What to See When You Stop on Maui

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If you’re taking a cruise and fortunate enough to stop on Maui, be prepared to fall in love with its friendly spirit, varied activities for all ages, and unparalleled natural beauty. Here are a few must-do experiences when visiting Maui:

Take a Helicopter Ride

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A helicopter tour allows you to experience the beauty of Maui from a unique perspective. Maverick Helicopters offers five different Maui tours that include views of the Hana Rainforest, Iao Valley State Park, West Maui Mountains, and Haleakala National Park.

Tour a Pineapple Plantation

File photo by Wendy Osher.

Hawaii’s fertile soil is ideal for growing pineapples, and several pineapple plantations are available to tour. You’ll learn about the history and importance of the crop to the local area and be able to take home some of the freshest fruit imaginable. Depending on the tour, you may also get to see workers harvesting pineapple or enjoy a tasting.

Experience a Luau

A luau is one of those experiences that help define Hawaii. This traditional party combines a delicious feast of poi, kalua pig, or other native dishes with entertainment such as hula dancing and Hawaiian music. Try the Old Lahaina Luau, which has been named “Best Luau” by the readers of the Maui News.

Tour the Maui Ocean Center

Photo Courtesy: Maui Ocean Center

This aquarium and oceanography center is dedicated to displaying and preserving Hawaiian marine life. Over 60 indoor-outdoor exhibits allow you to see a wide array of sea life up close. Highlights include the world’s largest exhibit of live Pacific corals, a large outdoor shark tank, and an outdoor Hawaiian sea turtle sanctuary. This activity is educational and entertaining for people of any age, but it’s particularly appropriate if you have children in your group.

Go Ziplining

Courtesy photo

A variety of ziplining tours let you experience Maui’s natural beauty in a unique way. Skyline EcoAdventures offers several options, including an eight-line tour through the West Maui mountains, with views of the Pacific ocean as well as Maui’s offshore islands. Or try a five-line tour through eucalyptus trees on the slopes of the Haleakala.

Take the Road to Hana

Waterfalls on the road to Hāna. Photo courtesy of Joe Parks.

This road trip is more about the journey than the destination. For about 50 miles, you’ll wind through beaches, waterfalls, and rainforests. Be sure to take your time on this trip, because it’s worth it to make many stops along the way. You’ll end up at the tiny town of Hana, which feels like a paradise that’s worlds away.