Windsurfing at Ho'okipa Beach Park
A windsurfer is catching a wave at Ho'okipa Beach Park in Maui.
Windsurf competitions at Ho'okipa Beach Park in Maui bring entrants from all over the globe. Watch these professionals fly through the waves while you lounge on the white sand beach; do it yourself if you're experienced. If you want to learn how to windsurf, you can get lessons. The park features barbecue grills, restrooms, fresh water, picnic tables, showers, pay phones and three free parking lots. Lifeguards watch over swimmers and surfers daily from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Ho'okipa Beach Park
Mile #9, Hana Highway
Paia
Maui, Hawaii 96779
(808) 572-8122
'Iao Valley
Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens is filled with interesting buildings.
Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens is a must if you want to learn about Maui's history and experience the quiet beauty of a Japanese teahouse and temple, a Portuguese garden, a moon gate and an authentic grass shack. Take a picnic to eat at one of the pavilions by the 'Iao stream. The gardens are open every day from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Hawaii Nature Center is next door, and children will enjoy the exhibits and easy hikes.
Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens
'Iao Valley Road (Highway 32)
Wailuku
Maui, Hawaii 96793
(808) 689-1552
Hawaiiweb.com/maui/sites_to_see
While you're in the area, visit the 'Iao Valley State Monument. This stunning park has the 'Iao Needle, which is hardened lava and soars 2,250 feet. You'll view gorgeous flowers and waterfalls and find places to swim. The trail is paved. Restrooms are available, but there's no drinking water, so bring your own. The monument prohibits dogs, mountain biking and camping. It's open the same hours as the gardens.
'Iao Valley State Monument
End of 'Iao Valley Road (Highway 32)
Wailuku
Maui, Hawaii 96793
(808) 984-8109
Hawaiistateparks.org/parks/maui
Wai'anapanapa State Park
If you like hiking, you're in for a treat at Wai'anapanapa State Park, which covers 122 acres and has a coastline trail. You'll see blow holes, a cave, forest and many sea birds. Peer over the anchialine pools, which feature colorful stoney corals, fireworms, white-spotted sea cucumbers, crown-of-thorns starfish and more. Campsites and housekeeping cabins are available. The park has outdoor showers, picnicking facilities and restrooms. Due to strong rip currents, swimming is dangerous.
Wai'anapanapa State Park
End of Wai'anapanapa Road, off Highway 360
Hana
Maui, Hawaii 96713
(808) 248-4844
Hawaiistateparks.org/parks/maui
