Snorkeling

• Snorkeling is inexpensive and requires little equipment. Purchase or rent a snorkel mask and tube and a pair of flippers, find a good beach and paddle out a bit to find an array of fish, coral and, if you are lucky, sea turtles. The entire west side of the island is perfect for snorkeling, from Honolu'a Bay on the north end to La Perouse Bay on the far south end. Morning hours are best for snorkeling because conditions are not usually windy at that time of day.
  
  If you want to get out past the beaches, you can also go on one of the many snorkeling tours available. The most popular tour goes out to Molokini Island, a State Marine Life and Bird Conservation District off the west side of the island. Your hotel or vacation condo will have tons of information about tours; they are everywhere on the island. Costs range from $50 to more than $100, depending on the type and length of the tour.
  
  

Scuba Diving

• Some of the best scuba diving in the world is found off the coast of Maui. Get a close look at the coral reefs and sea animals beneath the surface. Many tour companies include trips for those who are not scuba-certified. You can also become certified while in Hawaii. Charter guides offer one- or multi-day trips that typically include breakfast, lunch and snacks. Rates range from $60 for short trips to more than $300 for multi-dive, instructional trips.
  
  

Parasailing

• If you are not in the water, how about being above it? Parasailing gives you an amazing view of the island and the ocean, and you will enjoy a boat ride on your way out. Parasailing requires no effort on your part; you simply sit in the harness and go up, up, up to 800 feet above the ocean. You will float along, feet dangling for about 10 minutes, before they reel you in. Some of the spunky crew members may even give you a little splash or dunk you outright on your way back to the boat. A parasailing trip will cost between $50 and $80. Parasailing is available on the island from May 16 to Dec.15. It is not allowed during whale season.
  
  

Sail on a Yacht

• It's not every day that you have the experience of sailing on a $10 million yacht. The "America II" competed in the America's Cup in 1987, taking second place. Now you can sail on the yacht from Lahaina to see whales or watch the sunset; several sail trips are available. Plan on getting wet; the sheer speed of this yacht sends spray up and over the side. The cost is about $45 per person. For larger parties you can charter the whole boat (it seats about 24). Charters run about $700 for a two-hour cruise.
  
  

Surfing

• Surfing is available on beaches all over the island, except for the southernmost end. Conditions in Maui can be tricky: Sometimes there are no waves, but other times the surfing is fabulous. Check out the Maui Surf Report for daily conditions and advice regarding which beach to hit. Surfing lessons are offered in many locations. You can bring your own board or rent one from a surf shop.