West Maui hiking trail with ocean views and mountains

Beyond the Beach: West Maui Adventures

Hiking, Whale Watching, Golf & More

Jade Kawanui, local West Maui expert and guide

Written by a Local Expert

Beyond the Beach: West Maui Adventures

While it's easy to spend your entire vacation on the sand, the majestic landscapes of West Maui offer incredible adventures for those willing to explore a little further.

15. Hiking the Kapalua Coastal Trail

This is one of the most beautiful and accessible hikes on Maui. The trail is about 1.76 miles one way (3.5 miles round trip) and offers breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and neighboring islands. The terrain is varied and interesting, taking you across paved walkways, wooden boardwalks that protect fragile sand dunes, and sections of uneven, ancient lava rock.

Trail Details

• You can start the hike from several points, including Kapalua Bay or D.T. Fleming Beach Park, which allows you to do shorter, more manageable segments if you prefer.
• Along the way, you'll pass stunning beaches like Oneloa Bay and the dramatic, wave-battered cliffs at Hawea Point.
• The trail is relatively easy but wear good shoes for the lava rock sections.

16. Whale Watching Season (December - April)

From December through April, the waters off West Maui transform into a nursery for thousands of migrating humpback whales. The ʻAuʻau Channel, the shallow body of water between Maui, Lānaʻi, and Molokaʻi, is one of the most important breeding and calving grounds on the planet, making this one of the best places in the world to witness these magnificent creatures. The peak of the season is usually from January to early March, when sightings are practically guaranteed.

Boat Tours

Large, comfortable catamarans from companies like Teralani and Sea Maui depart directly from Ka'anapali Beach. For a more intimate, ocean-level experience, consider a kayak eco-tour with a guide who can share deep knowledge about the whales' behavior. Many tours guarantee sightings, offering a free second trip if you don't see whales.

Shore Viewing

You don't always need a boat! One of my favorite spots to watch for whales from shore is the scenic McGregor Point lookout on the Honoapi'ilani Highway as you drive into West Maui. Pack some binoculars, find a spot, and be patient—the show of spouts, tail slaps, and full-body breaches is worth the wait.

Jade's Local Tip: You don't always need a boat! One of my favorite spots to watch for whales from shore is the scenic McGregor Point lookout on the Honoapi'ilani Highway as you drive into West Maui. Pack some binoculars, find a spot, and be patient—the show of spouts, tail slaps, and full-body breaches is worth the wait.

17. World-Class Golf with Ocean Views

West Maui is a premier destination for golfers, boasting courses that are as challenging as they are beautiful.

Kapalua

The legendary Plantation Course is a bucket-list round for any serious golfer, famous for its dramatic elevation changes and as the host of the PGA TOUR's The Sentry tournament. The Bay Course is also stunning, known for its iconic hole that plays over the ocean.

Ka'anapali

The resort is home to two classic courses, the Royal Ka'anapali and the Ka'anapali Kai, both offering beautiful views and a fantastic day of golf just steps from the beach.