The Best Things to Do in Maui for Couples (Part 2)

In part one of The Best Things to Do in Maui for Couples, we covered romantic resorts and accommodations, experiences tailored for two, and adventures and explorations. Keep reading to dive deeper into the vibrant culture and exquisite cuisine of Maui. You’ll learn about traditional Hawaiian customs, local culinary delights, and how these elements blend to create a unique cultural experience. We’ll also guide you through more one-of-a-kind activities that you won’t find anywhere else. These experiences can range from exploring hidden gems off the beaten path to engaging in local crafts and customs.

Additionally, our guide offers various ways to unwind and reconnect with your partner. Whether it’s through discovering secret beaches while on a peaceful nature walk, or yoga sessions with ocean views, we provide plenty of options to help you relax and strengthen your bond. Discover these activities and more as you continue exploring what Maui has to offer for a romantic and memorable getaway.

Culture and Cuisine

Luau Experiences in Maui: Let’s start part two of the best things to do in Maui for couples with luaus! Luau experiences in Maui offer a dive into traditional Hawaiian culture, providing an enchanting evening that blends entertainment, education, and cuisine. A luau is a celebration of Hawaii’s rich history and vibrant cultural heritage.

At a typical Maui luau, you’ll be greeted with a warm aloha and perhaps a lei, setting the tone for an evening of hospitality and festivity. As the sun sets, the luau grounds come alive with the rhythmic beats of Polynesian drums and the fluid movements of hula dancers. These performances tell the stories of Hawaiian and Polynesian legends, conveying deep cultural meanings and historical tales through dance and music.

The feast at a luau is equally significant, featuring a spread of traditional Hawaiian dishes that are as delicious as they are important to local heritage. Key dishes often include kalua pig, which is slow-cooked in an underground oven called an imu, poi (a starchy paste made from taro root), Lomi-Lomi salmon (a fresh tomato and salmon salad), and haupia (coconut pudding). This culinary experience provides a taste of the native flavors and cooking techniques unique to the Hawaiian Islands.

In addition to dance and dining, many luaus also include interactive elements, such as hula lessons or crafts, where guests can learn to make their lei or try their hand at weaving. These activities offer a deeper understanding and appreciation of Hawaiian culture, making the luau one of the best things to do in Maui for couples looking to experience the island’s spirit and traditions firsthand.

Here are some of our top picks for the best luaus in Maui:

1. Old Lāhainā Lūʻau: Unofficially thought of as the best luau on Maui, Old Lāhainā Lūʻau delivers a spectacular location for its sunset show, with a five-course meal and all the traditional trimmings. At nearly 100 percent capacity year-round, the Lūʻau seats 340 guests seven evenings a week and has a dedicated staff of 200 employees.

2. Grand Wailea Lūʻau: An upscale evening with music, dancing, a celebration of the Imu (kalua pig), and fantastic fire knife dancers. With ocean views of Molokai and Kahoʻolawe, this is sure to be a breathtaking treat under the stars.

3. Te Au Moana Lū’au at Marriott Wailea: A friendly luau with a beautiful setting, delicious food, and a fun-filled show. Dance with your loved one under the Maui skis and discover all the fascinating stories at Te Au Moana: The Ocean Tide.

Fine Dining in Maui: A highlight and undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Maui for couples seeking a romantic and memorable dining experience. The island’s culinary landscape is as varied and vibrant as its natural scenery, offering an array of high-end restaurants that specialize in both local and international cuisine.

Couples can indulge in beautifully prepared dishes that showcase the freshness and richness of Maui’s local produce, seafood, and meats. Dining establishments here often emphasize farm-to-table practices, ensuring that every meal is crafted with the finest ingredients available. This commitment to quality adds an extra layer of enjoyment to your dining experience, as you taste flavors that are both unique to the region and incredibly fresh.

Many of Maui’s fine dining restaurants also have stunning settings, from oceanfront locales offering panoramic sunset views to intimate garden terraces surrounded by tropical flora. These settings provide the perfect backdrop for a romantic evening, enhancing the overall dining experience with their natural beauty and serene ambiance.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to enjoy a night of exquisite food and atmosphere, fine dining in Maui offers a sophisticated way to connect and create lasting memories with your partner. The combination of exceptional cuisine, breathtaking settings, and attentive service makes it a must-do for any couple visiting Maui.

Our recommendations for fine dining places in Maui:

1. Mama’s Fish House (Paia): On the Road to Hana, this iconic Maui restaurant is known for its fresh, seasonal seafood dishes and stunning ocean views. They source most of their seafood locally and even have their own fish market next door.

2. Merriman’s Kapalua (Kapalua): Renowned oceanfront restaurant featuring farm-to-table cuisine in an elegant setting with captivating views. They source 90% of their produce locally and change their menu seasonally to reflect the freshest offerings.

3. KŌ Restaurant (Kihei): The Fairmont Kea Lani’s swanky eatery features a menu inspired by the sugarcane-plantation era, served in a beautiful, sconce-lit space. They also have a great selection of wines to pair with your meal.

Unique Activities

Waterfall Hiking in Maui: Ranking highly among the best things to do in Maui for couples, especially those with a liking for adventure and a love for the great outdoors. Exploring the island’s lush landscapes on foot to discover its hidden waterfalls provides an exhilarating and romantic experience that is both rewarding and memorable.

Maui possesses a number of stunning waterfall trails, each varying in difficulty and scenic beauty. Trails like those leading to Twin Falls, Waimoku Falls, and the waterfalls along the Road to Hana offer couples a chance to enjoy the island’s natural beauty. As you hike through dense rainforests, bamboo forests, and along rushing streams, you’ll be treated to the sights and sounds of Maui’s vibrant ecosystem.

Reaching a waterfall is always a moment of triumph and awe. The sight of water cascading down into a tranquil pool, surrounded by the greenery of Maui, is the perfect setting for couples to share a peaceful moment. Many of these spots are ideal for a refreshing swim or a picnic, allowing you and your partner to relax and enjoy the pristine surroundings.

In addition to the physical journey, waterfall hiking in Maui also offers a chance to connect with nature and each other in a meaningful way. The activity requires teamwork and encouragement, strengthening your bond as you navigate the trail together. This shared adventure, combined with the stunning natural beauty and the thrill of discovery, makes waterfall hiking a must-do activity for couples looking to add a bit of adventure to their romantic getaway in Maui.

Here are some of the top trails to consider for your hiking adventure:

1. Twin Falls Trail (East Maui): This is a popular and relatively easy hike that leads to two beautiful waterfalls. The trail is well-maintained and only about 1.5 miles round trip. You’ll encounter the first waterfall shortly after the start of the trail, and the second one requires a short climb up some rocks.

2. Waimoku Falls via Pipiwai Trail (Haleakala National Park): This is a must-do for waterfall enthusiasts visiting Maui. The Pipiwai Trail takes you through a beautiful bamboo forest and ends at the base of the cascading 400-foot Waimoku Falls. The hike is considered moderate with a distance of about 4 miles round trip, but the terrain can be uneven and slippery so proper footwear is essential.

3. Makamakaʻole Falls (East Maui): This moderate hike takes you through a scenic valley with multiple stream crossings. The reward at the end is a beautiful 75-foot waterfall cascading into a refreshing pool. The hike is about 2.5 miles round trip, and the trail can be muddy and slippery in some spots.

Stand-up Paddleboard (SUP) Lessons: A fantastic and fun addition to the list of best things to do in Maui for couples looking to add some adventure and teamwork to their vacation. This popular water sport provides an exciting way to explore Maui’s beautiful coastal waters while offering a bit of exercise and a lot of enjoyment.

Taking SUP lessons together allows couples to learn a new skill while enjoying the serene beauty of Maui’s beaches. Whether you’re paddling along the calm waters of Wailea Beach or exploring another beautiful Maui beach, stand-up paddleboarding gives you a unique perspective of the island’s stunning landscapes from the water. It’s also a great opportunity to spot marine life such as Hawaiian green sea turtles and tropical fish that inhabit the clear waters of Maui.

SUP is relatively easy to learn, making it accessible for couples at any fitness level or experience with water sports. Instructors will guide you through the basics of balancing and paddling, ensuring that you feel confident and secure on your board. As you glide over the water, you’ll have the chance to perfect your skills, race each other, or simply enjoy a leisurely paddle side by side.

Besides being a lot of fun, stand-up paddleboarding is also a bonding experience. It requires communication and support as you encourage each other and share in the excitement of mastering the boards. This shared activity not only enhances your physical well-being but also strengthens your connection, making it a memorable part of your trip.

Check out these suggestions for SUP lessons:

1. Maui Stand Up Paddle Boarding: They offer lessons and tours for all skill levels, making it a great choice whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to improve your paddling technique.

2. ISA Surf School: If you’re interested in learning to surf in addition to stand-up paddleboarding, ISA Surf School is a perfect choice. They offer combo lessons that include both activities.

3. Maui Waveriders: They provide semi-private SUP lessons in Kihei for small groups of 2-6 people. This can be a good option if you’re looking for a more personalized experience with your significant other.

Stargazing Tours: One of the best things to do in Maui for couples looking for a magical and romantic way to end their day. Under the vast, clear skies of Maui, these tours take you away from the light pollution of the towns and into darker areas where the cosmos paints a breathtaking scene across the night sky.

Maui’s unique geographical location and minimal light pollution provide some of the clearest conditions for stargazing. The elevation in areas like Haleakalā National Park, known for its astronomical observatory, offers a particularly stellar experience. Here, the altitude not only brings you closer to the stars but also above much of the Earth’s atmosphere, providing clearer and more dramatic views of the night sky.

During a stargazing tour, expert astronomers often guide you through the constellations, making use of telescopes to bring distant planets, galaxies, and stars into view. This educational component adds depth to the experience, allowing you and your partner to learn about astronomy and the cultural significance of the stars in Hawaiian navigation and folklore.

The intimate setting of a stargazing tour creates a perfect moment for couples to connect over the awe-inspiring beauty of the universe. It’s an opportunity to share in the wonder, making wishes on shooting stars or simply embracing the tranquility of the night together. Many tours also offer cozy amenities like blankets and hot beverages, enhancing the romantic atmosphere as you gaze up at the night sky.

Our top recommendation for stargazing on Maui is:

1. Maui Stargazing: They offer sunset and stargazing tours within Haleakala National Park for a science-based telescope adventure. Their tours are led by experienced astronomers who will share their knowledge of the night sky and help you spot planets, galaxies, and other celestial objects.

We hope you enjoyed reading about these unique activities and as a reminder, our Maui Snorkeling Boat Tours run both morning and afternoon, every day of the year. Take a look at part one of The Best Things to do in Maui for Couples to find out more details or book your tour now!

Relaxation and Reconnection

Oceanfront Yoga Classes: An invigorating and serene addition to the list of things to do in Maui for couples, offering a blissful way to start your day in the island paradise. Imagine unrolling your yoga mats on the soft sands, with the gentle sound of waves crashing nearby and a panoramic view of the ocean stretching out before you. These classes provide an ideal setting for couples to reconnect with each other and with nature, fostering a sense of peace and togetherness.

Participating in a yoga session by the ocean not only enhances physical well-being through stretches and poses tailored to all levels but also elevates mental health by promoting relaxation and mindfulness. The natural beauty of the surroundings contributes to a deeper meditative experience, allowing you to absorb the tranquility and majestic beauty of Maui.

Many resorts and local yoga instructors offer these oceanfront classes at sunrise or sunset, times when the scenery is particularly stunning and the atmosphere is charged with the magical hues of the sky. This timing adds an element of awe and wonder to the practice, making it not just an exercise routine but a truly enriching experience.

For couples, it’s an opportunity to strengthen bonds, enjoy shared moments of calm, and create memories in a picturesque setting. It’s a gentle yet profound way to enhance a romantic getaway, aligning body, mind, and spirit with the rhythmic sounds of the ocean and the soothing essence of Maui. Whether you’re yoga enthusiasts or beginners, this activity is a must-do, perfectly blending wellness and romance in the heart of paradise.

Here are some options for oceanfront yoga classes on Maui:

1. Johanna Waters – Maui Massage and Yoga (Kihei): Offers outdoor oceanfront yoga classes on Sundays and Thursdays at Kamaole Nalu Resort. Classes are moderate and 60 minutes long.

2. Maui Yoga Path Beachfront Studio (Kihei): Located at the Mana Kai Maui condo complex, this studio offers a variety of yoga classes, including beachfront Vinyasa classes.

3. Maui Beach Yoga (Kihei): Offers a variety of yoga instruction, including private sessions, perfect for couples looking for things to do in Maui. They emphasize the connection to Hawaiian culture and the beauty of the natural environment in their classes.

Maui Off The Beaten Path

“Maui off the beaten path” refers to exploring the less crowded, lesser-known parts of Maui, Hawaii, beyond the typical tourist hotspots. It’s about discovering hidden gems, experiencing authentic local culture, and enjoying the island’s natural beauty in a more secluded and tranquil setting. Here are some of our suggestions:

Discovering Secret Beaches: Ranks among the best things to do in Maui for couples seeking a more secluded and intimate experience on the island. These hidden gems provide a private slice of paradise, perfect for couples wanting to escape the more crowded tourist spots and enjoy some tranquility together.

Maui is known for its stunning coastlines, and while popular beaches have their charm, the island’s lesser-known shores offer serene settings where you can often have the sand and surf almost to yourselves. Discovering these secret beaches involves a bit of adventure, which can include a scenic hike through abundant trails or a drive down unmarked paths. This journey to find your own secluded spot adds an element of excitement and exclusivity to the experience.

Once you arrive, the rewards are plenty. Imagine lounging on a pristine stretch of sand, the only sounds being the gentle lapping of the waves and the soft rustle of palm leaves in the breeze. Here, you can sunbathe, swim, and surf in privacy, or simply enjoy the beauty of nature undisturbed. It’s a peaceful setting for quality couple time, whether you’re sharing a picnic, capturing stunning photos, or just relaxing together.

For couples visiting Maui, spending a day at one of these secret beaches is a must-do activity. It combines the thrill of exploration with the romance of finding your own private spot in paradise, making it one of the best ways to experience the island’s spectacular coastal beauty together.

While the concept of a “secret” beach might be subjective, there are some lesser-known beaches in Maui that offer a secluded and off-the-beaten-path experience. Here are a couple to consider:

1. Oneloa Beach: Located on the northwest shore of Maui near Kapalua, Oneloa Beach is a remote and relatively untouched beach. It features soft sand, calm waters, and stunning views of the neighboring islands of Molokai and Lanai.

2. Poʻolenalena Beach: This secluded beach near Hana is known for its dramatic cliffs, lush vegetation, and black sand. It’s a great spot for tide-pooling and exploring the tide pools.

Photo Courtesy of MauiGuideBook.com

Remember, these beaches are often less accessible and may have limited amenities. Be sure to pack everything you need for your beach day, including food, water, sunscreen, and a hat. Also, it’s important to be respectful of the environment and leave no trace behind.

It’s also good to note that some beaches may be difficult to find or require a short hike to access. Always prioritize safety and be aware of weather conditions and ocean currents before heading out to any secluded beach.

Local Experiences: Another “Maui off the beaten path” experience is to immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting places like the Maui Tropical Plantation, the Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center, or the ONO Organic Farms. 

In Conclusion: The Best Things to do in Maui for Couples

Maui offers an extraordinary array of activities perfect for couples seeking to enrich their relationship through shared experiences. From the island’s rich culture and cuisine, which can be savored through fine dining and luau experiences to unique activities like stand-up paddleboard lessons or peaceful stargazing tours, Maui ensures every moment spent together is memorable.

For relaxation and reconnection, serene yoga classes by the ocean, and exploring secret beaches provide the perfect backdrop for couples to unwind and deepen their bond. Whether indulging in the vibrant local flavors, embarking on new adventures, or simply enjoying each other’s company in the beautiful Maui setting, couples will find endless opportunities to create lasting memories in this paradise.

Check out our other blogs for more of the best things to do in Maui! 

• • Best things to do in Upcountry Maui
  • Best things to do in South Maui
  • Best things to do in West Maui (Coming soon!)
  • Best things to do in East Maui (Coming soon!)