Haleakala National Park

Hwy 378, Makawao, HI 96768 808-572-4400

Description: MAKAWAO. Encompassing more than 27,000 acres, this national park envelops a variety of terrains and climates. Its centerpiece is Haleakala Mountain, a volcano which has been dormant since 1790. Visitors to the area, which was considered sacred by the ancient Hawaiians, enjoy hiking, camping, biking, and horseback riding among the stunning natural beauty. Watching the sun rise on the mountain's summit is almost mandatory for those who visit Maui and is certainly worth the effort. The resorts of the west coast are approximately 2-3 hours away by car.
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Iao Valley State Park

Iao Valley Rd, 5 miles west of Wailuku, Wailuku, HI

Description: WAILUKU. This beautiful, accessible park is best known for its stone spire, the "Iao Needle," which rises 2250 feet from the valley floor. It's also celebrated for its well-maintained hiking paths and river swimming holes. Calm and serene, the park's name means "supreme light" in Hawaiian, a somewhat ironic moniker considering that one of Hawaii's bloodiest battles was fought here in the late 18th century. At the battle of Kepaniwai, Kamehameha I slaughtered Maui's army as he endeavored to unite the archipelago.
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Ka'eleku Caverns

Ulaino Rd, Off Hana Hwy, Hana, HI 96713 808-248-7308

Description: HANA. Sculpted by lava rather than water, this underground network of caves was created 30,000 years ago at the time of Maui's formation. Used by ancient Hawaiians, it's now available for sightseeing by those with geological interests. Intriguing lava formations characterize the two-mile route, which is also punctuated by openings to the surface 40 feet overhead. Visitors should wear sturdy, comfortable shoes and long pants; other gear will be provided. Near the Hana Airport.
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Kamaole Park III

Near Kihei Town Center, Kihei, HI

Description: KIHEI. As you might expect, there are two other beaches with this name in the vicinity, and they all share long stretches of white sand. They also offer terrific swimming opportunities and the presence of lifeguards. Public facilities are available, as are picnic areas and a children's playground. All three beaches are nice, but Kam III, as it's called in the vernacular, is generally the favorite. It's even been voted as one of the best places to watch the sun set on Maui.

Wai'anapanapa State Park

off the Hana Hwy, near Mile Marker 32, Hana, HI 808-244-4354

Description: HANA. Known for its black-sand beach, this ocean-front park has freshwater caves as well, fed by an underground spring and created by ancient lava tubes. Visitors are also intrigued to find cemeteries and religious sites from the days before Westerners landed on the islands. Hiking is available throughout the park but is best and safest along the paved paths. The ocean in the area can be dangerous too, given the strong currents, so exercise caution if you decide to partake. Showers, restrooms, and picnic areas are available, as are camping facilities.
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