Things to Do in Maui

There is no shortage of things to do in Maui. This beautiful Hawaiian island has a long list of activities for the visitor. Whether its shopping, sightseeing or outdoor recreation, you'll find something memorable to do during your stay.

Truly the centerpiece of Maui activities, outdoor sports and activities are primarily focused on water activities. There are beautiful beaches and clear waters. Here are a few suggestions:

• Snorkeling is one of the best activities for both the beginner and seasoned veteran. You can glide into the underwater world and see the amazing creatures in their natural habitat.
• Surfing is synonymous with Hawaii. Check with the hotel for either lessons or good surf locations.
• Try sailing. Tour companies offer guided sailing excursions or rent your own boat for the day.
• Relaxing on the beach may be the best outdoor activity on Maui. Swim in the surf, enjoy the beautiful sand and let your stress fall away.
• When you are ready to dry off, the area golf courses are waiting for you. There are numerous popular courses all over the island. You may even be able to attend a pro golf tournament.
• Be sure and pack hiking shoes when you visit. There are numerous nature trails, rainforest tours and outdoor walks you can take to get close to the natural beauty of the island.

The luscious scenery should be sightseeing enough. There are, however, other attractions of interest, such as:

• Whale watching: The water off the coast is the maternity hospital for hundreds of humpback whales. You can take a tour boat and watch as whale mothers play with their babies. Listen carefully and you'll hear them sing.
• The Maui Arts and Cultural Center in Kahului features exhibitions and events related to Hawaiian heritage. You'll see performances by Hawaiian musicians and hula dancers and displays by craftsman.
• The Bailey House in Wailuku has Maui's largest collection of Hawaiian artifacts. Built in 1834, it was originally the home of an American missionary.

Opportunities abound for the visiting shopper. Besides the traditional tourist boutiques, you'll find interesting shops and markets for a variety of goods:

• "Maui Grown" refers to the native grown fruits, tasty and straight from the vine. Particularly popular are fresh pineapples and passion fruit.
• The Maui Crafts Guild in Paia has items made by local artisans. Located on the Hana Highway, you'll find jewelry, wood crafts, pottery and fabric.
• For serious shoppers, the Lahaina Cannery Mall is the only air conditioned mall on Maui. Besides the run-of-the-mill mall stores, it features colorful boutiques and Hawaiian entertainment.

If time allows, head out for some of the less visited parts of the island. Besides viewing the beautiful landscape, you'll get a feel for the real Maui.

• Take the the Hana Highway for a day or even overnight trip. This 68 mile stretch is full of spectacular scenery, including waterfalls, nature trials and lava pools.
• Visit the mountains, or Upcountry, for the day. The panoramic views will leave you breathless. On the way up you'll see abundant agriculture and natural foliage. Breathe deeply to smell the eucalyptus and lavender that grows on the mountains.

Still have time on your hands? There's plenty more things to do in Maui:

• You can't visit Maui without taking in the Hawaiian culture. If you aren't brave enough to take hula lessons, at least be sure to watch a performance.
• Make reservations for a luau to taste the cuisine and hospitality of the island.
• You can pamper yourself with a full spa treatment. Even if you are not staying at one of the luxury hotels, you can still book a treatment there. You may want to include a massage to loosen up those sports-weary muscles.
• Sunrise and sunset are breathtaking times on Maui. It’s a time to remind yourself that this truly is paradise.

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