
The Maalaea and Olowalu areas are known for their natural beauty, abundant marine life, and breathtaking scenery. The beaches here are popular spots for recreation, relaxation, and water activities, making them a key highlight for visitors.
Introduction to Maalaea and Olowalu
Nestled along the sun-kissed western coast of Maui, Maalaea and Olowalu are two of the island’s most inviting destinations. Maalaea is a charming har
bor town, perfect for those looking to soak in the natural beauty of West Maui and enjoy easy access to the sea. Just a short drive away, Olowalu is a peaceful community set between the majestic West Maui Mountains and the sparkling Pacific, offering a tranquil escape with breathtaking scenery. These areas are renowned for their vibrant marine life and ecological importance. Whether you’re snorkeling in the calm, clear waters of Olowalu’s expansive reef system or exploring the fascinating exhibits at the Maui Ocean Center, you’ll find endless opportunities to connect with Maui’s underwater world. The Maui Butterfly Farm in Olowalu is another must-visit, providing a hands-on experience where visitors of all ages can learn about native butterflies and insects. From world-class snorkeling and kayaking to discovering local history and culture, Maalaea and Olowalu are excellent spots for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. With their blend of natural beauty, rich heritage, and unique attractions, these West Maui gems are truly worth exploring on your next Hawaiian adventure.
Best things to do
in Maalaea and
Olowalu, including
Olowalu Beach
No matter how you choose to spend your time at these two Maui locales, you can trust that you will enjoy it to the fullest. We invite you to get to know all of the beautiful areas of the Valley Isle and we look forward to meeting you soon. Aloha & e komo mai!
Take a Maui Boat Tour
Maui boat tours are the #1 Maui activity. All year round, guests can depart from Maalaea Harbor on a first-rate Maui snorkel tour to Molokini, Turtle Town, and Coral Gardens. Molokini Crater is a prime snorkeling and scuba diving destination, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. If you would like to see one of the most epic sunset scenes on Maui, we suggest that you book a Maui sunset luau cruise. Enjoy the Polynesian cultural experience and an open bar while you take in the dramatic sunset scenes over the Pacific and the scenic views of the surrounding islands.
Visit the Maui Butterfly Farm
Here is a truly unique activity to do in Olowalu. It is perfect for both nature lovers and those who are passionate about conservation. The Maui Butterfly Farm is saving Maui’s butterflies, one caterpillar at a time!
Stop By Leoda's Kitchen & Pie Shop
Located in Olowalu, Leoda’s Kitchen & Pie Shop is right next to the General Store. As you leave your car, get ready to taste some seriously ono Maui baked goods.
We suggest you visit Leoda’s for baked goods, takeout, and a coffee. Of course, it’s also worth your time to stay a while and enjoy some brunch or lunch.
Plan to Visit the Olowalu Cultural Reserve
If you would like to explore a piece of ancient history while you visit Maui, you must come and learn about the ancient Hawaiian lands at the Olowalu Cultural Reserve. It’s best experienced while volunteering with Kipuka Olowalu.
Plan a Day at the Maui Ocean Center
No trip to Maui is quite complete without a visit to the Maui Ocean Center! It’s an excellent spot for families and adults, with many interactive experiences. At the only aquarium on Maui, guests can have fun while they learn about Maui’s ocean life and the history of Maui No Ka Oi.
Go Camping at Camp Olowalu
If you love to camp, we have the best campground in all of Hawaii to share with you!
Camp Olowalu is not your ordinary campsite. Here, guests can rent tent space, yurts, or cabins. The friendly folks at Camp Olowalu can also help you plan bigger events like large family gatherings, overnight weddings, and more.
Book Surf Lessons
Ukumehame Beach Park, also known as Thousand Peaks, can be found near Mile Marker 12 of the Honoapiilani Highway. Thousand Peaks is one of the best beginner surf spots on the island. Whether you’re a beginner or just need a little push, this is one of the best places to take surf lessons on Maui.
Try Maui Paintball & Laser Tag
Located in Olowalu, Maui Paintball & Laser Tag is one of the best secret sporting gems of West Maui. They’re super popular with locals for birthday parties, fundraisers, and seasonal events like the Halloween Zombie Shoot. At Maui Paintball, there are always special events for paintball and laser tag enthusiasts.
Go Kayaking
One of the most adventurous and inspiring things to do in West Maui is kayaking at Olowalu. The area is calm and ideal for a smooth and enjoyable kayaking excursion. We suggest that you book a guided Olowalu kayaking tour to make the most of your experience.
Try Maui Sport Fishing
You would be surprised just how many people visit Maui to go sport fishing!
From Maalaea Harbor, there is a host of sport fishing charters that will take you to the deep blue to catch some game fish. The ten most commonly caught fishes on Maui are the Blueline Snapper, Uku (Grey Snapper), Ulua (Giant Trevally), Omilu (BlueFin Trevally), Gold Spot Trevally, Kahala (Amberjack), Black Durgon Triggerfish, Pink Tail Triggerfish, and Hawaiian Hogfish.
Community and Culture
The heart of Maalaea and Olowalu beats with the spirit of Hawaiian tradition and a deep respect for the island’s past. History comes alive at sites like the Olowalu Petroglyphs, where ancient carvings tell stories of Maui’s earliest inhabitants, and the Olowalu Massacre site, a somber reminder of the area’s complex history. A visit to the Olowalu General Store, a beloved local institution since 1932, offers a nostalgic glimpse into the community’s roots and is the perfect place to pick up snacks, souvenirs, or a refreshing drink during your day exploring.
Art lovers will appreciate the vibrant local arts scene, with galleries and studios showcasing the creativity of West Maui’s artists. For those eager to immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture, there are plenty of opportunities to join in—whether it’s attending a traditional luau, watching a mesmerizing hula performance, or participating in a hands-on workshop at Kipuka Olowalu. Here, you can learn about native plantings and conservation efforts, connecting with the land and the people who call Olowalu home.
From its historical landmarks to its thriving arts and cultural experiences, Olowalu is a place where the past and present come together, making it well worth visiting for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Maui.
Tips and Advice
To make the most of your time in Maalaea and Olowalu, a little planning goes a long way. Many of the most popular activities—like snorkel tours, surf lessons, and visits to the Maui Butterfly Farm—are in high demand, so be sure to book ahead, especially during peak travel seasons. If you’re interested in exploring the area’s rich history, set aside time to visit the Olowalu Petroglyphs and the Olowalu General Store, and consider joining a guided tour for deeper insights.
When snorkeling or kayaking, always respect the marine life and vibrant coral formations—look but don’t touch, and use reef-safe sunscreen to help protect the delicate ecosystem. Supporting local vendors and businesses, from the pie shop to the general store, is a great way to give back to the community and enjoy authentic flavors and crafts.
Finally, remember that the weather in West Maui can change quickly, so pack layers, stay hydrated, and don’t forget your camera to capture the natural beauty all around. Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or cultural discovery, Maalaea and Olowalu offer something special for every traveler.
The Best Activities in Maalaea & Olowalu, including Maui Ocean Center
Mahalo for reading through our Top 10 Activities in Maalaea & Olowalu blog! We hope that it was as fun for you to read as it was for us to write. We love the Island of Maui to its core and are so happy that we can continue to offer our readers the insider perspective they need to plan the best vacation on Maui.
From all of us at Pride of Maui, we look forward to meeting you onboard one of our Maui Boat Tours soon. A Hui Hou!