Things to do in Hana

Waiʻānapanapa State Park

Waianapa Napa State Park is located on the eastern coastline of Maui. You can swim in the park's caves, sunbathe on the black sand beach, explore ancient Hawaiian ruins, sun-drenched trails and beach camps. You play carefully, this is definitely an activity-packed park.

Black Sand Beach

Hāna Bay Beach Park

Maui

Maui is known as the "Valley Isle" due to its landscape of alternating valleys and coastlines. The island is warm year-round, and coastal areas are suitable for water activities in all seasons; however, if you plan to ascend to the summit of Haleakalā for sunrise in the early morning, the altitude is approx. 3,000 meters, and the temperature is significantly lower. The island's highlights are focused on natural scenery: the eastern Haleakalā National Park extends from the alpine zone to the coast, and the dormant volcanic crater at the summit, with its desolate, moon-like landscape, is a classic spot for watching the sunrise above the clouds; the Hana Hwy on the north coast winds between rainforests and sea cliffs, with sharp turns, one-lane bridges, waterfalls, and black sand beaches along the way—a self-drive trip here is like a rainforest adventure in itself. If you want to get in the water, you can take a boat to the crescent-shaped Molokini Crater not far offshore; this marine preserve has clear water and schools of tropical fish, making it a popular spot for snorkeling and diving. Kaanapali in the west and Wailea in the south are known for their long white sand beaches and resort atmosphere, which are perfect for sunbathing and surfing. There are also long-standing traditions to experience on the island: every day at sunset, a cliff-diving ceremony takes place at Black Rock at the north end of Kaanapali Beach, where divers light torches and leap into the sea—a scene many tourists wait specifically to see. Every winter, humpback whales return in groups to the warm waters around the island to breed and raise their young, and you have a chance to see them breaching from the shore or a whale-watching boat. If you want a change of pace, you can also visit the Iao Valley in the west, where the valley is lush and green, and the iconic Iao Needle rises abruptly, making it suitable for a relaxing short hike.

No. 20 of Best Things to Do in Hawaii

Haleakalā National Park

Haleakalā National Park is located in the southeast of Maui. The park is divided into two main sections, which must be accessed via different entrances. The summit area is located near the crater, where visitors can hike and admire the moon-like landscape. It is also a great place to watch the sunrise and sunset. The way to visit the protected areas in the park is to join a guided hike.

Wailua Falls

Hana Lava Tube

Koki Beach Park

Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach

Hamoa Beach

Hamoa Beach is located on the east coast of Maui, and the beach is gray and white, very distinctive. Many people come here to play and swim, and many surfers have a go here. Facilities such as toilets and changing rooms are set up on the beach, which is very convenient.