TOP 10 Water Activities on Maui

Maui • June 12, 2022
A man is riding a wave on a surfboard in the ocean.

If you love to get a little wet and enjoy the surf and sea, soak in the liquid sunshine when on Maui. We have picked a few things to get your adrenaline racing and some sight seeing locations to help you enjoy all that Maui has to offer.

1 | Experience Watching

The best place to catch a glimpse of these beautiful creatures is in Maui Nui Basin, with half of the humpback whale population migrating yearly every winter.  The best time to go whale watching is mid-January –  March.  The season typically runs from November to May.

2 | Snorkel with Sea Life at Honolua Bay

A couple of boats are floating on top of a body of water.
photo: krizily

Popular spot for surfers in the winter because of its vast waves. In the summer, the water is substantially calmer making it a lovely snorkeling spot with magnificent coral reefs that house an array of colorful fish and Hawaiian green sea turtles.

3 | Take up Scuba diving at Molokini Crater

A couple of people are swimming with a turtle in the ocean.

For those not entirely satisfied by just snorkeling, scuba diving is the way to go. The pacific ocean is home to many unique marine life you can get up close and personal with underwater.

4 | Book a Boat Tour

An aerial view of a boat in the ocean.
photo: ThomasAshlock

Get out on the ocean and experience what the Pacific has to offer. The options for what to do out on the water are endless, plus you can get a great view of the sunset.

5 | Encounter World-Class Surfing

Experienced surfers looking for big waves have Honolua Bay on the top of their list as it’s one of Maui’s most popular locations. Mark Richards, former four-time world champion surfer from 1979-1982, called it the “best wave in the world.”

6 | Try eFoil Surfboarding

A man is riding a wave on a surfboard in the ocean.
photo: homydesign

If you’re looking for something new and unique to try, eFoiling could be for you. Originally made in 2013 by Nick Leason, it has become a popular way to travel on water.

7 | Cliff Jump off Black Rock

A sunset over the ocean with a person standing on a rock in the foreground.
photo:   Andrew(Adobe Stock)

At the north end of Ka’anapali Beach is a fantastic place to cliff jump for thrill seekers.  With heights running from 12-18 feet, it isn’t too high up to scare young or less experienced people away. At the end of each day is a torch lighting ceremony which, of course, also ends with a jump.

8 | Go Island Fishing

A man is standing on a cliff overlooking the ocean at sunset
photo: Michael Brake

Fishing is deeply rooted in Hawaii’s culture, with ancient Hawaiians getting much of their food from the ocean.  Maui offers a wide range of options for fishermen.  Go deep-sea fishing on a charter boat or just rent one at a local shop and hit the shore.

9 | Spend a Day at Ka’anapali Beach

A beach with palm trees and a rainbow in the sky
photo: Scotty Robson

If staying in West Maui, check out Ka’anapali Beach. With soft white sand and tranquil clear waters, this 3-mile long shore is the perfect getaway to relax.

10 | Admire Honokohau Falls –  Maui’s Exclusive Waterfall

There is a waterfall in the middle of a valley surrounded by mountains.
Photo: Derrick Neill

The largest waterfall in Maui with a 1,100-foot long drop that was featured in the film, Jurassic Park. Although not accessible by land and a helicopter must take you over, it’s well worth the trip.

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