Explore Maui like a local in Wailuku and Kahului

Away from the resorts, you'll find friendly, authentic communities in the central part of the island.

Maui may be best known for its beautiful beaches and high-quality hotels, but get away from the resort areas and you’ll discover a friendly, multicultural island community. To explore the Valley Isle like a local, head to Central Maui, where the historic town of Wailuku sits back-to-back with the busy port of Kahului.

What to do on Maui

To cool off and take in Maui’s natural beauty, drive about 3 miles to ‘Iao Valley State Monument (pictured above), where a short walking path takes you over streams and through a botanical garden to a view of the ‘Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot-high rock formation. Parking, $5. tinyurl.com/iaomonument.

Take an afternoon to enjoy Wailuku’s history and small-town charm. On a stroll down Market Street, browse shops and visit the 90-year-old Iao Theater, whose pink facade has become a local landmark.

Where to eat on Maui

Sheldon Simeon, a finalist on Top Chef, helped put Hawai‘i’s humble local-cooking style on the culinary map. Join the foodies, bankers, and construction workers who queue up daily for a poke bowl (pictured) or pork belly plate at Kahului’s Tin Roof, Simeon’s homage to the plantation-era lunch counter. Lunch plate, about $10.

At the nondescript neighborhood favorite Ichiban Okazuya (carry-out only, limited parking) in Wailuku, chicken katsu leads a lineup of plate-lunch classics.

With just potatoes, oil, and salt on the list of ingredients, Kitch’n Cook’d Maui Potato Chips are downright addictive. Visit the factory in Kahului to pick up gifts and a few bags for munching on your way home. Cash only. 295 Lalo Street, Kahului. (808) 877-3652.

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