Here are some of the more offbeat and unique things to do in Maui that many tourists don’t know about. If you’re looking to go past the touristy stuff and find a few more of the unusual activities, this article is for you.
Maui may be a small island, but it packs in tons of different landscapes and even more activities, food to try, places to visit, and interesting adventures than you would think possible. Everyone wants to go to the beach in Maui – and I’m sure everyone will – but Maui’s beautiful beaches are best coupled with a few more unique things to do also.
So read on for the most interesting Maui activities – from secluded farms to getting behind the scenes at tourist places, from markets locals shop at to learning traditional ways to catch fish… here are the most unique things to do in Maui.
If you are looking for some true Maui hidden gems and local spots, check this article too!
And make sure to book a unique Maui stay with your unique things to do.
Check Out Surfing Goat Dairy
Who doesn’t appreciate cheese?! Well, maybe those that are lactose intolerant, but anyways – goat cheese is one of the many kinds of cheese out there with a smooth texture and taste like no other. But where does it come from?
Well, at Surfing Goat Dairy, you can visit the goats of the farm that produce the cheese we all know and love. In addition, visitors can sign up for a casual farm tour or even participate in goat milking! Yep, you heard that right – a farm tour (starting from only $15) and a visit to the source of this cheese make this one of the most unique things to do in Maui.
Visit the Maui Honey Bee Sanctuary
As we should all know, bees are a necessary and crucial part of our earth’s ecosystems – and the Maui Honey Bee Sanctuary brings this awareness about with the most fun. Come and learn how to make beeswax, interact with live bees (yes, you’ll be wearing the suit!), and even join for harvest day (be sure to check the website for the date!)
Even if you may not be interested in a tour, support the sanctuary by leaving a donation or shopping their products such as honey, lip balms, and oil sprays. Or book a tour here for a truly unique experience not many people on Maui get.
Take a Pineapple Tour
If you haven’t seen pineapple plants before – you might not expect them to look as they do! These delicious fruits have quite a unique appearance before they’re plucked to be consumed – and if you’re a pineapple lover, then this is one of the unique things to do in Maui you won’t want to miss.
You’ll get a tour of the historic farm, learn its history, sample different kinds, and of course, receive a free pineapple direct from the farm for every guided tour!
Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
While Hawaii is known for its lush tropical greenery – this is one of the unique things to do in Maui that breaks this mold with a lavender farm! Besides being able to visit the gardens, they also sell lavender-infused beauty products and meals. If you decide to go, plan your trip carefully as they are only open for a few days and select hours a week.
Try FootGolf on the Ka’anapali Golf Course
We all know soccer and golf – but what happens when we combine them? FootGolf! You heard it first from us, and we’re here for it! If you need further explanation, it’s just as it sounds. Using a soccer ball, you aim to kick it into the designated holes on a golf course. It’s an excellent activity for any age, and in comparison to many activities on Maui, it’s pretty inexpensive, so don’t be afraid and give it a kick!
Dive with Sharks at the Maui Ocean Center (or Visit Behind the Scenes)
If you’ve ever dreamt of diving with sharks – this is your chance to dive with over 20 sharks, undoubtedly making this one of the most unusual things to do in Maui. The three-hour experience includes 30 minutes of dive time and all the gear you need to complete the dive – plus education about the same species that are so dear to our ecosystems despite people’s fears. With only four spaces available per day, this is a highly exclusive experience, so be sure to book your spot ahead of time!
Stargaze (and Camp) on Haleakala Volcano
For outdoor adventurers, one of the most unique things to do in Maui has to be hiking the dormant Haleakala Volcano and stargazing – some even decide to go camping underneath the starry sky. Be sure to spot the designated camping areas before coming, and bring all the gear you need to make the most comfortable and incredible star-gazing experience!
If you want to book a stargazing tour that doesn’t stay overnight (so you can go back to the comfort of a nice room like these unique places to stay in Maui), check out the renowned tours by Maui stargazing.
Spot Sea Turtles on an Outrigger Canoe Tour
This is different from your ordinary canoeing! Enjoy outrigger canoeing in Wailea Point while viewing the incredible coral-reef life, including a variety of fish and one of the most precious ocean creatures, sea turtles!
On this unique tour you’ll also learn about the sport and art of canoe paddling in Polynesian culture in addition to the sights in the ocean. What a perfect combo: adventure, wildlife, AND culture!
Visit the Sugar Museum
This is one of the unique things to do in Maui that is perfect for museum lovers – the Sugar Museum. Maui is FULL of sugar cane fields that made an impact on the island’s land and industry. The museum honors various aspects of sugar and sugar cane history, from the immigrants that came to work, the mark plantations left on Hawaii, and the process of bringing about the sweet substance the world can’t get enough of.
Old Lahaina Luau
One of the best aspects of travel is the food and culture! And when in Maui, skip the shows at your resort and opt for a more traditional experience. Visit the Old Lāhainā Lūʻau and experience authentic Hawaiin culture from the food, the music, and the dance, all while enjoying beautiful ocean views.
Island Art Party (Paint and Sip)
At the Island Art Party – two timeless relaxing activities are fused into one – painting and drinking! Come and learn some new creative skills while being guided to paint a calming Hawaiian scene. There are also sessions for families and children – so this isn’t only for your aunt, who loves a great glass of wine! Check out the schedule on their website and register.
Hawaii Mermaid Adventures
For ocean lovers, becoming a mermaid may be a dream – but now it can be made into reality here in Hawaii! All you need to be is a strong swimmer, and you’re prepared to begin your mermaid training. This activity isn’t just for the kids; both men and women can come along to fulfill a lifelong fantasy and swim the oceans with a beautiful fin. Photos are included with each session for the memory!
Horseback Riding
Experience ranch life and island views in Maui with a guided tour on horseback. View the fantastic Maui coastlines in a way you haven’t before, and breathe the fresh ocean air like it was meant to be! A well-rated horseback tour in Maui like this one will bring you to ocean and waterfall views you wouldn’t reach on foot.
Drink Pineapple Wine at Maui’s only Winery
In 1977 this winery launched their first ever pineapple wine – meaning they have over 40 years of perfecting their craft! MauiWine today offers a large variety of wines, such as sparkling, pineapple, and raspberry. Of course, they also offer tours and tastings, so make a reservation for this exceptional unique Maui experience.
Maui Swap Meet
What better way to support the local markets than by visiting the Maui Swap Meet? Known for being a place to find great gifts, it’s also famous for the street food – it’s a two-for-one! Happening every Saturday morning, be sure to schedule this to browse through interesting local arts, crafts, foods, and other fun bits and bobs.
Maui Humane Society’s “Beach Buddies” Program (Take a Dog Out for the Day)
If you’re missing your pup from home (shhh, they’ll never know) or you just have a big heart and love dogs, here’s something unique to do on Maui where you can really make a difference for an adorable pup! To take a dog out, you must register ahead of time – but in case the Beach Buddies program is full, there’s also Dog on Demand, where you can visit the dogs on-site.
Ultimately, the most essential aspect of this program is providing a dog much-needed joy and, of course, making the most of your Maui travels.
Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery
With 80 acres of land boasting over 30 types of Polynesian sugarcane, the Ocean Organic Vodka Farm is open every day. Come and take a tour, sample the unusual sugarcane vodka, and get a bottle to take home! They’ve also recently opened a cafe with fresh foods and refreshing cocktails for a special hint of relaxation during your visit.
So if spirits are something you’re passionate about and you’re seeking unique things to do in Maui, don’t skip this destination! Or if you visited the sugar museum and want to see what other fun things they can do with sugar cane, head on down.
ATV Adventure in the West Maui Mountains
Enjoy Maui’s breathtaking ocean views and mountainous scenery in the most exciting way – ATV-style! This adventurous ATV tour takes you a bit farther off the beaten track in Maui to the West Mountains – a place not everyone reaches. Enjoy views of the island and volcanoes on these rugged tracks for a fun adventure.
Puakena Coconut Farm Tour
While those on the mainland of the United States are paying $4 + dollars for a can of the sweet nectar of coconuts – in Hawaii, they’re a part of the lifestyle! At the Puakena Coconut Farm Tour, those who love a refreshing sip of coconut water are in for a special treat and will get straight to the source.
You’ll learn how to open a coconut properly, identify the maturity stages of coconuts, and how to use them in your culinary endeavors. The farms also offer a quick visit option to swing by for some coconut water or a coconut milk iced coffee. Whatever you’d like to visit for, be sure to inquire ahead of time to plan your trip!
Visit a Local Farmer’s Market at Queen Ka’ahumanu Center in Kahului
With so much natural abundance in Hawaii – from fruits to vegetables, it’s a no-brainer to visit the Farmer’s Market at Queen Ka’ahumanu Center. Especially if you may be staying in Hawaii on an extended trip and want to prepare your own food, take care of your body, and directly support farmers, then this market is for you! It’s definitely one of the unique things to do in Maui, where you can truly live like a local.
Get some Zen at Kahanu Garden
If you’re the type of person that can’t stop filling your home with plants – you may want to avoid here…or jump right in! The Kahuna Garden welcomes visitors to stroll, breathe the fresh air, and tour various Pacific Island plants and vegetation in the gardens.
Harvest your Own Meal at O’o Farm
We’ve all heard of farm-to-table – but how many of us genuinely go out to the farm for our products to have them prepared for us? Well, now you can truly go farm-to-table with this experience at O’o Farm. The farm tour includes picking and harvesting your own produce, where the chefs at the farm will then prepare a dish with what you picked yourself!
Waterfall Rappelling
Adventure lovers seeking unique things to do in Maui may have just met their match – waterfall rappelling! If you’re a beginner – don’t fret, as professional guides will ensure you grow the confidence and skills to rappel down a 50-foot waterfall into a natural pool of water during this experience! In addition to this thrilling activity, you’ll experience the lush jungles of Maui hiking your way to the rappelling location.
Try Julia’s Banana Bread
Julia gets it – banana bread is incredible, and with that, she opened a whole business to sell this fantastic treat! Visit Julia’s Banana Bread while driving the Kahekili highway and try the banana bread that is famous Maui-wide. Make sure to also check out the other local products such as passionfruit jam, dried mangos, and different flavors of lemonade.
Do a Whale Watching Tour
Maui makes for an exciting and unforgettable whale-watching destination. With various tours available, from large or small group tours from different parts of the island to simply watching the whales or staying abroad for lunch, you can choose what fits your needs from this page here. With so many tour options, you can even find tours that go above and beyond, including experiences such as snorkeling or drinking from an open bar.
Peddle Kayak (or Kayak Whale Watching)
Free yourself from the large group boat tours and head off in a peddle kayak to experience Maui’s fantastic ocean life. You can even go whale watching this way if the above option doesn’t interest you!
Maui Arts and Cultural Center Cinema Under the Stars
At the Maui Arts and Cultural Center, you can watch a nighttime movie for free. Who doesn’t love free?! Register ahead of time for the movie viewing, and that’s right, there’s no cost, making it an awesome option of the free things to do in Maui. The Starry Night Cinema takes the theatre and moves it outside for a memorable community viewing experience.
“Hawaii in a Bottle” at the Hali’imaile Distillery
Voted Hawaii’s #1 Distilled Liquor in 2021 by Honolulu’s Star-Advertiser, it seems Hali’imaile Distillery indeed achieved creating “Hawaii in a Bottle” with all local ingredients. For an interesting upcountry Maui activity, you can reserve a tour by inquiring on their website.
Blowhole Point at Nakalele
In this world, we always have something to the -est, such as the tallest building, the largest ocean, or the smelliest fruit (durian, we’re looking at you). And here, one of the unique things to do in Maui is view the world’s largest blowhole! The eight-foot opening of the blowhole shoots water as high as 90 feet into the air, impressing the visiting crowds. But be sure not to get too close as it can be dangerous.
Try Coconut Beer at Maui Brew Co
We’ve covered wine and spirits – it’s time to give another beloved alcohol some recognition, craft beer! With coconut being such a coveted fruit in the culture of Hawaii, be sure to try a coconut beer at one of Maui Brew Co restaurants or visit the brewery and discover their experiences.
Explore Maui in an Old Porsche
Take yourself back into a classic Hollywood movie vibe by cruising along the landscapes of Maui in modern reproductions of the 1957 Porsche 356 Speedster Convertible. Vintage car enthusiasts won’t want to miss this opportunity to experience Maui in such an unforgettable fashion with Maui Roadsters.
Zipline at Haleakala National Park
Who doesn’t love a good flight? And we’re talking about something other than the ones that leave you delayed before even heading to your destination. Nope – we’re talking about flying high above the green scenery of Haleakala National Park.
So if you love a good zipline experience, this one’s for you! The Haleakala zipline includes five different lines at varying heights with adventurous rope bridges, hikes, and views.
Haleki’i-Pihana Heisau State Monument
History and culture lovers will love this one – the Haleki’i-Pihana Heisau State Monument. With two important religious sites dedicated to Hawaiian chiefs, getting a peer into Hawaii’s history is worth the stop.
Candlelit Tour of the Baldwin Home Museum
The home of the Balwin’s was an active place in the 1800s for travelers and the community. Come in the evening for a special candlelit tour to learn the history of this preserved historical site in Maui.
Do a Scenic Flight… or Even Pilot a Plane!
There’s nothing more special than experiencing a destination from above and taking a scenic flight or even learning to pilot a plane. So grab your camera and abandon your land legs; it’s time to fly high!
There are a few options for scenic flights in Maui. You can take a helicopter tour around the more rugged West Maui or you can even sign up with one of a few flight schools on the island to learn how to fly yourself.
Mystery Maui Escape Room
While Maui is loaded with the best outdoor adventures, sometimes it’s nice to transport yourself into an airconditioned space and a whole other story. Check out Mystery Maui Escape Room and work with your friends and family to escape before time runs out!
