Maui is a beautiful island in Hawaii, known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and adventurous activities. However, Maui is also surrounded by several smaller islands and islets that make for fantastic day trip destinations. In this article, we will highlight the best day trips from Maui.
Molokini Island
Molokini Island is a small crescent-shaped islet that is located off the southwestern coast of Maui. This islet is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving, as it is home to a rich variety of marine life. The waters around Molokini are crystal clear, allowing visitors to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and other marine animals. There are several snorkeling and diving tours available from Maui, and many of them include a visit to Molokini Island.
Lanai Island
Lanai Island is a small island located just nine miles west of Maui. This island is known for its natural beauty, including its rugged coastline, scenic beaches, and picturesque valleys. Visitors can take a ferry from Maui to Lanai and spend the day exploring the island. Some of the popular attractions on Lanai include the Garden of the Gods, Shipwreck Beach, and the Munro Trail, which offers panoramic views of the island.
Road to Hana
The Road to Hana is a scenic drive that takes visitors through some of the most beautiful landscapes on Maui. The road stretches for 52 miles and includes 600 curves and 59 bridges. Along the way, visitors will see waterfalls, rainforests, beaches, and other natural attractions. Some of the popular stops along the Road to Hana include the Twin Falls, the Wailua Valley State Wayside, and the Waianapanapa State Park. Visitors can take a guided tour or drive themselves, but it is recommended to start early in the morning to avoid traffic and crowds.
Haleakala National Park
Haleakala National Park is a vast wilderness area that encompasses the Haleakala volcano and its surrounding landscapes. The park is located on the eastern side of Maui and is a popular destination for hiking, camping, and stargazing. The summit of Haleakala volcano stands at over 10,000 feet, offering panoramic views of the island and surrounding areas. Visitors can hike through the park's trails, visit the Haleakala Visitor Center, or watch the sunrise or sunset from the summit.
Molokai Island
Molokai Island is a small island located just a short ferry ride from Maui. This island is known for its traditional Hawaiian culture and unspoiled natural beauty. Visitors can take a guided tour of the island, visit the Kalaupapa National Historical Park, or go on a mule ride down to the Kalaupapa Peninsula. The island is also home to several pristine beaches, such as Papohaku Beach, which is one of the largest white sand beaches in Hawaii.
Iao Valley State Park
Iao Valley State Park is a lush valley located in central Maui. The park is home to the Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot rock formation that towers over the valley. Visitors can hike through the park's trails, picnic in scenic areas, or visit the park's botanical garden. The park also has a visitors center that offers exhibits and information about the valley's history and culture.
Snorkeling and Whale Watching Tours
Maui is known for its rich marine life, and there are several snorkeling and whale-watching tours available from the island. These tours take visitors to some of the best snorkeling spots around Maui, such as Honolua Bay, where visitors can see schools of tropical fish and other marine animals. Whale-watching tours are available from December to
May, when humpback whales migrate to the warm waters around Maui. These tours offer visitors a chance to see these magnificent creatures up close and in their natural habitat.
Kahului
While not technically a day trip destination, Kahului is worth a mention as it is the largest town on Maui and is the gateway to the island for many visitors. Kahului has several shopping centers, restaurants, and attractions that are worth a visit. One of the most popular attractions in Kahului is the Maui Arts and Cultural Center, which features a wide range of performances and events, from music concerts to theatrical productions. Kahului is also home to the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum, which provides a fascinating insight into the history of sugar plantations in Hawaii.
Maui is an incredible island with a lot to offer, but there are also many other fantastic day trip destinations just a short distance away. From snorkeling at Molokini Island to hiking in Haleakala National Park, or exploring Lanai Island or Molokai Island, there is something for everyone. Visitors can also enjoy the scenic drive along the Road to Hana or take part in snorkeling and whale-watching tours around Maui. Whether you have just a day or a few more, there is no shortage of things to see and do beyond the beautiful island of Maui.
