Waikapu HawaiiATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Waikapu, Hawaii.
1. Road to Hana Adventure Tour
SCENIC ISLAND JOURNEY
The Road to Hana Adventure Tour offers visitors an unforgettable 9.5-hour journey through Maui's stunning landscapes with breakfast and lunch included. Travelers can experience breathtaking waterfalls, lush rainforests, and scenic coastal views along this famous route. This guided tour provides a stress-free way to explore one of Hawaii's most iconic attractions without the hassle of driving the winding roads yourself.
2. Lā Kāhea Community Farm
CULTURAL AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Lā Kāhea Community Farm is located in the Central Valley of Maui and focuses on fostering a reconnection with and respect for the land. The farm offers visitors a chance to learn about traditional Hawaiian agricultural practices and sustainability efforts. Guests can participate in various educational programs that highlight the importance of local food production and environmental stewardship.
3. Maui Ocean Center
THE AQUARIUM OF HAWAII
Maui Ocean Center is a world-class aquarium showcasing the diverse marine life found in Hawaiian waters. Visitors can explore various exhibits featuring coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating ocean creatures native to the region. The center also offers educational programs about marine conservation and Hawaiian cultural connections to the sea.
4. PacWhale Eco-Adventures
OCEAN WILDLIFE EXCURSIONS
PacWhale Eco-Adventures offers exciting ocean excursions focused on whale watching and marine wildlife observation. Their expert guides provide educational commentary about humpback whales and other marine species that inhabit the waters around Maui. The tours support conservation efforts through the Pacific Whale Foundation, helping to protect the marine environment for future generations.
5. ʻĪao Valley State Monument
SACRED NATURAL LANDMARK
ʻĪao Valley State Monument features the iconic ʻĪao Needle, one of Maui's most famous natural landmarks rising 1,200 feet from the valley floor. This lush, verdant area is rich in historical significance as the site of the 1790 Battle of Kepaniwai, where King Kamehameha I's forces conquered the Maui army. Visitors can explore short hiking trails with historical markers while enjoying the spiritual and cultural importance of this beautiful heritage site.
6. Honoapiʻilani Highway/Lahaina Bypass Junction
SCENIC CYCLING ROUTE
The Honoapiʻilani Highway/Lahaina Bypass Junction serves as a popular starting point for road cycling enthusiasts exploring Maui's scenic routes. Cyclists can enjoy breathtaking coastal views and varying terrain that accommodates different skill levels. The junction provides access to several notable cycling routes that showcase the island's diverse landscapes and natural beauty.
7. Lanilili
ELEVATED HIKING EXPERIENCE
Lanilili offers hikers an elevated vantage point with panoramic views of central Maui and the surrounding landscape. The trail provides a moderate hiking challenge with rewarding scenery throughout the journey to the summit. Visitors can experience diverse native flora while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere away from more crowded tourist destinations.
8. Haleakalā National Park
MAJESTIC VOLCANIC WONDER
Haleakalā National Park spans an impressive 30,004 acres from Upcountry Maui's highest point at 10,023 feet to the southeastern coast of Kīpahulu. The park boasts the largest concentration of endangered species of any national park in the United States and offers unforgettable sunrise views from its soaring summit. Visitors can explore diverse ecosystems ranging from subtropical rainforest to alpine desert within a single preserved area.
9. Kāʻanapali Beach
HISTORIC ROYAL RETREAT
Kāʻanapali Beach was once a retreat for the royalty of Maui and now serves as one of the island's most popular beach destinations. The northern end features Puʻu Kekaʻa (Black Rock), a sacred spot where ancient Hawaiians believed souls entered the spirit world. Visitors can witness the daily sunset cliff-diving ceremony that reenacts King Kahekili's brave dive from this culturally significant landmark.
10. King Kamehameha Golf Club
PRESTIGIOUS COURSE WITH VIEWS
The King Kamehameha Golf Club offers a premier golfing experience with spectacular views of both the Pacific Ocean and the West Maui Mountains. The private club features a championship course designed by Ted Robinson Sr. with modifications by Annika Sörenstam and Arnold Palmer. Its distinctive clubhouse, based on an unrealized Frank Lloyd Wright design, houses an impressive collection of Hawaiian art and cultural artifacts.
11. Maui Tropical Plantation
AGRICULTURAL TOURISM DESTINATION
Maui Tropical Plantation showcases Hawaii's agricultural heritage through guided tours of its working plantation featuring pineapple, sugarcane, and various tropical fruits. Visitors can enjoy tram tours, zip lines, and walking paths through beautifully landscaped grounds with mountain views. The plantation also offers farm-to-table dining experiences and a country store featuring locally made products and fresh produce.
12. Mill House Restaurant
FARM-TO-TABLE DINING EXPERIENCE
Mill House Restaurant offers an exceptional farm-to-table dining experience set against the backdrop of the West Maui Mountains at the Maui Tropical Plantation. The restaurant's menu showcases fresh ingredients sourced directly from the surrounding farm and other local producers. Diners can enjoy innovative cuisine that highlights Hawaiian flavors while overlooking the plantation's picturesque lagoon and gardens.
13. Waikapu Stream Trail
SERENE NATURE WALK
Waikapu Stream Trail offers hikers a peaceful journey alongside one of Maui's important waterways through the central valley. The trail provides opportunities to observe native Hawaiian plants and birds in a less-trafficked setting than more famous hiking destinations. Visitors can enjoy the gentle sounds of flowing water while taking in views of the surrounding mountains and agricultural landscapes.
14. Maui Coffee Attic
LOCAL BREW & CULTURE
Maui Coffee Attic serves as both a coffee shop and cultural gathering place near Waikapu in neighboring Wailuku. Visitors can sample locally grown Hawaiian coffee while enjoying regular live music performances and community events. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for travelers to interact with locals and experience authentic island hospitality.
15. Kepaniwai Park & Heritage Gardens
MULTICULTURAL HISTORICAL PARK
Kepaniwai Park & Heritage Gardens commemorates the diverse cultural groups that have contributed to Maui's history through beautifully designed garden spaces and architectural replicas. Each section of the park represents different ethnic influences including Hawaiian, Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese, Korean, and Filipino traditions. Visitors can explore the peaceful grounds while learning about the multicultural heritage that has shaped modern Hawaii.