Best things to do in Central Maui
The central area of the Valley Isle is the region that is primarily known as “town,” home to the Kahului Airport, Costco, Target, the Queen Ka’ahumanu Shopping Center, and most of Maui’s convenience shopping at big box retailers. It’s an area that all residents and visitors frequently frolic, and offers far more than meets the eye!
Maui Arts & Cultural Center
The Maui Arts & Cultural Center, otherwise known as the “MACC,” is an exceptional Maui entertainment venue that prides itself on being “a gathering place where the community can celebrate creativity in personal and shared experiences of the arts.”
Maui Swap Meet
The Maui Swap Meet is Maui’s premiere weekly shopping event for Hawaii souvenirs and unique keepsakes! At the Maui Swap Meet, attendees can expect to shop through local vendor tents that offer Maui made crafts, jewelry, clothing, collectibles, antiques and more. The swap meet is also a great place to go to taste different Maui foods from farm stands and Maui food trucks, and an awesome spot to learn more about Maui’s local culture.
Market Street
Considered to be one of the main attractions of Historic Downtown Wailuku, Market Street offers a great selection of unique shops including Maui antique stores, pawn shops, locally owned boutiques, art galleries, a music store and more. Market Street in Wailuku also has some terrific spots to grab a bite to eat or a cup of joe.
Iao Valley State Park
The Iao Valley State Monument is one of the most rewarding sights to visit in Maui. Not only is it insanely beautiful and rich in Maui cultural and geological significance, but it is also a place with a deeply transformative Hawaiian history tied to the land. Iao Valley is the site where King Kamehameha the Great battled and defeated Maui’s warriors in his quest to unite the Hawaiian Islands.
Maui Tropical Plantation
Another family-friendly stop in Central Maui is the Maui Tropical Plantation. Sitting below the picturesque backdrop of the West Maui Mountains, the Maui Tropical Plantation is home to 60 acres of assorted tropical fruits and plants, Kumu farm tours, dining, coffee tasting and exploration.
Maui Zipline Company
Thrill seekers of all ages should make sure to check out Maui Zipline Co.! This is Maui’s newest zipline course and they pride themselves on being family friendly. Guests as young as five years old are welcome to soar in style over the beautiful Maui Tropical Plantation.
Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum
Now if it’s a taste of history that you’re looking for, look no further than the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum. Stocked full of information and exhibits that signify one of the most influential periods of Maui’s history, this 1800 square ft. museum charts both the establishment and growth of the Maui sugar industry. There are many opportunities for guests to learn more about the significant impact that sugar has had on the Island of Maui.
Maui Helicopter Tours
It is absolutely no secret that Maui is filled with breathtaking scenery! Exquisite beaches, rushing waterfalls, and lush tropical forests are all part of what steals the hearts of everyone who comes to experience this beautiful island. Now imagine taking in these sights with a bird’s eye view. There is absolutely nothing like it!
One of the best ways to enjoy an unparalleled view of Maui is to soar through the sky on a thrilling Maui helicopter ride! The top helicopter companies listed here can take you on a journey through areas of the island that would otherwise be inaccessible.
Windsurfing on Maui
Now, if you’ve ever been interested in getting into the exciting world of action sports in Hawaii, then windsurfing on Maui is for you! When it comes to windsurfing, Maui is indeed no ka oi (the best)! Maui is a windsurfing paradise, and has been rightfully known as one of the best places to windsurf in the world since the 1970s.
Ululani’s Shave Ice
Last but not least, a trip to Central Maui would not be complete without stopping for some Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice at their Maui Lani store. Hawaiian shave ice is a huge part of the modern culture of the Hawaiian Islands. It dates all the way back to the 1800’s when Japanese plantation workers started making this delicious treat to help cool them down from a hard day’s work. The workers would take a block of ice and chip away at it before pouring flavored juices and syrups on top for a refreshing cold treat.
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favorite things to
do in Central Maui?
Mahalo for reading Pride of Maui’s Top 10 Things to Do in Kahului and Wailuku!