Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
along the shoreline as you approach the stone
observation deck
a short walk beyond the
parking lot.
The estimated population of the
aeʻo
, an elegant wading bird with long orange legs, is
between 800 and 1100 across the entire state. Fortunately, you'll likely spot one of them
here. The parking area is just west of the intersection of Hwy 37 and Dairy Rd.
Maui Nui Botanical Gardens
GARDENS
terested in the subtle beauty of native Hawaiian plants, this garden is a gem. Come here
to view rare species and to identify plants you've heard about but haven't yet seen, such
as
wauke
(paper mulberry, used to make tapa),
ʻulu
(breadfruit) and
ʻiliahi
(sandalwood).
Don't expect it to be overly flowery, however. You won't see the riotous colors of exotic
tropicals that dominate most Hawaiian gardens.
To delve even deeper into the key role of native plants in Hawaiian culture, join one of
the guided tours (suggested donation $5) that are given between 10am and 11:30am on
Mondays, Tuesdays, Fridays and Saturdays.
If you buy lunch from one of the food trucks near the harbor, the picnic tables here are
a nice spot to enjoy it.
Schaefer International Gallery
MUSEUM
gallery at the Maui Arts & Cultural Center features fascinating exhibits on Hawaiian cul-
ture, hula and art. If you're in the area, it's worth a stop to see what's currently displayed.
Kahului Harbor
HARBOR
Kahului's large protected harbor is the island's only deepwater port, so all boat traffic,
from cruise ships to cargo vessels, dock here. But it's not all business. You'll find one of
the harbor's most attractive faces at
Hoʻaloha Park
, where you can watch outrigger ca-
noe clubs practice on weekday afternoons.
Activities
Windsurfing