We've often called Maui the sampler platter of the Hawaiian Islands.
Commonly known as Hawaii's Valley Isle, Maui is truly the undisputed playground of the archipelago. You name it; it's here-pristine beaches, rainforests, waterfalls, volcanic mountains, historic towns, and some of the most stunning sunsets in the world.
Though Maui will always have those "must-dos"-like taking in an awe-inspiring sunrise at Haleakala and exploring the zigs, zags, and majesty of the Road to Hana-there are some incredible activities tourists often skip over. These off-the-beaten-path gems are perfect ways to connect with the island in a more meaningful and intimate way.
Hike to the Nakalele Blowhole
A majestic natural geyser called Nakalele Blowhole shoots ocean water up to one hundred feet into the air. And this geological phenomenon can be found just eight miles north of Kapalua on Maui's west coast.
The hike down to the blowhole is a bit challenging, but numerous trails crisscrossing the landscape lead to the geyser. We recommend hiking shoes or sturdy tennis shoes for the best footing through the jagged black lava rock terrain.
High tide is the ideal time to visit as water pressure builds inside the lava tube, resulting in powerful sprays. The ocean swells result in spectacular eruptions; most vertical but an occasional angled blast can surprise spectators.
Morning views can also produce multiple rainbows from the spray. Word of warning here-heed the local signs and advice and don't get too close to the blowhole itself.
Swim the Olivine Pools
Waves thunder on volcanic rock and gather in natural tide pools in an area just four miles north of the Nakalele Blowhole on the northwest side of Maui.
The pools are named due to their ample amounts of olivine, a semi-precious gem encrusted in the surrounding lava and sandstone. A faintly-marked short trail leads to a series of both shallow and deep pristine pools perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing on a calm day. Conditions can vary dramatically depending on the wind and tides.
Footing along the trail can be tricky and flip flops are definitely not advised. Adventurous travelers, however, are magnificently rewarded as the Olivine Pools are the most spectacular natural lava swimming pools in the Hawaiian Islands-better than even Queen's Bath on the island of Kauai.
Experience the Ke'anae Peninsula
Visitors to Maui exploring the Road to Hana often get fixated on the myriad of scenic waterfalls along the way and that's understandable because they're quite impressive.
But we found a fascinating side trip along the way with some of the most stunning Maui coastlines, along with a historic Hawaiian village that includes an 1856 church. Aunt Sandy's, a charming roadside stand, serves fresh-baked banana bread still warm from the oven reputed to be the best on the island.
Explore Ohe'o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools)
Many visitors on the Road to Hana end their journey in the town of Hana and then head back. But, just 10 miles past Hana there's a not-to-be-missed scenic sight known as Ohe'o Gulch.
Now part of Haleakala National Park, the gulch is accessed by a fairly easy hike through a bamboo forest leading to a series of seven spectacularly tiered waterfalls.
Multiple pools carved from volcanic rock are connected by these picturesque waterfalls and other smaller cascades all emptying into the turbulent Pacific waters. Swimming in the pools is currently off-limits due to dangerous conditions.
Check out the Surf Town of Pa'ia
There's no other town on Maui quite like Pa'ia. With its laid-back surf culture and vibrantly painted plantation-style buildings housing eclectic and trendy restaurants and boutiques, Pa'ia has a unique charm all its own.
During the 1800s, Maui's sugar cane industry made Pa'ia a bustling town with more than 100,000 residents of mixed nationalities working the sugar cane mill. The Pa'ia Mill was Maui's oldest operating plantation until it closed in 2000. Old mill structures can still be seen here today.
Ho'okipa windsurfing beach is located just two minutes out of town and is one of the most picture-perfect-postcards spots on the island of Maui. It is THE place to watch highly skilled windsurfers mastering the windswept waves.
Breakfast at Kula Lodge
After catching a magnificent sunrise at Haleakala (one of our favorite Maui traditions) we headed for a hearty breakfast at nearby Kula Lodge and Restaurant, an Upcountry landmark since 1949.
At a 3,200-feet elevation, the lodge and restaurant offer spectacular sweeping views from mountain (mauka) to ocean (makai) and the property itself is cradled in beautiful private gardens.
The house specialty is the Haleakala Mountain of a Meal, featuring two buttermilk pancakes, two eggs any style, and choice of ham, bacon, or Portuguese sausage piled high on the plate. My hubby loved it. For me, it had to be Macadamia Nut Pancakes. And yes, everything was delectable.
Tour Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm
Nestled 4,000 feet in the clouds on the slopes of Haleakala crater, Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm boasts over 45 different varieties of lavender with majestic views of Central and West Maui coast and mountains.
Tranquil paths with statues and fountains lead through native Hawaiian gardens, citrus and apple orchards. Their lovely gift shop is filled with lavender-infused products many have never seen elsewhere. Lavender chocolates, teas, coffee, brownies, lotions, and more can be found here.
Tours of this amazing farm are available by reservation.
Feel the Mana at 'Iao Valley
Hawaiians use the word mana to describe all manner of divine power and there are places on Maui where mana feels strong and tangible. Central Maui's 'Iao Valley is definitely one of them.
The valley is not only a sacred burying place for Hawaiian chiefs; it's also the site of the last battle for island supremacy where Kamehameha the Great annihilated the Maui forces.
The pinnacle of this now peaceful verdant valley is a 2,250-foot rock pillared point known as the 'Iao Needle. 134 baby steps lead to an upper lookout with stunning views of the surrounding valley and Kahului Harbor.
Wine Taste in Paradise
We'd never tasted Pineapple wine before. Not until Maui that is.
MauiWine's picturesque property is located on the Pi'ilani Highway in the southwest region. Specializing in decadent island-wines made with aloha, their pineapple collection is produced from 100-percent Maui-Gold pineapples. Fruit-forward and fun, these tasty and refreshing wines join the family of other estate-specialties like Rose, Syrah and Chenin-Viognier blends.
With its oasis of majestic ocean hideaways, lush green mountains and picturesque vistas it's no wonder Maui's consistently been rated one of the world's most beautiful islands.
It's impossible to do everything in a single visit, but somehow that's ok with us. It means we get to come back and experience something completely different the next time around. Maui's treasures are endless.
For the latest travel news, updates and deals, subscribe to the daily TravelPulse newsletter.
Topics From This Article to Explore
