Maui, often celebrated for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, reveals an entirely different side on this immersive Full Day Island Tour departing from Kihei. This 5 to 6-hour journey takes you beyond the coast to explore Maui’s verdant upcountry, rich history, and unique microclimates, offering an enriching blend of nature, heritage, and local flavor that few visitors experience. Starting with a convenient hotel pickup in Kihei and Wailea, you'll cruise along the coastline before heading inland toward the island’s agricultural heart.
The tour’s first highlight is the Surfing Goat Dairy, Maui’s only working goat farm. Here, you can engage with the friendly goats and learn about sustainable farming practices in a fun, hands-on environment. The farm’s location on the slopes of Haleakalā offers sweeping views of the island below, creating a perfect blend of wildlife interaction and panoramic scenery.
Next, you will visit Kula Farms, a vibrant farm-to-table market perched in one of Maui’s prime agricultural areas. As you take in panoramic ocean vistas, this stop is ideal for sampling fresh local produce, artisan goods, and an array of tropical fruits unique to the Hawaiian Islands. Just a short drive away, the lush Kula Botanical Gardens invites visitors to stroll manicured trails among native and exotic plants. Featuring a huge koi pond and carefully curated flora, the gardens serve as a tranquil oasis showcasing the island’s botanical diversity across seven scenic acres.
From flora to history, the tour then travels to Makawao, a charming upcountry town with a storied Paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage. Makawao’s ranching roots are an essential part of Maui’s identity, and the town’s art galleries and quaint streets reflect this cultural tapestry. Then it’s on to Paia, a vibrant surf town on Maui’s north shore, known for its bohemian spirit and unique boutiques. Paia’s laid-back atmosphere and surf culture make it a great spot for lunch (not included but with discount options for guests).
The final highlight is Ho‘okipa Beach, famous worldwide as a prime location for windsurfing and kiteboarding. The powerful winds sculpt exhilarating waves that attract experts from around the globe, and the beach is also a sanctuary for green sea turtles, often seen basking on the sand or cruising nearshore.
Returning to Kihei full of new impressions, travelers appreciate this tour’s intimate look at Maui’s diverse environments and cultures, setting it apart from standard beach outings. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or a flavor seeker, this tour captures the heart and soul of Maui’s multi-faceted landscape, providing experiences that linger far beyond the shore.