Things to Do on Maui

 Luckily for you Maui enthusiasts, visiting is cheaper than usual since the economic downturn.  Airfare is lower, activities are more affordable, and as for accommodations, just take a look at some of our condo specials and vacation home specials.

Beach first! There's nothing like South Shore's Keawakapu Beach. It's less crowded than most, and is conveniently located at the end of S. Kihei Road, behind the big "Wailea" sign. There's even free parking. Also a good choice is Kaanapali Beach. "Black Rock" is a great spot for jumping into the ocean, and the soft sand and warm water feels like a natural spa. We have a number of vacation rental homes in Kaanapali.

Tip: Conditions are always calmer in the morning.

Go snorkeling! There are plenty of places to buy or rent cheap snorkeling equipment for adults and children. La Perouse Bay is still relatively unknown by visitors and is arguably the best place to snorkel on the entire island. The reef seems to go on forever, and if you get up bright and early for the experience, the water is almost always calm and clear. There is a pod of dolphins that frequents the area in the morning as well, and you will likely spot a turtle or two. Unlike some other snorkeling areas, the reef will not crowd you here. The sandy bottom is just deep enough that you can take in the sights below without getting too close to the coral.

Tip: Avoid black sea urchins, also known as "black vana". They sting.

Explore the crater! Haleakala Crater stands at 10,023 feet above sea level, the crater rim is 7 miles long, 3 miles wide and 2,000 feet deep. There are a number of challenging and moderate trails for the intrepid and there's even a cabin where you can stay overnight with a reservation. You may feel like you're on mars among all of the towering red-brown cinder cones. There are plenty of observation points near parking, so you don't have to hike if you don't want to. Bring a sweater. It gets cold up there, especially if you want to watch a stunning sunrise or sunset from this vantage point. Make sure your tank is full for the beautiful drive up the mountain. It's a long drive, but you may feel like you are in a plane instead of on a road because of the uninterrupted views of the island as you ascend the mountain. Visit http://www.nps.gov/hale/ for all your questions about this rare destination.

Tip: Binoculars and snacks.

Do Hana road! Drive through lush green jungle on a road that was cut out of the mountainside. On one side, you will enjoy the site of wild, rocky shores below and wide open views of the ocean. On the other side, you will find countless stunning waterfalls. Each one is unique, and just when you think you've found your favorite, you'll change your mind. Hana town is quaint and tiny, set out in the lush landscape near the east shore. Don't miss Seven Sacred Pools, where you can swim to your heart's content. There are camping grounds nearby. Interested in underground lava tubes? One of the best on Maui is open for your exploration in Hana. For a small fee, you get a flashlight, and an incredibly educational and fun self-led tour underground. Kids love it. Just check out http://www.mauicave.com/ and you'll know this one is worth a visit.

Tip: Drive slow if your passengers have ever suffered from car sickness.

Those are just a few of the fun natural wonders to enjoy while you are on the island, but there is plenty more to do, including surfing, parasailing, whalewatching, kayaking, fishing, and plenty more. See our Maui Activities section. Mahalo for reading this week, and have a great weekend!