What are some fun and inexpensive activities to do in Maui, Hawaii?

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Besides the obvious sun-worshipping activities enjoyed on Maui beaches every day, there are many free if not inexpensive things to do in Maui.

Inexpensive Maui Activities Hamoa Beach

Inexpensive Maui Activities That Will Make Your Family Vacation Unforgettable

 

Maui is known for its luxury resorts and extravagant activities, but there are plenty of things to do on the island that won’t break the bank.

Here are 10 inexpensive Maui activities that the whole family will enjoy.

 

1. Take a Hike: Maui is home to some of the most beautiful hiking trails in Hawaii. You’ll get to see waterfalls, rain forests, and maybe even spot a rainbow or two. Best of all, it’s free! Hiking to a waterfall will cost you next to nothing for an unforgettable experience. Gas, a packed lunch, a guidebook, and a sense of adventure are all you need to explore bamboo forests, towering waterfalls, and lush coastal areas. 

Inexpensive Maui Activities Hiking

Caution: Do not swim directly under a waterfall. Often debris will float over the edge and can harm those below. Also, do not go off-trail and hike on private property.  It’s best to get a Maui guided hiking tour.

 

2. Go to the Beach: One of the best things about Maui is its beaches. You can find a beach to suit any activity, whether you want to go swimming, sunbathing, bodyboarding, or just take a walk along the shore. And like hiking, it won’t cost you a dime.

Inexpensive Maui Activities Beach

 

3. Visit a Museum or Aquarium: If you’re looking for something indoor and air-conditioned (it does get hot in Maui!), then head to one of the island’s museums or aquariums. The Maui Ocean Center is a great option for families with kids who love sea creatures. Admission is pretty reasonable, too.

Inexpensive Maui Activities Aquarium

 

4. Have a Picnic: Maui has no shortage of scenic picnic spots. Spread out a blanket under a palm tree, at a park, or on the beach, and enjoy a picnic lunch with your family. Don’t forget to pack some sandwiches, fruit, and drinks!

Inexpensive Maui Activities Picnic Spot

 

5. Go Snorkeling: Snorkeling is one of the most popular activities on Maui and for good reason. The island’s waters are teeming with colorful fish and other marine life just waiting to be discovered. Gear rentals can be found all over the island for a few bucks. Shore access to a plethora of ocean life is free and easy to find. Honolua Bay on a calm day is a favorite. But be careful! If there is swell activity, do not go out! The ocean is very dangerous; we suggest speaking to a professional at a snorkel shop to find the safest snorkeling area for your experience level.

Inexpensive Maui Activities Snorkeling

 

6. Watch the Sunset: There’s nothing quite like watching the sun sink into the ocean while on vacation in Maui. Grab some snacks and find a spot on the beach or at one of the many lookout points around the island to watch the sunset with your loved ones.

Inexpensive Maui Activities Sunset

 

7. Rent a surfboard or take a surf lesson: The surf in Maui is usually pretty small on the South and West sides of the island. Lessons are pretty inexpensive relative to other commercial activities, which include equipment and instructions. If you’re more adventurous, you can rent a surfboard and paddle out somewhere small where surf schools practice.  Again, be careful! Lessons are highly suggested for newcomers. The ocean has many hidden dangers.

Inexpensive Maui Activities Surfing

 

8. Visit a Plantation: Hawaiians and transplants have been growing sugar cane since the early 1800s, and today there are several plantations open to visitors. Tours typically last around 1 – 2 hours and include a visit to the mill, tasting Hawaiian rum & ice cream made from fresh sugar cane juice, and learning about Hawaiian plantation history.  We like visiting the Maui Tropical Plantation because it’s free to enter.  You can buy duck food at the entrance for around $5 and head with a blanket to the pond.

Inexpensive Maui Activities Tropical Plantation

These are just some of the many great things you can do without spending a lot of money on your Maui vacation. With so many options, there’s sure to be something for everyone in your family! Take your time researching all of your options, and you may just find that Maui is less expensive to visit than previously anticipated. So get out there and start exploring all that this magical island has to offer!

Inexpensive Maui Activities Bamboo Forest


 

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