5 Must Do Activities When Visiting Maui

"Now we are of an age where we do not try to accumulate experiences but instead to slow down and expose our senses to the wonders around us as we immerse ourselves in experiences."

We recently spend two weeks in Maui and once we stepped on the island, we became bombarded with possibilities. It didn't take long to realize the opportunities are limitless but also to recognize our bank account was not. So we had to prioritize and eliminate.

About us

My husband and I are retired and both in our sixties. We live in Idaho and spend large chunks of time in the mountains enjoying outdoor activities such as snowmobiling, riding four wheelers, hiking, fishing, and even have a zip line behind our cabin. We often take road trips on our Harleys and love to glide through nature absorbing the sights and sounds of a new environment. We like to cruise and also own an RV that allows us to travel for long period and take home with us. Yes, we are truly blessed with opportunities.

However, as this was our first trip to Hawaii the decision of how to spend our time required some research and thought. We established three criteria.

1. Experience the culture
2. Explore the environment
3. Relax

Prior to retirement, we both lived in a fast paced world that allowed for little time to simply sit back and appreciate our blessings. When we traveled, we always felt like we had to do it all, see everything, and never waste a minute. Now we are of an age where we do not try to accumulate experiences but instead to slow down and expose our senses to the wonders around us as we immerse ourselves in experiences.

This mindset governs our decisions. So over two weeks we spend time by the pool, played shuffleboard, walked around the area and took naps on the beach but also made sure to experience the adventure the island offered. Two weeks is a generous amount of time and at the end of the fortnight these are our five favorite activities that met the above criteria.

Beach days - and nights

Take time to appreciate the ocean. Since we are from the west coast our ocean experiences have been cold and windy. In Maui, it is possible to enjoy the waves comfortably. Though I offer one caution learned from experience, DO NOT TURN YOUR BACK TO THE WAVES; they sneek up on you. We found that using a floatation device helped with relaxation and safety when not paying attention.

Of course take plenty of sunscreen because as we discovered, it is easy to be lolled to sleep. In fact, I was so relaxed at one point a bird landed on my head. When I moved in surprise he alighted not far and looked a little annoyed.

My personal recommendation is to watch the sunset in the ocean. I do not mean to sit on the beach and watch it disappear but to actually stand with the water chest high and be a part of the beauty as the sun paints a tapestry in the sky.

Luau and aquarium

I will be painfully honest; the luaus are expensive. At first we decided to pass but after sleeping on our decision a couple of nights we couldn't imagine going home without the experience. A luau provided an authentic Hawaii experience.

Thanks to our hotel concierge, we found a new one that offered some perks that made the evening even more memorable. With our purchase came three free drinks per person, admission to the aquarium, a nut lei for the men and a beautiful floral clip for the ladies, entertainment, and a delicious buffet.

Our evening was hosted by a native family who wanted to keep the traditions alive and share them with tourist. They sang songs about the history of the islands accompanied by dancers with accomplished skills and hand gestures that narrated the stories, and the evening ended with a fire dancer.

On this evening the event took place in a restaurant adjacent to the aquarium that overlooked the water, an enchanting setting.

The aquarium provided another fascinating opportunity. Since my snorkeling abilities are non-existent, this allowed me to marvel at the beauty under the sea without getting my head wet. I tried snorkeling once, that is another story, but I can honestly say it's not my thing. Our companions enjoy snorkeling and they also loved this place.

Haleakala Bike Tour

Twenty-three miles is a long bike ride but when the road is all downhill the journey combines adventure with pleasure. Our party was escorted up the moutain in a bus ride that was narrated by a touoir guide with a humor. The information provided astonished us and made us laugh.

Did you know there is a plant that only grows on Maui at above 5000 feet? Once some unsavory tourist dug up several and carried them down the moutain but when they approaced 5,000 feet, the plants shriveled and died. Yes, they were prosecuted!

On our ride the weather was cool but we didn't need a coat as it grew warmer as we descended. Because the weather can change quickly warm attire is recommended. It was exhilarating to move through the clouds and then breakout into the sunshine.

The Bike Tour met all our needs. The bikes were well maintained, helmets were provided, and directions were eay to follow. At the top of the mountain, we observed effects of the volcano from the last eruption. Since we were at 9,000 feet, truely the top of the world, our guide taught us to virually parachute for this fun picture.

Virtual skydiving - the closest I will ever come to the real thing.

Shopping

Walking through a town reveals the culture and enhances the flavor of the community. In Paia, we encountered a more rural environment while Lihaina provided a touist destination with a commercial feel bubbling with energy. I would encourage a trip to both or several different areas of the island because traveling just a few miles in any direction provides drastic differences.

Both of the two Saturdays on the island we visited the swap meet. It had everything imaginable. We returned the second day for another icee smothered with mocha and coconut topped with carmel. Delish!!!!

We discovered this is a great place to purchase gifts for friends at home. And, don't forget to get a pineapple to barbecue for your evening meal. The local pineapples are much different than the Dole that we have on the mainland. They are much sweeter. I googled the recipe but simply drizzling it with local honey and sprinkle with cinnamon is all you need. This dessert left me drooling for more served with ice cream.

Note: The way to remember desert, an arid environment, is spelled with one 's' and dessert, sweet edibles, are spelled with two 'ss' is easy. Dessert has two because they always leave you wanting more.

Road to Hana

Take time to drive the road to Hana. It is windy; it has potholes; it can be crowded, but it is overwhelmingly breathtaking. Since I have a post specifically dedicated to our experience, I will post a link. If interested in exploring this adventure, you are invited to continue reading this article.

A Self-Guided Maui Tour is the Answer

A few pictures to share our experience and peek your curiosity.

Get up close to the power of nature. A photographer's dream.

There are limited places to stop for lunch so take a picnic lunch and enjoy the environment. Image from author's photo album.Numerous water falls can be seen from the road.

Aloaha from Maui.

Mahalo to Mary Ann and Glenn for making this trip possible.

While my husband drives, I write. This link shares many of our adventures.

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