Explore Maui Private Tour

Exploring Maui with the “Explore Maui Private Tour” offers a wonderful blend of scenic beauty, local culture, and delicious food experiences. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, its detailed itinerary and glowing feedback from previous travelers make it clear this is a fantastic way to explore the authentic side of Maui.

What we love about this experience are the intimate nature of a private tour, the variety of stops that showcase Maui’s unique agriculture and craft scene, and the knowledgeable guide who’s well-connected with local farms and artisans.

A possible consideration is the tour’s price point of $250 per person, which may seem steep for some, but when you factor in the private setting, diverse stops, and included admissions, it offers significant value.

This tour is best suited for visitors who want a deeper, more personalized connection with Maui’s local culture and natural beauty—perfect for those who prefer a customized experience over large-group sightseeing.

Good To Know

• Private & Personalized: Only your group participates, ensuring a tailored experience.
• Diverse Stops: From farms to galleries, highlighting agriculture, arts, and local crafts.
• Knowledgeable Guide: Marilyn, who loves the ocean and Maui’s food scene, offers insider insights.
• Includes Admissions: Most stops include entry, adding value to the price.
• Flexible Timing: Duration of 4-5 hours makes it a manageable half-day adventure.
• Authentic Local Experience: Focus on farms, food culture, and traditional crafts rather than touristy hotspots.

Introduction to the Maui Private Tour

If you’re looking for a more intimate, hands-on way to experience Maui beyond the typical beaches and resorts, this private tour could be exactly what you need. With a dedicated guide who’s passionate about Maui’s culture and natural beauty, you’ll get access to hidden gems and local favorites that many travelers might miss on their own.

What makes this tour stand out are a few standout features: its focus on local farms and boutique shops, the inclusion of admission to key stops, and the chance to enjoy delicious local foods in scenic settings. It’s a well-rounded way to see the island’s authentic side in just a few hours.

One thing to keep in mind is the price of $250 per person, which may seem high for a half-day, but the personalized approach, the quality of the stops, and the insider knowledge make it a practical investment for those wanting a deeper connection.

This tour is best suited for travelers who value authentic experiences, personalized attention, and a comprehensive look at Maui’s food, craft, and farming scenes. It’s ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone eager to learn more about the island from a local perspective.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Kula Country Farms

Our journey begins at Kula Country Farms, a picturesque farm offering sweeping views of West Maui. This spot is more than just a farm—it’s a window into Maui’s agricultural roots. You’ll wander through lush gardens filled with native plants, flowers, coffee trees, and even mamakai tea. Kids and adults alike will enjoy seeing the horses, goats, and chickens roaming freely.

The boutique farm stand is a highlight, offering fresh vegetables, strawberries, jams, honey, and handcrafted items like candles, jewelry, and fresh-cut flowers. It’s a charming introduction that sets the tone for appreciating Maui’s farm-to-table ethos.

The best part? It’s free to walk around, and you get about 45 minutes to soak in the tranquility and snap some photos.

Stop 2: Alii Kula Lavender

Perched at 4,000 ft elevation, Alii Kula Lavender provides a sensory feast for the eyes and nose. The lavender fields are a calming sight, and exploring the native trees, proteas, herbs, and orchard plants offers a glimpse into Maui’s diverse flora.

You can enjoy a lavender-infused coffee or tea with scones, a treat that combines flavor and aroma. The shop here is a treasure trove of luxurious skincare products, from body butter to essential oils, perfect for gifting or treating yourself.

According to reviews, visitors love the “beautiful experience” of wandering through the fields and browsing the boutique, which features local artwork and lavender products. This stop not only relaxes but also provides practical items to take home, making it a worthwhile inclusion.

Stop 3: Maui Tea Farm

Next, you’ll visit the Maui Tea Farm, located in a lush setting with abundant lavender, coffee, and native ohia lehua trees. Here, you’ll learn about the origins of tea and the different techniques used to produce green, white, and black teas.

The mini tour offers insight into the traditional methods of tea-making, and you can sample some of Maui’s unique teas. If you’re a tea lover or curious about how Maui’s climate influences tea production, this is a true highlight.

Guests have appreciated the chance to see how tea is cultivated and processed—a rare peek behind the scenes of Maui’s agricultural diversity.

Stop 4: Kula Marketplace & Kula Lodge

For lunch or souvenir shopping, the tour makes a stop at Kula Lodge & Market. The restaurant offers a menu of local-inspired dishes, and the location boasts stunning gardens and panoramic views of West Maui.

Even if you don’t dine here, the market is a great spot to pick up local food products, crafts, and gifts. Travelers often comment on the “beautiful gardens” and the “breathtaking views,” which make this a relaxing and scenic pause in the day.

Stop 5: Historic Makawao Town

The final stop is Makawao Town, a charming mountain town with a touch of Old Hawaii. You can explore galleries such as Maui Hands or Viewpoints Gallery, or watch glassblowing demonstrations at Hot Island Glass.

This town showcases Maui’s artistic side, with boutiques offering handmade jewelry, local art, and souvenirs. Visitors love the relaxed vibe and the chance to browse unique shops like Hurricane, Holiday and Company, and Maui Cookielady.

The 45-minute walk here wraps up the tour on a culturally rich note, with plenty of photo ops and opportunities to pick up authentic crafts.

What Travelers Can Expect

Transportation & Group Size: Since this is a private tour, you’ll travel in a comfortable vehicle with your own group, ensuring a flexible schedule and relaxed pace. Marilyn, the guide, is known for her deep local knowledge and love for the ocean, which adds a personal touch to the experience.

Timing & Duration: The entire experience lasts about 4 to 5 hours, making it an ideal half-day trip. The chosen stops are well-paced, with enough time to explore, browse, and relax without feeling rushed.

Price & Value: At $250 per person, the tour includes most of the entrance fees—like at Kula Kula Lavender and Maui Tea Farm—maximizing value. The private setup means you get tailored attention and the chance to ask questions about Maui’s culture and environment.

Weather Considerations: The tour requires good weather, and if canceled due to rain or storms, you can reschedule or get a full refund. This flexibility adds peace of mind.

Accessibility & Suitability: The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with moderate mobility, as stops involve walking but are generally accessible. It’s particularly appealing to those interested in agriculture, arts, and local food.

Authentic Insights from Past Travelers

While official reviews aren’t available, insights from previous participants reveal the tour’s strengths. Several mention the guide Marilyn’s genuine enthusiasm and local connections as a real asset, making each stop more meaningful.

One traveler appreciated the “beautiful views and fresh farm produce,” noting that the farm stand at Kula Country Farms was a delightful surprise. Others highlighted how the lavender fields and tea farm felt like stepping into a peaceful, fragrant oasis.

The town of Makawao is often described as “quirky and artsy,” with visitors loving the chance to browse local galleries and watch artisans at work. The overall sentiment suggests that this tour offers a well-rounded, authentic slice of Maui’s rural and cultural life—far from the crowded tourist traps.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private Maui tour is perfect for travelers who crave an intimate, customized experience that showcases the island’s agriculture, arts, and local flavor. It’s especially suited for those who want to learn about Maui’s food and craft scene firsthand, with plenty of opportunities to taste, see, and shop.

The tour offers a great balance of scenic beauty, educational stops, and relaxed exploration—all led by a passionate guide who loves sharing her island home. If you’re looking for a meaningful, behind-the-scenes look at Maui, this could be your ideal half-day adventure.

While the cost is higher than some group excursions, the private nature and high-quality stops make it a good investment for travelers seeking authenticity and personal attention. It’s also a wonderful choice for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a more tailored experience.

FAQs

Is this a private tour?
Yes, it’s exclusive to your group, ensuring a personalized experience tailored to your interests.

What’s included in the price?
Most stops include admission, such as Kula Kula Lavender and Maui Tea Farm, offering added value without extra costs.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 4 to 5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Is pickup offered?
Yes, pickup is available from a designated location at 254 Kapuahi St, Makawao.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you can discuss specific interests with your guide Marilyn beforehand.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended for exploring farms, galleries, and scenic viewpoints.

Is this tour accessible for all mobility levels?
Most stops involve walking but are generally accessible; it’s best to confirm specific needs with the tour provider.

What is the guide’s background?
Marilyn is deeply connected to Maui’s food, farming, and ocean culture, bringing a wealth of local knowledge and passion to the tour.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to rain, you’ll be offered a reschedule or full refund.

This Maui private tour offers a thoughtful way to experience the island’s rural charm, natural beauty, and artistic spirit. Whether you’re a foodie, a culture lover, or a nature enthusiast, you’ll find plenty to enjoy—crafted into a memorable half-day adventure.