Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours 2024

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours A couple taking a selfie with the beautiful Iao Valley Maui, Hawaii as a backdrop

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours – Wednesday December 4, 2024

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Maui Iao Valley State Park is a sacred site with spiritual significance and breathtaking beauty.

If you plan an upcoming trip to Maui in Hawaii, you may have heard of the iconic Maui Iao Valley State Park.

A treasure of Maui and home to the famous ‘Lao needle’ – this spot is on everyone’s bucket list for things to do in Hawaii!

Maui Iao Valley State Park is a 10-mile natural park. The park is known as one of the wettest places on earth. You can’t begin to imagine the luscious green landscapes and natural wonders here.

Located in West Maui, Iao Valley is full of some of the best hikes and views you will have. Get ready for some beautiful adventures.

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours 2024– Quick Review

  1. Maui: Haleakala and Iao Valley Tour
  2. Best of Maui Haleakala and Iao Valley
  3. Maui Two-Island Scenic Helicopter Flight to Molokai
  4. Molokai and Maui Helicopter Tour
  5. Private Tour of Maui, the Valley Isle
  6. Maui Island Private Day Tour

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours 2024– In Detail

Searching for a Maui Iao Valley State Park tour with the best activities and guides to make your trip memorable?

We’ve got you covered with these six best Maui Iao Valley State Park tours. Find out everything you need to know for each tour and why these are the best ones to book!

1. Maui: Haleakala and Iao Valley Tour

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours - Haleakala and Iao Valley Maui tour
Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours – Haleakala and Iao Valley Maui tour
  1. Maui: Haleakala and Iao Valley Tour

Departure: Hotel pickup included in this tour.

Duration: 9-hour full-day tour.

Includes: Haleakala National Park, the Hawaiian cowboy town of Makawao, and Maui Iao Valley State Park.

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

Grab your chance to see Haleakala National Park and the beautiful mountain known as ‘the house of the sun.’

The Hawaiians called the mountain Haleakala this as it gets about 15 more minutes of sunlight than the other neighborhoods on the coastline of Maui!

The guides will also take you to Haleakala Visitor’s Centre to experience the education and history within the park.

Next, you will head to Makawao, famous for its Hawaiian cowboys! Pretty cool, right? A little town that holds Hawaii’s largest cowboy competition, the Makawao Rodeo, on the 4th of July.

Now what you’ve been waiting for … one of Hawaii’s most scenic attractions, the Maui Iao Valley State Park tour.

See the iconic Iao needle of Maui, which stands at an impressive 1200ft (365m), and climb 133 steps to one of the island’s best viewpoints.

For more information and full tour details, Check Tour Availability & Price.


2. Best of Maui Haleakala and Iao Valley

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours - Best of Haleakala and Iao Valley Maui tour
Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours – Best of Haleakala and Iao Valley Maui tour

2. Best of Maui Haleakala and Iao Valley

Departure: Pick-up is available at certain hotels – if you are staying elsewhere, you can enter one of the free locations on the form when you book.

Duration: 9-hour full-day tour.

Includes: Haleakala National Park, Maui Iao Valley State Park, and central Maui. 

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

Get to see two of the best National Parks in Hawaii on this amazing full-day tour!

A popular activity included in this tour is the summit sunrise of Haleakala – an incredible experience we recommend for anyone and the best place on the whole island to view the breathtaking sunrise. 

Then you can relax and wander the streets through the Hawaiian cowboy town of Makawao. Here you will find numerous quaint boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat for lunch.

The guides will take you to Wailuku, previously a plantation town for sugar cane. Wailuku is a hidden treasure at the bottom of the West Maui Mountains and leads to our next stop at Maui Iao Valley State Park. 

Finishing the tour with the best highlight, Maui Iao Valley State Park is home to the famous Iao needle, a high peak created by the erosion of the softer rock surrounding the area.

For more information and full tour details, Check Tour Availability & Price.


3. Maui Two-Island Scenic Helicopter Flight to Molokai

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours – Maui Two-Island Scenic Helicopter Flight to Molokai

3. Maui Two-Island Scenic Helicopter Flight to Molokai

Departure: Check availability to see starting times.

Duration: 55 minutes (approx.)

Includes: Maui, Molakai, Honokohau Falls, Iao Valley State Park and coastal flyover.

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price Limited to 6 participants

Take in the breathtaking landscapes of Hawaii from a helicopter as you fly over Maui and Molokai. Your tour begins at Kahului Heliport, en route to see the world’s largest sea cliffs. Take advantage of this rare opportunity for aerial views of Molokai’s spectacular waterfalls, including Kahiwa Falls.

See the Halawa Valley and large fish ponds, and keep going north until you reach the remote shore. Take a bird’s eye view of the picturesque Pailolo Channel waters between islands, including Elephant Rock. Get an up-close look at Maui’s Valley State Park.

With this activity, you’ll get a front-row seat to experience the beauty of Honokohau Falls, the tallest waterfall on the island. You may also have views of Haleakala volcano and the West Maui mountains. Weather permitting, you might even be able to see Wall of Tears falls.

For more information and full tour details, Check Tour Availability & Price.


4. Molokai and Maui Helicopter Tour

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours – Molokai and Maui Helicopter Tour

4. Molokai and Maui Helicopter Tour

Departure: Kahului, HI, USA, Kahului Airport – 1 Kahului Airport Road Hanger 108

Duration: 55 minutes (approx.)

Includes: Maui Iao Valley State Park, Halawa Valley, Molokai Harbor, and Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park .

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

See the sights of two islands aboard a helicopter featuring 360-degree panoramic views.

Halawa Valley – Spot surfers catching waves and see the jungle canopy from above on your way to the island of Molokai. Explore this less-visited island, cruising past the world’s tallest sea cliffs, which stand at a height of more than 3,000 feet (914 meters). See Kahiwa Falls, some of the tallest waterfalls in the Hawaiian Islands,

Molokai Harbor – See the Molokai Fringing Coral Reef and ancient fishponds, located on the southern coast, built approximately 800 years ago.

Iao Valley – Maui, enjoy a new view of the island as you sweep its western side while your pilot points out highlights like the famous Iao Valley State Park, a lush lava rainforest, and the West Maui Mountains.

Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park – Maui’s tallest waterfall, Honokohau Falls. Look for the Haleakala volcano in the distance, and take a couple of last glances along the horizon before returning to the heliport.

For more information and full tour details, Check Tour Availability & Price.


5. Private Tour of Maui, the Valley Isle

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours – Private Tour of Maui, the Valley Isle

5. Private Tour of Maui, the Valley Isle

Departure: Maui Hotel pickup offered

Duration: 8 hours (approx.)

Includes: Maui Iao Valley State Park, Kula Botanical Garden, and Alii Kula Lavender Farm.

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

Leave large tour groups behind and customize your private tour of Maui

Select which locations you would like to tour in the time available, and your Guide will accommodate your special requests. Options include:

Kapalua Coastal Trail – Hike to lava rock cliffside to experience a pristine ocean and explore sea life.

Dragon’s Teeth – See the ancient burial site of the legendary Dragon’s Teeth and labyrinth.

Nakalele Blowhole – See the West Maui Mountains loop and hike down to the blowhole, where eruptions are active 90% of the time, reaching 100 ft!

Olivine Pools – Hike down the trail and swim in tide pools.

Iao Valley – Bath in the Iao Stream, the largest river on the island. Sightsee the deepest valley in the West Maui Mountains (our western and oldest volcano, Kakalawai – House of Water). Then explore your way to the base of the Iao needle, a 1200 ft tower once used as a watch tower during Polynesian battles.

Alii Kula Lavender Farm – Stunning panoramic view at 4200 ft; experience a range of products made from lavender.

Ho’okipa Beach Park – Check out top surfing and look for giant green sea turtles!

Honolua Bay – Walk through a lush forest with vines and then to the bay for snorkeling.

Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery – This family-owned distillery makes a range of organic liqueurs. These include Vodka, Rum, and Gin from sugar cane. Experience their Cocktail Cafe for a menu full of locally grown produce, farm pieces of bread, fresh salads, and Maui-style pūpūs.

Maui Ku’ia Estate Chocolate – Hawaiʻi’s largest farm-to-bar chocolate factory, powered by the sun 100%.

Maui Tropical Plantation – Enjoy a delicious lunch at Cafe O’lei Restaurants with landscape views of the West Maui Mountains.

For more information and full tour details, Check Tour Availability & Price.


6. Maui Island Private Day Tour

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours – Maui Island Private Day Tour

6. Maui Island Private Day Tour

Departure: 8:00 AM, Hotel pickup included.

Duration: 4 to 9 hours (approx.)

Includes: Kepaniwai Park and Heritage Gardens, Iao Valley State Park of Maui, Alii Kula Lavender Farm, and Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery. 

Bookings: Check Tour Availability & Price

With a private guide, carefully craft an itinerary to see the areas of Maui that interest you most. Stop at beaches, small villages, botanical gardens, or even a distillery, or let your guide choose for you! Also, learn about Hawaiian history and culture and insider tips on where to eat and drink. The best part is that transfers from your hotel are included! Ideal for those who want a personalized experience.

Alii Kula Lavender – Visit the Maui Lavender Farm and take in the neighboring islands’ fragrant blooms and stunning views. You can also browse the farm store for lavender-infused items like soaps, lotions, and more. This is an optional stop on your tour. Choose what interests you most, and we’ll visit as many places as possible!

Iao Valley State Monument – The Hawaiian Tropical Rain Forest is a beautiful place to learn about the ancient Hawaiian people and their epic battles. You can also photograph the amazing Iao Needle while you’re there. This stop is optional, so if you’re not interested, your guide will visit other places that may interest you.

Karen Lei’s Gallery – Visit the Karen Lei art gallery in Kahakuloa village. You can find lovely snacks, souvenirs, and even fine collectible artworks and handicrafts. Your guide will attempt to visit all the stops that interest you.

Lahaina Front Street – As you walk down historic Lahaina Front Street, you’ll be able to explore the town’s multiple souvenir shops, lunch options (Mick Fleetwood’s restaurant included), jewelry stores, art galleries, and much more. And don’t worry about feeling like you have to see everything; with YOUR guide, pick and choose which stops sound most appealing to YOU.

Lahaina Banyan Court Park – This is the optional stop at the giant Banyan Tree in the Hawaiian islands. It was originally a gift to the King in the early 1800s. Your guide will visit as many stops as possible depending on your interests.

Maui Ocean Center – This is an entertaining stop. Enjoy the Maui Aquarium, the 3D whale movie, and perhaps lunch. This is an optional stop, choose the stops that interest you, and your guide will visit as many as possible.

Surfing Goat Dairy – This is an excellent opportunity for the kids to learn where their food comes from and how it’s made. They will also love getting up close and personal with some delightful goats. And don’t worry, this stop is optional; if there are other places you would instead visit, just let your guide know, and they’ll take you there instead!

Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery – The Surfing Goat Dairy is a great optional stop for parents while the tour guide entertains their children next door. You get to choose which stops interest you, and your guide will visit as many of them as possible.

Maui Tropical Plantation – At this plantation, you can explore the grounds, take a Tram ride, and have lunch at the renowned Mill House restaurant. Your guide will take you to as many places that interest you as possible.

For more information and full tour details, Check Tour Availability & Price.

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours 2024

Are you still itching to see these nature hotspots on the stunning island of Maui?

Want to witness the famous Maui needle of Iao Valley?

These tours will give you the best experience possible with some of the most knowledgeable guides on Maui, so make sure you grab your tickets and add this to your Hawaii itinerary!

Read our Hawaiian Islands Travel Guide to learn more about the Hawaiian Islands and its many visitor experiences.

Do you like Tropical Islands?

If you like experiencing a getaway on a beautiful tropical Island, you may like our Fiji Travel Guide 


More reviews? Here are reviews on trips and tours in Hawaii.


Travel Guide to Hawaii 2024

Travel Guide to Hawaii – On the Beach
Travel Guide to Hawaii – On the Beach

Explore the beautiful paradise of Hawaii while experiencing a Maui Iao Valley State Park Tour, and find out more in our Travel Guide to Hawaii for 2024

We can help you discover the stunning beaches, delve into the Hawaiian Jurassic parks, check out the best things to do in Maui, and head to a Kualoa ranch tour.

After reading “Travel Guide to Hawaii,” you will have everything you need to know to enjoy a vacation or longer-term stay in these magical Hawaiian Islands.

The incredible scenery bursting with color does make you feel like you are on another planet, tucked away from the rest of the world. What more can you ask?

You will be able to explore so much these islands have to offer in Hawaii. So, start packing your bags and book those flights! Here’s why the Hawaiian Islands should be your next trip.

Hawaii – Where is Hawaii

The Hawaiian Islands is a cluster of islands in the North Pacific Ocean and the only state outside the mainland of the Continental United States. Ranking as the fourth smallest land area, Hawaii Islands has a population of 1.4 million.

Hawaii consists of 6 major islands – Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Maui, and of course, the island of Hawaii, also known as the ‘Big Island.’ In total, there are 137 islands in the chain! (The majority of these being uninhabited)

The largest island is Hawaii, which is nearly twice as big as its neighbors. It is known for being the most volcanically active – two of the most famous, Kilauea’ and ‘Maunaloa’ are located here.

However, the most visited island is ‘Oahu’ – booming with tourism and receiving around 4.7 million visitors yearly. It has the state capital of Honolulu, taking up two-thirds of Hawaii’s population. Honolulu is the largest city and is considered one of the U.S.’s most modern cities.

‘Lanai’ is a secluded island for those looking for a more private and luxurious vacation. It offers the most beautiful scenery for solo and group travelers, specifically couple travelers.

‘Maui’ is suitably nicknamed ‘Beverly Hills Island’ – another luxury destination! You will not be disappointed if you want to live it big, with resorts, beaches, and nightlife.

‘Kauai’ attracts those searching to spend all their time in nature, nicknamed the ‘Garden Island. This isn’t surprising for us – 97% of the land here has been preserved. So if you want to see the untouched wilderness, look no further.

And last but not least, we have ‘Molokai’ – home to many native Hawaiians and the most authentic of them all. It is truly a wonder not to be missed.

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours - Map of Hawaii Islands
Travel Guide to Hawaii – Map of Hawaii Islands

Hawaii – Airports & Entry

Depending on your destination, flights from the United States mainland typically take around 5 hours to get to Hawaii. Check if any stops will add extra time to your journey.

Most international flights will likely land in Oahu, the central hub island. So if your final destination is, for example, Maui, you will probably have to transfer here.

Like every other flight, the earlier you book, the higher your chance of getting cheap flights! I always use Google Flights or Skyscanner to check the most affordable flights. The closer you are to Hawaii, the cheaper it will be. Be aware of when you are going – if you are traveling in the high season, prices will also be higher than in the low season.

The most popular airline to look at is Hawaiian Airlines. They go between the Hawaiian Islands and offer reasonable prices. You also have Southwest Airlines, known for its low prices.

You can either get a flight or use the ferry system to travel between the six islands, which are all very accessible.

Check the times if you prefer to take a more scenic ferry ride. The system has a Molokai Ferry, which departs from Maui, and the Maui-Lanai Expeditions Ferry arrives in Lanai.

Or, if you want to hop on a flight to get to your next island, all can be reached from Honolulu Airport within around 40 minutes.

If you know you will be moving throughout the islands and visiting more than one, I would advise you to give yourself enough time as it could take a big chunk of your day, and you may want to rest after your arrival!

Hawaii – Currency

Travel Guide to Hawaii - $ USD
Travel Guide to Hawaii – $ USD

The currency in Hawaii is the U.S. dollar.

Check the current Euro to the USD exchange rate.

Check the current AUD dollar to USD exchange.

Check the current UK Pound to USD dollar exchange rate.

Hawaii – History

Hawaii officially became America’s 50th state in 1959. It is located 2,397 miles from San Francisco, California, and the capital is Honolulu in Oahu.

It was 400 C.E. when the Polynesians first discovered Hawaii. They traveled to the Big Island in canoes navigating their way by the stars! They lived in their small communities for many years here.

However, Captain James Cook became the first European in Hawaii who traveled to Kauai in 1778; this discovery cost him his life.

There are also two other neighboring islands, Niihau and Kahoolawe.

Niihau, also known as the ‘Forbidden Island’, consists of one tiny village; outsiders can only see this island from a helicopter. They cannot step on land to preserve the Hawaiian soil.

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours - The Forbidden Island 'Niihau
Travel Guide to Hawaii – The Forbidden Island ‘Niihau

Kahoolawe is the other island with no inhabitants, limited access to outsiders, and no activities or tours. Unfortunately, after the 1941 Pearl Harbor attack, the island remained a bombing target until 1990.

The attack on Pearl Harbor, located on Oahu island, left a mark in history; with more than 2,300 Americans killed, it took many years to recover from this devastation.

Hawaii – People & Culture

Hawaiian and English are the official languages in the state of Hawaii. Hawaiian is marked as the Polynesian language originating from the Austronesian family. Not many speak the language today, which is classified as critically endangered by UNESCO.

English has become the official language in schools, and the Hawaiian language decreased in the 1800s.

The aboriginal Hawaiians were brown-skinned with black hair, typically with very athletic bodies. The men would wear a ‘malo,’ a small piece of cloth covering the lower body, and women would wear a ‘tapa’ to create a skirt, sometimes including leaves with the material.

And don’t forget about the Hawaiian Islands’ flowers! Of course, when we think of Hawaii, we always think about the people dressed in their bright, bold flowers. It is very common for women to wear a single flower or a wreath in their hair – sometimes just consisting of leaves, and we often see them draped around their necks.

The wreath of flowers can also be gifted as a welcome gesture – known as the ‘Lei.’ It stands for friendship and should only be removed in private.

Travel Guide to Hawaii - The 'Lei'
Travel Guide to Hawaii – The ‘Lei’

The people are considered very strong, with various sports dominating the islands over the years, such as swimming, wrestling, boxing, spear throwing, and surfing. Surfing will always dominate the sports world in Hawaii; it is very common to be taught surfing at such a young age, considering you live next to these tropical waters!

Hula! The captivating dance highlights the Hawaiian culture throughout the years. It truly is a magical wonder empowered with its dance and music. The music can be slow and tranquil or upbeat and fast, performed with their fascinating chants. It was initially a religious performance in which they would honor a Hawaiian god or goddess as part of a ceremony. With its strong historical roots still growing among Hawaii’s people, it will always be known as part of their culture.

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours - Men performing Hula
Travel Guide to Hawaii – Men performing Hula

Hawaii – Food

Hawaiian cuisine, where do we start? The vibrant colors, full flavor, and countless dishes you can have here will leave your mouth watering for more. Here are some of the most popular words you may come across in Hawaii.

Lomi Lomi Salmon

This dish is served cold – salmon fillets mixed with tomatoes, onion, and sea salt. The taste will remind you of the sea and leave you feeling refreshed!

Travel Guide to Hawaii - Lomi Lomi Salmon
Travel Guide to Hawaii – Lomi Lomi Salmon

Chicken Long Rice

The Chinese introduced this one to the Hawaiian culture in the 1900s. A stew-like dish created with clear noodles mixed with chicken, onion, and ginger, served over white rice. This hearty meal brings a mixture of flavors.

Kalua Pig

For those meat lovers, do not miss this dish! This is big in Hawaiian cuisine, and you will see it a lot here. It is slow-roasted pork known for its incredible smoky flavor (it has the appearance of pulled pork). You can pair this with anything you like, but rice can be very common.

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours - Kalua Pig
Travel Guide to Hawaii – Kalua Pig

Poi

This one has always been a traditional meal for the Hawaiians. It is made by mashing Kalo, which creates a thick grey-like paste. You can eat it on its own or add some Kalua Pig or salmon to add extra flavor!

Travel Guide to Hawaii - Poi
Travel Guide to Hawaii – Poi

Laulau

This one comes wrapped in taro leaves (the leaves are inedible, so be sure to unwrap them before eating!). Inside you will find the meat, which can be pork, chicken, or fish. This is cooked for many hours in a hot rock oven which makes the juices from the meat incredible. It will simply melt in your mouth.

Poke

Yes, this dish does sound Japanese – probably because it consists of raw fish! However, unlike the Japanese, who typically slice their fish in thin pieces, you will find they serve it in cube-size bites here in Hawaii. The commonly used fish is ahi (tuna), served with soy sauce, sea salt, onions, and seaweed.

Haupia

A sweet Jello-like pudding – a beloved Hawaiian dessert. It is made with sugar and coconut milk, and prepared with pia (Polynesian arrowroot). It is cut into small slices, which can be added to fruit.

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours - Haupia
Travel Guide to Hawaii – Haupia

Hawaii – Weather

The weather in Hawaii is more or less consistent all year round. They only have two seasons – Summer, from May to October, and Winter, from November to April.

The temperature during the day stays around the high 60s (Fahrenheit) 20s (Celsius), for example, 84 (F) 29 (C) during Summer. Then in the Winter, this only drops a few degrees to around 77 (F) 25 (C). So you won’t need too many layers in the Winter!

Of course, the night will be slightly cooler; temperatures will drop to 59 (F) and 15 (C).

As for the rainfall, the wettest months are during Winter, usually November to March. Luckily, most rain happens in the mountains on the northeastern side of the islands due to the high-pressure zones.

This creates a magnificent tropical environment – whenever we think of Hawaii, we always envision mountain tops with the greenest scenery, right? The microclimate adds to these rich, tropical environments.

If you’re planning on surfing during your trip, the water temperatures here are pretty comfortable! They can be anywhere in the high 70s (F) or mid-20s (C). The waves will vary depending on which beach you will go to and the day.

I always check Magic Seaweed – an excellent app for surfing conditions. You can check local beaches for all the necessary information.

Travel Guide to Hawaii - Hawaii Island
Travel Guide to Hawaii – Hawaii Island

Hawaii – Tourism

The high season in Hawaii is between March and September, with the most elevated temperatures.

Visitor numbers drop from October to November, with slightly more relaxed and wetter Hawaiian Islands weather.

Hawaii is generally a good holiday destination all year round because of its comfortable climate and the suitable range of activities available.

Be aware that prices are always higher during peak season, so the winter would be better if you don’t mind visiting in the cooler months and are on a strict budget.

As Hawaii is a state of the USA and is geographically close, most visitors are from the American mainland states. More so from the west than the east because of cost and distance.

Canada has the second-highest visitation numbers to Hawaii.

Hawaii – Getting Around (public & other transport)

The main types of transportation on the Hawaiian Islands include bus, shuttle, taxi, Uber, or rental car.

Speedishuttle is a company that offers private and shared shuttles on the Hawaiian Islands – good when you want to get between the airport and your accommodation. This service is available on Hawaii Island, Oahu, Kauai, and Maui.

The bus in Honolulu is a great way to get around Hawaii. A pretty reliable source of transport and, of course, on the cheaper side. Depending on your destination, some buses will frequently arrive every 10 or 30 minutes, but some may be every hour if your location is less central.

A new rail system can also get you out of the airport to Downtown or the city’s west side. The Honolulu Transit provider is HART.

Taxi services will be widely available in the main Hawaiian Islands. Like everywhere else, this will cost you more, but you have a private car, and they will drop you off wherever – so if you can afford it, this is a good option.

Uber or Lyft prices will vary depending on demand and time. It will most likely be cheaper than a taxi.

If you have a partner or are traveling in a group, and know you want to visit slightly more remote areas on the island, then a rental car is the perfect option! It saves money when there are more of you, but it gives you a lot of freedom when you can hop in the car for any trip. Be sure to look around at various companies to get a good deal, and pre-book to arrange this when you arrive at the airport!

Jurassic Adventure Park Tour

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours - Jurassic Park Tours
Travel Guide to Hawaii – Jurassic Park Tours

You can’t come to Hawaii and not do a Jurassic Park Tour! One of the most famous scenic and exciting adventures in Oahu is a once–in–a–lifetime experience you will not forget. 

Suitable for everyone. Nature lovers. Animal lovers. Film lovers! You will get something out of this experience no matter who you are. 

The guided tours take you to magical film sites! How cool is that? There can’t be a more iconic place for a movie than Jurassic Park in Hawaii. They are located in Kualoa, Hakipu’u, and Ka’a’awa Valleys. 

The Jurassic Park Tour offers unbelievable scenery to gaze at, adventurous treks through the forest, and the enormous cages used in the films. 

Don’t let the prices on these tours deter you; it is worth every penny. I would set aside a day for this activity and maybe get up to scratch with the Jurassic Park movies before you go! You will get even more excited when you realize you’ll see the real thing in Hawaii soon!

Pack plenty of water and sunscreen, and grab that camera! You will be snapping plenty along your adventures here. 

Tickets sell out quickly for the Hawaii Jurassic Park Tours, so pre-book with as much time beforehand. I would recommend checking a couple of months before your trip – anything within a month will be tricky to get your hands on because it is so popular. 

Kualoa Ranch Tour

Located on the island of Oahu, Kualoa, Hawaii, is a private nature reserve and working cattle ranch. They offer several activities that can keep you entertained for hours – offering several tours. 

They include a Jurassic Valley Zipline, ocean voyaging, ATVs and raptors, beaches, food tours, and many more. 

Head to the Kualoa Ranch website to find an activity for yourself or the family! (The same website used for Hawaii Jurassic Park Tours) Suitable for any age, you will be able to make this an exciting trip for everyone. 

Again, tickets sell very quickly here, so make sure you check in advance with plenty of time. 

Kualoa Ranch Tours is one to remember when visiting Hawaii!

Travel Guide to Hawaii - Jurassic Valley Zipline
Travel Guide to Hawaii – Jurassic Valley Zipline

Diamond Head State Monument

The famous 300,000-year-old volcanic cone on Oahu island is one of the most popular activities in Hawaii.

Along the Diamond Head Summit Trail hike, you will see the most spectacular views from the rim of a volcano! The walk is moderate but will take 1.5-2 hours, so be prepared for many steps and pack lots of water and snacks for the journey. 

The earlier you arrive, the less crowded it will be. Getting there is easier if you have a car; there is a parking lot located here at the start of the hike. Or you can get an Uber if you can’t access a car. 

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours - Diamond Head
Travel Guide to Hawaii – Diamond Head

Mauna Kea

The other popular volcano hike here in Hawaii is Mauna Kea. The highest peak in Hawaii with a summit of 13,803 (feet) and 4,207 (meters) above sea level – a challenge for those hikers out there!

A lot of people opt for driving to the summit. There is a very accessible road to get here, and the most beautiful scenery is on the drive up. 

Some experience altitude sickness because of the height, so you may want to grab some pills if you think you’ll be affected by this. 

Also, take a jacket with you! Temperatures at the top will be cold, and it can get pretty windy!

Hawaii – Best Things to do in Maui

Hana Highway

Discover the famous highway, which is nicknamed the Road to Hana. The 53 miles, 85 kilometers of curvy, winding roads will take you through breathtaking scenery on the island, including many remarkable waterfalls.

You can book a tour for this one if you want to sit back and not stress about your mode of transport. Or you can take the car and drive it yourself, go with your partner or friends and make a trip out of it. 

Give yourself plenty of time, and be sure to drive slowly! Some spots have very narrow and dangerous roads, so caution must be taken when driving. 

There are numerous places you can stop by the car to take in the views or have a bite to eat. This is at the top of our list of Maui’s best things to do!

Travel Guide to Hawaii - Hana Highway
Travel Guide to Hawaii – Hana Highway

Relax on Maui’s Beaches

You’re in Maui, the sun is shining, and you’re not feeling like a strenuous day full of hiking. Don’t worry! One of the best things about the island of Maui is you have plenty of beaches to choose from. Grab your favorite book and music and head to one of these beautiful spots. 

Kaanapali is probably rated as one of the best beaches in Maui. With its numerous resorts and stunning beach walk, you can’t go wrong visiting this one. 

Maui Iao Valley State Park Tours - Kaanapali Beach
Travel Guide to Hawaii – Kaanapali Beach

Next on our list is Makena, divided into two beaches – known as Big Beach and Little Beach. Both offer gorgeous white sands where you can swim or snorkel. If you want a more secluded beach, head to the small cove of Little Beach. 

Wailea (known as the water of Lea) is another famous beach; if you don’t mind the crowds during peak season, then be sure to visit this one! Put this on your list of things to do in Maui.

Kapalua Coast Trail

A beautiful hike along the coast with gorgeous green views of the island. This is considered one of the best things to do in Maui!

This hike is more manageable and, in total, is around 2 miles. Family-friendly trail – make sure you wear appropriate shoes as some parts are sand or gravel. 

Travel Guide to Hawaii 2024

So, now you have all the information you need on Hawaii’s culture, lifestyle, and the tropical world of the Hawaiian Islands.

Whet – her you are going on vacation, making it your next digital nomad spot, or having an adventure with your family. Hawaii and the Hawaiian Islands are places everyone will always love for the incredible beauty in the islands and the people.

A paradise in the middle of the ocean waiting to be explored by many. Filled with natural beauty, adventure, and beaches you’ll dream of for a lifetime.

Start making that itinerary and book your getaway to this Hawaiian Islands paradise.

More reviews? Here are reviews on trips and tours in Hawaii.

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