Maui might be 727 square miles but every corner, real and metaphorical, is unique,and every part should be explored. Here are 6 awesome ways to see Maui and to drink up its diversity and beauty:

 

1. Hana Tour

Explore Hana in the best way: with local tour guides with a tour company owned and operated by born and raised Hana locals with Hana and Beyond.

From here, you’ll swoon at vast views of the Pacific, the island’s volcanic coastline, and its spectacular vegetation. You’ll also be treated to vistas of hidden waterfalls. Though the majority of sites along the Road to Hana currently don’t require reservations, Waiʻānapanapa State Park (the black sand beach), requires parking and entry reservations.

 

2. Past: Feast at Mokapu Lu’au

Maui’s present has plenty to offer, from award-winning restaurants to a thriving art scene. And yet, it’s the island’s intricate past that gives Maui its distinct taste. The Andaz Luau, held in front of Mokapu Beach on the south shore, is one of your tickets to diving in.

From fresh flower lei greetings to traditional Hawaiian food to splendid entertainment, this luau plunges into Maui’s myths, magic, and culture.

 

3. Sea: Makena Sunset Cruise

Maui’s golden hour is a sight to behold and is exceptionally appreciated aboard a boat. The Kai Kanani provides just this on their sunset cruise. Departing out of one of the prettiest beaches on the island, Makena’s Maluaka, the cruise glides towards the horizon amid ukulele stylings, libations, and delicious food from The Spoon & Key Market.

Visit the island during whale season and you’ll also most likely see a tail or two (from late November through April, with peak between January and March.)

 

4. Forbidden Coast: La Perouse

The “newest” part of Maui was believed to have been formed between the years of 1480 and 1600. This is revealed in La Perouse, on the island’s far south side, an area defined by stunning fields of lava, rocky beaches, and a downright gorgeous coastline. You’ll be able to see just this on a tour with Redline Rafting Co., a super-fun boating outfit that takes ocean lovers out into the sea in 35-foot rafts that are specially built for both safety and exhilaration.

Before seeing La Perouse’s underwater grottos and ancient lava flows, you’ll stop at the world-renowned Molokini Crater for snorkeling, where you’ll have the chance to view marine species in their natural habitat. In other words, it’ll be a day for the record books.

Know before you go! The ‘Āhihi-Kīna‘u area is a Natural Area Reserve with strict protections, including no taking marine life (no fishing), and restrictions on motorized vessels in reserve waters. Taking a tour is the best way to go in order to stay within legal areas and snorkeling/diving within regulations.

 

5. Largest Volcano: Haleakala Sunrise Tour

Haleakala isn’t just striking from the shoreline; it’s one of the most dazzling places on the island. Towering over 10,000 feet in the air, the island’s largest volcano can feel unbelievably still and quiet. Haleakala also delivers sunrises so spectacular that they have become one of the most coveted activities on the island. Indulge your eyes, and get another taste of the island’s culture, with a Haleakala Sunrise Tour. If you’re not taking a tour, reservations are required for vehicles entering the summit district 3:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m., booked on Recreation.gov (and they’re hard to get!)

Following the event (for that’s exactly what it is), you’ll enjoy a nice ride down the mountain with outstanding views of Maui’s central valley followed by a meal at Cafe O’Lei at the Maui Tropical Plantation in Waikapu, which offers beautiful views of Waikapu Valley and the botanical gardens.

 

6. Private charter

Ok, so you’ve already done a sunset sail and La Perouse.  But with a private charter with Maui Custom Charters, you can explore anywhere you want!  Head to Upper West Maui, check out snorkeling along the Pali, or head to Molokini! Though Lahaina Harbor has reopened to some commercial operations, Ma’alaea Harbor is still the go to.

After your sail, arrive back at Ma’alaea Harbor for some drinks and incredible lunch or dinner from Maui’s famed Chef Zach Sato at Havens Harborside Fish & Chophouse. Havens Harborside Fish & Chophouse brings fresh catch and prime cuts to a heightened level. The elevated deck provides sunset views across the harbor to Lana’i, while Chef Zach Sato’s kitchen turns out local fish with traditional preparations and steaks from a 1600-degree broiler. Daily happy hour 3-5pm, dinner service includes free valet.

It’s also a great spot to watch surf contests at the bar!