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10 Surprising Facts About Maui You Didn't Know

Writer's picture: Oni FoundationOni Foundation

When you think of Maui, what comes to mind? Maybe it’s the island’s stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, or lush tropical landscapes. While these are certainly some of Maui's well-known features, this Hawaiian paradise has so much more to offer. From hidden natural wonders to fascinating historical sites, Maui is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.

Nestled in the heart of the Pacific Ocean, Maui offers a delightful mix of adventure, beauty, and culture. This island is the second-largest in the Hawaiian archipelago and is known for its diverse ecosystems, rich history, and vibrant local culture. Whether you’re planning a visit, looking to learn more about this incredible place, or just curious about what makes Maui so special, we’ve compiled a list of ten surprising facts that might just make you fall in love with this island even more. Each of these fun facts uncovers a different facet of Maui that you might not have known.

1. The Name 'Maui' Has Multiple Meanings

The name "Maui" is rich in history and mythology. In Polynesian culture, Maui is the name of a demigod known for his cunning and bravery. According to legend, Maui performed incredible feats, including hooking the sun to slow its path and lengthening the day. His stories are deeply ingrained in the oral traditions of various Pacific island cultures, including Hawaiian, Māori, Tahitian, and Samoan narratives. 

Additionally, the name "Maui" was also given to the island by Hawaiʻiloa, a legendary Polynesian navigator, reportedly named after one of his sons.

2. Polynesians from the Marquesas Islands Were the First to Settle Maui

The first settlers of Maui were Polynesians from the Marquesas Islands, who arrived in the Hawaiian archipelago around 1,500 years ago. Navigating by stars and ocean currents in double-hulled canoes, these intrepid voyagers brought with them their customs, traditions, and way of life. Their legacy endures in the language, culture, and traditions of Maui today. Learn more about the Polynesian migrations and more at Wonderful World of Aloha Cultural Dance & Activity Center on Maui

3. Haleakalā is One of the World’s Largest Dormant Volcanoes

Haleakalā, which means “House of the Sun” in Hawaiian, is a massive dormant volcano located in the Haleakalā National Park. It’s a shield volcano that covers an area of about approximately 700 square miles (around 1,800 square kilometers) and has an elevation of around 10,023 feet (3,055 m), making it one of the world’s largest dormant volcanoes.

It last erupted over 500 years ago but has left behind a vast, otherworldly landscape that you can explore.


The summit of Haleakalā is an excellent place to watch the sunrise. Many people wake up early and drive up the winding road in the dark just to see the sun rise above the clouds—it's a breathtaking sight! At night, Haleakalā is also one of the best places for stargazing because the air is so clear and free of light pollution. The crater at the summit is vast and makes one feel like they have traveled to another planet. Donʻt forget a jacket the mornings are cold.

4. Maui Is Home to the Largest Deep-Water Coral Reefs

Maui boasts some of the largest deep-water coral reefs in the world. Unlike the shallow reefs that are typically associated with the island's tropical waters, these reefs are located much deeper in the ocean and are less affected by human activity and climate change. Scientists are just beginning to explore these underwater ecosystems, which are home to a unique array of marine life.

5. You Can Spot Humpback Whales from the Shore

Maui is one of the best places in the world to see humpback whales. Every year, from December to April, these majestic creatures migrate to Maui’s warm waters to give birth to their calves. While many people book boat tours to get up close to these gentle giants, you can often see them right from the shore. Some of the best places to spot whales include the beaches of Kaʻanapali, Kihei, and the scenic lookout located on the Pali coast (Highway 30) between mile markers 8 and 9.

Bring a pair of binoculars, and you might see them breaching out of the water or slapping the surface with their tails. Whale watching is an unforgettable experience that you don’t want to miss. Watching these enormous animals in their natural habitat is not only thrilling but also deeply humbling.

6. There Are No Private Beaches in Maui

In Hawaii, all beaches are considered public land, meaning there are no private beaches in Maui. The beaches are accessible to everyone, and property owners, including those with oceanfront estates, cannot restrict public access. This ensures that everyone can enjoy the island's stunning coastline, from the golden sands of Ka'anapali to the black sands of Wai'anapanapa State Park.

7. The Road to Hana Has Over 600 Curves

One of Maui’s most famous drives is the Road to Hana. This scenic route is known for its stunning views and numerous twists and turns. The road has more than 600 curves and 50 narrow bridges, making it both challenging and exciting to drive. The journey can take anywhere from two to four hours, but you’ll want to spend the whole day exploring the stops along the way.


There are beautiful waterfalls, hidden beaches, lush rainforests, and scenic lookout points that make the drive worthwhile. Be sure to pack snacks, water, and fill up your gas tank before starting your adventure! The excitement of navigating the winding roads is complemented by the natural beauty that surrounds you at every turn. It’s recommended to book a tour and avoid congesting the narrow road with another rental car.


8. Maui Features Unique Black Sand Beaches

Most people picture white sandy beaches when they think of Hawaii, but Maui also has unique black sand beaches. Waiʻanapanapa Black Sand Beach is one of the most famous. The black sand is actually tiny fragments of volcanic rock that have been ground down over centuries. This beach is part of the Waiʻanapanapa State Park, which offers hiking trails, freshwater caves, and even a blowhole that shoots water high into the air.


The contrast between the dark sand and the bright blue ocean creates a strikingly beautiful scene. It’s a great spot for photography and simply enjoying the natural beauty. Tempting as it may be, don’t take any sand, rocks or coral, it’s known to be bad luck to remove these from the islands.


9. It Snows on Maui Sometimes

While Maui is renowned for its sunny weather and tropical climate, it does experience snowfall on occasion. This rare phenomenon occurs at the summit of Haleakalā, the island's dormant volcano, which stands over 10,000 feet above sea level. During the winter months, cold temperatures at the summit can lead to brief periods of snow, offering a stark contrast to the warm beaches below.

10. Maui Is Comprised of Three Islands (Which Were Once United)

The islands of Maui, Lanai, Molokai, and Kaho‘olawe, now distinct entities within the Hawaiian archipelago, were once part of a single, larger landmass known as "Maui Nui." Maui Nui was an impressive landmass. At its peak, Maui Nui covered an estimated area of approximately 5,600 square miles. 

This ancient island existed during the last glacial period when sea levels were significantly lower. As the ice age ended and sea levels rose, the massive island of Maui Nui gradually submerged, leaving the peaks of its volcanic mountains exposed as the separate islands we see today. 

Respect Maui's Beauty and Culture

Maui is full of wonders waiting to be discovered. From its natural beauty to its rich history, every corner of the island has something special to offer. Whether you're hiking through a magical bamboo forest, watching humpback whales, or sipping coffee from local farms, there’s always something new to learn and explore. Remember to respect the land and local culture during your visit. Taking care of this beautiful island ensures that it remains a paradise for everyone to enjoy. Observing local customs and being mindful of the environment will help preserve Maui’s beauty for future generations.

Experience the Multicultural Heritage of Hawaii

Now that you know more about Maui’s history, we invite you to discover its multicultural heritage firsthand. You can book Dance, Craft and Music classes at our World of Aloha Cultural Dance & Activity Center. They include Hula, Ukulele, Korean Drumming, Lauhala Bracelet Making, Polynesian Woodcarving, Filipino Dance, and more!

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