Top Rated Attracties in Pukalani

Let it be known up front: these caverns are not an ancient burial ground, contrary to previous beliefs. If this revelation does not disappoint you too much, then perhaps this is the spelunking experience for you. Excursions range from a quick 50-minute lava tube tour to a six-hour adventure that is advertised as a journey to the center of the earth. You will view some breathtaking sights, including ancient stalactites, ledges and the stunning Dancing Sunbeam Skylight. Two different excursions are available. Call for prices and more information.

Located just past Mile Marker 10 on the road to Hana (Highway 36) are the verdant tropical gardens where the opening sequence of "Jurassic Park" was filmed. The 26-acre (10.52 hectare) park, designed by Alan Bradbury with the aim of restoring the area's natural ecosystem, contains 500+ trees, plants and flowers native to the Pacific islands. Stroll along Maui's best nature trails and enjoy a leisurely lunch in a lush picnic area. This is a great activity for nature lovers and families with children.

While one could not say that all roads lead to this museum, it could certainly seem that way to Maui drivers. Located at one of the largest intersections on Maui, it is adjacent to Maui's main sugar factory. The pungent aroma of sugar cane permeates the air for miles. The museum provides visitors with extensive information on the history of the sugar industry, as well as details about its cultivation and production. Many exhibits are interactive, making use of modern effects. There is a gift shop on-site if you wish to buy few things for your loved ones.

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.

With its seemingly endless expanse of golden sand beach and perfect bodysurfing waves, Makena State Park is a must-see destination. The picturesque Big Beach here is one of the largest and most picturesque beaches in Maui. Little Beach, a five-minute hike up and over rocks, is a world-famous clothing-optional beach. The surrounding environs are perfect for a hike that offers splendid views of the deep blue ocean. The waters around Makena State Park are home to an array of marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkeling.

Sprawled across a large part of the diverse Maui island is the Wai'anapanapa State Park. In Hawaiian parlance, the name translates to mean 'glistening fresh water', a fitting attribute of the park which refers to the presence of clear, sublime pools and water streams. One of these waterbodies is the small yet conspicuous black sand beach called Pa'iloa. Apart from natural features that are a part of the park such as seabird colonies and lava tubes, it is also surrounded by haunting legends spurred by burial sites, pictographs and ancient temples found in this region. Shrouded in mystery, nature and awe-inspiring beauty, the Wai'anapanapa State Park is certainly worth a visit.