Fun! Open-Air Banyan Tree Forest & Blowhole Sight-Seeing MauiTour

If you’re looking for a way to see Maui’s dramatic west coast, this open-air tour promises a lively, up-close experience packed with stunning vistas, natural wonders, and friendly guides. While it doesn’t include long stops for photos, it makes up for it with a breezy ride that leaves you feeling both refreshed and educated.

Two things we love about this experience are its knowledgeable guide, who truly enhances the ride with local insights, and the spectacular views you get from an elevated open-air vehicle—nothing beats feeling the wind and seeing the island from a new perspective. The main drawback? The tour is mostly a drive-by experience, so don’t expect hours of photo stops, which might be a consideration if you’re big on capturing every moment.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, authentic look at Maui’s west side without the hassle of hiking or long waits. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy scenic drives, appreciate a good story from a local guide, and want to experience some of Maui’s most iconic natural features in a fun, informal way.

Key Points

Stunning Views: You’ll be treated to panoramic vistas of the coast, mountains, and ocean—ideal for snapping memorable photos.
Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Jimmy and Maui Joe add a personal touch, sharing stories and insights that bring the scenery to life.
Comfortable Open-Air Ride: The open-air vehicle offers a breezy, immersive experience that brings you closer to Maui’s elements—just bring sunglasses!
Natural Attractions: Highlights include the Nakalele Blowhole, Honolua Bay, and an enchanted Banyan Tree Forest, each offering a distinct glimpse of Maui’s diverse environment.
Great Value: At $89, this 2-hour 15-minute tour provides a cost-effective way to see many highlights without long waits or multiple bookings.
Limited Photo Stops: Most of the tour is a drive-by, so if capturing every scene is your goal, plan accordingly.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Whalers Village in Kaanapali

The tour kicks off at the well-known Whalers Village, a central and convenient meeting spot. You’ll hop into a comfortable, open-air vehicle designed for easy sighting and maximum wind-in-your-hair fun. The group size is capped at 14, ensuring a friendly atmosphere and personalized attention from your guides.

Nakalele Blowhole

Your first stop is the famous Nakalele Blowhole. This natural geyser of seawater erupts with dramatic force when the surf is right—an impressive display of ocean power. You’ll have about 10 minutes here to admire, snap photos, and learn about the geology behind it. Reviewers note that while you don’t linger long, the blows of water and spray are truly captivating. One guest mentions, “Sitting in an elevated position was a game changer,” highlighting how the vantage point gives you the best view of this natural spectacle.

Honolua Bay

Next, you’ll visit Honolua Bay, a renowned surf spot and marine preserve. The stop is brief—around 5 minutes—but enough time to take in the scenery and appreciate the bay’s protected waters. Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge here; one said, “Jimmy was very knowledgeable about the area,” making even a quick stop educational and interesting.

Banyan Tree Forest & Mountain Views

As your ride continues, you’ll pass through the Enchanted Banyan Tree Forest, a peaceful, shady escape filled with towering roots and twisting branches. This unique feature offers a different kind of natural beauty, perfect for a quick walk or a scenic photo. Along the way, you’ll also see the grandeur of the West Maui Mountain Preserve, a sweeping landscape that highlights the rugged, untouched parts of the island.

The Nakalele Blowhole Overlook

The tour’s finale is the Nakalele Blowhole overlook—a prime spot to witness the raw force of nature. From this elevated vantage point, you’ll see the ocean spray, hear the roar of the blowhole, and take in some of the most dramatic views Maui offers. Guests have shared that this section left them feeling awe-inspired, and the proximity makes for excellent photos.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

Guides That Make a Difference
Reviews consistently praise guides like Jimmy and Maui Joe for their friendliness and deep local knowledge. One reviewer shared, “Jimmy shared so many great insights about the island,” making the experience more meaningful. These guides aren’t just drivers—they’re storytellers who add context and personality to each stop.

The Open-Air Experience
Unlike traditional tour buses, this ride is open-air, offering unobstructed views and a refreshing breeze. It’s a simple but effective way to connect more intimately with Maui’s landscapes. Guests report that the ride feels more lively and less like a typical tourist bus, making it a fun and relaxed way to explore.

Scenic Highlights
The tour hits several of Maui’s most photogenic spots—Honolua Bay’s shimmering waters, the rugged cliffs near Nakalele, and the lush Banyan Tree Forest. While most stops are brief, the focus is on the overall visual experience and enjoying the ride. Travelers note that the views are breathtaking, and many use the ride as a way to get a broad sense of Maui’s west side.

Value for Money
At just $89 per person, the tour offers a quick but rundown of Maui’s rugged coastline and natural features. The reviews show consistent satisfaction, with many saying it was worth every penny. The small group size enhances this value, providing personalized attention and flexibility.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour lasts about 2 hours 15 minutes, making it a manageable activity for most travelers. It’s designed to be easygoing, with a relaxed pace that allows you to soak in views and snap photos. The vehicle’s open design means you’ll be exposed to the island’s breezes, so bringing sunglasses or a hat is wise—some guests mention wind as a factor, but most find it adds to the fun.

Transportation:
The open-air shuttle is new and comfortable, with enough space for all guests. The small group size (maximum 14 travelers) keeps the experience intimate and friendly.

Timing & Duration:
The tour begins in the morning or early afternoon—check the schedule for specific times—and lasts around two and a quarter hours. It’s perfect for fitting into a day of sightseeing or relaxing at your resort afterward.

Accessibility & Suitability:
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed for all ages. However, expect some walking at the Banyan Tree Forest and potentially some wind exposure. Guests with mobility issues should consider this.

Booking & Cancellation:
It’s easy to reserve through Viator, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. This flexibility provides peace of mind if weather or plans change.

Authentic Guest Experiences

Guests rave about the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. One said, “Jimmy was a very knowledgeable tour guide, and a great (safe!) driver on the hairpin turns.” Others emphasize the scenic ride: “Beautiful ride, excellent music, and lifetime memories with my family!” The open-air ride and the spectacular scenery consistently stand out as highlights.

While most reviews are glowing, a few mention wind as a minor issue. One guest suggested bringing sunglasses, as the open-air nature can be windy, especially at higher vantage points. Still, they appreciated being lent a pair, showing the thoughtful service of the guides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic overview of Maui’s west coast without long walks or strenuous activity. It’s ideal for those interested in photography, natural wonders, and local stories. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a fun, laid-back adventure will find plenty to enjoy here.

If you prefer extensive stops and in-depth exploration, this might not be your top choice. But if you want a quick, engaging glimpse of Maui’s wild beauty with friendly guides and great views, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This open-air Maui tour offers a lighthearted yet enriching way to experience the island’s west side. Its combination of expert guides, breathtaking scenery, and value-oriented pricing makes it a strong contender for many travelers’ itineraries. It’s especially good for those who prefer a casual, panoramic ride over long hikes or complex logistics.

While you won’t spend hours at each stop, the overall experience captures Maui’s essence—raw, beautiful, and full of stories waiting to be told. The friendly guides, comfortable setup, and stunning vistas collectively make this a memorable way to kick off or wind down a Maui vacation.

If you’re after a fun, picturesque, and personal introduction to Maui’s west side, this tour is well worth considering. It’s a straightforward adventure that delivers excellent value, charming guides, and plenty of photo-worthy moments.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours 15 minutes, making it a manageable activity for most schedules.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Whalers Village in Kaanapali, a central spot easily accessible for most visitors.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket costs $89 per person and includes the guided open-air ride. No mention of additional fees or extras is noted.

Are there photo stops?
Most of the tour is a drive-by, but there are scenic stops at Nakalele Blowhole, Honolua Bay, and Banyan Tree Forest where you can take photos and enjoy the views.

Is the vehicle comfortable?
Yes, the shuttle is new and designed for a comfortable, open-air experience, with a small group size of up to 14 travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and the experience is family-friendly, but consider wind exposure and the walking involved at certain stops.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen—especially since the vehicle is open-air and exposed to the wind.

In all, this Maui tour strikes a lovely balance of scenic beauty, friendly storytelling, and relaxed fun. Whether you’re a first-timer or a return visitor, it offers a memorable way to see some of West Maui’s most iconic sights without fuss or fussiness.