While many people envision spending their days on endless beaches throughout their time in Maui, there is much to be enjoyed even beyond the shoreline. The Island of Maui is filled with beautiful terrain, from sprawling white sand beaches to lush mountains and waterfalls to otherworldly volcanic landscapes. And the good thing about vacationing on this island is that travel distances are just right for planning day trips for sightseeing. Be sure to include some of these top Maui sightseeing destinations in your itinerary!
Road to Hana
This scenic route which takes you around the west end of the island is among the most popular Maui day trips. Along the Road to Hana you’ll pass spectacular beaches, countless waterfalls, and lots of beautiful scenery. Waianapanapa State Park is along this route, which features a striking black sand beach with a rugged shoreline that includes a sea arch, lava caves and tubes, and a blowhole. Also along the Road to Hana is Wailua Falls, a beautiful 80-foot cascade that is easily viewed from the roadside. And if you’re up for exploring on foot, the 400-foot Waimoku Falls awaits at the end of the 2-mile (one-way) Pipiwai Trail. Whether you drive the entire Road to Hana or just a portion to explore some of the area’s best sights, you’ll be richly rewarded with fantastic scenery!
Haleakala National Park
Another one of the best spots for sightseeing in Maui is the otherworldly Haleakala National Park. The park is not only home to Maui’s highest mountain peak, but you’ll also experience five different climate zones within the park’s bounds. Haleakala has numerous lookout points from which to enjoy expansive views, or you can lace up your hiking shoes and venture down one of the park’s hiking trails to immerse yourself in the landscape. The Sliding Sands Trail heads down into the volcanic crater, offering stunning panoramic views. While it takes 3.9 miles to reach the crater floor (and then an excruciating climb back out), hiking partway down the trail before turning back is another option. The first lookout point at the 0.5-mile mark is well worth the trek.
Ka’anapali Beach
Consistently rated the most beautiful beach on Maui and among the top in Hawaii, be sure to spend some time soaking up the sand and sun along Ka’anapali Beach. This beach is known for its silky white sand spread out across three glorious miles along Maui’s west coast.
Where to Stay Near the Best Maui Sightseeing Spots
Browse our Maui vacation rentals, many of which are located near the renowned Ka’anapali Beach and are within easy reach of other destinations for sightseeing in Maui! Contact us today!
