Are you planning on taking a day trip to Maui? Maybe you are staying on a different island but interested in exploring the other Hawaiian Islands? Well, Maui has so much to offer! It is a very fun island filled with many different types of activities. Although the options seem endless, we have curated a list of our favorite things to do on a day trip to Maui. This way, you can explore the island, have fun, and still have time to catch the boat or plane back to the island you came from!
Breakfast at Belle Surf Cafe
Belle Surf Cafe is the perfect way to start your day! With our delicious espresso, coffee drinks, smoothies, food, and more… you are bound to find something here that will satisfy you for the beginning of your day! We have options for dietary needs and restrictions. Check out our menu here!
Snorkeling with the turtles at Kapalua Bay
Kapalua Bay is a beautiful beach located in Kapalua, on the West side of Maui. Snorkeling is always best in the early morning time. You can either bring your own snorkel and fins, or rent them! In this bay, you will find a variety of coral reef, Hawaiian fish, and turtles. Make sure to be careful and aware of currents, winds, and waves. When in doubt, don’t go out! Always have a buddy, and even bring a flotation device in case you get tired. Enjoy the turtles!
Parasailing in Lahaina, Maui
Parasailing is a very fun and exhilarating activity! This is a recreational activity where a person is towed behind a vehicle while attached to a special canopy wing similar to a parachute. It’s a great way to get a birds eye perspective of the ocean in Hawaii! Very beautiful, and great activity to do in the morning time as well, before the strong winds pick up.
Lunch on the water at Mala Tavern
After all those fun morning activities, you have probably worked up an appetite! If you are looking for somewhere fairly casual with indoor / outdoor dining and great food, Mala Tavern is the place! This intimate and local waterfront restaurant is located in Lahaina, Maui. Their delicious cuisine consists of Pacific Rim and Mediterranean style dishes. They have a variety of wines and drinks to choose from as well. Male Tavern is extremely popular to both tourists and local residents!
Ululani’s Shave Ice
You can’t go to Hawaii without trying shave ice! Ululani’s Shave Ice is one of the most popular places to get shave ice in Hawaii. They serve gourmet shave ice, and are experts at it. The taste, texture, and appearance of their shave ice is like no other! We highly recommend trying out Ululani’s for a yummy dessert after lunch!
Whale Watching
Once your lunch has digested, we highly recommend going whale watching. Every year, over 10,000 Humpback Whales migrate to the warm waters of Maui. This is where they birth their young. If you are here between November to March, you are highly likely to see the whales. Booking a spot on an afternoon or sunset boat to whale watch is incredibly fun. It’s a great way to see these beautiful creatures up close.
Dinner and Drinks at Monkeypod
Monkeypod Kitchen is located in Kaanapali, in Whaler’s Village. They have a great happy hour and you will find a little bit of something for everyone here. Even the kids will enjoy! It’s the perfect location to end the day. Close to the ocean, refreshing food and drinks, and an easy location to access. You can even do some shopping afterward in Whaler’s Village.
We hope you enjoy your time on the beautiful island of Maui! Enjoy our list of our favorite things to do on a day trip to Maui. Comment below to tell us what your favorite activities are!