Around 2.4 million people visited Maui in 2024. Many of them spent much of their vacation on its sandy beaches, enjoying the idyllic ocean waves, and of course, exploring the Road to Hana.
While these well-known experiences are undoubtedly captivating and quintessential Maui, the island holds a treasure trove of lesser-known adventures just waiting to be discovered. Beyond the usual tourist traps and trails, Maui offers opportunities to delve into its culture, unleash creativity, and witness the raw power of nature in unexpected ways.
For travelers seeking to craft truly unique and memorable moments, this guide provides 5 extraordinary things to do in Maui that might just surprise you – and help you avoid 2.4 million fellow tourists to create a Maui experience that is uniquely yours!
Get ready to look beyond the postcard-perfect clichés and say, “Wow, I never thought of doing THAT in Maui!”
5 Exciting Things to Do in Maui That You May Never Have Considered
1. Dive into the Deep End of Creativity: Take a Resin Art Workshop
Imagine capturing the mesmerizing hues of the Pacific Ocean and transforming them into a beautiful work of art that you can take home and admire for years to come. At Kai Luna Creations Maui, you get to take an enjoyable and engaging resin art workshop.
But this isn’t just another art class. It’s an immersive experience where you learn the cool techniques of working with resin to create stunning, ocean-inspired designs on cheese and charcuterie boards of different sizes and configurations. You can also choose to make smaller-sized Christmas ornaments.
Artists and novices alike are guided through each step including preparing the board and mixing resin into deep colors and shades you love. The true magic and fun happens when you learn the art of marbling and lacing to mimic the captivating effects of water and waves. These boards actually look like you are taking home a slice of the ocean! Your personalized resin art piece serves as a beautiful reminder of your time here in Maui. This hands-on creation offers a far more profound connection to the island than a typical store-bought trinket.
The workshops themselves foster a warm and welcoming atmosphere, with small class sizes ensuring you get individualized attention from the instructor. Adding to the authentic Hawaiian experience, traditional appetizers known as Pupu’s and refreshing island drinks are offered during the 2-hour class.
For those seeking an even more personalized touch, participants are encouraged to bring special materials like shells or flowers to embed in their designs and further commemorate their experience. You can also choose to upgrade your board to different shapes and sizes. This combination of artistic expression, Hawaiian hospitality, and a personalized piece of take-home art makes this resin art workshop a truly distinctive Maui experience.
2. Paddle with the Honu: An Outrigger Canoe Adventure with Sea Turtles
For the more adventurous traveler, consider an outrigger canoe tour to paddle alongside Hawaiian green sea turtles, or honu. Departing from various locations along Maui’s picturesque coastline, including the shores of Wailea, Makena, and Ka’anapali, these tours offer a unique perspective on the island’s gentle giants.
The experience of gliding through the calm waters in a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe provides a sense of connection to the island’s rich heritage. Tour operators such as Hawaiian Ocean Sports boast a high likelihood of spotting these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, offering a near guarantee for an unforgettable wildlife encounter.
And for those who want to actually get in the water, Hawaiian Paddle Sports allows the opportunity to snorkel alongside the turtles for an even closer look at their graceful movements beneath the waves. In the area known as “Turtle Town,” located near Makena, there are numerous tours offering these once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to swim with sea turtles in the area.
Beyond the thrill of observing marine life, these excursions often incorporate elements of Hawaiian culture and ocean conservation. Knowledgeable guides share insights into the cultural significance of the outrigger canoe and provide valuable information about the sea turtles and the importance of protecting their ocean home. During the winter months, from December to April, some tours even offer the chance to witness the jaw-dropping sight of humpback whales migrating through Maui’s waters, adding another layer of magic to your experience.
For a truly memorable and enriching Maui adventure, paddling with the honu in an outrigger canoe is an experience that connects visitors to both the natural beauty and the cultural heart of the island. But if this interests you, it is recommended to book these tours in the morning when the waters tend to be calmer. Make sure to remember to bring your sunscreen and a waterproof camera!
3. Witness the Roar of the Ocean: Exploring the Nakalele Blowhole and Other Amazing Photo Opportunities!
On Maui’s rugged northern coast, nature’s raw power is on full display at the Nakalele Blowhole. This dramatic natural geyser, located just east of Poelua Bay, periodically erupts, sending powerful blasts of seawater soaring up to 100 feet into the air. The sheer force and unpredictability of these eruptions create a captivating spectacle that is truly unforgettable and provides a powerful subject for stunning photos and videos. To increase your chances of witnessing a powerful eruption, it is often suggested to visit during high tide.
However, the allure of Nakalele Point extends beyond the blowhole itself. If you are still looking for a unique photo opportunity, look nearby for the unique rock formations like the “Heart Rock,” a naturally sculpted heart-shaped rock that has become a popular photo opportunity.
Another amazing option in this same area is called the “Acid War Zone,” a barren expanse of boulders severely eroded and sculpted by countless years of saltwater spray, creating a surreal and otherworldly scene. Still looking to take spectacular photos? In the same excursion, perched nearby is the Nakalele Point Lighthouse, offering panoramic vistas of the dramatic coastline, tide pools, and crashing waves below.
While it is fun and exciting to document your adventures in photos and videos, remember Mother Nature demands respect. When visiting Nakalele Blowhole, it’s crucial that you approach it with caution and prioritize your safety. The power of the ocean here is immense, and visitors are strongly advised to stay at a safe distance from the blowhole, with at least 20 feet being a commonly recommended minimum. Rogue waves can unexpectedly sweep across the rocky cliffs, and the blowhole itself can create a vacuum-like effect, posing significant dangers. It is imperative to never turn your back to the ocean in this area.
Also, the terrain around the blowhole can be rocky and uneven, so wearing sturdy shoes is highly recommended. Bringing water and sun protection is also essential for this exposed coastal environment. Exploring the Nakalele Blowhole and its surrounding geological wonders offers a thrilling glimpse into the untamed beauty and power of Maui’s coastline and will bestow you with amazing photos and videos to take home, but it should be experienced with caution and respect.
4. Escape to an Emerald Realm: Hiking the Makawao Forest Reserve
For a refreshing change of pace and a true change of scenery from the usual sun-drenched Maui beach scene, venture into the cool, lush oasis of the Makawao Forest Reserve. Located on the slopes of Haleakala in Upcountry Maui, this higher elevation offers you a tranquil escape from the coastal heat and crowds. The forest reserve boasts an extensive network of well-trodden trails catering to both hikers and mountain biking enthusiasts of all skill levels. The best part is that this forest offers a diverse collection of tree species based upon the timber experiments conducted here. These have introduced varieties from around the world, including eucalyptus, pine, koa, and the native ohia lehua.
A popular choice for hikers is the Kahakapao Loop Trail, a well-maintained path that winds through the forest, offering a moderate challenge and stunning views of the central valley and West Maui Mountains. For those seeking an adrenaline rush on two wheels, the Makawao Forest Reserve is a renowned mountain biking destination, featuring trails like the thrilling “Pineapple Express” downhill course, along with various other options for different experience levels. The cooler climate at this higher elevation provides a welcome reprieve from the tropical heat, making it an ideal location for you to enjoy outdoor activities.
Exploring the Makawao Forest Reserve offers a chance for you to escape the hustle and bustle of the tourist traps and immerse yourself in nature. When you are ready to enjoy a peaceful retreat away from the more crowded coastal areas of Maui, this is the perfect excursion. Make sure to check trail maps beforehand, wear appropriate footwear like hiking shoes, and bring layers of clothes as the temperature can fluctuate. Hikers should also be mindful of sharing the trails with mountain bikers.
5. Stepping Back in Time: Exploring the Hana Lava Tubes
Visiting the Hana Lava Tubes is an exciting and unique experience for those interested in Maui’s geological history – or for those who need to give their sunburned skin a cool rest.
To get there, take the scenic Hana Highway and turn off toward the Hana Lava Tube entrance, located just outside of Hana town. Once you arrive, you’ll find a small parking area and an entrance to the tube where you can explore the underground lava formations. It’s a self-guided tour, and the well-lit path takes you through the winding tunnels, showcasing impressive lava stalactites, stalagmites, and the smooth walls created by the flow of molten lava.
Make sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring a flashlight for added exploration, as some areas can be darker and uneven. As you walk through the tube, take time to marvel at the intricate volcanic structures and the stillness of the cave. The experience is not only educational but also a quiet, awe-inspiring journey into Maui’s ancient volcanic past.
Be sure to pack a picnic lunch, and when you are done, you can enjoy a shaded picnic amongst nature. The beautifully manicured lawns and gardens above ground are relaxing and fun to explore. There is even a complete garden maze that is both stunning and adventurous.
Crafting a Maui Experience That Is Uniquely Yours
Maui is an island that consistently captivates with its beauty, but its true charm lies in the unexpected adventures and hidden gems that await you if you are willing to venture beyond the well-trodden tourist paths. From crafting ocean-inspired art to paddling alongside sea turtles, witnessing nature’s fury at the Nakalele Blowhole, exploring the tranquil Makawao Forest, and exploring the fascinating underground world of the lava tubes, these 5 unique experiences offer a different lens through which to appreciate the magic of Maui.
So, unleash your inner explorer, step outside your comfort zone, and craft unforgettable memories on your next Maui getaway by embracing these extraordinary things to do. Your adventure beyond the postcard awaits!
