Maui has loads of activities to keep you busy, and although it can get quite expensive, there are still plenty to enjoy for free or nearly free. We had the opportunity to spend five months there recently and, being on a strict budget, we had to seek out affordable things to do. These are some of our favorites.
monkey pod tree
Hui No’eau Visual Arts Centre – free
Located at 2841 Baldwin Ave. between Paia and Makawao, Hui No’eau Visual Arts Centre is one of the last remaining historic properties still open to the public. It was the home of Ethel and Harry Baldwin, founders of the Hui. They have eight exhibitions per year and also have a history room. The exhibit space is not very large, but the grounds are beautifully kept and are nice to walk around or even have a picnic. Don’t forget to check out the monkey pod trees at the very front of the property.
Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center
Paia Bay Beach – free
Want some alone time in paradise? Head over to Paia Bay Beach. The expansive, white sandy beach is rarely crowded, even on a hot sunny day. It’s the perfect place to relax and with Paia Town so close, you can easily grab some snacks and drinks before you head over.
Heading East on the Hana Hwy, Paia Bay Beach is just before Paia Town. Park on the side of the road or in a space just before the youth centre parking lot.
Paia Bay Beach
Kahanu Garden – $10 suggested donation
About 3 miles before Hana Town, Kahanu is an ethnobotanical garden where you can learn about the relationship between the people of Hawaii and the plants they use in their culture. It’s home to the largest Hawaiian temple, Pi’ilanihale Heiau, which was built in 1200 A.D. and is 450’ by 320’. And it’s also home to the Breadfruit Institute, where over 120 different varieties of ulu are grown.
Kahanu Garden
Palapala Ho’omau Congregational Church
Better known as the place where Charles Lindbergh is buried, this is a great example of a traditional Hawaiian church and cemetery. Samuel Pryor, the aviation industrialist and friend of Lindbergh, is also buried here with his five pet gibbons (and his wife). In the back of the property is Kipahulu Point Park, a great place to hang out, check out the ocean views, and eat fruit bought at road side stands along the way.
Palapala Ho’omau
Kipahulu Point Park
Have you been to Maui? What are your favourite free or nearly free things to do?
Great tips! I went to Oahu last year and did a bunch of touristy activities, but I love your activities that are free. 🙂
That beach looks positively smashing! Exactly what I would be looking for on a holiday to Hawaii!
Great tips definitely a place that I need to visit. The beach with that water looks amazing.
Wonderful photography. The beach looks amazing
Great list, I always hear about how expensive Hawaii is so it’s great to see a list of free things to do there