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Things to Do on Maui in July

If you’re planning a summer Maui vacation and looking for things to do on Maui in July, you’re in the right place! Maui is one of the best islands to visit in Hawaii. Although the summer can be busy, there are plenty of Maui activities in July that you won’t want to miss.

Make sure to book early, as the best activities and resorts will sell out!

Maui is open!

You may have heard about the devastating fires on the island of Maui a few months ago. While this island has faced a few challenges since those fires, they are ready to welcome visitors once again. Please be respectful and always keep what not to do in Hawaii in mind during your vacation. 

ALL of Maui is open for visitors as of October 8, 2023! Now is the perfect time to start planning for your Maui vacation.

DO I NEED A RENTAL CAR IN MAUI?

YES! I strongly recommend renting a car in Maui. You truly need one as public transportation is not reliable, and you’ll want to fully explore the beautiful island. You’ll find the best prices anywhere at Discount Hawaii Car Rental. You can reserve a car not, and only pay when you pick it up. 

Weather in Maui

The weather in Maui is pretty similar throughout the year. The temperatures remain steady and the sun usually shines bright. So, you won’t experience extremely hot weather if you do visit in July.

You might get some rain but the rainy season is usually between November and March. So, you won’t see a ton of precipitation if you vacation in Maui in July. Don’t worry, even during the “rainy season” most of the popular places to visit in Hawaii are warm and sunny 95% of the time. 

The weather is the same on any of the Hawaiian Islands. So, do not think the weather will prevent you from choosing between the best islands for your vacation.

The Best Time to Visit Maui

As you probably can tell, July is an amazing time to visit Maui! There are so many things to do on this island in the middle of summer.

However, I can honestly tell you that there is really no bad time to vacation in Maui. You can go at any time of the year and have a blast.

There is one thing you must be aware of if you do visit Maui in July. It is one of the busiest months to visit this island. Or any of the other Hawaiian Islands.

So, keep that in mind when planning your trip. And allow for extra time in between things to do on Maui in July.

Things to Do on Maui in July

Here are the best things to do in Maui in July, listed in no particular order. 

Watch the 4th of July Fireworks

Celebrating the 4th of July on Maui can be quite exciting. One of the best places to go for fireworks is Lahaina.

A massive celebration takes place on Front Street. There are vendors, entertainment, local musicians playing live music, children’s activities, and so much more. The fireworks close out the excitement of the day.

You can watch the sky light up right from Front Street. Or from a table at many of the local restaurants.

Basically, this entire day will be filled with good times and laughter.

Another option, and in my opinion the best way to see the fireworks, is to take one of the fireworks boat tours. There are a few different tours to choose from. Therefore, you can easily find one that meets your needs.

Just remember to book early before they sell out!

Head to Turtle Town for Snorkeling

One of the best places to see a green sea turtle is Turtle Town. You will find this area in South Maui.

This is a great spot to go snorkeling to look at sea turtles and other marine life.

When you arrive in Turtle Town, head towards Maluaka Beach. That’s where you will find the best snorkeling spot.

A new scuba diver will also love spending time in the water in Turtle Town. It is the perfect place to get used to diving down deeper in the water. I recommend a tour if possible. 

Attend the Makawao Rodeo

The Makawao Rodeo is a great place to spend part of your summer vacation. You will have the best time watching barrel racing, calf roping, and so much more.

This rodeo is held at the Oskie Rice Arena. This is in Upcountry Maui which you can learn more about in my guide: The Ultimate Guide to Upcountry Maui

Go for a Rainforest Hike to a Waterfall

There are plenty of waterfalls in Maui. You will also find dozens of hiking trails throughout the rainforests. This is one of the Maui activities you will want to do time and time again.

After all, you won’t be able to resist swimming at the bottom of every waterfall you see. Or check out the views from every trail you tackle, especially if that trail leads you to a waterfall or the Haleakala Crater.

One of the best hiking trails in Maui is the Pipiwai Trail. This trail takes you through a bamboo forest. Along the way, you will see a large Banyan tree, as well as 2 waterfalls.

This trail is 4 miles round trip. You will find it within Haleakala National Park. I recommend doing this hike early in the day. It does get crowded with people who are driving along the Road to Hana.

Drive Along the Road to Hana

Speaking of the Road to Hana, take the time to drive this stretch of road while on vacation in Maui. Driving the Road to Hana is one of the best things to do on Maui in July. It is one of the top attractions on the island.

There are numerous stops you can make along this scenic drive. It can actually take an entire day or more to complete this drive. It all depends on how many times you stop.

One of the unique places to stop is the Hana Lava Tube. This is located near Mile Marker 31. The inside of the lava tube is filled with stalagmites and stalactites.

Oh, and if you don’t want to drive this twisting and winding road, you can always go on a guided tour. Some people say this is their absolute favorite way to go because it will allow you to enjoy the sights, as the driver does all the hard work!

If you do decide to go at it on your own, check out my guide: The ultimate guide to the Road to Hana.

Attend the Maui Film Festival

The Maui Film Festival usually lasts for an entire week. During that week, you can attend galas, check out culinary events, and watch film screenings.

Most of those screenings are held on the outdoor movie screen at the Wailea Gold Golf Course.

Go Horseback Riding in West Maui

You can go horseback riding anywhere on this island during your Maui vacation. West Maui seems to offer some of the best views of the countryside though. Once you see this countryside, you will realize why Maui is also called Valley Isle.

Plus, most horseback riding adventures over there are led by Paniolos. They are local Hawaiian cowboys. These cowboys will show you the best sights during your ride.

Go On a Sunset Dinner Cruise

There are quite a few different sunset cruise options in Maui but I linked my favorite. One of them should make your list of things to do on Maui in July.

If you are traveling as a couple, I recommend a sunset dinner cruise. You can listen to live bands while eating a delicious meal. Oh, and don’t forget to watch the sun as it sets over the water!

Many of these sunset cruises leave from Kaanapali, Maalaea, and Lahaina Harbor. So, you should be able to find one that is close to where you are staying!

Attend a luau

There are plenty of luaus on Maui. However, the Old Lahaina Luau is the one most people know about.

This traditional Hawaiian feast includes dancing and music. Attending any luau in Maui is a great way to learn about Hawaiian culture. It’s a great luau, but there are plenty of others!

Due to the  Maui fires, the Old Lahaina Luau is currently not open, so here are some of my favorite alternatives. 

• Maui Nui Luau at the Sheraton
• Feast at Mokapu at the Andaz (the best for couples!) 
• Te au Moana luau at the Grand Wailea
• Waiele Luau at the Westin Maui

Spend a Day at the Beach

There are so many beautiful beaches on Maui. One of the best beaches is Kaanapali Beach. A visit there will include swimming, relaxing on the white sand, and cliff jumping. All while the palm trees sway in the breeze.

If you want to watch the cliff jumping, or jump yourself, head over to Black Rock. At dusk, the retelling of King Kahekili’s cliff dive is done here.

Whalers Village is a short walk from Ka’anapali Beach. It’s an ideal place to go when you get tired of the sand.

Other wonderful white sand beaches are Napili Beach, Kapalua Bay Beach, and Makena Beach. If you are traveling with small children though, I recommend Baby Beach. The shallow and calm waters at this beach are perfect for little ones.

If you are searching for a black sand beach, I have you covered! You will find one of those if you drive along the Road to Hana. Honokalani Black Sand Beach is an absolute favorite when it comes to black sand beaches.

You will find this beach in Waianapanapa State Park. It is one of the most beautiful places to go during the summer months. And despite its popularity, it’s rarely crowded.

Take a Helicopter Tour

There is so much to see on the island of Maui. And honestly, you can’t reach some of the most fascinating sights!

So, I recommend you take a helicopter tour. One of the tour’s expert guides can share everything you see below.

Over on East Maui, you can see Honokohau Falls and so much more. There are also helicopter tours that include West Maui, as well as Molokai which has the highest sea cliffs in the world!

It is best to choose a tour that will allow you to check as many sights off your must-see list as possible.

Take a Surf Lesson

One of the most popular outdoor activities in Maui is surfing. Head to many of the Maui beaches to take a surf lesson.

A popular spot for surfing in Maui is the North Shore. However, you can try to catch a wave at any beach you visit.

If you want to watch surfers out in the water, head to Hookipa Beach Park. Some of the best waves on the Maui shoreline can be found there. You may even stumble upon a surfing competition being held during your visit.

Go Deep Sea Fishing

Maui is one of the best places to go deep sea fishing. When you head out on a deep sea fishing boat, you will have a chance to catch yellowfin tuna, dorado, and wahoo. You may even get lucky and catch some Hawaiian salmon.

It is best to take a charter boat from Maalaea Harbor or Lahaina Harbor for this type of adventure.

Take an Outrigger Canoe Tour

There are a few different Outrigger Canoe Tours to choose from while on vacation in Maui. A cultural tour will allow you to skip a visit to the Maui Arts and Cultural Center and spend your time outside.

Your cultural canoe tour will have you learning about the different cultures in Hawaii, while also participating in traditional Hawaiian Chants. All while checking out amazing views, seeing green sea turtles, and even going for a swim with marine life.

Visit the Maui Tropical Plantation

One of the unique things to do in Maui is visiting the Maui Tropical Plantation. Most people skip putting this on their list of things to do on Maui in July.

I recommend having this at the top of your list. Plan on taking a tram tour to see all the crops and flowers. You may even have a chance to chat with the local farmers at the plantation.

Catch the Sunrise Above the Clouds

You must get up super early to catch the sunrise above the clouds in Maui. This involves a drive to the summit of Haleakala. The drive takes between 1 ½ and 2 hours since the summit is more than 10,000 feet above sea level.

You will be driving through Haleakala National Park towards the summit. Since this is one of the most popular things to do on Maui in July, you need an advance reservation. If you don’t feel like navigating that drive in the dark, I recommend a tour. You can even do a tour where you bike back down!

Take a Walk on the Kapalua Coastal Trail

Some of the best coastal views in Maui can be seen from the Kapalua Coastal Trail. This trail is just under 2 miles long each way.

The beginning of the trail is at Kapalua Beach. Then it heads towards the north and ends at D.T. Flemings Beach.

The trail is a mix of sidewalks, boardwalks, sand, and rocks. I recommend a sturdy pair of walking shoes. However, you should be fine if you need to do it in flip-flops. Just be careful and watch your step!

There is a free parking lot near the southern end of Kapalua Beach. You can park there for the hike. It is best to arrive early in the day. The parking spots fill up quickly.

Check Out the Dragon’s Teeth

Over on Makalua-puna Point, which is in Northwest Maui, you will find what looks like dragon’s teeth. It is actually trachyte lava that has eroded away over time.

The result is pointed spires that create Dragon’s Teeth.

If you continue walking towards the point, you will come across a labyrinth. It is a massive, round maze that is perfect for walking along. It is an excellent place to get lost in your thoughts while enjoying the silence.

Visit the Banyan Tree in Lahaina

Lahaina is a small town in Maui that suffered from the wildfires this past year. But somehow, the massive Banyan Tree survived the blaze. This tree was planted back in 1873. It is considered one of the largest Banyan trees in the US.

There is currently new growth on the Banyan Tree in Lahaina. The locals are hopeful that that means the tree will survive and continue to be part of the history of the area.

Wander Around Iao Valley State Park

One of the main attractions in the Iao Valley State Park is the Iao Needle. You must walk along a trail just over a half mile long to see the Iao Needle.

I also recommend paying close attention to the cliffs inside this park. Those cliffs were used as burial sites for many people who were part of Hawaiian Royalty.

Head to Molokini Crater

You will need to go on a guided tour to snorkel in Molokini Crater. Many of those tours will add other destinations like Turtle Town. So, you will want to check the tour options carefully to make sure where you are going.

First-time snorkelers will love how easy it is to snorkel and see things underwater at Molokini Crater.

Check Out Honolua Bay

You won’t find a beach at Honolua Bay. However, the water is calm for swimming and snorkeling. You will see lots of different fish in the bay.

It is important to note there are no lifeguards or restrooms here. Keep that in mind if you plan on staying for a few hours. And if the water is rough, it may be best to stay out.

Be Amazed at the Nakalele Blowhole

In North Maui, you may want to visit Nakalele Point. This is where the infamous Nakalele Blowhole can be found. This hole in the ground erupts throughout the day.

Basically, every time waves hit the shoreline, water streams up throughout the hole. It looks like a geyser, even though it isn’t.

Relax at the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm

You will discover 20 different varieties of lavender at this farm. Those varieties are spread out between approximately 55,000 lavender plants.

Most lavender blooms in the summer. So, visiting this farm is one of the best things to do on Maui in July. You can learn more in my ultimate guide to Upcountry Maui. Some of it will be in bloom throughout the rest of the year. So, don’t check this farm off your to-do list if you visit outside the summer months.

You will also have the chance to see hydrangeas, olive trees, and succulents during your visit.

Take the time to visit the gift shop before you leave. After all, you will want a few things to help you relax once you get back home from vacation!

Stop Into the Kula Botanical Garden

The Kula Botanical Garden is not too far from the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm. The garden is 8 acres. It is full of tropical flowers.

If you are traveling with kids, stop at the Jackson Chameleon exhibit. It is always a hit with the younger generations.

Play a Round of Golf

There are quite a few golf courses to choose from in Maui. One of the best places to play a round is King Kamehameha Golf Club. However, you will also find amazing courses at Wailea Golf Club and the Bay and Plantation courses at Kapalua Resort.

Check out more golf courses in Maui here: The 15 best golf courses in Maui.

Attend the Lanai Pineapple Festival

Okay, so you will need to head over to Lanai to attend this festival. Thankfully, the ferry plans for this special event. They offer later ferries, so you can travel back to Maui from Lanai after the festivities.

The Lanai Pineapple Festival is held in Dole Park. It is always in the beginning of July.

This festival celebrates the pineapple plantation and cowboy history on Lanai. As you wander around, you will find food, crafts, and games. You can even watch a little live entertainment.

I recommend staying until the fireworks light up the sky.

Unfortunately, if you visit Maui in July, you will miss the biggest celebration of the year on the island. King Kamehameha Day is celebrated on June 11th every year. The biggest celebrations are held on the Big Island. However, if you happen to be in Maui, or one of the other islands, you will find celebrations there.

Go Whale Watching

Unfortunately, the humpback whales are nowhere near Maui in July. So, this is not one of the best things to do on Maui in July.

However, I am sure you will want to visit this beautiful island more than once. So, you can always plan your next visit for the winter months when the humpback whales will be surrounding the Hawaiian Islands. Pacific Whale Foundation offers my favorite tour!

You can see humpback whales, and other marine life, at the Maui Ocean Center. However, it just isn’t the same as watching these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. If you do visit in the winter, make sure to check out The Ultimate Guide to Maui Whale Watching.

Things to do in Maui in July

There are some of the best things to do in Maui in July. You can also check out my Maui itineraries if you want more inspiration to plan your trip. 

• 7-day Maui Itinerary
• 4-day Maui Itinerary | 4 days in Maui
• Maui 5 day itinerary

things to do in Maui

As a Hawaii Travel agent, I book Maui more than any other island! If you want more ideas for your Maui vacation, I have plenty of Maui travel tips on the blog, including: 

• The Best Beaches West Maui
• Black Sand Beaches Maui
• 15 easy hikes in Maui
• 50 things to do in Maui
• Maui vs. Kauai

Guess what? I am a Hawaii Travel Agent, and I love planning vacations and honeymoons in Maui! You can contact me if you’d like more information. I recommend starting with my Hawaii travel guide if you plan to DIY your vacation!

Are you dreaming of Hawaii but not ready to travel just yet? Sign up for my newsletter! You will receive a weekly email with travel tips, Hawaii news, and more. Also, if you love these posts and want to support my blog but aren’t prepared to travel yet, you can buy me a coffee to show your support. I ❤️ coffee!

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