If you visit downtown Lahaina, you are sure to come across this tree and if you did not plan on visiting downtown Lahaina, you should change your plans just to explore this major landmark. The tree is well over 100 years old, and will probably endure for hundred more years. It is 60 feet (18.38 meters) high and covers 200 feet (60.96 meters) of space. With 12 trunks and several hundred drooping branches, it looks more like a miniature jungle than anything else. Locals make crafts under its shade, kids swing from the branches and tourists stare in amazement.
Touted as the largest tropical aquaria with a reef in the Western Hemisphere, this impressive oceanfront aquarium has become one of most popular attractions of Maui. With more than 50 marine habitats, a massive ocean exhibit and a Whale Discovery Center, this is a must-see for anyone interested in the undersea world. Guided tours and audio guides are available, and there is an entertaining Keiki Program for the little ones. Check out the Marine Mammal Discovery Center here—it is educational and fun too!
Watched over by imposing, viridescent peaks, this park is replete with refreshing tropical woods sliced by winding trails and pathways. Dubbed as the 'Yosemite of the Pacific' by Mark Twain, this serene park is home to clearings, gardens and a spacious picnic area. This is an invigorating hiking destination, accentuated by the beauty of rejuvenating rainforests. The focal point of this park is the Iao Needle, a natural rock formation covered in green moss that towers mightily over the park as well as the Iao Stream that flows alongside it. Once the site of a great battle, this is a stirring centerpoint of history and natural beauty.
Located on the Cameron Way in Kahului, McCoy Studio Theater is the flexible theater of Maui Arts & Cultural Center. This theater has a maximum seating capacity for 300 spectators, however, the stage and the seating arrangement can easily be adjusted to suit the requirements of the events. Events like dramas, dance, concerts, comedy shows, opera and film screenings are held here throughout the year. Some of the best musicians like George Kahumoku, Jr. and Ledward Ka‘apana have performed on its stage, making it a major venue on the island to watch live music. Call or visit their website to know more.
Queen Ka'ahumanu Center is the island’s premiere shopping and entertainment destination. The home of Maui’s only department stores, Sears and Macy's, plus more than 100 shops and restaurants, from cool island-style boutiques to such national names as American Eagle Outfitters, Pacific Sunwear, Foot Locker and Borders Express. It's the place where Maui folks and Maui visitors get going with a gourmet cappuccino, savor fabulous cuisine at Ruby’s Diner or Koho Grill & Bar, or chow down on fun international fare in the Queen’s Market Food Court. And it's where you can enjoy hot Hawaiian music on the Queen’s Stage, and treat yourselves to an ice-cream and a movie. So join them for some real local aloha.Steppingstone Playhouse, home of Maui Academy of Performing Arts (MAPA)is located on the second floor near the Macy's home department.
This national preserve is the site of the famed, otherworldly Garden of the Gods. Also located on the arid, dry plateau is the state's largest remaining dryland forest. The preserve is nearly 600 acres, and contains a number of extremely rare plants and trees. George Munro took the first steps to save the forest in 1920. His efforts have been perpetuated by community group Hui Malama Pono O Lana'i, which still looks after the preserve today. Only self-guided tours are available. A short, popular trail is located just off the main road leading to the Garden of the Gods. Admission is free.
If you cannot manage to move to the island, arrange a tour through this company. With more than 15 years of experience providing adventure/eco-tours, these people are expert guides. They can take you into the heart of the rain forest, under waterfalls, to the summit of Haleakala and down into the crater. Prices are reasonable for a half-day hike. Call or check the website for more information.
Combine a snorkel cruise with a trip to Molokini and a detour at nearby Turtle Town (home of the sea turtles), and you have got an irresistible excursion. This company only takes small groups and is operated by a Coast Guard Captain with almost 20 years of experience; he and his crew take pride in their ecological awareness. The Seafire is new to South Maui, and is highly recommended by tour guides if you are staying in Kihei or Wailea. Call for prices and to make reservations.
Guide Randy shares a wealth of natural history, geological and botanical lore, and island folklore while leading hikers through Maui's magnificent wilderness. Several half-day and full-day hikes are offered, many to areas not usually visited by tourists. The "easy" three-mile Haleakala Waterfall Hike is appropriate for children. Several treks in the West Maui Mountains explore more remote, rugged, rainforest terrain. Snacks and minimal gear is included in tour prices. Discounts are available; check out the website for more information.
This national preserve is the site of the famed, otherworldly Garden of the Gods. Also located on the arid, dry plateau is the state's largest remaining dryland forest. The preserve is nearly 600 acres, and contains a number of extremely rare plants and trees. George Munro took the first steps to save the forest in 1920. His efforts have been perpetuated by community group Hui Malama Pono O Lana'i, which still looks after the preserve today. Only self-guided tours are available. A short, popular trail is located just off the main road leading to the Garden of the Gods. Admission is free.
According to Hawaiian legend, a beautiful girl named Pehe once lived with her husband in the sea caves on Lanai's coast. A freak storm occurred while the man was away; by the time he returned his wife had drowned. He scaled a rock islet off the shore, buried his wife on it, and then committed suicide by jumping off it into the angry waters below. The rock is now known as Pu'upehe, after the maiden, or Lover's Leap, after her bereft husband. It can be viewed from a plateau at the southwestern point of Manele Bay. Boats going in or out of Manele Harbor also get a good view of it.
Lana'i Union Church is a Protestant church located on Fraser Avenue in Lanai. Step in and feel the serene atmosphere inside...it invites you to sit and pray for as long as you want. Aside from the daily services, a special service is also held on Sundays that sees a large gathering of locals as well as visitors. It also hosts workshops and other programs that benefit the community at large. For further details, check the website or call ahead.