Hawaii can be just the ticket for travelers who want an exotic but safe and accessible destination. You can find the popular tourist attractions anywhere on the internet, but here are a few tips for exploring and enjoying the island of Maui in Hawaii that only locals and frequent visitors know.
Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Preserve — South of Wailea Resort, land and ocean preserve with the remains of an ancient Hawaiian fishing village. There is no sand beach, but the snorkeling is good. It has rare coral species and other marine life.
Kepaniwai Park and Heritage Gardens — The park near the Iao Valley showcases Maui’s multiethnic heritage with traditional dwellings that include a hale, a New England saltbox cottage, a Portuguese villa, and a Filipino bamboo house.
Makawao Stampede — An upcountry tradition that brings together paniolo (Hawaiian cowboys) to compete each 4th of July for a weekend of bull riding, steer chasing, horse racing, and parades.
Mendes Ranch and Trail Rides — A working ranch set in a landscape of pastures and rain forests with guided morning and afternoon trail rides.
Nagasako Fish Market — In Wailuku, known for fresh sashimi, poke (a raw fish dish), spam musubi, and plate lunches.
Poli Poli State Park — On the western slopes of Mount Haleakala, the park has forest trails for easy to moderate hiking and mountain biking.
Polli’s Mexican Restaurant — While enchiladas and tostadas are not exactly native Hawaiian fare, this Makawao eatery is a favorite with locals for good reason.
Sam Sato’s — Renowned for its saimin (Japanese noodles) and manju (Japanese dessert), Sam Sato’s is located in the Millyard in Wailuku.
T. Komoda Bakery — This Makawao upcountry bakery offers delicious stick donuts and cream puffs. A popular stop on the sunrise bike tour, so it sells out early.
There it is! A quick list of unique, local opportunities that may not have come up on your TripAdvisor search. Have you been to (or live on) Maui? What’s missing from my list? Let me know in the comments below!
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Kimberly is trained and certified in Hawaiian Vacations. Let her help you plan your family getaway.
Kimberly@NextAdventureVacations.com
Text or Call 816-866-8883
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