Waihee-Waiehu HawaiiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Waihee-Waiehu, Hawaii.
1. Waihee Ridge Trail
SCENIC MOUNTAIN HIKING
Waihee Ridge Trail offers breathtaking panoramic views of Maui's north shore and the West Maui Mountains. The trail climbs through lush forest and open ridge lines, providing hikers with diverse landscapes and photo opportunities. This 5-mile round trip hike is considered moderate in difficulty and showcases the natural beauty of Waihee-Waiehu.
2. Waihee Beach Park
COASTAL PARADISE RETREAT
Waihee Beach Park is a serene coastal retreat located north of Kahului Harbor, perfect for those seeking a less-crowded beach experience. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and beach walks along the picturesque shoreline. The park provides amenities for picnicking and is a great spot for families to enjoy Maui's natural beauty.
3. Waihee Canyon
NATURAL TROPICAL WONDER
Waihee Canyon presents visitors with a dramatic landscape formed by ancient volcanic activity and water erosion. The canyon is home to lush tropical vegetation, rushing waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams that highlight Hawaii's diverse ecosystem. Adventurous hikers can explore the canyon to discover hidden pools and breathtaking vistas that showcase Maui's natural splendor.
4. Lanilili Hiking Trail
SUMMIT ADVENTURE TREK
Lanilili is a prominent hiking highlight in the Waihee-Waiehu region, offering adventurous trekkers spectacular views from its summit. The trail winds through native Hawaiian flora and provides glimpses of wildlife unique to the islands. Reaching the peak rewards hikers with panoramic vistas of the island's coastline and interior landscapes.
5. The Wall
CYCLIST'S PARADISE ROUTE
The Wall is a renowned road cycling segment that challenges riders with its elevation and rewards them with spectacular coastal views. Cyclists navigate this route to experience both the physical challenge and the beauty of Maui's landscape from a unique perspective. The segment has become a must-ride attraction for cycling enthusiasts visiting the Waihee-Waiehu area.
6. Whale Watching Tours
MARINE MAMMAL ENCOUNTERS
Whale watching tours from Waihee-Waiehu offer visitors intimate encounters with magnificent humpback whales in their natural habitat. The area is particularly known for exceptional whale sightings, especially during the peak season from December to April. Private sailing tours provide a personalized experience to observe these gentle giants breaching, tail slapping, and playing in the waters surrounding Maui.
7. The Historic IAO Theater
CULTURAL PERFORMANCE VENUE
The Historic IAO Theater stands as a cultural landmark just 3 miles from Waihee Beach Park in nearby Wailuku. This beautifully preserved venue hosts a variety of performances including local productions, concerts, and cultural events throughout the year. Visitors can appreciate both the architectural charm and the vibrant arts scene that the theater brings to the community.
8. Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge
BIRD WATCHERS PARADISE
Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge serves as a critical habitat for endangered Hawaiian waterbirds and migratory species. Located about 7 miles from Waihee-Waiehu, this coastal wetland ecosystem features accessible boardwalks and viewing platforms for wildlife observation. Nature enthusiasts can spot Hawaiian stilts, coots, and seasonal migratory birds while learning about conservation efforts in Hawaii.
9. Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum
HAWAIIAN AGRICULTURAL HERITAGE
The Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum chronicles Hawaii's rich sugar plantation history and its profound impact on the islands' development. Exhibits feature authentic equipment, photographs, and personal accounts that bring to life the multicultural legacy of sugar production in Hawaii. Visitors gain insights into the agricultural, economic, and social transformations that sugar cultivation brought to Maui and the Hawaiian Islands.
10. Yulia Maui Art
LOCAL ARTISTIC EXPRESSION
Yulia Maui Art showcases the vibrant works of local artists capturing the essence and beauty of Hawaiian landscapes and culture. This gallery, located 5 miles from Waihee Beach Park, offers unique pieces that serve as perfect souvenirs or meaningful additions to art collections. Visitors can engage with artists to learn about their inspiration drawn from Maui's natural splendor and rich cultural heritage.
11. Au'au Channel Excursions
OCEAN EXPLORATION ADVENTURES
Au'au Channel Excursions take adventurers across the waters between Maui and Lanai to explore a diverse marine landscape. These journeys feature stops at sea cliffs, caves, remote coastlines, and some of Hawaii's most vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. Visitors can also learn about ancient Hawaiian burial sites and cultural landmarks visible from these water-based tours.
12. Iao Valley State Park
SACRED NATURAL MONUMENT
Iao Valley State Park is home to the iconic Iao Needle, a natural stone pinnacle rising 1,200 feet from the valley floor with spiritual significance in Hawaiian culture. The lush, rainforest setting offers short walking trails with stunning views of the emerald peaks and flowing streams. This sacred site was once the location of a significant battle in Hawaiian history and now serves as both a cultural landmark and natural preserve.
13. Maui Tropical Plantation
AGRICULTURAL TOURISM DESTINATION
Maui Tropical Plantation offers visitors an immersive experience into Hawaii's agricultural heritage through guided tram tours of working crops including pineapple, sugarcane, and coffee. The plantation features a variety of dining options including the Mill House Restaurant, which serves farm-to-table cuisine using ingredients grown on-site. Visitors can also shop at the Country Store for locally made products, participate in zipline adventures, or simply enjoy the lush tropical gardens and mountain views.
14. Wailuku First Friday
MONTHLY CULTURAL FESTIVAL
Wailuku First Friday transforms the historic Market Street into a vibrant community celebration on the first Friday of each month. Local artisans, food vendors, and musicians create a festive atmosphere where visitors can experience authentic Hawaiian culture and contemporary island life. This popular event showcases the unique character of Wailuku while providing a platform for local businesses and creatives to connect with the community.
15. Maui Ocean Center
MARINE LIFE DISCOVERY
Maui Ocean Center offers an illuminating journey through Hawaii's diverse marine ecosystems with over 60 interactive exhibits including a 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit with a walk-through tunnel. Visitors can observe native reef fish, sharks, stingrays, and green sea turtles while learning about conservation efforts to protect Hawaii's ocean resources. The center's cultural presentations add depth to the experience by highlighting the traditional Hawaiian relationship with the sea.