This is the perfect way to see, smell, touch, and even taste the wonders of Maui! Immerse yourself in the wonders and history of Lahaina Maui, Hawaii.
Departing Lahaina, head to Puunene, where the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum is located. Hawaii cultivated sugarcane for over 100 years and this is the last working sugar mill in the State of Hawaii. The museum exhibits the history of Hawaiian sugarcane plantations and is dedicated to preserving and presenting the history and heritage of the sugar industry in Maui. The Alexander & Baldwin company itself continues in business producing sugarcane.
A short 20-minute drive away from the Sugar Museum is the Ho`okipa Beach Park lookout where a photo stop will be made at the windsurfing capital of Maui. There are many professional windsurfing competitions held here, and on just about any day you can catch the pros doing their thing. Also, keep your eyes open for Hawaiian sea turtles playing in the surf.
You will also head to Ioa Valley State Park, located in Central Maui just west of Wailuku. Its peaceful 4,000-acre, 10-mile-long park is home to one of Maui's most recognizable landmarks, the 1,200-foot Iao Needle. Apart from its tropical beauty, Iao Valley has great historical significance. In 1790 it was in the valley where the Battle of Kepaniwai took place and King Kamehameha I clashed with Maui's army in his quest to unite the islands. There are also interactive exhibits at the Hawaii Nature Center, which is also located within Iao Valley for you to explore.
Looking to see something impressive, look no further as Maui is home to the largest banyan trees in the United States. Imported from India and planted in front of the Lahaina Courthouse and Lahaina Harbor in 1873, the tree is the size of an entire city block and stands more than 60 feet high. Need to cool down a bit, then take a stroll under its branches! Many events and art exhibits have been housed beneath its beautiful branches.
Another exciting stop is the Maui Ocean Center. For more than 20 years its main mission has been fostering understanding, wonder, and respect for Hawaii's marine life. It is recognized as one of the island's top-rated attractions and listed among the “Top 10 Aquariums in the World”
Discover what lives in the shallow waters of Maui, get up close with Hawaii's open ocean creatures, and be amazed by one of the world's largest collections of live tropical corals.
You will also have the opportunity to visit some local souvenir shops and have a light lunch before heading back to your cruise ship terminal.
