Maui’s terrestrial landscape is as diverse as it is dramatic. From volcanic peaks to jungle waterfalls, these are the must-do things to do in Maui on dry land.

1. Drive the Legendary Road to Hana: The Road to Hana is not a destination; it’s an immersive experience and one of the quintessential things to do in Maui. This winding, 64.4-mile highway from Kahului to the small town of Hana features 59 bridges and over 600 turns, each opening to a new, spectacular view.

• The Vibe: A full-day jungle odyssey into Old Hawaiʻi.
• Must-See Stops: The black sand beach at Waiʻānapanapa State Park, the majestic Wailua Falls, and the ‘Ohe’o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) near the end of the journey.

Pro-Tip: Start early (before 7 AM) to beat the crowds, and consider spending a night in Hana to truly experience the East Maui pace of life.

2. Witness the Sunrise at Haleakalā National Park: Standing at 10,023 feet above sea level, the summit of Haleakalā (East Maui Volcano) offers a sunrise experience that is literally “otherworldly.” This is arguably the most famous of all things to do in Maui.

• The Vibe: Spiritual, cold, and utterly magnificent. You watch the sun paint the crater floor in fiery colors from above the clouds.
• Plan Ahead: Reservations are required for vehicles entering the park between 3:00 AM and 7:00 AM, and they often book out 60 days in advance.
• Conversion Focus: Pair this with a guided downhill bike tour for a thrilling, unforgettable descent.

3. Explore the Sacred Iao Valley State Monument: Located in Central Maui, the Iao Valley is home to the iconic Iao Needle, a natural, emerald-covered basalt rock pinnacle rising 1,200 feet from the valley floor. It’s a place of profound historical and cultural significance.

• The Vibe: Lush, misty, and steeped in Hawaiian history.
• Activity: Easy walking paths lead to scenic viewpoints. It’s a fantastic half-day adventure for all ages.

4. Molokini Crater: The Ultimate Snorkeling in Maui: No trip to Maui is complete without a boat trip to Molokini, a partially submerged volcanic cinder cone located a few miles off the South Maui coast. The crescent shape protects the inner reef, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling in Maui.

• The Vibe: Crystal-clear waters (visibility often over 150 feet) teeming with tropical marine life.
• What You’ll See: Over 250 species of fish, including the endemic Black Triggerfish, and often Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles at a secondary spot like Turtle Town.
• Conversion Focus: Book a morning tour for the best water conditions. Many charters also offer options for certified scuba divers.

5. The Thrill of Whale Watching in Maui (Seasonal): From December to May, the shallow, protected waters between Maui, Lānaʻi, and Molokaʻi become a critical breeding and calving ground for North Pacific Humpback Whales. Whale watching in Maui is a truly humbling and majestic experience.

• The Vibe: Awe-inspiring and family-friendly.
• The Best Time: Peak season is generally late January through March, but sightings are common throughout the winter and spring.

Pro-Tip: Look for tours run by non-profit organizations that prioritize marine research and education for the most enriching whale watching in Maui experience.

6. Explore the Coast by Kayaking in Maui: For a more intimate, arms-on experience with the Pacific, try kayaking in Maui. This activity offers a peaceful, low-impact way to explore the stunning coastlines and get up close with marine life.

• Popular Spots: The sheltered waters of West Maui (around Kapalua and Ka’anapali) and South Maui (around Wailea and Makena) are ideal.
• Bonus Sighting: Kayak tours often bring you face-to-face with sea turtles resting in calm bays. This unique perspective is a favorite among active travelers seeking memorable things to do in Maui.

7. Find Your Perfect Beach Day: Maui is famous for its beaches. Spend a day (or several!) enjoying the world-class sands.

• Ka’anapali Beach (West Maui): Excellent for resorts, calm swimming, and the famous daily cliff diving ceremony at Pu‘u Keka‘a (Black Rock).
• Makena Beach (Big Beach, South Maui): A mile-long stretch of undeveloped, beautiful sand perfect for sunbathing and powerful waves (caution advised for swimming).
• Ho’okipa Beach Park (North Shore): The world capital of windsurfing and kiteboarding. Come here to watch the pros and see Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles basking on the sand in the late afternoon.