Things To Do | Maui, Hawaii

My first trip to Hawaii actually took place a year and some months ago. Last time, I went to the "Big Island" for a wedding; and this time, I went to Maui for vacation. I am slowly, but surely making my way around the world, even if it's within the same state! My goal for my trip to Hawaii was to relax and de-stress (so...more of the enjoying and appreciation of each place visited versus trying to visit as many places as possible). These are some places I went to on my trip and would highly recommend (links to their website provided). They're in no particular order.

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The Maui Tropical Plantation was nice and relaxing. You can choose to walk around the grounds yourself (although limited to some extent) or you can pay a small fee for tickets to ride on their tram, which gives you a tour of the plantation grounds. You may even see a baby pineapple (pictured)! Going on the tour gives you certain perks, such as a redeemable coupon for a free pineapple snack at the ice cream shop, and 10% off at their farm stand or Mill House Roasting Co. There is also ziplining on the plantation grounds, although I'm not too sure of the details since I didn't do that myself.  Tip:  If you're a macadamia nut fan or just interested in trying something different, buy a pack of the roasted macadamia nuts from the Mill House Roasting Company. They make a great snack while on the tour, and they taste delicious! They come in different flavors, so be sure to sample each of them before you buy a pack! 2. Lahaina Banyan Court

The Lahaina Banyan Court is home to the oldest banyan tree in Hawaii! It is located in the center (more or less) of Lahaina. You can have a seat at one of the many benches under the tree and admire its uniqueness. This place is great for a long stop or if you just want to make a quick visit to one of the oldest trees around. On one side of the banyan tree is the Old Lahaina Courthouse. Surrounding the other sides of the park are many little shops and eateries that are reminiscent of a small-town feel.  3. Maui Ocean Center

If you love ocean creatures, then the Maui Ocean Center is for you! At the ocean center, you get to enjoy and see different marine life that is native to Hawaii. Yes, there will be some sea creatures that look like the ones back at home ("mainland United States," as they say), but there are plenty of opportunities to spot something new! Also, there may be staff members holding workshops on Hawaiian culture. When my husband and I visited, we had the opportunity to sit in on a workshop by Koi'i Lum for lei making. Aside from explaining the step-by-step process and assisting me in making a lei, he explained to me the significance of leis and what they are used for in the Hawaiian culture. It was a great mini look into their culture!4. Road to Hana (Not pictured) The Road to Hana is a pretty popular tourist sight (at least in my opinion). It is, in a nutshell, a narrow and windy road with many stops, where you can see waterfalls, hike, swim, camp, and rappel down some rocks. There are many stops you can make along the road. How many you want to make really depends on you and what your plans are. Once you start on the road, you either have to finish it, turn back, or plan to stay the night (camp).  My husband and I were only able to get to the 3rd or 4th stop, since he ended up dislocating his shoulder from falling during one of the stops at a waterfall. If you're driving yourself on the Road to Hana, be sure to follow their preparation guide and checklist. 
 ----------  ❤  ---------- Traveled to Maui, Hawaii before? What are some of your top places, sights, and things to do? 
- Nicole G.@nextwithnicole