The Top Ten Maui Experiences by Adrenalina

Hawaii is Adrenalina‘s favorite destination and she just visited Maui earlier this year. She has been to the Big Island, Oahu, Maui and Kauai and is enamored with almost every single island. With beautiful beaches, world class snorkeling and even volcanos, she plans to return to Hawaii again and again. And that’s why she wanted to share her top ten Maui experiences.

1. Big Beach (Makena Beach State Park) for best sunsets and biggest waves!

Beautiful beach. There’s not much more to say… just sit back and enjoy the views!

2. Big Black Rock Jumping, Kaanapali Beach.

Yes, that is me jumping in the white swimsuit! For all the adrenaline junkies… and just “full head of super salty water” lovers… this is top notch activity! 15 feet high! This large big black Lava rock divides the beach in half. There is decent snorkeling on either side of the rock, but beware of the current! You can see turtles, sting rays, squid, all kinds of fish… but we’ll get to the best snorkeling spot in a bit :)

3. Kapalua Bay Snorkeling

This is the BEST offshore snorkeling spot on the island of Maui in my opinion. I saw all kinds of underwater creatures… from murenas (yes, scared the heck even out of me!) and rays to “flying” turtles and even a small and very harmless reef shark :) Don’t touch the turtles though, it’s a $10,000 fine… if the turtle tells on you, of course! ;)

4. Banyan Tree Court Park in Lahaina

Unique and breathtaking. More than 60 feet high, the Lahaina Banyan tree is one of the largest in the US. On the weekends and special holidays one can enjoy a stroll through a local Arts and Crafts Fair under the banyan tree breathing in the culture and tasting the exotic fruits.

5. Haleakala National Park.

This is where it all started. 75% of Maui is a result of thousands of years of activity of this monstrous volcano. I would call it the Grand Canyon of Hawaii, but most likely someone already called it that :)

6. Mendes Ranch Horseback Riding

This is the only company in Maui where you get to ride with the view of the coast line. The views are amazing. My tip is to say you’re at least an intermediate rider so you get a horse that will listen to you!

 7. Parasail in Paradise with West Maui Parasail

There are many companies that will take you out to fly on Maui, but this particular parasail chute caught my eye. Nothing sets your mood as well as a HUGE smiley face flying above you! The staff is super friendly. They take professional and very impressive pictures of you while you’re flying. I tried singing up there because it gets too quiet….

8. Snuba

Snuba is getting more popular among those not old enough to scuba dive or too old to scuba dive. It’s easier and no certification or experience required. There is no equipment; just a couple of small weights and a 20 foot cord providing air from tanks floating above you.  This picture was taken with my own simple underwater camera. Visibility is great. “swimming with the fish” takes on a whole new meaning and it’s a great transition into something i have not done yet…. Scuba :)

9. Jet skiing on Kaanapali Beach

Need a rush!? This should be your adrenaline fix. The ocean is the limit and you’re the boss. No need to be afraid of speed when the worst that can happen is you’re going to have a little too much fun :)

10. Road to Hana

Of course, this will make the list! But it’s just too good to be a single item on a top ten list. This amazing journey will have a post of its own. Stay tuned for more from Adrenalina on Maui!

Now that we have a top ten activities list, let’s end with a few tips to maximize miles to Hawaii:

Most US based airlines fly to Hawaii and charge 20,000-22,500 miles each way from the continental US. However, if you happen to live in a few select cities, you can take advantage of some of my tips and good deals:

West Coast to Hawaii for 12,500 British Airways Avios Each Way!

Additionally, if you happen to live in an international gateway city, you can also add Hawaii as a free one-way on American Airlines onto your international trips: How to add free one-ways on Amer­i­can Air­lines AAdvantage Awards.