Explore The Best Things to do in Historic Wailuku Maui
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With its fascinating history and abundance of cultural destinations, Wailuku is a must-visit area for your next trip to Maui. Wailuku sits on the northern coastline in Central Maui near the I’ao Valley and Kahului. The landscape is marked by lush forested peaks that are the remnants of the West Maui Volcano Caldera.
With its natural beauty, Wailuku was one of the original hotspots for vacationers in the early 1900s. Today, Wailuku is more of a residential area that doesn't have any resorts or hotels, but still has many great attractions and a lot of charm.
Wailuku was once the site of numerous religious ceremonies performed by native Hawaiians over hundreds of years. Two ancient temples still stand today for you to explore. The community was also the home to Kamehameha I, Hawaii’s first ruler and famed conqueror. In the nearby Ia’o Valley, the King conquered Hawaii in the famous Battle of Kepaniwai. The valley is also recognized as the origination of Hawaii’s sugar industry. To work in the sugar fields, immigrants from Europe and Asia arrived in droves in the 1800s. They integrated their culture into the area, making Wailuku diverse and eclectic.
There are many places of interest to visit in Wailuku and here are some of the top things to do in the area.
1. Visit I'ao Valley State Monument
One of the top things to do in Wailuku is exploring the beautiful I'ao Valley. As a National Natural Landmark, the I'ao Valley State Monument celebrates and preserves the area’s natural beauty, culture and history. The protected area covers 6.2 acres and is home to the I’ao Needle, a 1,200-foot lava spire covered in lush vegetation.
Several trails take you around the formation and offer stunning views of cliffs and the West Maui Mountains. Here, you will find Heritage Gardens in Kepaniwai Park and the Hawaii nature center.
2. Maui Ocean Center Aquarium in Ma'alaea
In the Ma'alaea Harbor district, the Maui Ocean Center Aquarium focuses on both conservation and education, providing visitors with an amazing way to experience the aquatic environment located offshore. Several cultural exhibits explore Hawaii’s rich traditions related to the ocean and their focus on preserving the environment.
Numerous exciting experiences are available for you to enjoy at the Maui Ocean Center Aquarium. For example, you can take a snorkel trip to explore aquatic life in a natural habitat. In an Open Ocean exhibit, you can experience a cage-free diving experience with sharks, fish and rays. A 3-D experience lets you experience the majesty of whales up close. You can even enjoy a special yoga session in the Open Ocean exhibit. Plus, exhibits like the Vanishing Mural, Living Reef, Turtle Lagoon, Plant Life and others are waiting for you to discover.
The Best Things To Do on Maui By Area
3. Hike the Waihe'e Ridge Trail
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The Waihe'e Ridge Trail is widely regarded as one of the best hikes on Maui and provides some very awe inspiring views. The trail itself is not extremely long at 4.5 miles round trip, but what it lacks in distance it makes up for in elevation gain. It's a very steep trail that can often be muddy. You'll want to wear some very durable footwear that you don't mind getting muddy and definitely want to pack plenty of water.
4. Catch a Show at Historic Iao Theatre
In 1928, the historic Iao Theatre opened in Wailuku and hosted vaudeville performances and movie productions. Over the years, it has hosted live performances by greats like Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra and Betty Hutton. In 1995, this famous theater, which has a Spanish Mission style of architecture, was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Today, the Ia’o Theatre hosts regular performances and is home to the city’s theatrical organization, OnStage. Many of the modern-day features at the theater celebrate the Hawaiian way of life. Check showtimes and purchase your tickets ahead of your arrival to ensure your seat at a show.
5. Delicious Local Eats at Chef Sheldon Simeon's Tiffany's Restaurant and Bar
Experiencing local cuisine is one of the most popular things to do in Wailuku. Tiffany's Restaurant and Bar has gained iconic status on the island over its 20-year history. Previously owned by the Orite family, chef Sheldon Simeon and his wife, Janice, took over the restaurant when the opportunity arose.
Sheldon Simeon, an island native, won the “Fan Favorite” in the two seasons he competed in Bravo’s “Top Chef: Seattle” competition. He is also the author of a cookbook that has been acclaimed by Good Morning America, the New York Times, Bon Appetit and the Washington Post.
Today, Tiffany’s menu celebrates Wailuku’s cultural diversity. The dishes are inspired by Portuguese, Korean, Japanese, Filipino and Chinese cultures. Some of its menu options are Wailuku Saimin, Hamachi, Black Pepper Beef and others.
Wailuku Real Estate
6.Golf at Waiehu Golf Course
With Maui’s typically mild climate and stunning views, a round of golf is one of the popular things to do in Wailuku. The Waiehu Golf Course is a public course that spans the coastline near Waiehu and Waihe’e. From many vantage points, golfers can enjoy views of Waiehu Beach Park and the Waihe’e Reef in the water.
This 18-hole golf course offers a lighted driving range and golf cart rentals. Other amenities are a starter’s booth and a pro shop. At the clubhouse, you can also enjoy a relaxed meal or snack after your round.
7. Tropical Express Tour at Maui Tropical Plantation
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When the sugar industry developed and thrived on the island, the Maui Tropical Plantation served as a hub of agricultural activities. In addition to growing sugarcane on the grounds, papaya, avocado, macadamia nuts and several dozen other crops thrived here. Today, the plantation is a popular tourist attraction that offers tours, activities and experiences.
A wonderful way to explore the plantation is with the Tropical Express Tour. This is a 40-minute aerial tram ride with fascinating narration. From the tram, you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the crops and flowers that thrive year here. After the tram ride, participate in an included coconut husking demonstration. Other attractions here are a zipline experience and a gift shop.
8. Lunch at Cafe O'Lei at the Plantation
Cafe O'Lei at the Plantation is the ultimate way to experience the flavors of the island. The restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with delectable menu options six days a week. Family-owned and operated, the restaurant boasts a spacious dining area and often features live musical experiences for diners to enjoy.
Brunch is served on the weekends, and the restaurant is open for lunch and dinner every day except Mondays. Some of the options are Hamachi Sashimi, Asian Braised Shortribs, Furikake Seared Ahi and Macadamia Nut Crusted Mahi Mahi.
9. Fresh Seafood at Tante's Fish Market
Tante's Fish Market at Ma'alaea is celebrated for its fresh seafood dishes. The restaurant is conveniently located in the Maalaea Harbor shopping center between Kaanapali and the Kahului Airport. This full-service bar and restaurant focuses on a dock-to-table dining experience in an upscale environment. During whale season, you can spot whales while you dine.
The menu at Tante's Fish Market at Ma'alaea is centered around seafood and steak dishes infused with locally-sourced ingredients. You can enjoy options from the sushi, lunch, menu and happy hour menus daily. Options include Dungeness Crab Legs, a Hawaiian Luau Plate, an Island Mixed Plate, Hula Chicken and others. After your meal, head over to the nearby shops to explore local goods.
10. Snorkel Molokini From Ma'alaea Harbor
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As you search for things to do in Wailuku, snorkeling Molokini with a company like Pacific Whale Foundation should be at the top of your list. Molokini is a crescent-shaped island that was formed by an underwater volcano. While part of the volcano’s tip is now covered in green vegetation, the other part remains submerged. This unique environment makes Molokini a top snorkeling destination, and many tours depart from Ma’alaea Harbor.
The reef just below the water’s surface, known as Turtle Arches, boasts lava-formed arches that is home to dozens of fish species as well as sea turtles. Some tours include meals, refreshments and other accommodations.
With so many things to do in Wailuku, plan to spend several days of your Maui vacation exploring the area. Reservations may be needed for some experiences, so plan ahead today.
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