua Bay. While one of the most exciting rides in Hawaii, Honolua Bay is not for beginners – and even experienced surfers will need to use caution when entering the line-up. Waves can top 20 feet in the winter, so use caution! Located in Kapalua.
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Lahaina Harbor
3 hours

For a more gentle wave, one that's perfect for beginners, head to Lahaina Harbor. Its central location is perfect for anyone staying on Maui's western shore, and because it is situated in a sheltered bay, the waves are much more forgiving than elsewhere on Maui.
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