Lahaina, Hawaii

Located in Wailuku, Hawai‘i, the Maui Ocean Center offers an immersive experience into the rich marine life of Hawai‘i’s waters. Established in 1998, this aquarium is distinguished by its extensive collection of live Pacific corals and native marine species, cared for by a team of expert marine biologists and divers. The center emphasizes conservation and education, showcasing Hawai‘i’s unique ocean ecosystems through thoughtfully designed exhibits and interactive programs. Visitors can explore living coral reefs, observe native fish, sea turtles, and sharks, and engage with cultural narratives that highlight the deep connection between the ocean and Hawaiian heritage. The Maui Ocean Center provides a variety of experiences tailored to families, educators, and marine enthusiasts alike. Admission includes access to all exhibits and the innovative Humpbacks of Hawai‘i 3D Sphere Experience, which offers a multi-sensory encounter with humpback whales. Additional offerings include guided tours such as the Behind the Scenes Tour, revealing coral propagation and animal care processes, and the Hawaiian Culture & Plant Tour, which explores native flora and cultural traditions. The facility is family-friendly with accessible pathways and daily interpretive talks led by marine naturalists, making it an educational and engaging destination for visitors of all ages seeking to deepen their understanding of Hawai‘i’s marine environment.

Located in Lahaina, Hawaii, this family-owned sailing company has been providing exceptional ocean experiences around Maui for over five decades. With roots dating back to the 1920s and a legacy shaped by a pivotal shipwreck in 1969, the company operates a fleet of first-class sailing vessels departing from Maalaea Harbor and Kaanapali Beach. Renowned for their knowledgeable and attentive crew, they offer a unique blend of comfort, safety, and personalized service that distinguishes them from other tour operators. Their commitment to quality is evident in their well-maintained boats, premium equipment, and carefully curated itineraries that explore some of Maui’s most stunning marine environments. The company specializes in a variety of tours including snorkeling excursions to Molokini Crater, West Maui reefs, and the pristine waters of Lana’i, as well as sunset sails, dinner cruises, whale watching, and SNUBA adventures. Guests can expect a full-day experience featuring gourmet meals such as plantation-style BBQ lunches and continental breakfasts with signature cinnamon rolls, alongside premium beverage options for adults. The tours cater to a wide range of customers, from families and casual snorkelers to more adventurous travelers seeking underwater exploration. Each outing includes snorkel instruction, reef-safe sunscreen, and access to protected marine preserves, ensuring an immersive and environmentally conscious experience on the waters of Maui.

Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows is a beachfront resort situated on the renowned Ka’anapali Beach in West Maui, Hawaii. Spanning 27 tropical acres, the property features a mix of tower rooms, suites, and distinctive bungalow accommodations that offer direct oceanfront access and scenic views. With over 450 rooms and suites, including private bungalows and spacious oceanfront suites, the resort combines traditional Hawaiian charm with modern amenities such as air conditioning, electronic safes, and in-room Kona coffee. Its location within the Ka’anapali Resort area provides guests with convenient access to local attractions and the natural beauty of Maui’s coastline. The resort offers a variety of services and activities tailored to both leisure and active travelers. Guests can enjoy cultural experiences like hula and ukulele lessons, participate in wellness and fitness classes, or relax at the full-service oceanfront spa offering Hawaiian-inspired treatments. Dining options include oceanfront and poolside restaurants serving island-inspired cuisine and handcrafted cocktails. The property also features a tennis ranch with multiple courts, a pool with recreational games, and an award-winning oceanfront luau showcasing traditional Hawaiian entertainment. Suitable for families, couples, and groups, the resort provides a comprehensive Maui experience with amenities designed to enhance relaxation, cultural immersion, and outdoor enjoyment.

Kai Kanani is a premier marine adventure company based in Makena, Maui, Hawaii, specializing in snorkeling and sailing excursions. With extensive experience and a commitment to safety and environmental conservation, the company offers unique access to Molokini Crater, a crescent-shaped volcanic crater known for its exceptional water clarity and vibrant marine biodiversity. The pristine waters around Makena provide an ideal setting for both novice and experienced snorkelers to explore colorful coral reefs and diverse aquatic life, including endemic fish species and sea turtles. What distinguishes Kai Kanani is its combination of expert guides, high-quality equipment, and exclusive sailing vessels that enhance the overall experience of Maui’s underwater and coastal beauty. Kai Kanani’s offerings include sunrise and sunset snorkeling tours to Molokini Crater, whale-watching expeditions during the season, and private charters tailored to individual preferences. Guests can enjoy a variety of sailing adventures suitable for all skill levels, with opportunities to learn sailing techniques while taking in panoramic ocean views. The company’s tours emphasize a respectful approach to marine conservation, educating visitors about the delicate ecosystem they explore. Whether seeking an intimate private charter or a group adventure, participants can expect attentive service, comfortable amenities, and memorable encounters with Maui’s spectacular marine environment.

PacWhale Eco-Adventures, located in Maui, Hawaii, offers marine ecotours grounded in nearly four decades of research and conservation efforts. As a social enterprise owned by the nonprofit Pacific Whale Foundation, the company is dedicated to protecting Hawaiʻi’s humpback whales and promoting ocean education. Each excursion is guided by Certified Marine Naturalists, ensuring an informative and engaging experience that combines scientific knowledge with adventure. This commitment to education and conservation distinguishes the company as one of Maui’s most awarded ecotour operators. The business provides a variety of activities including whale watching cruises, snorkeling tours, dolphin cruises, sunset sails, holiday cruises, and private charters. These offerings cater to a wide range of customers, from families and casual tourists to marine enthusiasts seeking an immersive ocean experience. Guests benefit from expert guidance, quality equipment, and access to some of the best marine environments around Maui. The tours emphasize environmental stewardship while delivering memorable encounters with marine wildlife in their natural habitat.

Sea Maui is a well-established ocean adventure company located in Lahaina, Hawaii, specializing in unique sailing experiences departing directly from Ka’anapali Beach. Since its founding in 2015, the company has built a reputation for offering authentic, fun, and educational tours led by experienced, certified sailors who are passionate about sharing the natural beauty of Maui. Unlike traditional harbor-based operations, Sea Maui’s vessels load directly from the sand, providing guests with an immersive and intimate connection to the ocean from the moment they board. This beach-loading approach, combined with a friendly crew atmosphere, sets the company apart as a local favorite for visitors seeking a genuine Hawaiian maritime experience. The company offers a diverse range of activities including whale watching tours during the winter months, snorkeling excursions at premier West Maui locations, and sunset cocktail and dinner cruises featuring live music on select evenings. Their tours cater to all ages and skill levels, with all necessary snorkeling gear provided and safety prioritized through certified staff and flotation options. Guests can expect close encounters with marine life such as humpback whales, tropical fish, and sea turtles, all while enjoying the scenic coastline aboard comfortable catamarans. Sea Maui also accommodates private charters for larger groups, making it an ideal choice for families, adventure seekers, and those looking to celebrate special occasions on the water.

Located in Maui, Hawaii, Alii Class Yachts offers premier ocean adventures aboard luxury catamarans and private yachts. With a strong legacy of hospitality and a commitment to authentic island connection, the company specializes in curated nautical experiences that highlight Maui’s natural beauty and wildlife. Their fleet includes the newly introduced Ali’i Kai, designed for ultimate comfort and relaxation, featuring spacious decks, shaded seating, and premium amenities. Known for their high crew-to-guest ratio, Alii Class Yachts ensures personalized service and seamless boarding from their convenient Kihei launch point near Wailea. The company provides a diverse range of excursions including whale watching with guaranteed sightings, snorkeling tours to Molokini Crater and other vibrant reefs, sunset sails, and private charters tailored to individual preferences. Each trip includes expert guides, premium snorkel gear, and gourmet food and beverage offerings made from locally sourced ingredients. Guests can enjoy an open bar, live marine naturalist narration, and onboard photographers capturing memorable moments. Alii Class Yachts also emphasizes eco-conscious practices, using reef-safe sunscreen and eliminating single-use plastics to protect Maui’s marine environment. These carefully crafted experiences cater to travelers seeking luxury, adventure, and a deep connection to the island’s culture and natural wonders.

Calypso Maui operates from Ma’alaea Harbor in Maui, Hawaii, offering unique ocean excursions aboard a modern, triple-decker motorized catamaran. This vessel is designed for stability and comfort, featuring twin hulls that glide smoothly over the water and three decks that provide expansive views of the Pacific Ocean. The boat’s design includes large tinted windows, open-air ends, and glass panels on the bottom, allowing guests to observe marine life from multiple vantage points. With an experienced crew focused on safety and guest enjoyment, Calypso Maui caters to both novice and seasoned ocean adventurers seeking memorable experiences in a spacious and well-equipped setting. The company provides a variety of tours including the popular Molokini Crater snorkeling adventure, sunset dinner cruises, seasonal whale watching excursions, and private charters for special occasions. Guests can expect comprehensive snorkeling equipment, guided instruction, and amenities such as hearty meals and refreshments onboard. The tours are family-friendly and suitable for all skill levels, with features like water slides, dive steps, and a “leap of faith” jump-off point to enhance the fun. Throughout the year, passengers have opportunities to see diverse marine wildlife including sea turtles, dolphins, and humpback whales during the winter months. The combination of expert crew, well-maintained vessel, and diverse offerings makes for an engaging and comfortable ocean experience on Maui.

Located on the scenic Ka'anapali Beach in Lahaina, Hawaii, the Myths of Maui Luau offers an authentic Polynesian cultural experience in a stunning oceanfront setting. Established in the early 1970s, it is Maui’s longest-running luau, renowned for its vibrant celebration of Hawaiian food, music, dance, and traditions. Guests are welcomed with a shell lei aloha greeting and can witness the traditional Imu ceremony, where a roasted pig is unearthed from an underground oven. The event is distinguished by its live Hawaiian music, captivating hula performances, and an exhilarating fire knife dance finale, all set against the backdrop of breathtaking Maui sunsets. The luau features an all-you-can-eat Hawaiian-style buffet that includes local favorites such as Kalua pork, teriyaki chicken, and Asian steamed mahi, alongside a dedicated keiki (children’s) buffet. Complimentary tropical cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic beverages are served throughout the evening. The show takes guests on a cultural journey through Polynesia, showcasing dances from Hawaii, Tahiti, Samoa, and New Zealand. Suitable for families and visitors of all ages, the experience combines festive entertainment with island hospitality, offering both general admission and VIP packages that include premium seating and exclusive perks for a fully immersive evening.

Sail Maui is a premier sailing and snorkeling company based in Lahaina, Hawaii, offering authentic and intimate catamaran experiences on the island’s stunning waters. With a focus on performance sailing, the company operates spacious, state-of-the-art catamarans such as the 64-foot Alihilani and the 54-foot Akialoa, designed to maximize the trade winds and provide a comfortable, luxurious setting. The experienced crew is knowledgeable about local marine life and sailing, ensuring safe, engaging, and memorable adventures. Sail Maui stands out for its commitment to true sailing, minimizing motor use to enhance the natural ocean experience, and for its top-rated service reflected in numerous five-star reviews. The company offers a variety of tours catering to all ages and interests, including snorkeling excursions to iconic locations like Molokini Crater, the Lāna‘i coast, and West Maui, as well as whale-watching sails during the migration season. Each tour includes snorkeling gear, reef-safe sunscreen, meals, and beverages, with options such as breakfast, lunch, and an open bar featuring local beer, wine, and cocktails. Private charters are also available, allowing guests to customize their sailing adventure with flexible itineraries and catering options. Whether seeking exhilarating sailing, vibrant marine life encounters, or serene sunset cruises, guests can expect a blend of adventure, relaxation, and the natural beauty of Maui’s ocean environment.

In2Scuba Diving Maui is a premier scuba diving company located in Kaanapali and Lahaina, Hawaii, specializing in beginner and family-friendly scuba experiences. Established in 2001 by Master Scuba Diver Trainer Ty, who has over two decades of teaching experience and a reputation for patient, safety-focused instruction, the company offers personalized, small-group classes and tours. Its unique approach emphasizes comfort and confidence-building, ensuring divers of all ages and skill levels can explore Maui’s vibrant underwater ecosystems safely. Recognized as the best dive shop in the area by TripAdvisor, Google, and Yelp, In2Scuba Diving Maui stands out for its expert instructors, intimate group sizes, and access to renowned local dive sites such as Black Rock, Mala Wharf, and Airport Beach. The company provides a range of services including introductory scuba lessons, private beginner classes for children as young as ten, scuba certification courses from beginner to advanced levels, and guided shore dives. Guests can experience diverse marine life, including sea turtles, reef fish, and occasional sharks, while enjoying the personalized attention of knowledgeable instructors who also serve as marine naturalists. Additional offerings include underwater photography and video rentals to capture memorable moments beneath the waves. Whether visitors seek a first-time dive or advanced certification, In2Scuba Diving Maui delivers a safe, educational, and immersive experience tailored to individual comfort and pace.

Located in Ma’alaea Harbor, Wailuku, Hawaii, this snorkeling charter company offers an intimate and personalized experience aboard the Maui Magic, a fast power catamaran designed for adventure and access to multiple prime snorkeling sites. With over 30 years of industry experience through its parent company, Maui Classic Charters, it stands out by limiting passenger numbers to ensure a more exclusive and attentive tour. The smaller size and speed of the vessel allow it to reach a variety of renowned locations such as Molokini Crater, Turtle Town, and Coral Gardens, providing guests with opportunities to encounter dolphins, Hawaiian green sea turtles, and seasonal humpback whales. The crew’s expertise and dedication to customer service enhance the overall experience, combining safety, education, and Hawaiian cultural elements like traditional chants and conch shell ceremonies. The company offers daily morning snorkel tours that include visits to two distinct underwater sites, featuring a free tropical breakfast, lunch, and fresh baked cookies, all served by a friendly and knowledgeable crew. Private afternoon charters are also available, catering to families and groups seeking a personalized setting with options for whale watching during the season. These tours are designed for guests aged five and older and emphasize a relaxed yet engaging atmosphere, with amenities such as a water slide on board. Weather permitting, the excursions provide a memorable exploration of Maui’s marine life and coastline, making them ideal for travelers looking to combine adventure with comfort and cultural enrichment.