MUSEUMS
Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum
It’s a bit difficult to miss the large, red caterpillar tractor sitting just outside of the sugar museum in Puunene’s plantation town. Until the 1960s and the boom of Hawaiian tourism, sugar was the island’s largest profitable industry. Here, visitors are able to take a small peek into the day-to-day lives of the era that attracted so many migrants from countries around the world. The laborers that came all the way from China, Japan, the Philippines, Korea, and Portugal contributed heavily to the Hawaiian culture we see today.
Lahaina Heritage Museum
This heritage site is so illuminatingly interactive that it houses a map of Maui, whose areas light up with a simple touch. The museum is arguably the most technologically interactive on the island, with even video footage that gives visitors a look into Maui’s Humpback Whale Sanctuary. In addition to its technological features, the building is home to priceless artifacts, which tell the story of Lahaina’s role as a hub and center for trade in Maui. Items such as the flag of the once Kingdom of Hawaii, can be viewed here.
Baldwin Home Museum
Reverend Ephraim Spaulding was known in Lahaina as the ultimate host, welcoming traveling guests to his home. His property was known to host members of Hawaiian royal court and even captains of whaling vessels. Proof that one home can be self-sustaining is evident in the property as well—the home is surrounded by kou and kukui trees and produced bananas and figs. In addition, the livestock and gardens allowed the family to live off the land. To offer a more immersive experience, visitors are welcome to join candlelit tours of the house, beginning at dusk.
Hale Pa‘i Printing Museum
For centuries, the Hawaiian language was passed down from generation to generation without ever being written down. Stories were shared orally, via word of mouth, or through performances like the hula. When missionaries first arrived in Lahaina, they established the first seminary school. The school promoted literacy and focused on the importance of printed material. As a tool for motivation, a printing press was brought in and the students were taught to operate it. This inspired them to record the Hawaiian histories on paper and even print the first paper currency used in the Hawaiian Islands.
Wo Hing Museum & Cookhouse
An ode to the Chinese origins in Maui, the Wo Hing Temple stands today as a testament of the strength of Chinese community and culture on the island. The first Chinese immigrants arrived on trading and whaling ships. They were employed to build the tunnels and water systems that supported the island’s plantation life. As more Chinese came to Maui, they established the Wo Hing Society in an effort to maintain the Chinese culture and heritage while being so far away from their homeland.
Hale Hō‘ike‘ike
Surrounded by lush gardens filled with Hawaiian plant life, Hale Hō‘ike‘ike (also known as the Bailey House Museum) stands as a center for cultural knowledge of Maui today. Built from lava rock and koi wood, the home was built on the property of the last chief of Maui. It even served as the headquarters for defense during World War II. The museum houses artifacts that date back to pre-European contact like a replica of an ancient Polynesian sailboat and more importantly, the last existing statue of the Hawaiian demigod, Kamapua’a, since the abolishment of Hawaiian religion on the island.
PARKS
Enchanting Floral Gardens
Situated in beautiful upcountry Maui, the Enchanting Floral Gardens of Kula is an 8-acre / 3-hectare botanical garden at an elevation of 2,500 feet / 762 meters. The gardens boast over 1,500 species of tropical and exotic plants from around the world.
Garden of Eden Arboretum and Botanical Garden
Set in 26 acres / 11 hectares, these gardens offer breathtaking views and over 500 labeled plants. The aim of the gardens is to help restore natural ecosystems and promote Hawaii’s indigenous species. The Eden Arboretum was famously used as the setting for the opening sequence of Jurassic Park.
Iao Valley State Park
This verdant valley is a lush area featuring exotic plants, clear pools and spectacular views. Iao Valley is also home to the Iao Needle, a 2,000 foot / 610 meter rock pinnacle that was once used as a natural altar.
Kula Botanical Gardens
These idyllic botanical gardens are situated in 6 acres / 2.5 hectares of scenic land that features a stream, pond and over 2,000 indigenous flora and fauna.
Haleakala Park
The Haleakala National Park runs from the 10,023 foot / 3,055-meter summit of Haleakala to the Kipahulu coast close to Hana. The stunning spot offers visitors enviable scenery and a range of outdoor recreational activities including camping, walking, stargazing, picnicking and wildlife watching. The park is home to some incredible natural features, such as the enormous crater at its summit and some beautiful pools and waterfalls.
Kahanu Gardens
Set in 123 acres / 50 hectares of cultivated land, these gardens are filled with tropical plants and flowers including more than 120 varieties of breadfruit. Kahanu is also home to the Pi’ilanihale Heiau, an ancient stone temple that measures 341 by 415 feet / 104 by 127 meters.
MARKETS
Maui Swap Meet
Maui Swap Meet is one of the biggest and most attended markets on the island. Each Saturday, visitors arrive at the University of Hawaii’s Maui campus parking lot, to admire a variety of wares for purchase. Local farmers sell their fresh produce alongside stands with woodwork, trinkets, honey, and organic kombucha. Many people admire the stalls while enjoying a gigantic shave ice or fresh pineapple before grabbing a bite to eat.
4th Friday Kihei
As the name suggests, locals head to Kihei for a monthly town party held on the fourth Friday of the month. Aside from local arts and crafts vendors, the event also includes free entertainment and tons of local food. Classic barbecue from Smoke & Spice and the poi mochi stand are just a few event favorites.
Upcountry Farmer’s Market
Maui’s oldest running farmer’s market sets up in upcountry Maui every Saturday offering unparalleled views and the island’s freshest produce. Maui locals shop for organic vegetables from nearby farms, roasted macadamia nuts, and locally grown coffee. There is also an impressive selection of prepared foods and baked goods with many vegetarian and vegan options available. Tropical plants and flowers like protea are also on sale.
Maui Gift & Craft Fair
Every Sunday, the island’s highly skilled artisans meet at the Lahaina Gateway to show off their work at the Maui Gift & Craft Fair. Visitors admire and purchase fine art and accessories inspired by the Valley Isle. Local artists exhibit hand-blown glass, ocean inspired jewelry, photography, ceramics, historical maps, and more.
Maui Mall Farmers Market & Craft Fair
Maui Mall in Kahului attracts visitors every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday for the farmers market and craft fair. Locally grown produce, homemade lilikoi (passion fruit) butter, and dips are sold alongside handmade items by local craftsmen.
Wailuku’s First Friday town party
Similar to Kihei, Wailuku also hosts its own town party on the first Friday of each month. Visitors roam the streets picking up handmade crafts and eating ono (delicious) food. The continuous local live music adds to the upbeat Friday night atmosphere.
