Central Maui will probably be your starting point when you arrive at the airport in Kahului. This region is much more than just a place to arrive and depart from during your trip to Maui, however. It’s home to lush plantations, as well as plenty
of other attractions that highlight Hawaii’s natural beauty.
The following are five great activities you’ll want to enjoy during your time in central Maui:
1. Maui Ocean Center
Although you’ll probably want to explore Maui’s oceans on your own, a trip to the Maui Ocean Center lets you see a variety of Hawaii’s marine life up-close and in one place. You can explore 60 indoor and outdoor
exhibits. See sharks, sea turtles, stingrays, tropical fish, live coral and more. If you’re a certified diver, you can also descend into a 750,000-gallon exhibit and swim among up to six species of sharks.
2. Maui Tropical Plantation
Take a tram tour through this plantation’s lush, green grounds and see native plants, tropical fruits and row crops. You’ll also be shown how to properly husk a
delicious coconut. A family-friendly zip line tour for children as young as 5 and as old as 105 is also available on the grounds. After you’ve toured the plantation, dine
at The Mill House, which serves innovative dishes prepared with ingredients sourced from the plantation’s grounds.
3. Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge
This wildlife refuge is one of Hawaii’s few remaining natural wetlands, encompassing approximately 700 acres. See the state’s endangered wetlands birds, as well as species from Alaska, Canada and elsewhere. Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk and tour through the beautiful ancient wetlands.
4. Maverick Helicopter Tours
Book a tour with Maverick Helicopters departing from the Kahului Heliport in central Maui and ride in style aboard an ECO-Star helicopter as you experience breathtaking views of the area. Several tours are available, so you can choose the sights you want to see.
5. Wailuku
This area was once an ancient settlement that eventually became the political center of Maui in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, it’s a charming mix
of mom-and-pop shops that have been handed down through the generations and newer, upscale stores. Explore the area on your own, or if you’d like to learn more, take
a guided walking tour that takes you to sites such as the ‘Iao Theater and historic Market Street.