When you get off the beaten path in Maui, beaches like this can still be found ... photo by CC user laszlo-photo on Flickr

When traveling to Maui, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the many recreation and leisure options you can choose from. From the ocean to the mountains, you can find adventure from sea level all the way up to more than 10,000 feet. Luxury vacation rental condos on Maui are plentiful and you can find something to suit everyone’s interest and price range.

With so many microclimates to explore, it’s hard to know where you want to stay and what you want to see while you’re in Maui. While both the southern and northern shores of the island offer unique experiences, you’ll have to determine which will be more to your liking.

The south shore of the island is home to the most popular vacation resorts on Maui, while the north shore has premier surfing and small-town, homely vibe. If you want to explore all that Maui has to offer, you’ll need your own private oceanfront Maui vacation rental. When visiting Maui, be sure to make the extra effort to find the island’s most beautiful hidden gems.

Bamboo Forest

This fantastic forest is located on the north side of the island between mile markers 6 and 7 along the road to Hana. For history enthusiasts, a hike through the Bamboo Forest provides an excellent glimpse into ‘Old Hawaii.’ Hiking in the Bamboo Forest is best when it’s not raining, you pack lightly, and you’re wearing hiking boots.

ONO Organic Farms

ONO Farms is a family-owned property that cultivates a huge selection of rare tropical fruits and vegetables, in addition to chocolate and Hawaiian coffee. The farm is certified by the Hawaii Organic Farmers Association (HOFA) and a partner of the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and it is located right off the Hana Highway in Kipahulu.

Hale Ho’omana Spa

This beautifully tranquil spa is located up Piiholo Road on the slopes of Haleakala. The private spa and retreat center is Hawaiian owned and operated, and they specialize in organic spa treatments, ancient Hawaiian healing therapies, and spa products.

photo by CC user starr-environmental on Flickr

The Makawao Forest

If you’re looking for a calming walk through the woods, an adventurous hike through nature, and or a sensational bike ride, you can’t miss the beautiful Makawao Forest, otherwise known as Kahakapao Trail. Regardless of your fitness level, this forest offers a genuine outdoor experience for the whole family. The 5.2-mile trail loop is dotted with picnic tables on both the east and west sides, which provides ample opportunities to pack a lunch and enjoy it while enjoying the breathtaking scenery.

photo by CC user parksjd on Flickr

Paako Cove

This cove is also known as Secret Beach in Makena, and it’s one of the most beautiful beaches on the whole island. While recreationists seldom visit it, it is actually one of the most photographed beaches in Maui. The beach can be accessed through two black lava rock walls and the ocean here is mostly calm and protected, which is perfect for casual swimmers. Especially early in the morning and at mid-day, this beach is a fantastic place to go snorkeling.

Maui is one of the most abundant and eye-catching island paradises in the world. In the vast array of things that you can do in Maui, these are just a few of the off-the-beaten-path spots that you should try to see while you’re on the island. Make sure to check that you don’t need an ESTA Visa either before heading to the USA as many people do in fact need to apply for one beforehand.