Travel professionals from the Hawaiʻi Visitors & Convention Bureau reveal their insider secrets for experiencing the best of Maui, emphasizing that the island has emerged stronger and more meaningful following its recovery from the 2021 wildfire.
Start Early for Magical Moments
The pros recommend taking advantage of the time difference by visiting Wāiʻanapanapa Black Sand Beach at sunrise. Early morning slots mean fewer crowds and stunning views of the sun rising over lava cliffs. Reservations are required at $10 per car plus $5 per passenger. Similarly, sunrise chants at Haleakalā with cultural practitioners offer spiritual and immersive experiences that leave lasting impressions.
Discover Hidden Cultural Gems
Many visitors overlook Kepaniwai Park's heritage gardens in ʻĪao Valley, which honor Maui's multicultural roots through displays representing Native Hawaiian, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, Filipino, Portuguese, Puerto Rican and New England cultures. Unlike the adjacent ʻĪao Valley State Monument Park, Kepaniwai doesn't require reservations and offers peaceful picnic pavilions.
Authentic Local Flavors
The Wailuku Industrial Area hosts some of the island's best food trucks and pop-ups, tucked away where only locals typically venture. Food trucks also appear at community events like Wailuku First Friday, Hāliʻimaile Third Friday and Kīhei Fourth Friday. Restaurants like Sam Sato's, Tin Roof and Coco Deck Lahaina offer secret menu items including dry mein variations that locals love.
Art and History
Wailuku's Small Town Big Art murals tell moʻolelo (stories) through large-scale works perfect for photos. The Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Mill Museum provides essential context about the plantation history that shaped modern Maui. Visitors can also participate in mālama activities through GoHawaii.com/Voluntourism, including lei-making for elders, taro patch restoration and beach cleanups.
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