Planning a trip to Maui and wondering what to do? From rainforest adventures and scenic hikes to meandering tropical gardens and underwater discoveries, Maui offers something for every kind of traveler!
“Maui isn’t just a place you visit—it’s an island you experience, one adventure at a time.”
For families to solo travelers- we have your bucketlist right here! Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to the island, these four Maui experiences are worth adding to your list. And if you’re looking for a little adventure, one of them gives you exclusice access to rappel down a waterfall in the very heart of Maui’s rainforest.
1. Rappel Maui – Maui’s Only Waterfall Rappelling Tour
If you’re looking for one of the most unique things to do on Maui, start with Rappel Maui.
Located in Maui’s own Garden of Eden Arboretum along the Road to Hana, Rappel Maui offers the island’s only guided waterfall rappelling tour. No previous experience is necessary, which makes this an exciting option for first-time adventurers and especially families with children ages 10 and up.
Before you rappel, our experienced guides walk you through everything you need to know during a dry-land practice session. Once you’re comfortable with the equipment and technique, your guide will lead the way to 2 other waterfall rappels- this is where the adventure really begins!
Why add Rappel Maui to your itinerary?
- Maui’s only guided waterfall rappelling experience
- No previous rappelling experience required
- Located at the Garden of Eden along the Road to Hana
- Two waterfall rappels
- Family-friendly for ages 10+
- Professional guides and safety instruction
- A unique way to experience Maui’s rainforest
Adventure tip: Plan to spend about 2.5–3 hours for the full experience and pair your tour with other Road to Hana stops.
Book your Rappel Maui tour today: https://rappelmaui.com/
2. Hike Maui – Explore the Island on Foot
Maui is home to some incredible hiking opportunities, from coastal trails to lush rainforest paths and waterfall-filled valleys.
Hike Maui offers guided hiking experiences that allow visitors to explore parts of the island they might otherwise miss. A local guide can help you discover hidden waterfalls, native plants, tropical landscapes, and the stories behind the places you’re visiting.
For visitors who want to experience more than just the typical tourist stops, a guided hike is a great way to slow down and appreciate Maui’s natural beauty.
Hiking also makes a wonderful complement to a waterfall adventure. After experiencing Maui from the perspective of a waterfall rappel, exploring the island’s trails gives you a chance to see the rainforest from a completely different angle.
Why add a Maui hike to your itinerary?
- Explore Maui’s lush landscapes
- Discover waterfalls and rainforest environments
- Learn about the island from knowledgeable local guides
- Experience areas away from the resort areas
- Great for travelers who love nature and the outdoorsBook your Hike Maui adventure today: https://www.hikemaui.com/?
3. Garden of Eden Arboretum – A Tropical Escape Along the Road to Hana
Located along the famous Road to Hana, the Garden of Eden Arboretum is a beautiful place to stretch your legs and experience Maui’s tropical landscape.
The arboretum allows you to meander the lush gardens, observe many endemic tropical plants, scenic overlooks, waterfalls, and peaceful walking paths. It’s also a wonderful stop for travelers who enjoy photography and want to experience some of the island’s incredible greenery. And its a great spot to grab lunch or some snacks for the road. Savor Maui is a food truck you can enjoy the scenery with a great meal made with locally grown and savory food.
Movie fans may recognize the garden as well— parts of Jurassic Park were filmed here! And while that adds to the appeal it really is one of the most beautiful spots just to take in and meander along the miles of maintained trails. One of the best things about the Garden of Eden is that you don’t have to be an avid hiker or adventurer to enjoy it. You can take your time exploring the gardens, stopping for photos. Just keep your eyes open though, who knows what predators may be lurking in the shadows?
(And if you’re looking to add some adventure to your visit, Rappel Maui’s waterfall rappelling tour takes place right here at the Garden of Eden.)
That means you can turn a visit to the arboretum into an entire rainforest adventure! Or if some of your party prefers the adventure – you can divide and conquer- the Garden has something for everyone. Even a Made on Maui shop!
Garden of Eden tip: Give yourself enough time to enjoy the gardens rather than treating it as a quick roadside stop. It’s a beautiful place to slow down and take in the scenery.
Plan your Garden of Eden trip today: https://mauigardenofeden.com/
4. Maui Ocean Center – Discover What’s Beneath the Surface
After spending time exploring Maui’s mountains and rainforests, head beneath the surface at the Maui Ocean Center.
Located in Maʻalaea, the Maui Ocean Center is home to exhibits showcasing Hawaii’s marine life and ocean ecosystems. It’s a great activity for families, couples, and anyone interested in learning more about the incredible creatures that call Hawaiian waters home!
Visitors can see sea turtles, sharks, rays, tropical fish, and other marine life while learning about Hawaii’s unique connection to the ocean.
It’s also a great option for a day when you’re looking for something a little slower-paced—or when the weather doesn’t cooperate with your outdoor plans. This place is great for young kids – a popular favorite is the undersea cave you can walk through- you get the experince of diving without even getting wet!
Why add Maui Ocean Center to your itinerary?
- Learn about Hawaii’s unique marine ecosystem
- See Hawaiian marine life up close
- Family-friendly
- A great rainy-day or slower-paced activity
- Located conveniently in MaʻalaeaPlan your Maui Ocean Center trip today: https://mauioceancenter.com/
How to Build These Maui Activities Into Your Vacation
The great thing about these four experiences is that they offer completely different ways to enjoy Maui. They are great for families or solo travelers. They also combine Maui’s natural beauty with both adventure and the opportunity to relax. The ideal vacation combo in our book!
Ready for Your Maui Adventure?
Come experience Maui from a whole new perspective. Book your ideal vacation today!