Begin your adventure through Maui on Maui’s Stunning North Shore
When you're on Maui’s stunning North Shore, don’t miss a chance to dive into the local scene and explore some of the area’s best-kept secrets. We recommend starting your adventure in the charming town of Pāʻia, known for its bohemian vibe, expansive dining options, and surf culture. If you’re into kite surfing, this is the place to do it.
Upcountry Farmers Market: A Saturday Morning Must-Visit
Kicking off a must-see list with a farmers market might seem unexpected, but trust us—experiencing Maui means diving headfirst into its incredible food scene. Every Saturday morning, Kulamalu Town Center buzzes with energy as the Upcountry Farmers Market comes to life, serving up the island’s freshest produce and flavors. Wander through stalls overflowing with just-picked fruits, local honey, and vibrant tropical flowers, and let the laid-back island vibe sink in. Arrive early, and you might just get there in time to grab fresh-caught Ahi tuna before it sells out. Whether you're visiting or a local stocking up, the market is the perfect way to start your weekend.
Dive Into the Best of Haleakalā National Park
Now that you’ve loaded up on goodies from the market and got your helicopter tour scheduled, it’s the perfect time to dive into Haleakalā National Park. There’s plenty to see and do, whether you're squeezing in a few highlights for the day or going all in with an overnight stay to take it all in. To help you make the most of your visit, here’s a curated list of must-see spots in and around the park to add to your itinerary.
Explore the Kīpahulu District – Nestled on Maui’s southeastern coast, this lush area offers the famous Pipiwai Trail, a hike through towering bamboo forests leading to the stunning Waimoku Falls. Don’t miss the ʻOheʻo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools), where cascading waterfalls create picture-perfect swimming holes.
Experience a Helicopter Tour – Most helicopter tours spotlight Haleakalā for a reason—its sweeping landscapes and dramatic vistas are truly unmatched. Experiences like the Hāna & Haleakalā Sky Adventure offer breathtaking aerial views of the crater’s vast expanse and the lush beauty of the Hāna Rainforest Preserve.
Stargaze at the Summit – Watching the sun dip below the clouds at Haleakalā’s summit is breathtaking, but the real magic happens after dark. Join Maui Stargazing for an unforgettable guided journey through the cosmos. With high-powered telescopes, you’ll get up-close views of planets, star clusters, and the glowing arc of the Milky Way. This is an experience you won’t forget.
Visit Iao Valley State Park
Just five miles west of Kahului lies one of Maui’s most legendary natural landmarks—ʻĪao Valley, a lush, stream-carved valley draped in thick rainforest. The iconic ʻĪao Needle stands at its heart, a towering lava remnant that rises 370 meters above the valley floor. Often shrouded in mist, it’s best to visit early in the day when the skies are clear, and the ridge-top views are truly breathtaking. Ten miles of the valley are preserved within a state park, offering scenic rainforest trails and an opportunity to learn more about the area's rich ecosystem at the Hawai'i Nature Center.
Make the most of your trip and stop by the Bailey House for a fascinating glimpse into pre-European contact Hawai‘i, located just over two miles from the ʻĪao Valley State Monument.
Spend a morning at the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum
Tucked away in the historic sugarcane town of Pu’unene in Kahului, Maui, the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum offers a deep dive into the island’s rich sugarcane heritage. This unique, historic spot explores the rise and impact of sugar production on Maui and shows just how much it shaped the local economy and culture.
To make the most of your visit, plan ahead. The last admission is at 1 p.m., and you'll want to book a table at the museum’s restaurant before you start exploring. Give yourself plenty of time to soak it all in.
Schedule a whale watching tour.
From December to April, thousands of humpback whales migrate from Alaska to Maui’s warm, shallow waters to mate, give birth, and nurture their young. During peak season, spotting these gentle giants is almost inevitable—you’ll see them breaching and spouting whether you're driving along the West Maui coastline or lounging on the beach.
For a closer look, a whale-watching tour is the way to go. Expert guides take you right into the action, all while learning fascinating insights about their journey and behavior. You’ll want to plan ahead and book early to secure your spot during this incredible season.
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