Start A Molokini Excursion At Kihei Boat Landing
If epic snorkeling is on your Maui bucket list, youre going to want to plan some time at Molokini Crater in Maui. Its beautiful, clear waters have a visibility of up to 150 feet, making it the perfect place to see over 250 different kinds of colorful fish, says Karee of Our Woven Journey.
There are several boat tours that leave from the Kihei Boat Landing, and most include snorkeling gear, along with breakfast and lunch. All you need to do is show up in Kihei ready to spend a gorgeous day exploring one of the most famous snorkeling locations in the world!
Free Things To Do On Maui
As promised, Im back this week with another post about free things to do in Hawaii. Over the past month, Ive been working my way around the Hawaiian islands, researching the best things to do for free, so make sure to check out my posts, 10 Free Things To Do On Kauai, 10 Free Things To Do On The Big Island, and 8 Free Things To Do On Oahu.
This week, Im focusing on Maui, The Valley Isle.
After much research, Ive come up with the ultimate list of free things to do in Maui. There are many free parks and trails in Maui, and there is even a winery that you can take a free tour of! If you budget is tight or if youre just curious, read on.
Things To Do In Kihei
Today, Kihei is the second most populous town on Maui, and a favorite among visitors seeking sunshine, sand, budget accommodations, great restaurants, fun nightlife and a wide range of activities. We highly recommend attending Februarys annual World Whale Day celebration at Kalama Park, as well as everyday activities such as practicing your surf skills at The Cove, sampling Mauis best brews at Maui Brewing Company, enjoying ono grinds at Taqueria Cruz and Kihei Caffe, listening to live music and dancing at The Triangle, sunset lounging at Kamaole III or strolling Sugar Beach, and swimming at one of the areas many beaches, among other notable attractions.
You May Like: Fun Things To Do In Tallahassee Fl For Adults
Visit Black Rock Beach
Situated at the northern end of a hotel strip in Kaanapali, Black Rock Beach is a great spot to visit for swimming, laying out, and snorkeling.
We brought our snorkeling gear, plenty of snacks for the afternoon and spent a couple of hours swimming around the lava rocks where we saw colorful fish and corals. If you like cliff diving, you can walk down to the end of the rocks where you can enjoy a bit of exciting cliff jumping.
The only challenging part about visiting this beach is the lack of parking. The beachfront is blocked off by hotels, although there are some public parking lots and paths that you can take to get through.
Cost:Free
Location: Lahaina, HI 96761
Kihei 4th Friday Town Party
All visitors and residents are invited to check out the Kihei Town parties every 4th Friday of the month! Its a great monthly community event on Maui to partake in for those that are looking for a night of activities to do with their families, friends, and loved ones.
Every month, guests can expect to enjoy local food and shopping vendors, a live artist showcase, guest speakers, dancing, keiki events, live music, and more. Each month, the entertainment is new and different, so this event is always super engaging and fun. Located at the Azeka Shopping Center, this event is free for all ages and usually begins around 6 pm.
Maui Friday Town Parties take place all over the island every week! Check out 1st Fridays in Wailuku, 2nd Fridays in Lahaina, 3rd Fridays in Makawao, 4th Fridays in Kihei, and 5th Fridays in Lanai City on the outer Island of Lanai.
Don’t Miss: Things To Do In Biloxi For Families
Rice Park & Kula Farms
Cost: Free
If you need a reprieve from the steamy temperatures, take a ride upcountry to a cooler climate and different landscapes. In upcountry Maui, youll see towering pine trees and huge cactus plants instead of palms as you drive down the country roads. Plus, youll find loads of free and inexpensive things to do in this part of Maui.
In Kula, about halfway to the peak of Haleakala, is Harold Rice Park . There isnt much to the park just a big grassy field with a few park benches. But the view from Rice Park is arguably one of the best on the island, and the sunsets from this vantage are incomparable.
Taking a ride on an old cardboard box down the sloping grass at Rice Park is good for some cheeky fun with your kids and quite a workout on the way back up too.
Just across the street from Rice Park is Kula Country Farms. This family-run farm has an abundance of fresh and organic fruits and veggies. Its also the only place on Maui where you can pick your own strawberries.
In the fall, the whole place turns into a gigantic pumpkin patch. The kids have a blast running through the fields to find the perfect carving pumpkin and taking pictures in the Halloween-themed displays. No matter the time of year, though, its always great to support local Hawaiian businesses and enjoy organic foods straight from the farm.
Relax In A Funky Surf Town
One of the absolute must things to do in Maui is to spend time relaxing in a cool surf townand Paia is a perfect choice. With its beachy boutiques, stunning waterfronts and fresh fish restaurants, It is definitely the epitome of a funky, cool town. It is also a great place to start on the Road to Hana.
Consider an overnighter at the trendy Paia Inn, which Conde Nast named as having one of the Worlds Sexiest Hotel Staffs.
Don’t Miss: Fun Things To Do In Queens
Best Things To Do In Kihei
Facing west on the leeward foot of Mauis vast Haleakal, Kihei is a beach destination with few equals.
Theres a consistently hot and dry climate, exhilarating panoramas of the nearby islands, and a long chain of gorgeous white sandy beaches.
In fact youve got so many great beaches close by that it feels like an injustice to leave some out of this list.
Still, if you spent a whole trip to Kihei lounging on the sand, you would miss out on some once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
In the winter months humpback whales migrate to these waters, and can be seen from land or on a whale-spotting cruise.
Other opportunities for ecotourism abound, at Molokini, a sunken crater that contains a reef supporting hundreds of fish species, or kayaking among dolphins and green turtles.
Try Some Island Delights
Another spot on the road to Hana, Paia is one of the best places to stop during the drive for some delicious Hawaiian food. Paia is a small town that packs a bunch with its island flavors. Mamas Fish House and Paia Fish Market are local favorites for the freshest food imaginable.
If you want to really get into the island foodie scene, consider doing a Maui food tour. This one includes stops at 7 of Mauis best restaurants. Yum!
Don’t Miss: Things To Do In Coppell Tx
Maui Whale Watching Tour
COST: $30
One of the best things to do in Maui on a budget is to go on a whale watching tour. Official whale season runs December 15th-May 15th and this is one of the best tims to visit Maui.
Every year the North Pacific Humpback Whale migrates from the frigid temperatures of Alaska to the warm waters of Hawaii to give birth to their young. Its an amazing experience to watch the whales breech and frolic in the ocean.
The best part may be the price, as a ticket is priced around $30 per person. A cheap fair for such an incredible Maui adventure. Plus if you are traveling Maui with kids, toddlers are usually free.
Where To Stay In Kihei Maui
Now that you know what to do in Kihei Maui, lets talk about accommodations. There are tons of options places to stay in Kihei for all price points.
Our top pick is the Kohea Kai, which is part of the Ascend Hotel Group. They have an array of rooms to accommodate families of all sizes.
Theres also the Maui Vista, which has a full kitchen and washer/dryer in the unit. Plus, its just a 5 minute walk to the beach.
And the Kihei Surfside Resort is a beachfront property in a beautiful location.
Also Check: Free Things To Do In New Orleans Tonight
Delicious Places To Eat And Fun Things To Do In Kihei Maui
Are you one of three million people visiting Maui this year? Whether youre staying in nearby Wailea or just starting your Hawaii travel planning, this guide of things to do in Kihei Maui is for you!
Weve been to Maui multiple times, and on a group trip, we rented a house in a Kihei neighborhood one street from the beach. It was a wonderful way to have a more authentic Hawaii experience, and by sharing a 5 bedroom house with 4 other couples, a Hawaii vacation actually fit in everyones budget! So if you think that a trip to paradise might be too rich for your budget, vacation rentals are a way to save a lot of money in an expensive destination.
Speaking of staying on budget during a vacation, nothing can bust a budget more than forgetting things at home. Thats especially true in Maui, as most items in Hawaii are more expensive, not just because of touristy shops, but everything has to be shipped or flown onto the islands. So after you book your hotel and flights, make sure to create a Maui packing list too!
Hike In A Bamboo Forest
Haleakala National Park Kipahulu Section is currently closed from 5 pm on Friday to 9 am on Monday. Please stay out of the park on the weekend.
Located on the back side of Haleakala National Park, drive 12 miles past the town of Hana to the Kipahulu side of the park. To experience one of the islands most jaw-droppingly beautiful hikes, take the 4 mile roundtrip hike along the neighboring Pipiwai Trail. You will traverse through lush rainforest, leading you to a giant banyan tree, then cool off in a thick bamboo forest before you finally get to see Waimoku Falls, an impressive 400 ft. waterfall.
Local tip
Drive slowly because endangered birds are present. Also, make sure there are no flash flood warnings. Remain on paths at all times! Bring a camera, swim and towel.
Don’t Miss: Fun Things To Do In Northern Virginia This Weekend
Things To Do In Kihei Maui: 9 Places To Eat Or Grab A Drink
Whether youre coming to Kihei for the day, travel through on your way to other Maui activities, or are staying in town, there are so many fantastic places to eat or grab a drink. Since its been a bit of time since Ive been to Kihei Maui myself, my fellow travel bloggers were kind enough to send me some of their favorite places. You cant go wrong with these nine Kihei places, so come hungry!
Visit Lhain Banyan Court
Planted in 1873 by William Owen Smith, the Lhain Banyan Tree is one of the largest Banyan trees in the US. If youve never experienced seeing a Banyan tree up close, it is quite the sight and the Lhain Banyan Court Park is the best place to do so in Maui.
The Lhain Banyan Tree spans across the entire city block. A park has been built around it to provide space for visitors to walk around and enjoy its beauty. There are also benches for resting and public restrooms across the street.
This Banyan tree has aerial roots that grow in all directions and turn into tree trunks once they reach the ground. While it looks like there are 16 different trees at the Lhain Banyan Court, all of the tree trunks are part of the same original tree.
Cost: Free to visit
Location: 671 Front St, Lahaina, HI 96761
Also Check: Things To Do In Alabama With Kids
Swim Under A Waterfall
Cost: Free
Did you actually travel to Maui if you didnt swim underneath a waterfall? Maui does not have a shortage of waterfalls and there are several waterfalls that form a pool perfect for swimming.
One of the best places to swim under a waterfall on Maui is at Twin Falls. Located at the beginning of the iconic road to Hana, Twin Falls is located just after Haiku. Twin Falls is one of the most popular stops on the road to Hana due to its accessibility as its a short, family friendly hike.
Turtle Reef Kayak Tour Of Makena
What could be more fun than kayaking in the ocean? Join this Maui Kayak Tour where youll paddle atop Turtle Reef and snorkel in their tropical underwater world. Youre guaranteed to encounter marine life like endangered green sea turtles!
During your adventure, enjoy a scenic view of Haleakala Crater that will make any worries disappear. It doesnt matter if its your first time or youre an experienced pro come join this amazing experience!
Don’t Miss: Things To Do In Houston For Your Anniversary
Go For A Drive Through Cattle Country To Tedeschi Winery
Check out Maui’s cattle country with a drive to Tedeschi Winery. It’s Maui’s only winery, and in addition to all the normal grape-based wines, they also make a pineapple wine that is delish! They offer free tours and wine tastings daily. The drive out here is gorgeous – and the views of Maalaea Bay on the way back are stunning!
See The Black Sand At Honokalani Beach
Its not like anyone really needs a break from soft white sand beaches, but if you want to check out an interesting and equally beautiful beach with black sand, head over to Honokalani beach. Its located within Waianapanapa State Park on the Road to Hana, which is free to visit but has some parking fees.
The sand gets its deep black color from millions of years of volcanic ash and lava. The texture is neat, too!
Read More
You May Like: Unique Things To Do In Central Florida
Annual Events On Maui By Month
The following Maui events are generally held at about the same times each year. For more information and exact dates for this year, call the numbers below or check the given websites for each event.
See photos below Maui Calendar list.
Keep in mind that many of these events have changed since COVID-19 hit the world. Some are gone forever, but we dont know yet. Some have stopped for a year or 2 and will be back. Some are running right now!
Famous Banyan Tree In Maui
Okay so youll see Banyan trees all across Hawaii. But what makes the Banyan tree in Lahaina so cool?
How about its 16 trunks. Or the fact that its larger than a city block, covering nearly 2 acres.
Yes, one tree! So grab some lunch and have a picnic under the massive tree. Its also one of my favorite things to do in Maui with kids! They love to swing from its natural swaying branches. Its a sight in Maui not to miss.
Recommended Reading: Things To Do In Brooklyn At Night
Bonus: How To Get Half
So now you know how to save a ton of money, with the best Maui activities on a budget of zero.
But, in case there are also a few things you’d like to do that cost money, here is a great way to get half-price tickets on popular attractions:
The A3H Gold Card.
I recently bought one for our upcoming trip, and have already saved $402 via half-price tickets for my family of 4.
Now, you don’t have to go crazy like I did and buy so many of these cheap tickets, but all it takes is buying a few tickets to make this $30 card a fantastic deal.
Home> Discount Maui Vacation> Maui Activities on a Budget
Did you find my site helpful? Please spread the word and share it with others!
Would you prefer to share this page with others by linking to it?
Shop At The Kihei Kalama Village Shops
Known for its great variety of shopping options Kihei has goods to satisfy everyone from the souvenir seeker to the Fashionista.
For gifts with a Hawaiian flare visit Kihei Kalama Village in south Kihei, where you can find dozens of great trinkets, soaps, jams, coffee, handbags, jewelry, wines, condiments and handiwork from local artisans.
Flowing pareos with tropical motifs and type-dye patterns fill racks with every color of the rainbow. Swimsuits, towels with a Maui logo and T-shirts designed with catchy phrases abound as vendors put forth the brightest of their collections. The many fashion boutiques around the village are great options for those looking for more trendy designs.
After strolling the aisles, take a break at one of the many cafes, bars or restaurants in and around the Kihei Kalama Village. Coffee, sweets and treats are also readily available and can provide that extra boost of energy to get your shopping done.
Also Check: Best Things To Do In Biscayne National Park
