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Located outside of Wailuku on Route 30, this attraction offers a glimpse into Maui’s agricultural industry. There are displays and exhibits showing how 14 varieties of fruits and flowers are cultivated and processed; a mini tram tour through fields of sugar cane, pineapple, bananas, coffee, papaya, and macadamia plants; plus a store where the finished products can be bought.

A Wailuku landmark, the Ka’ahumanu Church was designed in New-England style by Edward Bailey, a Protestant missionary who lived in the house next door. The church was built in 1876 to honor Queen Ka’ahumanu, the powerful ali’i (monarch) whose influence was instrumental in establishing Christianity in the Hawaiian islands. Sunday services are conducted in the Hawaiian language.

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)

The sacredness of this valley stretches far back into the prehistory of Hawai’i, but in more recent times it became known as the site of one of the bloodiest battles ever fought on Maui. Hundreds were killed in the 18th century when Kamehameha I waged war to unite the islands under his rule. The area is now a state park, with marked trails for hiking and the cool freshwater ’Īao Stream offering the respite of a cool dip on a hot day. (see ’Īao Valley and Kepaniwai)

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.

This peaceful park is a tribute to Maui’s ethnic diversity. A leisurely stroll here reveals a replica of a traditional piece of architecture and a garden from each of the major contributors to Hawai’i’s cultural mix: a Japanese tea house; a Chinese pagoda; a Portuguese villa; a Flipino abode; and a New England frame house. Unfortunately, the Hawaiian grass hale (house) recently succumbed to fire. Picnic areas with barbecue pits are set in the shade of trees by ’Īao Stream. (see ’Īao Valley and Kepaniwai)

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.

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.

Now a designated wildlife sanctuary, Kanahā was once a royal fishpond (see Moloka’i and Lāna’i). One of its main roles today is as refuge for the rare Hawaiian stilt, or ae’o , as well as about 50 other bird species. The migratory ae’o is a slender wading bird that stands 16 inches tall and has a black back, white belly, and sticklike pink legs. The birds can often be seen feeding along the marshy edges of the pond near the Hāna Highway.

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