No matter your vacation budget, anyone can enjoy a variety of free activities when visiting Maui. Here are five memorable experiences you can take advantage of for free.
A Maui Visitor's Guide to Free Activities
1. Snorkel
Bring snorkeling gear from home or rent it cheaply to get a vibrant and unforgettable look at Maui's rich sea life. Brightly colored fish, gentle sea turtles, and curious octopuses are just a few of the creatures you may encounter. Haleakala, Hana, and Kaanapali Beach as well as Molokini Crater are among the most popular snorkeling spots on the island.
2. Go on a Walking Tour
Taking in the sights and sounds of Maui on foot lets you soak up the culture and see local attractions. If you're in Lahaina, the city offers two ready-made walking trails with historical information along the way; one trail takes about 45 minutes, the other around 90. Or visit the Maui Tropical Plantation in Wailuku, which is free to enter.
3. Drive the Hana Road
The Road to Hana provides some of the most stunning views on Maui. The 60-mile trip will take you through varying beautiful scenery, including beaches, mountains, waterfalls, and rainforests. Prepare to take your time on the drive. You’ll have more opportunities to take in the views and be safer on the many sharp turns and narrow bridges that are hallmarks of the landscape.
4. Explore Waiʻānapanapa State Park
Waiʻānapanapa State Park is a free place to stop while driving the Hana Road. The park features a number of natural wonders, such as a black sand beach, caves, and lava tubes. Don’t miss the tidepools—they turn red at certain times of year because of the influx of shrimp, making for an incredible sight.
5. Whale Watch
Whale watching is a beloved Maui activity that you can either do on your own or on a boat tour. For a free whale watch, bring along your binoculars and stake out a comfortable spot on any of Maui's beaches. Beaches on the western shore are particularly well-known for whale sightings.
For affordable adventures on the island, contact the Maui Activities Store. With more than four decades of experience, this Lahaina-based tour operator offers land and ocean activities and helicopter tours. Let them introduce you to the wonders of the island at a price you can afford. Call (808) 638-3230 or visit their website for more information on their current activities.