In the Olowalu valley, visitors can examine a series of petroglyphs carved into the rock by Hawaiians many centuries ago. To reach the valley, take Highway 30 south from Lahaina and turn off at mile marker 15.
A bustling town on the west coast with restaurants, shops, art galleries, surf shacks, a Buddhist temple and lots of souvenir stands. Visit Banyan Tree Park, home of the largest banyan tree in the United States. Baldwin House and the old prison also makes for an interesting visit.
A legendary Maui beach on the western (sunset) coast, lined with resorts and bustling with swimmers, divers, snorkelers, surfers, windsurfers and boogie-boarders. At night visitors can choose from several luaus, with a full board of native food, including the famous underground-cooked pork, as well as music, shows and craft booths. The point known as Black Rock offers some of the best snorkeling in Hawaii. To reach the beach, drive Highway 30 about two miles north from Lahaina.
Stroll among the weird lava formations known as the Dragon's Teeth. To reach the site, drive along the Office Road, off Highway 30 just past mile marker 30.
A beautiful 53-mile stretch of coastal road on the northeastern shore of Maui. Drivers can choose among dozens of waysides, overlooks and short hiking trails that lead to natural pools and waterfalls, ideal for swimming and sunning. The highway (routes 36 and 360) begins just east of Kahului and the Kahului airport.
This temple, the largest in the Hawaiian islands, dates to the 14th century. The temple consists of a huge stone platform measuring 340-by-415 feet. It was recently uncovered from the lush surrounding rainforest. To reach Pi'ilanihale Heiou, take Highway 360 (Hana Highway) toward Hana, then turn off at the Ulaino Road near mile marker 31.
A pinnacle of volcanic stone reaching 2,250 feet above the floor of the densely forested 'Iao Valley. Take Highway 32 and 320 west from Wailuku; the road leads directly into the 'Iao Valley State Park.
Hawaii Division of State Parks
P.O. Box 621
Honolulu, HI 96809
(808) 587-0300
hawaiistateparks.org/parks/maui
A steep, partially submerged cinder cone, Molokini lies 2.5 miles off the southern coast of Maui. It can be reached by boat from Lahaina or Maalaea, where several small companies offer day-long snorkeling and diving excursions. Molokini offers a beautiful cove of crystal-clear water for underwater explorations. Molokini is a preserve and no landing on the island itself is permitted.
This moonscape of colorful rock formations and mysterious desert landscapes draws visitors with strange atmospheric and cloud effects at sunrise and sunset. Drive from Kahului via route 37 to 377 to 378.
Haleakula National Park
PO Box 369
Makawao HI 96768
(808) 572-4400
nps.gov/hale
A popular swimming and diving spot, this series of clear pools and waterfalls is part of the Oheo Gulch. The nearby Pipiwai Trail offers an easy and beautiful hike through the surrounding forest, ending at the 400-foot Waimoku Falls. Follow Highway 31 south from the town of Hana, stop at mile marker 42.
This public aquarium is open 365 days a year and offers a spectacular live coral display, a swimming show by native green turtles and a short swim with the (tame) sharks for curious visitors.
Maui Ocean Center
192 Ma'alaea Road
Wailuku, HI 96793
(808) 270-7000
