9 of the Best Views on Maui and Where To Find Them

If you're looking for the best views on Maui, there's no better place to start than Haleakala Crater. It's the tallest peak on the island at 10,023 feet (3,055 meters) high, and is known for its sunrise views, with pastel pinks, oranges, and yellows painting the sky each morning. There's usually quite a bit of cloud cover at Haleakala, however, so while you may see the gorgeous colors of the sunrise, don't count on seeing much of Maui or the Pacific Ocean.

Settled at the base of Haleakala, the Ali‘i Kula Lavender Farm may not be the first place that comes to mind for Maui viewpoints, but it more than deserves the recognition. The rows of lavender blooms make for a picture-perfect landscape, placing it as one of the top places for photos on Maui. Don't forget to pop into the gift shop for every lavender-based product you can imagine, from teas to soaps to scones.

As the name implies, Iao Valley State Monument centers around Iao Valley, or— more specifically—Iao Needle. Rising up amid the fog, the Iao Needle stands out from the other peaks of the verdant West Maui Mountains, thanks to its unique, pointy shape. But more than being eye-catching, Iao Needle and Iao Valley hold historical significance. It was here that King Kamehameha I won the Battle of Kepaniwai in 1790, and ultimately led to the unification of the Hawaiian Islands.

There are many waterfalls on the Road to Hana (Hana Highway), all of them stunning and worth your time. But the Garden of Eden Arboretum & Botanical Garden, situated between the highway's 10- and 11-mile markers, offers a bird's-eye view of upper Puohokamoa Falls. This 30-foot (9-meter) cascade is surrounded by lush, rainforest-esque greenery. While Puohokamoa Falls may be the highlight, there's also plenty to see within the garden. Stick around the Garden of Eden a little longer for tropical flora and the occasional peacock.

Located in Waiʻanapanapa State Park on the Road to Hana, Honokalani Black Sand Beach is one of the only black sand beaches on the island of Maui. This picturesque obsidian crescent is framed by teal waters on one side and bright greenery on the other. Explore the area to find hidden sea caves, paths that boast panoramic views, and even ancient heiau (Hawaiian temples). You'll need to reserve a timed ticket for Waiʻanapanapa State Park in advance, as availability is limited, or book a scenic tour with a guide.

Get ready to tackle the 4.2-mile (6.8-kilometer) Waihee Ridge Trail, aka Mauna Kahalawai. While the 1,491 feet (585 meters) of elevation gain will have your calves burning, the great views can keep you company nearly the entire way up. It's no wonder why this hike is considered to have some of the best views on Maui: the trail is home to view of the surrounding West Maui Mountains as well as the Pacific Ocean. Keep in mind that the terrain can get quite muddy and slippery, particularly after it rains, so you'll want to wear sturdy hiking shoes. For more guidance, join a guided hiking tour.

One of the more hidden viewpoints on Maui, Papawai Scenic Lookout is a real gem thanks to its unending ocean views. This nook becomes even more special in the winter, as that's when whales migrate down to the Hawaiian Islands and begin to make an appearance. Keep an eye out for whale spouts—they sort of look like puffs of steam or smoke—in the distance. If you go for a self-driving tour, parking at Papawai Scenic Lookout is limited, so guided sightseeing or whale-watching cruises are good options.

Just off the Road to Hana between mile markers 16 and 17, you’ll find Ke‘anae Point on the Ke‘anae Peninsula. While this spot offers Pacific views as far as the eye can see, the real treasure is up close, watching curling waves crash into jagged lava rock outcroppings.

Insider tip: While you're on the Ke‘anae Peninsula, be sure to stop at Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread for the best banana bread on the island.

There’s no doubt that Ka'anapali Beach is one of the most scenic spots on Maui. During the day, the Hawaii sunshine sparkles on the Pacific Ocean, and makes it possible to see the smaller islands of Molokai and Lanai in the distance. But the views become even better when the golden glow of sunset takes the stage each evening. If you'd like to take your sunset watching experience to the next level, there are quite a few Ka'anapali Beach sunset cruises from this West Maui shoreline.