Maui Historical Places

Discover Maui

Whether it’s a unique natural wonder; a National Park or Monument; or a sacred place that encapsulates Native Hawaiian customs, beliefs and practices. Maui has two Heritage Sites of Hawaii.

Haleakala National Park is a stunning natural wonder spanning from Upcountry Maui’s highest point (10,023 feet) to the southeastern coast of Kipahulu. Covering 30,004 acres, this park has the largest concentration of endangered species of any National Park. It is also known for unforgettable Haleakala sunrises atop its soaring summit.

Just beyond the Maui’s county seat of Wailuku, you’ll discover the lush Iao Valley State Monument. Home to the Iao Needle, one of Maui’s most famous landmarks, this is the site of the Battle of Kepaniwai where the forces of Kamehameha I conquered the Maui army in 1790. Culturally and spiritually significant to Maui, this beautiful Heritage Site is the perfect spot for a short, relaxing hike.

Explore Maui by region: West Side Maui, South Maui, Central Maui, Upcountry Maui, East Maui.

Download Tour Map of Maui Island

- Haleakala National Park: A scenic national park on the island of Maui and home to Maui’s highest peak.
- Hana: Is a small, untouched town on Maui’s eastern coastline. To get here visitors must travel one of the world’s most scenic drives.
- Iao Valley State Park: Features one of Maui’s most recognizable landmarks, the 1,200-foot Iao Needle.
- Kaanapali Beach: Is the signature beach of West Maui.
- Lahaina: Is a historic whaling village and lively West Maui hot spot.
- Makawao: A rural, artistic community on the slopes of Upcountry Maui, home to the Paniolo, or Hawaiian cowboy.
- Makena Beach: Also known as “Big Beach,” is one of the largest beaches in Maui.
- Molokini: Is a small island a few miles off of Maui’s southwestern coast that’s well suited for snorkelers and divers.
- The Pools of Oheo: Located just past Hana, are beautiful pools fed by cascading waterfalls.

Haleakala National Park

Haleakala means "house of the sun" in Hawaiian, stretching across Maui’s southern and eastern coastline, Haleakala National Park is home to Maui's highest peak. Rising 10,023 feet above sea level, Haleakala's graceful slopes can be seen from just about any point on the island.

More than 29,000 acres in size, the park is a great place for camping, hiking, biking, stargazing and horseback riding. Many visitors and locals wake up early to drive up to the Haleakala Visitor Center (9,740 feet), the best spot to watch the sunrise. Haleakala is a dormant volcano that was designated a national park in 1961.

Location: Upcountry Maui to the southeastern coast

Iao Valley State Park

Historic state park home to the iconic 1,200-foot Ioa Needle, this green-mantled rock outcropping overlooks Iao stream and is an ideal attraction for easy hiking and sightseeing. Aside from its natural tropical beautiful, sacred Iao Valley has great historical significance.

Please note: As of September 2016, Iao Valley State Park is closed. For the most updated details, visit the State Parks site.

Location: Central Maui, just west of Wailuku