Central Maui is more than likely the first part of Maui you will see once you arrive. Here is where you will find the county seat, Wailuku. Today, most people only pass through on their way to visit West Maui, travel toward Hana Highway, or make their way to the tiptop of Haleakala. No one really stays long in Central Maui anymore, even though it was at one time the center of attention.
Even though, the major attention is now on other areas of Maui, there are places you should visit here in Central Maui or you will be leaving behind some great vacation memories such as an area known as Happy Valley. At one time, during its hey day, Wailuku was a happening place, this is where the wealthy wined and dined, politicians and island leaders made laws, and of course sugar barons were plentiful along with several bordellos that dotted the area of Happy Valley. Today, you will not find any bordellos, but you can enjoy some of the unique island food and take a break from the hustle and bustle you find in other locations.
While you are in Central Maui you should visit the ‘ Iao Valley and the ‘Iao Needle. This is where villagers buried the chiefs and was the location of the last battle for supremacy over the island. The massacre of Kamehameha the Great along with a cannon he had stolen from a trading ship had the stream backing up with the bodies of the villagers that did not wish to concede. In the end, almost everyone of the village perished while the women and children hung onto the side of the cliff watching the horror below. Since this time, the battle was known as Ka’uwa’u-pali meaning clawed off the cliff and Kapaniwai which translates to mean damming of the waters.
Today, you will enjoy a peaceful and quiet valley with no memories left behind of the villagers that once called this area home. The stream is flowing very calmly along carrying away the secret of the bloody massacre that happened so long ago.
Children will love to venture off and see the Hawaii Nature Center, which is located on Highway 320. The center is a great way for children and adults to see the various natural habitats of the island. Other great sights to see in Wailuku include the mid-19 th century home of Edward Bailey, the remains of the temples Haleki’i and Pihana heiaus.
Kahului is a shopper’s paradise to say the least. This is where the islanders shop. The biggest mall on Maui is the Ka’ahumanu Center on Highway 32, but will also be able to enjoy other shopping experiences such as the Maui Marketplace on Diary Road, which includes the Kau Kau sporting goods store, Borders Books, and a food court. If you plan to shop here, do not worry about a fancy hair do, as the wind pretty much blows all the time.
The Valley of Sugar is located in Central Maui and is a magnificent sight for the eyes. There are 37,000 acres of sugar being grown here by HC&S. As you drive by enjoy the beautiful green fields of sugar but do not forget to stop by the Maui Tropical Plantation between mile marker 2 and 3 where you can enjoy seeing an assortment of tropical fruits and plants. They do offer a tour and gift shop for those a bit more interested in the plantation.
One place you might want to just sit and watch the remote control airplanes fly is at the Maui Raceway Park between mile markers 4 and 5 and then there is Ho’oikipa Lookout just outside Pa’ia right after mile marker 8. From this lookout, you can watch the waves come in and if you are lucky see some windsurfers or you might decide to join in on the fun.
Add this article to your favorite social bookmarks.
