Top Cultural Experiences in Maui

This article has been adapted from the upcoming 2024 Maui guidebook set to release in August. Contributors include Amy Balfour, Malia Yoshioka, Savannah Daupion, and Ryan Ver Berkmoes.

Hawaiian culture encompasses much more than just melodic names and luaus. The revival of both traditional and healing arts is underway, while ancient heiau (temples), native forests, and coastal fishponds are being rejuvenated. Resorts, outdoor adventure companies, and charitable organizations are intentionally highlighting time-honored customs and traditional activities, encouraging visitors to take their time and learn.

Paddle an Outrigger Canoe

Polynesians were the first settlers of Hawaiʻi, navigating outrigger canoes across 2,000 miles of open sea. These canoes feature a stabilizing float attached by two bars. The initial European explorers were amazed by the skill of Hawaiians, who expertly timed their launches and landings, paddling through the waves like dolphins. Today, canoe clubs preserve this rich tradition. You can participate in a morning paddle with the Kihei Canoe Club in North Kihei by reserving a spot on their online calendar. Paddlers should be at least eight years old, and a donation of $40 per person is appreciated.

Every Tuesday and Thursday morning, members and registered visitors head out to sea for a one-hour paddle. Check-in is at 6:30 AM at Kenolio Beach, where club members will provide instructions before gathering for ‘E Ala E’, a traditional Hawaiian chant. As you glide along the coast, paddling together (to the best of your ability!) in the club's vibrant red-and-gold waʻa (canoes), you might spot whales and green turtles. Members in each waʻa often share insights about Hawaiian culture and local marine life. Some trips even make a stop at the historic Koʻieʻie Fishpond, where volunteers explain ancient fishing techniques.

After your paddle, enjoy complimentary coffee and snacks on the beach. Don’t forget to visit Sugar Beach Bake Shop across the street for some delicious post-paddling treats.

Maui Sailing Canoe in Wailea and Hawaiian Paddle Sports in Makena offer guided outrigger canoe tours that also share cultural insights.

Experience the Masters of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Concert Series

On Wednesday evenings, the atmosphere is inviting at the Aloha Pavilion in the Napili Kai Beach Resort, where Ledward Kaapana and other premier slack-key guitarists perform at the Masters of Hawaiian Slack Key Guitar Concert Series. Slack key is a distinct Hawaiian fingerstyle technique, with George Kahumoku Jr., a legend in the genre, serving as the weekly host of this acoustic event. Blending a jam session and a concert, this cultural treasure is a must-see. While reservations are advised, tickets may also be obtainable at the door. Performances take place from 6:30 to 8:15 PM (tickets range from $40 to $60).

Stroll through Kepaniwai Park & Heritage Gardens

Modern Maui's vibrant culture is shaped by many influences. At Kepaniwai Park & Heritage Garden, you can stroll through replicas of the diverse ethnic communities that have made Maui home. Explore a Japanese teahouse complete with shoji screens and koi ponds, a traditional Hawaiian thatched hut with a loʻi kalo (taro patch), and a charming Portuguese courtyard featuring a tiled fountain and bread oven. The park also showcases gardens honoring Chinese, Korean, Filipino, Puerto Rican, New England, and African American cultures. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the intricate details and lush greenery. The park's eight covered pavilions and open picnic tables are popular on weekends for barbecues, family gatherings, and birthday celebrations. To avoid crowds, visit on a weekday afternoon, and remember to bring takeout from one of Central Maui’s local spots, cleaning up after yourself when you leave.

Explore the exhibits at Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House

If you only have time for one museum in Central Maui, make it Hale Hōʻikeʻike at the Bailey House. Aim to visit early in your trip. Guided tours will enhance your understanding as you journey through history, starting with invaluable artifacts from the era of the aliʻi (Hawaiian chiefs). Located on the way to ʻIao Valley, it's an ideal stop before hiking at the site of the Battle of Kepaniwai. Displays from the missionary period and the Hawaiian monarchy provide insight for exploring the churches and architecture of Wailuku town. The museum is open from 10 AM to 2 PM, Tuesday through Friday, so allocate about an hour for your visit, either before or after heading to ʻIao Valley. Don’t forget to stroll the grounds, including the Keoni Room (Maui's oldest Western building) and the canoe house, which features a surfboard belonging to the legendary Duke Kahanamoku.

Trek past ancient stone temples and a burial site in Halawa Valley on Moloka‘i

If you're planning a day trip to Moloka'i from Maui—highly recommended—get ready to be amazed by the breathtaking Halawa Valley. This secluded area is fiercely protected by its residents and has a rich history as a significant settlement before contact, once home to over 1,000 people and featuring an intricate irrigation system that nourished more than 700 taro patches. Along the path to the Moaʻula and Hipuapua Falls, you can find remnants of a burial site that may date back to 650 CE and a seven-tiered stone temple.

This area is believed to contain three heiau sites, two of which are thought to be luakini where sacrifices were made. You can still feel the energy of this sacred place. As recently as the mid-19th century, the lush valley supported about 500 residents and was the primary producer of taro on Molokaʻi. Unfortunately, taro farming was abruptly halted in 1946 when a devastating tsunami swept through Halawa Valley, destroying farms and much of the community. A second tsunami hit in 1957, leaving only a few residents behind; not everyone is welcoming to visitors, so please respect gates and any 'no trespassing' signs.

Explore the charm of ʻUlupalakua

Many travelers pass through ʻUlupalakua on their way from Hana via the backside of Haleakalā but often miss the chance to explore this quaint town. Though small, it boasts two must-visit locations. Maui Wine is a local favorite, growing six grape varietals across 23 acres. Visitors with reservations can enjoy a complete tasting experience, while those without can stroll the historic grounds, shop at the store, and grab a quick tasting at the bar. The main building features a room dedicated to the history of ʻUlupalakua. The surrounding area is primarily occupied by ʻUlupalakua Ranch, where dedicated farmers uphold paniolo (cowboy) traditions while raising livestock.

At the ʻUlupalakua Ranch Store, you'll find a variety of ranch and cowboy-themed merchandise, along with beverages and snacks. The standout feature of the store is the grill located in the back corner, where you can order unique burgers made from venison, lamb, elk, or beef—all grass-fed and raised on the ranch. Note that the grill operates only during lunch hours, so plan your visit accordingly.

Continue your Hawaii travel planning:

Discover the island with these Maui road trips Determine which island suits your journey best All the essentials for your first visit to Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park