Fun Activities in Maui: 5 Unforgettable Experiences (Including Glass Blowing!)

Discover the five most exhilarating and enriching activities in Maui, culminating with a truly unique offering: glass blowing. 

From sunrise treasures to oceanic marvels, our curated list blends tradition, adrenaline, artistry, and natural wonder. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or creativity, these fun activities in Maui will leave an indelible impression and make your Maui journey unforgettable.

1. Snorkeling & Scuba at Molokini Crater and Turtle Town

Maui’s underwater realm is second to none. We highly recommend two top-tier destinations for marine immersion. Here are two water-based fun activities to do in Maui:

Molokini Crater: Clear Water Wonder

• Depart from Maalaea Harbor or Wailea for a half-day snorkeling or scuba tour.
  
• The crescent-shaped, partially submerged volcanic crater offers visibility often exceeding 150 feet.
  
• You’ll drift among vibrant coral reefs and reef sharks, spotting parrotfish, tangs, and octopus.
• Book tours like the Sunrise Deluxe Snorkel through Kai Kanani for the best guided experience.

Turtle Town (South Maui): Sea Turtle Sanctuary

• Accessible from snorkel tours originating from Kihei or Wailea.
  
• Named for its frequent sightings of honu (sea turtles), this site features gentle reef slopes ideal for beginner swimmers.
  
• Other residents include moray eels, colorful reef fish, and native reef structure.

Best Practices: Use reef-safe sunscreen, never touch marine life, and go with certified guides who respect local conservation practices.

2. Road to Hāna: Scenic Journey and Hidden Gems

The Road to Hāna is more than a drive: it’s a living tapestry of rainforest, waterfalls, volcanic coastline, and Hawaiian heritage.

• The route spans 64.4 miles of twisty roads, over 600 curves, and 59 bridges.
  
• Twin Falls, Waikamoi Ridge Trail, Pua‘a Ka‘a State Wayside, Wai‘anapanapa Black Sand Beach, and Hāmoa Beach are perhaps the best highlights.
  
• Overnight or extended stays in Hāna allow you to delve into Wai‘anapanapa caves, Thurston Lava Tube, and Hāna Lava Tube.
  
• Engage with local fruit stands along the way, sampling fresh banana bread, coconut pudding, and tropical fruit.

We suggest a two-day itinerary to truly absorb each segment, resting in Hāna overnight before journeying back using the same route or returning via the Upcountry.

3. Whale Watching & Deep-Sea Fishing (Seasonal Majesties)

From December through April, humpback whales migrate to Maui’s warm waters, making whale watching a bucket-list marine spectacle.

Whale Watching

• Depart from Lahaina or Maalaea Harbor for a guided marine mammal experience.
  
• Watch breaching, tail-slapping, and socializing pods—often with marine biologists narrating the tour.

Deep-Sea Fishing

• Charter a sportfishing vessel from Maalaea, Lahaina, or Kihei.
  
• Target species include ahi (yellowfin tuna), ulua (giant trevally), mahi-mahi (dorado), and ono (wahoo).
  
• Most charters provide full amenities and catch processing services.

Pro Tip: Book early in the season, and request mirrored hulls or outriggers for stability and cleaner photos.

4. Glass Blowing Experience: Crafting Maui Keepsakes

Here’s where we add a creative and immersive workshop that few travelers expect: glass blowing in Maui. It’s on top of the list of fun activities in Maui.

Why Glass Blowing?

• A hands-on art form that blends heat, precision, and imagination.
  
• You walk away with your own unique blown-glass sculpture or ornament—a true Maui keepsake.

What to Expect

• Glass blowing lessons often begin with a safety briefing and glass fundamentals.
  
• Under local artisans’ guidance, use a blowpipe and molten glass to shape objects such as vases, ornaments, or paperweights.
  
• Workshops typically allow you to choose colors, styles, and techniques, with cooling and finishing done on-site. As cooling may sometimes take longer, Moana Glass ships your piece to your home the very next day. 
  
• Studios may be located in Lahaina, like Moana Glass, making them accessible from popular resort zones.

Tips for Participation

• Book your slot in advance, as classes may be limited and slots fill up fast.
  
• Dress in cotton clothing that’s safe to work around heat and keeps you comfortable.
  
• Wear protective eyewear and non-negotiable closed-toe shoes.
  
• Expect to spend 30 minutes to 3 hours in a comprehensive session.
  
• After cooling (usually 24–48 hours), you may pick up your piece or arrange local shipping.

Glass blowing gives you a tangible connection to Maui’s creative spirit, far beyond a generic souvenir shop purchase.  If you’re looking for unique stuff to do in Maui, this is it. 

Tips for Planning

• Mix passive and active days: rest one afternoon after a strenuous activity.
  
• For marine excursions, check sea conditions and seasonal patterns.
  
• Prioritize booking high-demand experiences (Haleakalā, glass blowing, whale watching) weeks in advance.
  
• Use local guides to deepen cultural and ecological context.
  
• Pack essentials: reef-safe sunscreen, a sun hat, comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and swimwear.

Final Thoughts

Exploring Maui through these five key activities: sunrise atop Haleakalā, snorkeling or scuba, the scenic odyssey of the Road to Hāna, marine adventures through whale watching or sport fishing, and immersive glass blowing artistry ensures a richly layered itinerary. 

With these experiences, you won’t just visit Maui. Rather, you’ll engage with its spirit, landscapes, and creative heart through unique experiences like glass blowing.