A trip to Maui is at the top of the bucket list for many. If you’re one of the people eyeing a trip to Maui but you want to go beyond the typical tourist jaunts, SeeCurrents has compiled our list of seven life-changing ways to explore Maui.
We take you to a lavender farm in Upcountry Maui, a Buddhist cultural park, and a national park. Read our list of ways to explore Maui and feel free to add your own in the comments.
1. Tour the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
With culinary selections such as lavender wine jelly, lavender caramel sauce, and lavender shortbread, bath and body products such as lavender-based soaps, salves, creams and a range of aromatherapy options, a day at Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm in Upcountry Maui is indeed a unique experience.
The farm was created by agricultural artist and horticultural master, Ali’i Chang. The 13.5-acre farm is at an elevation of approximately 4,000 ft. and is home to about 55,000 lavender plants and 20 different varieties of lavender.
To book a self-guided, guided or treasure hunt tour, visit this page.
2. Enjoy Pineapple Wine at MauiWine
Self-described as “a window to the Ulupalakua Ranch way of life and a glimpse of Maui’s past,” a visit to MauiWine is a cultural experience enhanced only by its place in Maui history. The winery is home to a residence built during the 1870s to accommodate King Kalākaua, the last reigning king of Hawai’i.
Whether you visit MauiWine for a private tour and tasting of its wines made from estate-grown grapes, pineapple, and raspberries or select a tasting-only experience at King’s Cottage, visitors can take a trip through Maui history or peruse unique finds at the onsite boutique.
Click to learn more or make a reservation.
3. Stroll Through the Lahaina Jodo Mission Buddhist Cultural Park
Lahaina Jodo Mission is a replica of an authentic Japanese Buddhist temple. Visitors can explore the serene landscape, wonder at the towering pagoda and see one of the largest statues of Buddha outside of Asia. The statue was installed in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the arrival of Japanese immigrants to Hawaii.
Days with special meaning for the mission include Buddha Day on the 1st Sunday in April, O-bon service on the first Sunday in July, Higan-e service for the Autumn Equinox on the 3rd Sunday in September, and Joya-e service to ring the temple bell on the last day of the year.
4. Hike the Pipiwai Trail in Haleakalā National Park
Camp, hike, stargaze or just come for the storied sunrise and sunset viewings from the summit of the Haleakalā volcano. Many visitors visit Haleakalā National Park just to view the sun as it rises over the crater walls. This land has been a sacred site for Native Hawaiians and many mele (songs/chants) and stories have been written about the land.
The park is named after the Haleakalā Volcano which has been dormant for over 400 years. It is an international biosphere reserve and incorporates Native Hawaiian protocols and knowledge while also implementing both tradition and modern natural resource preservation.
The popular Pipiwai Trail in the park leads to the 200-foot Makahiku Falls, Bamboo Forest, 400-foot Waimoku Falls and a large banyan tree are just some of the must-experience sites in the park.
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5. Release Your Inner Mermaid with Hawaii Mermaid Adventures
Release your inner Ariel and explore the marine world with Hawaii Mermaid Adventures.
During your mermaid swimming lesson, you will learn sailors’ tales about mermaids and the myths and mysteries of mermaids from around the world. You will also walk away with a greater appreciation of the ocean and how we can be greater stewards of this expansive and beautiful resource. The instructors are certified marine naturalists and lifeguard/CPR certified.
6. Take In a Haku Lei Making Workshop at Haku Maui
For a traditional Haku Lei making experience, visit Haku Maui for one of its full, midi or mini length workshops. A haku lei is made for the head and stems from ancient Hawai’i where leis were made for ceremonial purposes or to demonstrate one’s rank.
Haku Maui’s workshops extend up to two hours for the full workshop and include the flowers, foliage and other materials needed to make a stunning Haku Lei. Other lei making classes are available. To book or learn more about Haku Maui Lei workshops, visit the site
7. Visit the “Seven Sacred Pools” of Ohe’o Gulch
Since we’re aiming for life-changing here, the Seven Sacred Pools of the Ohe’o Gulch might be just what you need. Enjoy the sense of freedom and wonder that comes from being surrounded by bamboo forests and cascading waterfalls that feed seven, tiered swimmable pools. The pools are in the Ohe’o Gulch area of Haleakala National Park and it’s recommended that you consult a park ranger at the information desk before you set off.
Do you agree with this list? Do you have any other life-changing experiences to recommend. Drop us a note. We’d love to hear from you.