Maui Ecotourism: Your Outdoor Adventure Awaits
Ecotourism is a word that is becoming more familiar in the travel industry. This trend allows visitors to explore exotic natural environments and encourages wildlife interaction and conservation efforts. One of the top places to start is Maui, Hawaii. The island provides the perfect setting for an eco-tourist adventure. In fact, natives believe in malama aina, which means caring for the land and respecting the natural world. Get the scoop on Maui ecotourism and find things to do.
Maui Ecotourism Scene: Top 5 Things to Do
Kayaking
Kayak alone or sign up for a tour that takes kayakers out to reefs. Maui Kayak Tours hosts groups up to eight people and provides an up-close look at wildlife and exotic areas. Explore Turtle Town, home to green Hawaiian sea turtles. Journey to the Molokini Crater, one of the most popular areas. Or see the unspoiled beauty of Kapalua. Most tours allow visitors to snorkel the areas, and all welcome the whole family.
Kula Botanical Gardens
Maui’s upcountry houses a gem that shows varieties of flowers and plants. Kula Botanical Gardens encompasses 8 acres of colorful plants, rock formations, waterfalls, an aviary and koi pond. The gardens welcome all ages to enjoy the area’s scenic beauty, buy local items and relax. Love gardens? Read about more Maui gardens open for tours.
Whale Watching
Maui offers one of the best places for whale-watching in the Pacific Ocean. The season runs from November to March, with a high population during January to March. Several companies in the area host whale-watching tours with or without snorkeling. Families can plan to spend a few hours or a full day observing whales and hearing them sing.
Country Farm Tours
Visit true lovers of the land. At Country Farms Tours, meet farmers who work with the land and produce much of the food served in local restaurants. Its Upcountry Farm Tour explores parks, nearby farms, bakeries, gardens and pineapple country. For an additional fee, guests can also sample various wines made in Maui.
Hiking
Iao Valley State Park and Haleakala National Park — site of the highest Peak in Maui, Mt. Haleakiala — both have trails for beginner and experienced hikers. Pack a picnic and plan to see waterfalls, mountains, natural monuments, ocean views and more. In addition, hikers can choose their own adventure or plan a hiking trip with a local guide.
Plan a Maui ecotourism adventure, then book a vacation rental on the island.
Read about some of the top Maui festivals and celebrate like a local.