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Day Trips & Excursions

Day Trips & Excursions

Hawaii, USA

Nearby Destinations

Maui serves as a good base for exploring its closest neighbor islands, Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi.

A daily ferry service, Expeditions, runs between Lahaina Harbor (Maui) and Mānele Bay (Lānaʻi). The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, making Lānaʻi an easy day trip. For Molokaʻi, flights from Kahului Airport (OGG) to Molokaʻi Airport (MKK) are available via Mokulele Airlines. There is no ferry service from Maui to Molokaʻi.

Lānaʻi & Molokaʻi Tips

  • Lānaʻi by ferry: daily service from Lahaina Harbor.
  • Rent a jeep on Lānaʻi for unpaved roads (4x4 recommended).
  • Molokaʻi access by flight only from OGG.
  • A full day suffices for Lānaʻi; consider an overnight for Molokaʻi.

Natural Escapes

Maui's natural wonders extend beyond its main roads, inviting unique adventures.

Molokini Crater

A crescent-shaped volcanic crater located off Maui's coast. It is a marine life conservation district, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life. Its unique shape protects snorkelers and divers from strong currents.

Molokini Activities

  • Snorkeling and scuba diving are main activities.
  • See colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.
  • Boat tours depart from Maʻalaea Harbor or Lahaina.

La Perouse Bay South Maui

This bay marks the southernmost point reachable by paved road on Maui. It is known for its stark lava fields, formed by Maui's last volcanic eruption around 1790. The clear waters here may bring dolphin sightings.

La Perouse Bay Exploration

  • Snorkeling in the calm waters.
  • Hiking along the King's Highway trail (historic lava rock path).
  • Enjoy the rugged coastal scenery.

Waiʻanapanapa State Park Road to Hana

Features

  • Unique Black Sand Beach (Honokalani Beach).
  • Dramatic Sea Caves.
  • Ocean Blowholes.
  • Scenic Coastal Trails.

Important Notes

  • Reservation for parking and entry.
  • Book online before your visit.
  • Limited capacity.
  • Consider as part of your Road to Hana trip.

Excursion Quick Facts

  • Molokini Crater3-5 hours
  • La Perouse Bay2-4 hours
  • Waiʻanapanapa State Park1-2 hours (as part of Hana trip)
  • Lānaʻi Day TripFull day
  • Molokaʻi Flight & ExploreFull day or overnight
  • Road to Hana (to Hana Town)10-12 hours
  • Iao Valley State Monument1-2 hours
  • Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum1-2 hours

Expert Tip

Consider a Molokini snorkeling tour. It showcases unparalleled clear waters and marine life viewing. Book in advance, especially during peak season.

Cultural Excursions

Connect with Hawaiian heritage through visits to culturally significant places.

Hana Town

A remote, traditional Hawaiian community. A glimpse into a slower, traditional Hawaiian way of life.

Iao Valley State Monument

A site of historic battle and natural beauty with the iconic ʻĪao Needle.

Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum

A fascinating look at Maui's sugar plantation history and its impact on the island.

Hana Town Journey

A remote, traditional Hawaiian community. Hana is the ultimate destination on the Road to Hana.

Hana Town Activities

  • Visit the Hana Cultural Center & Museum.
  • Explore Hasegawa General Store, a historic local landmark.
  • Relax at Hana Bay or the nearby Hamoa Beach.

Iao Valley Exploration

A site of historic battle and a place of natural beauty with the iconic ʻĪao Needle. It is a place of deep cultural significance.

Iao Valley Visit

  • Take short, paved walks to view ʻĪao Needle.
  • Learn about its history and enjoy lush valley scenery.
  • A short drive from Wailuku and Kahului.

Cultural Site Access & Time

Hana TownFull day, 10-12 hours (Road to Hana trip)
Iao Valley State Monument1-2 hours
Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum1-2 hours
Waiola Church/Cemetery1 hour
Hana Cultural Center1-2 hours
Paia Town Historic Exploration2-3 hours

Expert Tip

  • Consider an organized tour for the Road to Hana.
  • This enables you to relax and soak in the scenery without driving.
  • Tour operators often share historical and cultural insights.
  • They handle the navigation and parking complexities.
  • A tour brings a richer experience for many visitors.

Multi-Day Extensions

Extend your Hawaiian vacation by combining Maui with other islands or mainland destinations.

Island Hopping: Oʻahu

Oʻahu brings a different experience with its bustling capital, Honolulu, the famous Waikiki Beach, and historical sites like Pearl Harbor. It provides more urban attractions and diverse dining.

Oʻahu Travel Guide

  • Frequent inter-island flights (50-60 minutes).
  • Fly from Kahului Airport (OGG) to Honolulu (HNL).
  • Spend 3-5 days for city life, culture, and surf.

Island Hopping: Hawaiʻi Island Big Island

Hawaiʻi Island is the largest and youngest island. It brings active volcanoes within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park, black sand beaches, and a remarkable diversity of climate zones.

Hawaiʻi Island Exploration

  • Frequent inter-island flights from OGG.
  • Fly to Kona (KOA) on the west side or Hilo (ITO) on the east side.
  • Spend 3-5 days exploring volcanoes and diverse landscapes.

Suggested Routes

Consider combining Maui with other Hawaiian islands for a varied experience.

Maui & Oʻahu

  • Spend 5-7 days exploring Maui.
  • Then, fly to Oʻahu for 3-5 days.
  • Experience city life, culture, and surf.

Suggested Routes

Or, pair Maui with Hawaiʻi Island for active natural wonders.

Maui & Hawaiʻi Island

  • Spend 5-7 days on Maui.
  • Then, fly to the Big Island for 3-5 days.
  • Explore volcanoes and different landscapes.

Northern California / Pacific Northwest U.S. Mainland

For longer extensions, direct flights from OGG to major West Coast cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Seattle make combining a Hawaii trip with a mainland U.S. Visit a natural choice for U.S. Travelers. This brings a contrast between island relaxation and urban exploration.

Los Angeles

Direct flights from OGG offer easy access to Southern California's attractions.

San Francisco

A city and gateway to Northern California's diverse offerings.

Seattle

Explore the Pacific Northwest's natural beauty and urban culture.

Expert Tip

Book inter-island flights well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, for better availability and pricing.