It doesn’t matter if you’ve been to Maui multiple times or it’s your first time visiting, there are always a variety of things to do on Maui. And there’s always something to learn about this magical island.
Too Many Things To Do on Maui?
Some visitors find themselves with too many options. They may become so overwhelmed that they forego exploring the wonders of the island for the comfort of the resort. And that’s OK too—Maui has some spectacular and luxurious accommodations. But if you are a wanderer with a “bucket” or “must-do” list, here’s a short list of helpful apps to download to your iPhone or Android that will help you to have a safe and enjoyable stay, wherever you decide to roam.
Where Service is Unreliable
Cell phone coverage is unreliable in more remote areas. Some infamous dead zones include:
- The
Road to Hana after about mile marker 7 (Twin Falls Farm Stand). - The crater road heading toward the summit of Mount Haleakala.
- On Makena Road at Big Beach and southward.
- The upper Piilani Highway between Kaupo and Hana. (See map.)
Road to Hana after about mile marker 7 (Twin Falls Farm Stand).Plan accordingly, both with your fuel and your plans. Pro tip: Put your phone in airplane mode when driving long distances without a signal to save your battery.
Cell Phone Usage Laws in Hawaii
In Hawaii, it’s illegal to use a handheld mobile electronic device while operating a vehicle. The restriction applies to talking on the phone, texting, and all other uses of an electronic device. So please hand your device to a passenger to use any of these apps while you’re on your way to doing some of the cool things to do on Maui.
Planning Your Things to Do on Maui? The Apps Are Where It’s At
- Hawaiian Words – Translation and Dictionary
Most people are familiar with the words “aloha” and “mahalo”, but most of the Hawaiian language is intimidating to anyone new to it. If you are traveling and interested in the native culture, this free translation app could be perfect for you. Try out some of the words and phrases you learn while you’re at dinner or a luau. - Magic Seaweed Surf Forecast and/or Surfline
You don’t have to be a professional surfer use this app to your advantage. It’s handy if you are interested in any water or beach related activities like standup paddleboard, snorkeling, kayaking or swimming. Giving you up-to-date weather reports, including surf and wind conditions, to ensure that your beach day doesn’t get postponed because of unsafe water conditions or irritating sandblasting. Rainy day? No rain, no rainbows. There are lots of great things to do on Maui that are not sunshine dependent. (Bonus: There usually is at least one sunny part of the island on any given day.) - What3Words
If you know you’re going for a walk in the woods or an unfamiliar area, What3Words can be your lifeline if you get lost. It’s brilliant: the makers of the app divided the whole world into 3m squares, and assigned each square a word. By telling someone the three words you are at, you can share your exact location. Of course, you can’t use the app if you don’t have your phone, so keep your device with you on hikes and walks, using a sealed plastic bag or container to keep it dry in case of rain. - GyPSy Guide
Maui is a relatively easy place to drive but it does help to have an app that organizes the most popular day trips into sub categories for efficiency. GyPSy Guide is designed to allow you to create your own Maui adventure and has divided the island into 5 main areas: Haleakala, South Maui, West Maui, Hana Highway, and Iao Valley; all five are included in one app.
- Rider
Maui is not known for their superior public transportation services, so you may feel like the only way to get around is to rent a car, but you might find this to be a game-changer. Traveling via bus can be frustrating since 95% of the bus stops don’t tell you when the next bus will be coming or where the bus is going. The Rider app will help you find the nearest bus stop and not only tell you where the bus is going, but will also give you real-time location tracking so you know the exact arrival time. Saving money on a rental car means more poke on your plate, and more time with your toes in the sand.
Some Reminders on What to Do on Maui–And What Not to Do
Don’t drink and drive, turn your back on the ocean, or hold your phone while driving.
Do heed posted warnings, stay on marked trails, and most of all, take in the beauty whenever it’s safe to do so. And we hope you’ll consider spending a day with us in the rainforest. No apps necessary!