5 Maui Historical Sites You Need to Know About

From cultural landmarks to natural wonders, Maui, Hawaii, boasts a wide variety of historical and cultural sites to experience during your stay at The Historic Wailuku Inn. These must-see Maui historical sites have been frequented by visitors and the people of Hawaii for many years, and now, it’s your turn! Here are some of our favorite places to learn about the history of the island.

Learn more about the best Maui historical sites and other local attractions when you download our free vacation guide. This handy tool is perfect for planning the ultimate Hawaiian vacation. We’ve compiled a list of great restaurants, indoor/outdoor activities, sightseeing tours, and more. Get your copy today!

Some of the Most Popular Maui Historical Sites

1. Iao Valley State Park

Iao Valley State Park is more than just a place to explore and take in the natural fauna of the Valley Isle. It is also where King Kamehameha I defeated the Maui army in 1790 during the Battle of Kepaniwai. After the fight was over, the streams of Iao were said to have been red with blood and blocked by bodies, which inspired the name Kepaniwai, or “the damming of the waters.” Today, the Iao Valley is a peaceful, serene destination where visitors can learn about Hawaii’s history and explore a variety of attractions and facilities.

2. Hawaiian Ancient Temples

The Maui ancient ruins reveal the origins of the island’s first kingdom. These indigenous temples, better known as heiau by the locals, are some of the few remaining relics where the archaeological landscape is still intact. You can view them for yourself at Kahanu Garden, an impressive 484-acre facility that encompasses natural island beauty, history, and culture.

3. Haleki’i-Pihana Heiau State Monument

Located just minutes from our inn is the Haleki’i-Pihana Heiau State Monument. This 10-acre park houses two very important heiaus. In ancient Hawaiian culture, a heiau was a sacred temple that was used to treat the sick, make fruit offerings to the gods, ensure the health of the nation, and more. The heiaus found in Haleki’i-Pihana have been partially restored, making them popular Maui cultural sites for tourists. After a brief trek to the top of the hardened sand dunes, visitors are greeted by spectacular views of the ocean.

4. The Bailey House Museum

Also known as Hale Hōʻikeʻike, the Bailey House Museum is the largest and oldest history museum on the island. Since the early 1800’s, the historic structure has served as a mission house, a female boarding school, and the home of Edward Bailey. Today, it’s been converted into a museum with two floors of fascinating exhibits and rare Hawaiian artifacts. You’ll find a wide variety of relics to admire including ancient tools and weapons, oil paintings by Edward Bailey, a wooden statue of the Hawaiian demi-god, Kamapua’a, and more.

5. The Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum

The Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum is one of the most popular attractions on the island! The museum is tucked away on a quiet plantation adjacent to Hawaii’s largest working sugar factory. It features a wide variety of exhibits and displays. During your visit, you’ll learn how Polynesian settlers introduced cane sugar to Hawaii, see a historic steam locomotive that served the Kahului Railroad from 1882 to 1929, and experience an impressive working model of cane-crushing machinery.

Book Your Stay at The Historic Wailuku Inn

Whether you’re lounging on the world-famous beaches or exploring Maui’s many historical sites, The Historic Wailuku Inn at is the perfect place to come home to. Our property is on the Hawaii State Register of Historic Places and sits on a peaceful tree-lined street.Choose one of our cozy guest rooms, like the Ulu Room. The inn’s sumptuous master suite transports guests to the simpler, gentler Hawaii of the 1920’s. Located on the second floor, this room features a large whirlpool tub, a separate shower, and the original built-in vanity.

Check our availability and book direct today! You can personalize your reservation, choose any available room, and save 14% compared to third-party booking sites.