Nestled between the beautiful Pu’u Kuikui (West Maui Mountains) and the steep volcanic formation of Haleakalā to the east, Central Maui is not frequented by visitors nearly as much as the coastal resort areas. Yet it holds many cultural, historical, and natural attractions, as well as a wide variety of restaurants and a veritable bonanza of places for shopping. Wailuku, the county seat, lies at the base of ’Īao Valley and is full of funky antique shops and ethnic restaurants. The island’s international airport and commercial harbor are in neighboring Kahului, along with shopping centers, a large park, and community services such as the hospital and police headquarters.
For hikes in Central Maui (see Hikes and Trails)-
Vietnamese “burritos,” whole steamed fish, fried lobster, rice bowl, and other specialties have all found their way into the hearts – and bellies – of locals. Unusually for Maui, the café stays open right through from lunch to dinner.
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The sugar mill in Pu’unēnē is one of the last still operating in Hawai’i. Across the street from the mill stands the awardwinning museum, housed in the plantation superintendent’s residence of the early 20th century. Inside, the museum interestingly and informatively documents the history of Maui’s sugar industry. Photographs, clothing, models, and artifacts illustrate what daily plantation life was like for the owners and the immigrants who worked the fields and mills.
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Simply delectable Vietnamese food at great prices. Try the tangerine beef or sesame chicken.
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Bailey House is a missionaryera home built on an ancient royal Hawaiian site. The building was first used as a mission school and then as the home of missionary and artist Edward Bailey. Today, it houses the largest collection of precontact Hawaiian artifacts on public display on Maui, along with various missionary-era memorabilia, Bailey’s original paintings, and fascinating historical photographs. (see Bailey House Museum)
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A treasure trove of 1930s to ’50s glassware, tableware, furniture, and plenty of Hawaiiana.
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The vast stock includes a full selection of Hawaiian music and books, while the café serves good coffee, breakfast items, and light lunches.
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One of Maui’s most accessible archaeological sites, the remains of precontact Hawaiian structures here have both religious and historical importance. Haleki’i Pihana was a chiefly compound, with thatched houses built atop a stone platform, and a luakini (humansacrificial temple). Signs explain the layout of the walls and terraces. The site is still used for traditional Hawaiian practices.
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A hands-on natural science center, filled with educational and entertaining indoor exhibits and outdoor experiences, all designed to increase understanding of Maui’s unique environment. This innovative center, which fascinates children and adults alike, features interactive games and displays about the islands’ plant and animal life, and teaches how to help protect the fragile ecosystems of Hawai’i.
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Morning
Begin with an early morning visit to Haleki’i Pihana Heiau, perched on a bluff overlooking Maui’s central valley. Take Route 340 from Kahului, make a left turn onto Kūhiō Place, and finally, turn onto Hea Place to reach the Heiau (temple). Maui’s ancient chiefs would have surveyed their domain from this very spot.
Head back up Kahului’s Ka’ahumanu Avenue all the way to the misty crags of ’Īao (see ’Īao Valley). Imagine the ali’i (royalty) enjoying this lush valley as you hike in the coolness of the tropical greenery and take a refreshing dip in a the sparkling stream.
A ten-minute drive out of the valley to Wailuku will bring you to Bailey House Museum (see Bailey House Museum) for a look at precontact life on Maui. Bailey’s own paintings also provide an interesting glimpse into how the island looked when the Protestant missionaries arrived in the 1820s.
Afternoon
Grab a quick, local-style lunch at Sam Sato’s or Wei Wei Noodles & Barbecue, both in the nearby Wailuku Millyard.
Next, you come to the island’s plantation era, vividly displayed at the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum. And to bring you back up to date, end your day by picking up some pūpū (snacks) at one of the many markets in Kahului – Safeway, Ah Fook’s, Foodland – then head to Kanahā Beach Park for a sunset picnic.
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Just off the road to the airport, the beach at Kanahā is narrow and the water usually choppy. But it’s a great spot to windsurf and kite sail – or to watch more experienced practitioners. The park has large grassy areas, showers, restrooms, picnic tables, and barbecue pits.
Kanahā Beach
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Restaurant price categories
Price categories include a three-course meal for one, a glass of house wine, and all unavoidable extra charges including tax.
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International Festival of CanoesThe International Festival of Canoes is Maui's main annual event: a two-week celebration of Hawaii's rich heritage honouring the voyaging canoe which united all of Polynesia. Read more
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Maui Film FestivalThe annual Maui Film Festival, held at the luxurious Wailea Resort, offers film and digital cinema premières and a handful of filmmakers' panels, while social events and galas help keep up the... Read more
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Maui Writers' ConferenceThe Maui Writers' Conference, held over Labor Day Weekend, is one of the most important in the world for both the publishing and film industries. Over 50 top agents and editors and 150 presenters... Read more
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Aloha Classic Windsurfing ChampionshipsHo'okipa Beach Park, near Paia in Maui, hosts top windsurfing action at the Aloha Classic Windsurfing Championships. The consistent trade winds and large seasonal surf make the event one of the most... Read more
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