Maui is famous for its stunning landscapes, but its lunch experiences are equally memorable. The island offers a variety of tours that combine delicious local cuisine with scenic adventures, whether you’re interested in waterfalls, snorkeling, or cultural insights. Instead of just grabbing a quick bite, these tours elevate lunch into a highlight of your day, often including picnics, seaside dining, or authentic Hawai’ian flavors. Many tours, like the Famous Road to Hana Waterfalls and Lunch by Mercedes Van, include a lavish meal in incredible settings, making your entire day special.
Maui’s lunch experiences are tailored for travelers who want more than just a meal—they seek a taste of local life, spectacular scenery, and unique activities. Whether you prefer a scenic drive, a guided hike, or a snorkeling cruise with a delicious onboard meal, there’s a perfect option waiting for you.
Quick Overview
Our list highlights 16 of the best lunch experiences on Maui, with options ranging from guided tours of the famous Road to Hana to snorkeling trips with gourmet meals. Some tours focus on culture, like the Private Native Tour of the Road to Hana, which combines traditional food with storytelling. Others, such as Maui: Molokini Snorkel and Performance Sail, offer a luxurious sailing adventure paired with a fresh seafood lunch. For a more active experience, hikes with picnic lunches at waterfalls are also included. You’ll find options suitable for different budgets, durations, and interests.
Below, you’ll find detailed reviews of each tour, helping you decide which fits your style and expectations.
1. Famous Road to Hana Waterfalls and Lunch by Mercedes Van
This fully-chauffeured tour takes you along Maui’s most iconic drive, the Hana Highway, renowned for its 64 miles of lush rainforest, 59 bridges, and over 640 turns. Instead of fighting the wheel yourself, your guide Quinn or Dom handles the driving and storytelling, making it a relaxed way to experience the scenery. The tour includes several stops, like the historic Paia town—once a sugar cane hub—and Ho’okipa Beach, famous for windsurfing and turtle sightings. The highlight is a delicious lunch, often served in scenic spots along the route, so you can savor local flavors amid breathtaking views. With a 5-star rating based on 872 reviews, this tour offers excellent value for a full day immersed in Maui’s natural beauty and cultural stories. Perfect for travelers who want comfort, expert narration, and a hassle-free journey.
Bottom line: Best for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience with great scenery and a relaxed pace.
2. Road to Hana Tour with Lunch and Pickup
This small-group tour makes the 11-12 hour drive along the Hana Highway easy, with hotel pickup, breakfast, and included beverages. The itinerary includes Wai’anapanapa State Park’s black-sand beach, Pua’a Ka’a waterfalls, and a picnic lunch in a lush setting. What makes this tour stand out is its intimate nature; with fewer people, you get more personalized attention and flexibility. The tour’s reviews highlight the knowledgeable Spencer and the beautiful scenery, especially the stops for photos, snacks, and souvenirs. The inclusion of breakfast and beverages enhances its value, especially for those who want a full day without logistics worries.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, hassle-free adventure with all meals and drinks included.
3. Maui: Road to Hana Adventure with Breakfast & Lunch
For around $200, this guided day trip offers a balanced mix of sightseeing, cultural insights, and tasty food. It includes visits to charming villages, lava caves at Wai’anapanapa State Park, and a picnic lunch by the black sand beach. Justin, the guide, is praised for his knowledge of Hawaiian culture and the well-paced stops. The tour covers 64 miles of rainforests, waterfalls, and bridges, making it a thorough exploration of Maui’s natural highlights. The inclusion of a local outdoor picnic adds to the authentic feel. Reviewers note the value in a well-organized experience that balances scenery, history, and leisure.
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a comprehensive, budget-friendly day with cultural flavor and scenic stops.
4. Maui: Rainforest Waterfalls Guided Hike with Picnic Lunch
This 5-hour guided hike takes you into Maui’s lush rainforest, where you’ll visit impressive waterfalls and swim in freshwater pools. The tour includes an excellent picnic lunch beside the falls, so you can relax and soak in the scenery. Ali, the energetic guide, shares insights into native plants and local culture, making it both an active and educational experience. Guests appreciate the leap into waterfalls and the chance to connect with nature in a manageable, well-paced hike. The tour’s high ratings reflect its quality and engaging guides.
Bottom line: Best suited for active travelers who want an immersive nature experience with great food and scenery.
5. Maui: Molokini Snorkel and Performance Sail with Lunch
A half-day sailing adventure, this tour combines snorkeling in Molokini—a volcanic crater teeming with marine life—with sailing on Maui’s fastest catamaran. The experience includes snorkel gear, a gourmet lunch, and the chance to see dolphins and whales (seasonal). The crew, including Greg, Lily, and Ben, are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable service, and the boat’s performance sails make the journey exciting. Many guests note the crystal-clear waters and abundant fish and turtles, making it a top choice for underwater explorers.
Bottom line: An excellent option for snorkelers and sailing lovers who want a guided, premium experience with a tasty lunch onboard.
6. Maui: Snorkeling and Sailing Adventure with Buffet Lunch
This 4-hour excursion is ideal for those who want a relaxed but complete sailing and snorkeling trip. It includes hot buffet lunch, open bar, and plenty of space to relax on trampolines or indoors. The crew’s friendly service and the abundant marine life, including sea turtles and colorful fish, make it a favorite. The trip is especially good for families or groups wanting a shorter, but still comprehensive, sea adventure.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers seeking a fun, social, and well-catered trip with good food and plenty of sea time.
7. Best of Maui Tour: Sips, Sites and Bites with Lunch
This full-day tour covers Haleakala’s summit, Iao Valley, and Wailuku’s local sights, with scenic drives past flower and sugar cane farms. The highlight is the lunch at Hali’imaile General Store, where you’ll enjoy local flavors after exploring the island’s most famous sites. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a combination of scenery, history, and culinary delights—a well-rounded option for those wanting to experience Maui’s diverse landscape and local culture.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive day with cultural insights and a local lunch.
8. Famous Road to Hana Waterfalls, Black Sand Beach & Lunch
This small-group, luxury tour features expert drivers navigating the famous Hana route, with stops at waterfalls, the black sand beach, and a lavish lunch. The guide shares legendary stories and highlights the island’s history, making it more than just a drive. Guests rave about beautiful scenery, personalized service, and the quality of the included meal. It’s well-suited for travelers who want a comfortable, informative day with intimate group sizes.
Bottom line: Best for those seeking luxury, cultural stories, and delicious food in a small-group setting.
9. Maui: Kaanapali Beach 4-hour Snorkel w/ BBQ Lunch & Open Bar
This 4-hour snorkeling trip along Kaanapali Beach includes dolphins, turtles, and vibrant reefs, plus a BBQ lunch and open bar onboard. The luxury catamaran provides ample space to relax, with beautiful views of Maui and a friendly crew that ensures a memorable trip. It’s perfect for families or groups wanting a shorter, fun-filled ocean adventure with great food.
Bottom line: Ideal for those who want snorkeling, sailing, and good food in a shorter window.
10. Road to Hana Rainforest, Black Sand Beach, Waterfalls & Lunch
This full-day tour explores Maui’s most stunning natural sites, including rainforests, waterfalls, black sand beaches, and iconic roads. The lunch at Waianapanapa State Park is a highlight, with the opportunity to swim and take photos. The tour includes stunning views, local stories, and scenic stops. Guests appreciate the well-paced itinerary and the chance to experience multiple highlights in one day.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a comprehensive, nature-focused day with authentic Hawaiian scenery.
11. Macnut Tour, Picnic lunch and Maui Bees
This 2-hour tour highlights Maui’s sustainable agriculture, visiting local farms producing macadamia nuts, honey, and other native plants. The picnic lunch allows guests to taste fresh, local produce, while the guides share insights into eco-friendly practices. Reviewers praise the informative nature and the gorgeous farm setting.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers interested in sustainable farming, local foods, and short, engaging tours.
12. Maui: Road to Hana Waterfalls Tour with Lunch
This 9-hour guided tour follows Hana Road, with stops at black sand beaches, waterfalls, and local landmarks. The picnic lunch at Wai’anapanapa State Park is a key feature. Many reviewers mention how Eric’s knowledge and the scenic stops make it a worthwhile trip. It offers a good balance between scenery and comfort.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a detailed, well-organized full-day journey with delicious food.
13. Maui: Guided Hike of Haleakala Crater with Lunch
This 7-hour guided hike takes you into Maui’s volcanic landscape, including lava trails and crater views. The tour includes snacks and a picnic lunch, making the active portion more enjoyable. Guides emphasize safety and local geology, with positive reviews for their expertise.
Bottom line: Ideal for active travelers interested in geology, hiking, and culinary picnics.
14. Maui: Full Day Hiking Tour with Lunch
This 11-hour excursion takes you through Maui’s most scenic spots, including waterfalls and the Pipiwai trail. The trip features snacks and a picnic lunch in nature, with Pascua as your energetic guide. Reviewers highlight the unforgettable experience and excellent organization.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a full immersion into Maui’s wilderness and scenic beauty.
15. Small-Group Road to Hana Adventure Tour with Pickup & Lunch
This 10-hour small-group tour offers personalized attention as you explore lesser-known spots along Hana Road, including Wai’anapanapa, Waikani Falls, and Ke’anae. The lunch at a local restaurant is a highlight, and the guide’s stories and local tips add depth to the experience.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting an intimate, detailed exploration with authentic local flavor.
16. Private Native Tour of the Road to Hana with Cultural Lunch Show
This private tour is the most exclusive way to experience Maui’s cultural traditions and natural wonders. Led by a local native, the trip includes stories of Hawaiian life, a traditional lunch, and stops at waterfalls and scenic overlooks. The price reflects its personalized nature, but it offers unmatched insight into native Maui culture.
Bottom line: Ideal for those seeking a customized, culturally rich experience with authentic storytelling.
How to Choose Your Lunch Experience in Maui
When selecting your lunch tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For a comprehensive, stress-free day, tours like Road to Hana with Lunch and Pickup or Small-Group Road to Hana provide all-in-one packages. If you want a cultural touch, the Private Native Tour offers storytelling and local cuisine in a personalized setting. For active water lovers, snorkeling tours with onboard lunches, like the Molokini Snorkel and Performance Sail, combine adventure and delicious seafood.
Keep in mind booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours during peak season. Also, check whether meals are included and if special dietary options are available. For scenic drives, consider whether you prefer a guided experience or a self-drive if you’re comfortable with winding roads.
Final Thoughts
Maui offers a rich variety of lunch experiences that pair natural beauty with culinary delights. Whether you opt for a luxury sailing trip, a cultural tour with traditional food, or a scenic drive with picnic stops, each one brings a different flavor of the island to your plate. For those who want a full immersion into Maui’s landscapes and local life, tours like the Famous Road to Hana Waterfalls and Lunch or the Small-Group Road to Hana Adventure stand out as excellent choices.
Travelers seeking a more intimate, cultural connection will appreciate the Private Native Tour, which combines storytelling with local cuisine. No matter your preference, booking early ensures you secure your spot in these popular culinary and scenic adventures.