Maui is a top destination for cruise ship passengers, thanks to its incredible diversity of landscapes, rich culture, and outdoor adventures. Whether you’re drawn to the lush rainforests, dramatic coastlines, or volcanic peaks, Maui offers excursions that promise memorable experiences. One of our favorite options is the Road to Hana, a stunning coastal drive that reveals waterfalls, black sand beaches, and lush valleys — perfect if you love scenic drives and natural beauty. For a breathtaking start to your day, the Haleakala Sunrise Tour is unbeatable, offering a once-in-a-lifetime view of the sunrise over the volcanic crater. We also appreciate private tours that customize your itinerary, like the Best Highlights of Maui, which offers flexibility and intimate insights into the island’s most iconic sights.
Of course, Maui’s adventures aren’t limited to sightseeing. For thrill-seekers, the Zipline Tour for Pride of America Passengers combines adrenaline with scenic views, while the Rainforest & Tropics Private Tour offers a personalized exploration of the island’s verdant interior. Whichever experience you choose, booking early will ensure you get the time slot that best fits your cruise schedule. Below, we’ve broken down each tour to help you find the perfect match for your Maui shore day.
1. Maui Shore Excursion : Road to Hana Day Trip P/up Ka’anapali
At number 1, this small-group Road to Hana Day Trip offers an 8-hour immersion into Maui’s most famous highway. The tour includes hassle-free pickup from Lahaina and a relaxed ride along the longest scenic coastal road in the world, with over 52 miles of ocean views, waterfalls, and lush forests. The guide’s expert narration highlights points like Wailua Falls, Pua’a Ka’a State Park, and the Black Sand Beach. Guests rave about stops at Wai’anapanapa State Park and the chance to see giant sea turtles on the beach. A highlight is the delicious included lunch, giving you energy for the day.
This tour scores a perfect 5/5 from 129 reviews, praising its knowledgeable guide, scenic stops, and small-group intimacy. The price ($209.99) compares favorably considering the full-day itinerary and included meals. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, relaxed exploration without the stress of driving. The main drawback? The trek from the ship to the meeting point can be challenging, but the tour’s value in scenery and learning makes up for it.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a guided, detailed adventure showcasing Maui’s waterfalls, beaches, and lush landscapes without the hassle of navigation.
2. Shore Excursion: Haleakala Sunrise Tour for Pride of America Passengers
Number 2 on our list is the Haleakala Sunrise Tour, a 8-hour experience priced at $227.99. Watching the sun rise over Haleakala National Park is often called a once-in-a-lifetime event, and this tour delivers exactly that. The early start (meeting at 2:00 am) is a small price to pay for the chance to see the world’s largest dormant volcano glow as dawn breaks. Local guides from Valley Isle Excursions know the best vantage points, sharing stories of the island’s volcanic origins and cultural significance.
The tour includes multiple stops along Crater Road, with opportunities for photos and to soak in the quiet majesty of the crater. The guides provide fleece ponchos to combat the chilly temperatures, which is a thoughtful touch, and reviews highlight Everett and Abe for their knowledge and safety. While the early start isn’t for everyone, travelers love the “spectacular” views and the peacefulness of the experience. Inclement weather can obscure the sunrise, but the guides do their best to make the trip memorable regardless.
Bottom Line: Ideal for early risers and those wanting a dramatic, awe-inspiring start to their Maui day, with expert guides making the cold weather manageable.
3. Cruise Ship Shore Excursion: Kahului Heavenly Hana Tour
At number 3 is the Heavenly Hana Tour, lasting about 8.5 hours for $242. The emphasis here is on relaxing sightseeing with a knowledgeable guide pointing out Hana Bay, the famous Black Sand Beach, and the Wainapanapa State Park. The tour includes a mix of scenic stops such as Hana’s waterfalls and the Keanae Lookout, with plenty of photo opportunities.
Guests comment on the lively narration and the chance to see sea turtles in their natural habitat. The tour is perfect for those who want thorough commentary without the stress of driving the winding Hana Highway themselves. The inclusion of free port pickup makes it easy for cruise travelers. Some reviews note that the bus seats aren’t the most comfy for a long day, but most agree the sights and stories more than compensate.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a comfortable, informative ride along Maui’s coast with plenty of scenic and wildlife viewing.
4. Road To Hāna Tour for Pride Of America Passengers
Number 4 is the Road to Hana Tour, featuring over 20 years of experience and expert NAI-certified guides. This full-day, 9-10 hour adventure is a favorite for its personalized attention and in-depth exploration. Highlights include a long stop at Wai’anapanapa State Park, with its black sand beaches and lava tubes, plus stops at Ke’anae Point and Hana Bay. The guide’s stories about Hawaiian culture and the rainforest make the journey educational as well as scenic.
Guests mention the guide’s humor, knowledge, and the well-organized itinerary, which includes a delicious picnic lunch. The small group size creates a more intimate experience, and the tour’s flexibility allows travelers to customize stops. The $279.99 price is reasonable given the depth of experience and ease of transportation. The only caveat is the long day, but most reviewers say it’s worth every minute.
Bottom Line: A top choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive, well-guided trip with personal touches and cultural insights.
5. Private Shore Excursion: Best Highlights of Maui
The Best Highlights of Maui offers a private, 3-4 hour experience at $699 for the whole group. It’s perfect if you prefer a tailored tour fitting your specific interests. Starting with Iao Valley, then moving on to the Maui Tropical Plantation, this trip includes flexible stops and personalized narration. You control the pace, making it ideal for small groups who want to see key sights without the crowds or rush.
Guests appreciate the ease of round-trip port transfers and the ability to customize the itinerary, which can include visits like the Maui Ocean Center (admission not included). It’s a more intimate experience suited for families or couples seeking private, targeted sightseeing. The main downside is the relatively short duration, which limits how many places you can see, but it’s ideal if your time is tight.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a customized, private experience and are willing to pay a premium for personal attention.
6. Shore Excursion of Maui
Number 6 is the Maui Shore Excursion, a 7-8 hour guided tour priced at $220. This tour emphasizes local culture, with guides sharing native Hawaiian flora, fauna, and history. Starting with a visit to Ho’okipa Beach Park to see turtles and windsurfers, the tour moves through Haiku and Kaumahina State Wayside Park for scenic views.
One of the highlights is the stop at Ke’anae Lookout, offering a view of agricultural terraces and the rugged coastline. The tour also includes a splash in a natural waterfall at Pua’a Ka’a State Park. Reviewers mention the guide’s enthusiasm and the intimate knowledge shared about Hawaiian culture. The tour offers a good balance of scenic stops and cultural insights.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a cultural narrative and scenic beauty with a focus on native traditions and natural landscapes.
7. Kahului Shore Excursion: Private Tropics of Maui & Rainforest
Our seventh pick is the Private Tropics of Maui & Rainforest, a 5-6 hour tailored experience costing $799 for the entire group. It focuses on exploring Iao Valley and neighboring rainforest landscapes with a private guide. Highlights include walking through Rice Park at 2800 feet elevation and visiting the Iao Needle, accompanied by stories about plants and Hawaiian history.
Guests praise the guide for their flexibility and in-depth knowledge, making this trip ideal for those seeking a personalized adventure. The tour also includes stops at Maui Tropical Plantation and historic sites, with the option to customize to your interests. This is perfect for travelers who want an exclusive, in-depth look at Maui’s upland landscapes. The main trade-off is the price, which is higher but justified by the private, tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking an exclusive, customized tour with a focus on rainforest and cultural sites.
8. Full Day Private Shore Excursion in Maui from Lahaina Cruise Port
Number 8 is the Full Day Private Shore Excursion, offering a full-day, customizable experience at $716.15 per person. This tour starts from Lahaina and takes you through some of Maui’s best highlights, including Malāuuluolele Park, the Brick Palace, and historic landmarks. It’s designed for flexibility, letting you choose your stops and pace.
Ideal for travelers who want a private, comprehensive tour without the rush, this experience is perfect for families or small groups who want to maximize their time. However, because it’s built around your interests, the exact itinerary varies. Reviewers note it’s a well-organized, private option that can include cultural sites, scenic views, and local stories.
Bottom Line: Best for those who want a personalized, private day tour with total control over the sights and timing.
$716.15 per person
9. Shore Excursion Zipline Tour for Pride Of America Passengers
Completing our list is the Zipline Tour, an 8-9 hour adventure costing $280. It features the exciting North Shore Zipline, with 7 lines soaring up to 70 feet high. Travelers enjoy spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean and the lush jungle canopy. The tour includes a delicious lunch at Island Fresh Café, known for its fresh, local ingredients.
The guides are NAI-certified and experienced, ensuring safety and fun. Reviews, though limited, praise the tour for its breathtaking scenery and well-organized experience. It’s ideal for adrenaline junkies and nature lovers alike, eager to combine outdoor thrills with scenic beauty. The long duration makes it best suited for those with full day available, and the physical activity might not suit everyone.
Bottom Line: Perfect for active travelers who want a heart-pumping activity paired with impressive views and a relaxed lunch.
$280
How to Choose the Right Maui Shore Excursion
When planning your Maui shore day, consider your budget, interests, and physical fitness. For a relaxing, scenic experience, the Road to Hana Day Trip offers stunning waterfalls and beaches without strenuous activity. If witnessing the sunrise over a volcanic crater is your dream, the Haleakala Sunrise Tour is unmatched, but be ready for an early start.
Private options like the Best Highlights of Maui or the Rainforest & Tropics Tour provide personalized attention and flexibility — ideal for families or couples wanting a more intimate experience. Active travelers will love the Zipline Tour, while those interested in culture and native flora may prefer the Maui Shore Excursion.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular experiences like sunrise tours or private excursions, to secure your preferred time slot and avoid disappointment. Consider your cruise itinerary’s timing to pick a tour that allows smooth logistics and plenty of time to return to port.
Maui offers a variety of shore excursions to suit different tastes and activity levels. Whether you prefer a laid-back scenic drive, an adrenaline rush, or a private tailored tour, you’re sure to find options that make your visit unforgettable. Two or three choices stand out: the Road to Hana for an iconic scenic experience, the Private Highlights tour for personalized attention, and the Zipline Adventure for active thrill-seekers. Be sure to book early, plan around your cruise schedule, and enjoy this lush island’s many treasures.