The 10 Best Instagram Spots on Maui

Haleakala—the massive shield volcano that makes up three-quarters of the Valley Isle—may hold some of the most unique photographing opportunities on the island. Its stance, 10,023 feet above sea level, translates into views that sweep over the island and out into the Pacific, while its enormous, multi-hued crater conjures another planet. Any time of day is prime for photographing the dormant volcano, but sunrise is tops. (Indeed, it’s become such a world-renowned affair that reservations must be made in advance.)

Dawn arrives in an explosion of otherworldly colors that have made for some of the most striking IG posts in history. For a stress-free way to see this spectacle, book a seat on Haleakala EcoTours’ Haleakala Sunrise Tour. NAI-certified guides will offer fascinating info on Maui’s geology while you’ll kick back in one of their plush mini-buses. Post-sunrise, you’ll have the chance to snap pics of other island gems, including the green, rolling hills of Upcountry Maui and the radical (and windy) North Shore.

Every year, North Pacific Humpback Whales voyage from Alaska’s frigid waters to Hawaii’s warmer temps. Translation? Visitors to the Hawaiian Islands—particularly those on Maui’s leeward coast—can see these huge, glorious creatures in action. Redline Rafting Co.—a Kihei-based boating outfit—gives you a glimpse of these beauties on their popular Maui Whale Watching Tour.  They also do a great Molokini tour.

Blows, tail slaps, spies, and breaches are just a few of the “whale deeds” you may see on this exciting, educational journey. Marine naturalists are on board to provide you with insight, while the max capacity of 23 guests makes for a cozy setting. Your photos will be incredible; your experience priceless.

Stunned by images where there doesn’t seem to be a soul around? Then sign up for Valley Isle Excursions’ Road to Hana Tour. This day-long excursion starts on that aforementioned North Shore before cutting across a route that’s as dramatic as it is exquisite. On the way to Hana—one of the remotest communities in the state—you’ll be treated to spot after spot begging to be recorded, from verdant rainforests to a black sand beach. And yet, it’s the backside of the island that Valley Isle Excursions will take you to that will really have you trigger-happy.

Kaupo (and its environs) call to mind a different time, when Hawaii moved at a gentler pace. Miles and miles of unspoiled land will unspool around you as Valley Isle Excursions’ amicable crew will offer you lessons on Maui’s history. Filters optional.

True: 360-degree views are found on most of these activities, but there’s something to be said about capturing the ideal shot from inside a harness. Of a zipline, that is, on Skyline Eco-Adventure’s Ka’anapali Adventure Tour. The ecologically-minded company, who donates part of their proceeds to island nonprofits, offers an eight and eleven-line zipline that’ll have you flying over West Maui’s resplendent coast.

Whichever tour you choose, know you’ll be given first-class treatment by their uber-fun crew—and buckets of exhilaration. Besides, what could make for a better profile pic than one of you mid-air?

Ever typed in #turtlepower or #turtlelove? After Kai Kanani’s Sunrise Deluxe Snorkel, you just might. This early-a.m. sail boasts Instagram-worthy moments from the second it starts. After launching from one of the loveliest beaches on the island (that’d be Makena’s Maluaka), you’ll be taken to Molokini—a volcanic caldera that rests 2.5 miles off of Maui’s south shore.

Here, you’ll find a plethora of marine life that’ll have you testing your smartphone’s waterproof powers, while above the surface of the sea you’ll see what the Valley Isle looks like from afar. But the real pinnacle of the trip—at least in terms of the images you’ll catch—may be at Turtle Town, an enclave, close to where the Kai Kanani docks, that flourishes with Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles. On second thought, these 300-pound wonders are so captivating you may forget about your camera entirely.