Hawaiian Rafting Adventures provides professionally staffed dives on Maui and some of its neighboring islands, including Lanai and Molokai. Located in scenic Lahaina, the company is conveniently close to some of Maui’s best dive sites. Their certification classes are a bit steep at $450 per person, but all sessions are held on the Lanai and Maui coasts-the added scenery may well be worth your cash!
If you find the class too costly or simply don’t have time for it, you can try the one-tank introductory scuba dive. The state allows you to dive without certification at certain depths and areas, but you won’t feel like you’re missing much-you’ll get your fill of underwater scenery, marine wildlife, and reef exploration just like any certified diver!
The two-tank Lanai Boat Dive is for those who want a longer and more diverse Maui activity. You can choose from over 50 dive sites around Lanai and Maui, and even book several days so that you can see more. Some of the most popular are the Wreck Dives at the Carthaginian, Double Arches, Lighthouse Point, Shark Fin Rock, Menpache Cave, Monolith, Container Beach, Twin Palms, and Eagle Ray Bay.
Certified and experienced divers may want to try the Evening Manta Dive. Much of Maui’s marine life actually comes out only at night, so a night dive makes for a rather interesting experience! You’ll get to see crabs, shells, lobsters, eels, and some rare fish that change their color to adjust to the darkness. This trip is offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3pm to 6pm.
For more info and reservations visit http://www.hawaiianrafting.com
Extended Horizons boasts 25 years of Maui diving and offers some of the best certification classes on the island. Its flagship courses are the Open Water Certification and the Advanced Open Water Certification, both of which ensure a diving certificate after just three fun-filled days. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Extended Horizons is sure to have a Maui activity you will enjoy.
Don’t have time to get certified? You can still have your fill of Pacific wildlife with the company’s Introductory Dives. You can choose to dive from the beach or off the boat, although the beach dives are recommended as you can be guided one-on-one by a dive master. If you’ve dived once or twice before, you may be confident enough to try the boat dive.
The Maui Beach Dive is usually offered to smaller groups and is best for refresher or introductory dives. The dive takes you to Maui’s best coral reefs, most of which are still in pristine condition. If you’re looking for something new, you may also want to try the Scooter Dives—a real underwater ride in a Sea Doo and a trip around the outer reefs inaccessible from a shore dive. Scooter Dives are offered by reservation only and is recommended for very small groups.
One of the most requested dives is the Night Dive, wherein you’ll see Maui’s nocturnal water creatures as they come out of hiding and change color to adapt to the dark. Some of the best sights are the shells, crabs, lobsters, octopus, and eels. Extended Horizons accommodates up to five divers on the night dive, and all are guided by expert divers. Common destinations include Honolua, Black Rock, Airport Beach, Mala Pier, Kapalua Bay, and Canoe Beach.
For more info and reservations visit http://www.extendedhorizons.com/
In2Scuba has been rated the number one dive company in Maui by Scubalinx, a leading scuba diving directory. Branded an eco-conscious company, In2Scuba offers guided scuba tours and certification classes for tourists. You can get trained and certified in as little as three days, with no safety or fun compromised. In fact, you can get your money back if you didn’t have fun or learn enough after the intro dive!
If you don’t have time for a certification program, you can take the introductory dive which doesn’t require a certificate. This dive takes you to the shallower parts of the coast where you’ll see the famous Hawaiian green sea turtles and a wide range of marine wildlife. There’s a short safety orientation before the dive, so you’ll know the basics and stay safe.
Those who want a unique Maui activity should definitely check out the Night Dive. Night diving is one of the least explored yet most interesting Maui activities, offering a unique view of the water and nocturnal marine life. At night, many of the fish change color and come out of hiding. Among the highlights are crabs, octopus, lobsters, conger and moray eels, and file fish. Afraid of the dark? Don’t worry-In2Scuba is fully equipped with dive lights to guide you along.
More adventurous divers may want to try the Safari Dive. This tour takes you to three different dive locations, depending on the weather and ocean conditions. You’ll even get to choose your takeoff and finish points! Many tourists break it up into a two-day tour as the dives can be pretty exhausting.
For more info and reservations visit http://www.in2scuba.com
Experienced scuba divers looking for a unique dive should look no further than Turtle Reef Divers in Maui’s Lahaina - Ka`anapali area. Consistently named one of the best scuba diving companies on the island, Turtle Reef employs seasoned instructors and has some of the most advanced training equipment around. The same instructors give the boat tours, so you’ll feel completely safe even as you hit the cold depths.
The main diving sites are the Molokini Crater and the island of Lanai. All divers are given all the necessary equipment, although you can use your own if you want. Depending on your skill and location, you can reach depths of 50 to 55 feet. At this point you will see some of the most fascinating wildlife this side of the Pacific, such as green sea turtles, rays, eels, and countless species of fish, many of which are endemic to Hawaii. Other popular dive sites include Honolua Bay, Kapalua Bay, Black Rock, Marriott Reef, Olowalu, Wailea Beach, and La Perouse Bay.
Each dive comes with complimentary meals to reward you after a busy day. All divers will be treated to a continental breakfast and/or a barbecued lunch, the perfect match for your Pacific holiday. There’s also a BYOB bar on board so you can come up for refreshments whenever you feel like it.
Turtle Reef offers extensive diving lessons so you can get certified in just three days. Classes are kept to a size of four students so you’ll each get individualized instruction. The lessons are held in open water instead of a pool, so you’ll know exactly what you’ll face on diving day. Be sure to check for certification specials-these are offered year-round and can save you a good deal of money!
For more info and reservations visit http://www.turtlereefdivers.com
Teralani Sailing Adventures boasts two of the largest sailing catamarans on the Maui coast, the Teralani 2 and Teralani 3. Built for maximum comfort, safety, and viewing angles, the vessels ensure a Maui activity you won’t soon forget. Both are U.S. Coast Guard certified, fitted with state-of-the-art equipment, and manned with an experienced and knowledgeable staff.
Guests can choose from three tours: the West Maui Snorkel, the Dinner Sunset Sail, and the Dinner Sunset Whale Watch. The West Maui Snorkel is best taken in the summer when the water is calm and the marine creatures are most abundant. The main destinations are Honolua Bay, Lanai, and Olowalu Reef. Get up close with green sea turtles, false killer whales, spinner dolphins, pilot whales, and humpback whales. After the dive, they open the bar on board so you can relax with your favorite drinks.
Those looking for a romantic getaway can go for the Dinner Sunset Sail, which takes you around the nearby islands of Lanai and Molokai. The sail lasts two and a half hours and takes off daily from late afternoon to early evening. After viewing the sunset, you’ll be served a rich dinner buffet perfect for capping off a romantic date.
If you’re coming in the winter, be sure to catch the Dinner Sunset Whale Watch. During this season, the Pacific humpback whales migrate to the coast of Maui to enjoy the warm Pacific waters. There’s a marine naturalist on board who will offer interesting facts and insights on Hawaii’s prized “Gentle Giants.” This tour is on offer from December 15 to April 15 every year.
For more info and reservations visit http://www.teralani.net
Scotch Mist Sailing Charters is the best tour for those coming in large groups. The company’s vessel, the Scotch Mist II, accommodates up to 25 passengers, more than the usual 10 or less allowed by other charter companies. It also offers a wide range of Maui activities, such as sailing, sunset cruises, snorkeling, and whale watching. Whatever your favorite Maui activity is, Scotch Mist is sure to deliver!
Whale watching is one of the most requested activities, but is only available in the winter when the whales migrate from Alaska. You’ll get to see humpback whales up close while they dance and play in the water. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a few spinner dolphins as well. The yacht provides excellent 360-degree views of the water, so you don’t miss a thing! The tour includes complimentary beverages such as beer, wine, juice, soda, and bottled water.
If you’re into snorkeling, summer is the best time to go. The Scotch Mist takes you to some of the best snorkel spots on Maui. Don’t worry if you’re a beginner-the well-trained crew is more than willing to help you along. There’s a stop at Turtle Town, a beach village where you can take pictures or watch the famous Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles from the shore.
Couples are sure to enjoy the sunset sailing trip. It’s the perfect romantic getaway, with the spectacular Maui sunset providing a breathtaking backdrop. You’ll also get to sample local cocktails, fresh pineapple, and Maui Chips, a local delicacy.
Sunset Sailing. No visit to Maui is complete without the experience of sailing aboard the Scotch Mist II.Enjoy sipping champagne, snack on ice cold local pineapple and famous Maui chips.Watch the color changing backdrop as the tropical sun slowly sinks into the Pacific.
For more info and reservations visit http://www.scotchmistsailingcharters.com/
Maui Classic Charters offers adventure sails and snorkeling around the Maui-Molokini area, one of the most popular destinations for water-based Maui activities. Established in the 1980s, the company boasts over 20 years of experience and has some of the most knowledgeable staff around. Guests can choose from two unique vessels: the Four Winds II, a sailing catamaran, and the Maui Magic, a high-speed power catamaran.
Perhaps the most popular Maui activity on offer is the Molokini Snorkel aboard the Four Winds II. All guests are provided with standard snorkel gear, but you’re free to bring your own if you want. The boat has a glass bottom from which you can get clear views of the water, perfect if you’re not up to actual snorkeling. Morning and afternoon trips are available.
While on board, you’ll be shown an educational video about the marine wildlife and natural heritage of Maui. All trips will be filmed by the crew, so you can watch yourself at the end of the day. A marine naturalist will even narrate the film for you, pointing out the unique wildlife you’ve just spent the day with.
In the winter, you can combine your snorkel trip with a whale watching excursion. From the deck, you can actually watch humpback whales do their fun dance on the water-you’d almost think they’re putting on a show for you! As you relax on board or dive in to explore, the crew cooks up some grilled burgers and chicken and prepares your choice of beverage. Nothing like a good meal to cap off a perfect Maui activity!
For more info and reservations visit http://www.mauicharters.com
Gemini Charters is ideal for tourists who want variety and value while enjoying their favorite Maui activities. The company offers practically every Maui activity in the book, from whale watching and snorkeling to romantic luxury sunset sails. Their flagship vessel is Gemini, an imposing 64-foot catamaran departing daily from Ka`anapali beach, and their key destinations are simply breathtaking.
Gemini’s tours vary according to season, so be sure to check out their activity calendar before reserving. In the summer, they take advantage of the strong trade wind and offer sailing cruises throughout the season. The best time to go is late afternoon, as you can catch the romantic Maui sunset with great views of Lanai and Molokai islands in the background. They even cap it off with classy cocktail drinks on the ship’s deck!
Summer is also the season for snorkeling. Gemini’s primary snorkeling destination is the Marine Preserve at Honolua Bay, one of the main attractions of West Maui. If you want to go somewhere less crowded, they can also take you to alternative snorkel spots-some of the most requested are Lanai, Olowalu, and Cliff-house. Just make sure to clear your schedule, as some alternative sites are a good distance from the shore.
Winter tours are all about whale watching. This season is when the whales migrate from the cold waters of Alaska to the comfortably warm Pacific. Gemini employs professional marine naturalists who share interesting facts about these creatures as you watch them play in the water. You can even listen to whale songs on hydrophone-it’s nature’s music at its best!
For more info and reservations visit http://www.geminicharters.com
Nature lovers and culture freaks will love the diverse tours on offer at Hawaiian Sailing Canoe Adventures. Based in Lahaina, Maui, the company offers narrated sailing trips aboard an authentic outrigger canoe. As your guide tells you about Hawaiian culture and history, you’ll be sailing across the beautiful Pacific coast and viewing some of Hawaii’s most popular scenery. It’s like all your favorite Maui activities rolled into one!
The tour starts on Polo Beach, a historic spot in Wailea. Here you’ll get firsthand information about Hawaiian sailing culture, from canoe construction to navigation techniques. You then get on board the Hina, the company’s flagship sailing canoe, right off the beach just like the ancient Hawaiians did. As you sail off, be sure to take a look back-it’s one of the best angles from which to see the island!
If you’re into marine life, you’ll also enjoy the wildlife spectacle this tour offers. You’ll get to see a wide range of marine creatures, from reef fish and turtles to occasional sightings of dolphins and whales. In the winter, you can actually stop for some whale watching and take pictures of them splashing around. Feeling adventurous? Just walk up to the crew and they’ll let you paddle the canoe yourself!
To make the experience more intimate, Hawaiian Sailing Canoe Adventures only allows six passengers per ride. All passengers are given snorkel gear and a good supply of juice and water for the trip. At your request, they’ll also take photos of you and your company and email them to you as part of the trip package. All this costs a reasonable $99 per adult and $79 per child aged 5 to 12.
For more info and reservations visit http://www.mauisailingcanoe.com
Fascinated with Polynesian culture? Have your fill at the Feast of Lele, a party venue consistently named one of the best luaus in Hawaii. Located on sunny Maui, Lele features a sit-down, five-course dinner showcasing the cuisines of the four major Polynesian islands: Samoa, Tonga, Tahiti, and Hawaii. Of course, there’s a lot more than good food: you also get a big dance and music presentation from all four cultures.
Authenticity is the theme with the company’s custom luaus. From the dancers’ costumes to the food and wine, everything on offer is a true representation of Polynesian culture. No touristy Maui activities here-it’s like being on the islands themselves! The venue’s creative director, Robert “Lopaka” Aguilar, is an award-winning designer specializing in Pacific and Hawaiian-inspired events.
This Maui activity starts at the northernmost point of the Polynesian triangle, the Island Home of Hawaii. Here you’ll be treated to a local dance called the Hila of Hawa, an elegant performance aptly described as “poetry in motion.” The dancers’ movements simply flow with the music. If you’re an art buff and enjoy discovering new art forms, you’ll appreciate the novelty of this native dance.
Afterwards, you get to sit down for a true Polynesian dinner with all the staples: taro, banana, and sweet potato chips, seaweed and ginger salsa, imu roasted Kalua pig, and heart of palm salad. There’s also fried and grilled fish with mango sauce-one of the house specialties. You’ll also sample poi, a popular Hawaiian food, made from the corm of the kalo or taro plant.
For more info and reservations visit http://www.feastatlele.com/