Top 10 Activities

Maui is easily one of the best islands in the world. There's so much to do that you'll find it hard to get them all done in just one visit. Here are the top 10 activities you must find time for when in Maui.

#1. Snorkeling
There are so many brilliant places to enjoy some snorkeling all around Maui. Crystal clear, warm-waters and teeming undersea life make this an ideal place to enjoy the wonders here.

#2. Kaeleku Caverns
Take the Kaeleku Caverns 'Hana Lava Tube' adventure and explore the caves and caverns. Crawl through the tunnels, climb up precipices and marvel at the natural caves and lava formations here. Don't forget your camera as there are plenty of wonderful photo opportunities here.

#3. Hiking on the Pipwai Trail
Take a guided hike along the Pipwai Trail in the Haleakal National Park and enjoy some of the most gorgeous jungle scenery. There are some spectacular hidden waterfalls here, hidden among the lush greenery. You will have to book your tour through your hotel or travel guide as you can't reach this location in a rental car.

#4. Climb Mount Haleakala
On the south side of Maui is the famous Haleakala Crater. Mount Haleakala is the largest dormant volcano in the world and it's such an abrupt departure from the tropical vacation you're expecting that it's worth the visit. The stark atmosphere at the summit is like being on another world, surrounded by craters and unusual lava formations that make you feel like you're walking on the moon.

#5. Zipline Adventure
There's no better way than to experience the jungles of Maui than to fly among the tree tops. When you take the zipline tour you're securely harnessed to a cable that is strung between the tree tops. Then you soar across the gorge, between huge trunks and over lush green jungles. Even though you're 150 feet off the ground and flying along for more than 380 feet, the exhilaration is worth the effort!

#6. Atlantis Submarine Tour
Head down to Lahaina Harbor and join the Atlantis submarine tour. You're taken 130 feet under water down to the sea floor where you can view the teeming undersea life and spectacular watery views from the many viewing windows.

#7. Luau
When you're in Maui, you really must experience an authentic luau. The wonderful balance of entertainment, great food, showmanship and sheer romantic beauty can't be beaten. Immerse yourself in a fun night that you'll remember for years to come.

#8. Helicopter Ride
There's only one way to see some of the more remote and most beautiful parts of Maui. Hover alongside 1,000 foot cascading waterfalls or circle the summit of Mount Haleakala and really experience some of the true beauty of this amazing island.

#9. Ulalena Magic Show
Steeped in Hawaiian mythology and brilliantly choreographed to include drama, dance and multimedia effects, the Ulalena Magic Show is not to be missed. You'll be amazed by the stunning stage and lighting effects even as you're entertained by the historical legends of Hawaii.

#10. Whale Watching
Every year the majestic Humpback whales migrate to the warm Hawaiian waters to give birth and take care of their calves. Take a whale watching tour from Lahaina harbor between mid-November and mid-May to get up close to these enormous gentle giants of the sea.

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Hawaiian Cuisine

Ahi Poke

Lau Lau

Pipikaula

Char Siu

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Best Time To Visit

Spring in Hawaii is the 'dry' season. The rainfall dries up and the weather is almost always perfect. The water temperatures are in the 70s and there is an abundance of fresh fruit and flowers everywhere.

Summer can become quite warm with temperatures into the 90s. Combined with a high humidity, this kind of heat can be uncomfortable for some travelers who aren't used to this kind of weather. The water temperatures are incredibly warm, rising almost into the 80s, so it makes water sports, snorkeling and swimming perfect.

When you're searching for the best Maui travel deals, be sure to consider how the weather will affect your plans.

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Travel Shopping

There are plenty of great shopping spots around Maui. The majority of tourist locations are centered around the Lahaina side and you'll find plenty of malls, stores, restaurants, galleries, stalls, shops and boutiques to choose from.

Kaahumana Mall is the largest mall in Kahalui, although there are plenty of other places to buy souvenirs and anything else you need.

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Festival Events

March - Whalefest Week is held in mid-March and is a celebration of the humpback whales that come to visit during the winter months.

May - the Annual Lei Day Celebration is held on May Day and features lei making competitions, traditional and modern arts and crafts, plenty of entertainment and more.

June - Enjoy the Annual Maui Film Festival at Wailea throughout mid-June and see the movie premieres under the stars.

July - In early July, the Pineapple Festival brings Lanai to life. The festival features performances by Hawaiian musicians, fishing tournaments, pineapple cooking contests and plenty of entertainment to enjoy.

September - The September Aloha Festivals are a huge celebration of Hawaiian culture, featuring parades and events.

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Basic Hawaiian Phrases

Aloha - hello and goodbye

Mahalo - thank you

Ono - good

Ae - yes

Aia i hea? - Where?

Kahakai - beach

Olu Olu - please

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Explore Maui

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