Verfasst vom Maui Snorkeling Team, das seit 1985 Touren zum Molokini-Krater, Turtle Town und Coral Garden ab Maʻalaea Harbor anbietet. Die Touren werden von Kapitänen mit USCG-Lizenz an Bord eines... Von der US-Küstenwache inspiziertes Passagierschiff. Wir verbringen mehr Tage in diesen Gewässern als an Land.
Letzte Aktualisierung: Januar 2026
Quick Answer: What Are the Best Hawaii Excursions (Maui-First)?
If you’re visiting Maui and want the best overall mix, choose a morning snorkeling trip (typically calmer water + clearer visibility), add a sunset cruise for an easy “wow” evening, and if you’re here in winter, make time for whale watching.
Best quick picks for Maui:
- Best “wow” snorkeling day: Molokini-Krater-Schnorcheltour (Molokini paired with Turtle Town)
- Best later start / family-friendly pace: Schnorcheln am Nachmittag bei Korallengärten
- Best winter add-on: Whale watching in Maui (keep your eyes open on the way to and from snorkel spots)
Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, choosing the right Hawaiian Island tours and excursions can completely transform your vacation. This guide breaks down the best ways to explore Hawaii, with a special focus on ocean adventures, island culture, and experiences you’ll be talking about long after you fly home.
For a bigger island checklist, see our Ausflüge, Touren und Aktivitäten in Maui Führung.
Why Hawaii Excursions Are Worth It
Yes — the beach is perfect. But excursions are what turn a nice vacation into an unforgettable one.
Go Beyond The Resort And Beyond The Crowds
Some of Hawaiʻi’s best reefs, viewpoints, and wildlife moments aren’t accessible from shore — or they’re much better with local guidance and the right timing.
Learn From Local Experts
The best Hawaiian Island tours and excursions are led by knowledgeable local crews who share stories, history, and cultural insight you won’t find in a guidebook. You’re not just sightseeing — you’re connecting with the islands on a deeper level!
Maximize Your Vacation Time
A good excursion eliminates guesswork. Instead of juggling parking, reservations, timing, and conditions, you get a plan built around the best windows of the day.
Snorkeling: One Of The Most Popular Hawaii Excursions
Snorkeling is one of the most-loved Hawaii excursions because it’s accessible, exciting, and uniquely Hawaiian — warm water, colorful reef life, and the chance to see iconic marine animals like honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles).
Why Snorkeling In Hawaiʻi Is So Special
Because the Hawaiian Islands are isolated, you’ll see marine life and reef ecosystems that feel completely different from many other tropical destinations. Maui’s leeward waters (the Kihei/Wailea/Mākena side and areas reached by boat from Maʻalaea Harbor) can offer excellent conditions — especially earlier in the day.
Boat Snorkeling Vs. Shore Snorkeling
While beach snorkeling can be fun, boat excursions unlock an entirely different experience:
- Access to healthier reefs farther from crowds
- Deeper water visibility and calmer conditions
- Multiple snorkel stops in one trip
- Crew support, flotation options, and a smoother experience for beginners
Snorkeling tours consistently rank among the top Hawaii excursions because they combine adventure, wildlife, and relaxation in one unforgettable outing. If you’re comparing experiences, read How Maui Snorkeling Compares to Big-Boat Snorkel Tours.
Top Maui Ocean Excursions (Hawaii Excursions, Maui Edition)
Morning snorkeling tours are often considered the gold standard of Hawaiian excursions, especially for visitors staying on Maui.
1. Molokini Crater Snorkeling (Classic Maui Bucket List)
Molokini is a crescent-shaped volcanic crater off Maui’s south shore. It’s one of the most iconic Maui excursions because it’s often associated with clear water and a dramatic open-ocean setting.
Many guests choose Molokini as the centerpiece of their snorkeling day and then add a second stop (often closer to Maui) depending on conditions and the day’s plan.
Early departures also mean fewer boats at popular snorkel spots, creating a more peaceful experience.
Timing tip: If you’re flexible, morning trips are often the calmest.
2. Turtle Town Snorkeling (Chance to See Honu)
“Turtle Town” is a popular name for snorkeling areas in South Maui, known for frequent turtle sightings and beautiful reef structure. Wildlife is never guaranteed — but this is a classic Maui excursion for a reason.
If seeing turtles is high on your list, it helps to know what to expect and how to snorkel respectfully around wildlife.
What To Expect On Our Morning Tour
- Frühstück und Mittagessen
- Snorkel gear and flotation devices
- Multiple snorkel locations (Molokini and Turtle Town)
- Time to relax, slide into the water, or enjoy the views
It’s the perfect blend of adventure and comfort.
3. Afternoon Snorkeling (Coral Gardens): A Relaxed Alternative
Not everyone loves early mornings while on vacation — and that’s okay! Afternoon Snorkeling Tours offers a more laid-back option for Hawaii Excursions.
Why Choose Our Afternoon Snorkeling Tour
- Later start time (1:00 PM)
- Great for families with kids
- Beginners who want a more relaxed pace
- Ideal if mornings are booked with other activities
- Often calmer nearshore locations (Coral Gardens)
This tour focuses on scenic reef systems and coastal snorkeling that still offer amazing encounters with marine life.
4. Whale Watching (Seasonal Maui Must-Do)
If you’re visiting Maui in the winter months, whale watching is one of the most memorable Hawaii excursions you can book. Even on non-whale-specific boat rides, you may get lucky and spot whales in the distance during transit. (Think our Maui Snorkeling Tours. 😉)
Bring a light layer, keep your camera ready, and remember: the best whale moments are the ones you witness without disrupting the animals — reputable operators follow wildlife viewing guidelines and keep a respectful distance.
5. Sunset Cruises (Low Effort, High Reward)
A sunset cruise is one of the easiest “yes” excursions in Hawaiʻi. You don’t need to be athletic, you don’t need perfect weather, and you’ll still get a memorable Maui moment: warm light, ocean breeze, and the island coastline glowing at golden hour.
This is a great option for couples, groups, and anyone looking for a relaxing evening after a busy day.
Maui Schnorcheltouren
Book your Maui Snorkeling Tour today and experience crystal-clear waters, vibrant tropical fish, and the chance to swim alongside sea turtles. Spots fill fast—reserve your tour now and dive in!
Top Maui Land Excursions (Pair These With Snorkeling)
A perfect Maui itinerary often looks like this: one ocean excursion + one land adventure.
Here are the land excursions that pair especially well with snorkeling days:
- Straße nach Hāna: Best if you want waterfalls, rainforest scenery, and a full-day adventure. Many visitors choose a guided option to avoid tight roads, limited parking, and the stress of timing.
- Haleakalā sunrise or sunset: Sunrise is legendary but requires planning; sunset is often easier and still stunning. Either way, you’ll experience a totally different side of Maui — cool air, sweeping views, and a sky that feels enormous.
- Upcountry Maui: A great way to experience farms, food, cooler weather, and local flavors. It’s also a nice balance if you’ve had several ocean days in a row.
- ʻĪao Valley: Ideal for a shorter nature-and-history outing, especially if you want something scenic without committing to a full-day drive.
Ocean Wildlife Encounters You Might Experience
One of the most exciting parts of Hawaii excursions is the chance to see wildlife in its natural environment.
- Sea Turtles: Hawaiian green sea turtles are frequently spotted resting on reefs or gliding through the water. Seeing one while snorkeling is often a highlight of any island tour.
- Tropical Fish: Expect to see bright yellow tangs, butterflyfish, parrotfish, and many species found only in Hawaiian waters.
- Seasonal Whale Sightings: During the winter months, humpback whales migrate to Hawaiian waters. While snorkeling tours don’t enter whale areas, spotting whales from the boat is an unforgettable bonus!
Choosing The Right Hawaii Excursions For Your Trip
With so many options, selecting the right tours can feel overwhelming. A few tips make it easier.
- Consider Your Travel Group
- Families may prefer shorter tours with flexible schedules
- Couples might enjoy sunset cruises or smaller group experiences
- Adventure seekers may want snorkeling, plus hiking or kayaking
- Think About Ocean Comfort: If anyone in your group is prone to seasickness, ask about boat size, trip length, and snorkeling locations before booking.
- Buchen Sie frühzeitig: Top Hawaiian Island tours and excursions often sell out weeks in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Tips To Get The Most Out Of Your Hawaiian Excursions
A little preparation goes a long way in making your experience unforgettable.
- Bring The Essentials
- Riffsicherer Sonnenschutz
- Towel and dry clothes
- Sunglasses and hat
- Underwater camera or phone case
- Listen to Your Guides: Local crews understand ocean conditions better than anyone. Following instructions ensures a safer, more enjoyable experience.
- Stay Flexible: Ocean conditions can change. The best Hawaii Excursions adapt plans to find the clearest water and best snorkeling on any given day.
Why Excursions Create Lifelong Memories
There’s something magical about stepping off a boat into clear blue water or watching the sun dip below the horizon while dolphins swim nearby. These moments are what turn a vacation into a lifelong memory.
Whether you’re snorkeling vibrant reefs, spotting sea turtles, or enjoying a peaceful cruise, these experiences capture the spirit of the islands.
Plan With Confidence
When planning your trip, prioritize experiences that allow you to truly connect with Hawaii’s natural beauty. Snorkeling tours, ocean adventures, and guided island experiences offer the perfect balance of excitement, relaxation, and discovery.
No matter how you choose to explore, the right excursion will leave you with sun-kissed smiles, unforgettable photos, and a deeper appreciation for the islands.
If you’re ready to turn your Hawaii vacation into something extraordinary, there’s no better place to start than with incredible Hawaii Excursions on the water!
