Maui Travel Guide - Top 5 Things to Do

Pack your bags because today we’re exploring the top 5 places to sightsee in Maui, Hawaii. On this journey we'll drive up a volcano to watch a Haleakala sunset, cliff jump off Black Rock and swim next to Maui's green sea turtles, stroll along the Kaanapali beach walk, explore where to eat in Whaler's Village, visit Honolua Park in Northwest Maui, and finally look upon the Iao Valley Needle.

Hi, I’m Michael Johnson - travel guide and owner of Film Compass - a travel channel showcasing you the best places to sightsee. Without further ado, here are my top 5 places to sightsee in Maui, Hawaii.


1. Haleakala Volcano

First on the list is Haleakala National Park and it’s shield volcano. The drive to the top of Haleakala can take around two hours so be sure to fill up on gas and pack a warm blanket as the summit can be cold. Elevation is 10,023 feet and temperatures are typically in the 40’s and 50’s at the summit. Haleakala’s entrance fee is $30 per vehicle so road tripping with friends to the summit is a great idea.


2. Kaanapali Beach ⛱

Black Rock - Kaanapali beach is home to a place known as black rock on the north end of the beach. A fun time cliff jumping off black rock should not be missed if you're will to brave the 18ft tall ledge into the crystal clear water.

Black Rock Snorkeling - Once underwater you’ll discover why many regard black rock as the best snorkeling on Kaanapali beach. Black Rock’s snorkeling is fantastic and the area is home to many green sea turtles. Kaanapali Beach’s sea turtles are truly a sight you won’t want to miss out on and is a Maui must see!

Kaanapali Beach Sunsets - Never miss a Maui sunset. The sunsets here are worth a trip to Hawaii all by itself.

3. Road to Hana

There are many road to Hana stops you should see so remember to start your road trip to Hana early in the morning because navigating this windy road with it's many twist and turns can sometimes be challenging.

Twin Falls - Located at Road to Hana’s Mile Marker 2, these waterfalls are a sight you should definitely check out. It costs $10 to park at Twin Falls. You can even swim here and cliff jumping at Twin falls is possible but be sure to check the depth for debris.

4. Northwest Maui ‍♂️

The hidden gems of northwest Maui are incredible. Here you’ll find the Maui Pipeline, otherwise called Punalau Beach. This beach is quite rocky but the surfing here during the winter months is home to 20ft waves!

5. Iao Valley

Entrance fee to Iao Valley is $5 with a $25 parking fee.

Easy path options include a paved path that takes you to the Iao Needle lookout point.

Iao Valley’s history is vast and as you hike through the rainforest you’ll pass by many flowers and green trees heading down the trail to the Iao stream. There are several hidden trails of Iao Valley so be careful not to get lost as accidents do happen.