When visiting the Hawaiian Islands, your first task is to select which island you want to experience. While each island has it’s own unique attractions and scenery, Maui offers a wide variety of activities and spectacles for people of all ages and interests.

If you enjoy spending time outdoors and you’re looking for plenty of opportunities to exercise and stay active during your vacation, Maui won’t leave you disappointed. With terrain ranging from pristine sandy beaches all the way up to a 10,000-foot mountain peak, Maui has plenty to offer.

Regardless of when you’re hoping to travel to the Hawaiian Islands, you’ll benefit from exploring Maui vacation home rentals on the beach as soon as possible. If you’re planning your visit to Maui, here are five spots you must see during your stay:

Pipiwai Trail

This fantastic hiking trail is located in Haleakala National Park at Ohe’o Gulch. At the end of a two-mile hike up the valley you’ll find the breathtaking 400-foot Waimoku Falls. There are also many beautiful sites to stop and enjoy along this well-marked, moderately difficult trail. Keep in mind that the trail to get to the falls is largely uphill, rising 700-800 feet over the course of two miles.

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Haleakala Crater

A trip up the side of the crater will reveal the impressive diversity of the island of Maui. Species of pines that you’d never expect on a tropical island grow on the side of the crater, and the drive up provides exceptional views of the prosperous island farmland below. Head up the crater an hour or so before sunrise to avoid crowds and ensure that you arrive at the top in time to experience the daily unveiling of the sun across the entirety of this island paradise.

Wai’anapanapa State Park

This amazing state park offers incredible hiking and sightseeing along a remote section of Maui’s volcanic coastline. Hiking in Wai’anapanapa provides opportunities for solitude and respite from the busy urban life of Maui’s coastal cities. Wai’anapanapa offers lodging, camping, picnicking, shore fishing, and hiking opportunities for the whole family.

Ho’okipa Beach Park

This gem on the island’s north shore is one of the most popular surf breaks on Maui. Visitors flock to the cliffs overlooking the beach park to watch Maui’s most skilled surfers conquer some of the island’s cleanest, and most beautiful, waves. In the summer, Ho’okipa also provides spectacular snorkeling grounds where you’re almost guaranteed to observe a number of aquatic species, including sea turtles.

Keawakapu Beach

This is one of the most popular and beautiful beaches in Wailea. Located in the southernmost part of Kihei, Keawakapu Beach has beautiful tide pools to explore, as well as public access to any type of rental gear you might need. The beach is also in close proximity to two of Kihei’s best restaurants, Sarentos and 5 Palms. If you’re looking for a great place to relax and enjoy a breathtaking sunset, Keawakapu Beach should certainly be on your list.

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