Private Shore Excursion: Best Highlights of Maui

Maui , United States

Private Shore Excursion: Best Highlights of Maui

Active

(2 reviews)

3h - 4h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

PRIVATE TOUR: PRICE IS PER VEHICLE - HOLDS 1-6 PASSENGERS. Cruise ship-friendly tour with Kahului Port pick up by private minivan 8:30 am and 1:30 pm are departure times. We start our drive through Kahului up the hill to Wailuku Town. The town sits in the shadow of the lush, ancient volcano known as Hale Mahina. The road heads directly into the erosion valley known as Iao. Maui Tropical Plantation. It’s the largest on Maui. Take advantage of all the flowers and ponds for a great photo op. Ice cream, coffee and other treats are for sale here. Grab one and relax under a Banyan Tree or walk over to the small pineapple farm. Our final stop is the renowned Maui Ocean Center. It is 3 acres big, making it the largest tropical reef aquarium in the Western Hemisphere. Here you’ll find ocean wonders of all sorts, including a 750,000 gallon tank filled with sharks and stingrays. Become immersed in the 3D Humpback Whale experience that puts you up close and personal with these gentle giants.

Available options

Private Kahului Port 1:30 pm

Cruise ship pick up : Only select 1 passenger on check out because this tour is 1 private vehicle that can hold 6 passengers. <br/>Pickup included

Private Hotel Pick up 8:30 am

Hotel Pick up : Only select 1 passenger on check out because this tour is 1 private vehicle that can hold 6 passengers. <br/>Pickup included

Private Hotel Pick up 1:30 pm

Hotel Pick up : Only select 1 passenger on checkout because this tour is 1 private vehicle that can hold 6 passengers. <br/>Pickup included

Private Kahului Port 8:30 am

Cruise ship pick up : Only select 1 passenger on check out because this tour is 1 private vehicle that can hold 6 passengers. <br/>Pickup included

What's included

Entrance Fees

All Fees and Taxes

Detailed itinerary

Come explore the highlights and secrets of West Maui! This experience starts with driving through the historical plantation town of Wailuku and visiting an ancient volcano that possess a spectacular rainforest valley known as Iao Valley, and is home to the famous Iao needle. Due to many years of erosion and rainfall, Iao valley has become a stunning lush green valley with a river running through its valley floor all while hosting many different species of flora and fauna. While enjoying the botanical garden you will learn about the history of this grand valley and the Hawaiians that first settled here along with one of the bitterest battles ever fought on Hawaiian soil.

Stop 2

Next is the Maui Tropical Plantation. Easy walking paths lead through tropical plants and enjoy the artfully displayed antique equipment from the old sugar milling days. The local gift shop has island made vodka, coconut candy and many other fun items! Tram Ride is not part of the tour.

Stop 3

Customers must purchase their own entrance to the Maui Ocean Center. Prices may change without notice. Here is a link to their page that has admission costs.

https://mauioceancenter.com/buy-tickets/

What's not included

Stop is made at local vendors for customers to purchase and foods or drinks they may like.

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Wheel Chair: The mini van has space for one collapsible wheel chair or small collapsible scooter.

Infants: You are welcome to bring a car seat for baby but you are not required to and they are allowed to sit in parents lap.

Important notes

We do not require customers to have a voucher or ticket upon check in. You can check in with your name.

Kahului Port: Exit the ship terminal building, you will then walk past signs numbered 1-5. Continue to exit the fence. Tell security you are waiting for PRE ARRANGED TAXI. YOU MUST SAY PRE ARRANGED TAXI, NOT tour or private tour. Stay there, and your guide will pull in to pick you up. Stay there, and your guide will pull in to pick you up. Check in 10 min prior.
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HOTEL:
We ask all guests to please plan to be at the designated departure location at least 10-15 minutes before the PICK UP time listed above.

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The entrance fee to Maui Ocean Center must be purchased by the customer. Stops can be customized since the tour is private.

About Maui

Maui, known as the Valley Isle, is the second-largest Hawaiian island and offers a diverse landscape of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and volcanic mountains. It's renowned for its stunning sunrises and sunsets, world-class snorkeling, and the scenic Road to Hana.

Top Attractions

Road to Hana

A 160 km (100-mile) drive along the island's northern coast, featuring waterfalls, lush rainforests, and stunning ocean views. A must-do for any visitor.

Scenic Drive Full day Free (parking fees may apply at some stops)

Haleakala National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the dormant Haleakala volcano, unique ecosystems, and stunning sunrise and sunset views.

Nature Half day to full day $30 per vehicle (7-day pass)

Molokini Crater

A partially submerged volcanic crater offering world-class snorkeling and diving with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

Adventure Half day $100-150 per person (including snorkel gear and lunch)

Lahaina Town

A charming historic town with a rich whaling history, boutique shops, art galleries, and waterfront dining.

Historical Half day to full day Free to explore (costs vary for shopping and dining)

Iao Valley State Park

A lush, tropical valley featuring the iconic Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot tall volcanic pinnacle, and scenic hiking trails.

Nature 1-2 hours $5 per vehicle (Hawaii residents free)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Poke

A traditional Hawaiian dish made with diced raw fish, typically tuna or salmon, marinated in soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. Served over rice or as a salad.

Lunch/Dinner Can be made with cooked fish or vegetarian options.

Loco Moco

A hearty dish featuring a bed of white rice topped with a hamburger patty, a fried egg, and brown gravy. A comfort food favorite in Hawaii.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and vegan versions available.

Malasadas

Portuguese-inspired fried dough balls, dusted with sugar or filled with sweet fillings like custard or haupia (coconut pudding). A popular treat from Teddy's Bake Shop in Lahaina.

Dessert Vegetarian (contains eggs and dairy).

Shave Ice

Finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups and often served with a scoop of ice cream or sweetened condensed milk. A refreshing treat, especially on hot days.

Dessert Vegetarian and vegan options available (check for dairy-free syrups).

Popular Activities

Hiking Snorkeling Scuba Diving Surfing Zip-lining Beach lounging Spa treatments Sunset cruises

Best Time to Visit

April to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather, lower humidity, and fewer tourists. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the island.

22-29°C 72-84°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Hawaiian, Tagalog, Japanese, Ilocano
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time (HST), GMT-10:00

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Maui is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates in tourist areas. However, petty theft and scams can occur, so it's important to stay vigilant.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of strangers offering services or deals that seem too good to be true
• Use reputable tour operators and rental companies

Getting there

By air

Kahului Airport • 2.4 km (1.5 miles) from Kahului

By bus

Kahului, Lahaina, Wailuku

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable but infrequent service. Best for short trips between towns.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kihei Wailea Lahaina Upcountry Maui

Day trips

Lana'i

16 km (10 miles) by ferry from Lahaina • Full day

A secluded island known for its luxury resorts, scenic beaches, and off-road adventures. Ideal for those looking to escape the crowds of Maui.

Molokini Crater

16 km (10 miles) by boat from Kihei • Half day

A partially submerged volcanic crater offering world-class snorkeling and diving with crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life.

Haleakala National Park

48 km (30 miles) from Kahului • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the dormant Haleakala volcano, unique ecosystems, and stunning sunrise and sunset views.

Festivals

Maui Film Festival • June Maui County Fair • Late September to early October Maui Whale Festival • February to March (peak whale watching season)

Pro tips

Rent a car for at least part of your trip to explore the island's diverse landscapes and attractions
Book tours and activities in advance, especially during peak season
Visit popular attractions like the Road to Hana and Haleakala National Park early in the morning to avoid crowds and heat
Pack reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life and follow local guidelines for responsible snorkeling and diving
Try local specialties like poke, loco moco, and malasadas for an authentic Hawaiian culinary experience