Best of Maui: Sips, Sites & Bites (M1)

Best of Maui: Sips, Sites & Bites
The Essential Maui Tour

Experience Maui’s highlights on this laid-back journey showcasing nature’s finery, historic landmarks, and charming country towns. Haleakala is truly magnificent in the daytime hours while bathed in sunlight which brings its steep slopes to center stage and when endemic wildlife freely roam the landscape. Leisurely observe Nene geese in their native habitat and discover the secret of the rare Silversword plant.

Descend through the Haleakala Visitor Center Overlook Areas, offering stunning views of Kula and upcountry Maui. Stop for a curated lunch at Hali’imaile General Store, to savor the flavors of Maui. Enjoy a tour at Hali’imaile Distillery. NOTE: Guests under 21 must wait outside during tastings (15–20 minutes), and a valid photo ID is required.

Iao Valley is temporarily closed due to repairs - it will open approximately in mid-July 2026.

After a short walk past a meandering stream through a forest full of native Hawaiian plants, gaze high above at the iconic Iao Needle – a natural outcropping jutting from the mountain side; covered in emerald green vegetation and towering 1,200 feet over Iao valley. The valley is rich in history as a former ancient burial site for Hawai’i’s royalty.

Tour Highlights:

• Haleakala National Park is home to over 1,000 different species of plant life. During the 38-mile drive up the dormant volcano, you’ll see the magnificent Silversword plant, found nowhere else on earth, and pass ancient sacred locations, and breathtaking views from the safety and comfort of your mini coach.
• Haleakala was formed approximately 1 million years ago through the building of layers upon layers of flowing lava. It has been a sacred location for Polynesian people who settled on the island 400-650 A.D.
• Haleakala Visitor Center, at 9,740 feet elevation was constructed in 1936 and is a small stone structure on the edge of a cliff.
• Experience Climate and Topographical Changes as you gently glide through the varying elevations. Keep an eye out for the rare Nene Goose.
• Views of Kula come into focus when approaching the open country slopes of the district meet agricultural land in this rustic region, home to early Portuguese and Chinese immigrant plantation workers.
• ‘Iao Valley, a dense rainforest and ancient battleground, it was a burial site for ancient Hawaiian royalty. The iconic, greenery covered ‘Iao Needle towers 1,200 feet above the valley floor.

Details:

• Dress warmly (important) to be prepared for the Haleakala summit area where the temperature can be as low as around 20 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Minibus tour vehicles with excellent amenities.
• Kindly note that this tour is not recommended for guests with heart or respiratory conditions that may be exacerbated due to high altitude.
• People who have gone scuba diving should wait 72 hours before going on this tour. No refunds due to Haleakala due to inclement weather conditions impacting visibility.
• This tour is operated on rough, winding roads. It is not recommended for pregnant women or those with back or motion problems.

Departure & Return Location

Hotel pick up is provided from Major Maui Hotels. Enter the name of your hotel at time of reservation. Phone our Reservations Department at 808-833-3000, 24 hours prior to tour to re-confirm your pick up time and place. We are not permitted to pick up in residential areas or at B&B’s.