If you’re traveling to Maui, you’ll want to experience the island’s rich history. A visit to the Pu’ukohola Heiau (or rock temple) built by King Kamehameha I in 1791 will give you a taste of the island’s cultural past. The Mailekini Heiau is an ancient temple site on Pelekane Beach, which is considered a sacred area.
You can also explore the beautiful Olowalu Reef, also called Turtle Reef. This incredible marine reserve features hundreds-of-year-old coral heads, a manta ray cleaning station, and a blacktip shark nursery. The snorkeling experience begins outside your tentalow; the first 1/2 mile of the trail is sheltered from the waves, but the marine life gets better as you hike out. Make sure to pack a swimsuit and a towel.
Backpacking in Hawaii is an exciting way to explore the beauty of the island. Many of the best backpacking trails on the island take backpackers off the beaten path and into beautiful natural areas. For instance, Haleakala National Park offers remote wilderness camping near the summit. The hike from Paliku Campsite to Holua Campsite is 3.7 miles round trip. If you’re hiking on a budget, the Paliku Trail is a great option.
If you’re traveling on Maui’s West Side, consider camping in a private campground. Camp Olowalu, located seven miles south of Lahaina, offers beachside campsites and cabins. The campground is also near a popular snorkeling spot and is famous for its perfect sunsets. You can’t beat the location, but Camp Olowalu is more secluded than Papalaua. The campground also offers WiFi, running water, and outdoor dishwashing stations.
The Olowalu General Store, a family-run establishment since 1932, serves shave ice, hotdogs, and musubi. A half-mile palm tree-lined driveway leads to the camp itself. From the camp, you’ll want to stop at Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop, a cult favorite for breakfast. If you have time, you can try her delicious pastries for breakfast.
If you’re traveling with children, you may want to camp in Haleakala National Park. The park’s beautiful crater and a bamboo forest are reasons enough to stay here. If you’re looking for more active adventure, you can join a camp program or volunteer to help preserve the island’s ecological heritage. For a family vacation, you’ll be able to experience some of Maui’s best sights while staying in a rustic cabin.
If you’re looking for a more adventurous camping experience, consider taking your camping equipment to a state park or national park. State parks and county campgrounds have staff on hand to sell you the necessary permits. Remember, camping in Maui is legal as long as you follow basic rules of safety. Remember, camping is a great way to experience the island’s diverse terrain and seven climate zones. You’ll need to follow posted signs and obtain the necessary permits if you want to do so. Also, bring plenty of food and water with you. Some campgrounds offer beach camping.
If you’re camping on Maui, a campground in Hana is a great way to get a feel for the island’s rustic nature. While you’re at it, make sure to check out the black volcanic sand beach. You’ll find it to be very beautiful, with black volcanic sand encircling the beach. Depending on your budget, you might want to camp at a cabin in the park.