Kahului Travel Guide

Discover everything you need to know about visiting Kahului, Maui including best activities, hiking trails, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, and safety tips.


Introduction to Kahului

Kahului is a small town located on the island of Maui, which is one of the largest islands in Hawaii. It is also the commercial hub of the island and the entry point for most visitors to Maui as it houses the main airport on the island. Despite its small size and bustling environment, Kahului has a lot to offer to visitors who come here for its unique culture, scenic beauty and outdoor adventures.

In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about Kahului including the top places to visit, best food and drink venues, local culture, safety tips, and transportation options. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for some relaxation, Kahului has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Kahului

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kahului has a rich history and culture that is best explored through its many museums and historical attractions. Here are a few must-visit places:

  • Bailey House Museum - This museum is dedicated to the history and culture of Maui, with a focus on Hawaiian culture. It has many interesting artifacts, including traditional Hawaiian clothing, tools, and musical instruments.
  • Maui Arts and Cultural Center - This is a world-class cultural institution that hosts various arts and cultural events throughout the year. It has a theatre, art galleries, and a sculpture park.
  • Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary - This sanctuary is home to a variety of Hawaiian water birds, including the Hawaiian stilt and coot. It’s a great place to observe these unique creatures in their natural habitat.

Natural Attractions of Kahului: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kahului is surrounded by the stunning natural beauty of Maui, offering visitors plenty of opportunities for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Here are some top picks:

  • Iao Valley State Park - This park is home to the Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot volcanic spire. Visitors can hike through the park and enjoy views of the lush tropical forest and numerous waterfalls.
  • Ho’okipa Beach Park - This beach is known for its strong winds, making it the perfect spot for windsurfing and kiteboarding. Visitors can also enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and watching the turtles that frequent the beach.
  • Haleakala National Park - This park is home to the Haleakala Volcano, which stands at over 10,000 feet above sea level. Visitors can hike to the top for incredible views of the island, as well as stargazing on clear nights.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kahului

Kahului is a paradise for hikers and bikers, with numerous trails and routes to explore. Here are some of the best:

  • Lahaina Pali Trail - This trail is located in the West Maui Mountains and offers stunning views of the ocean and surrounding landscapes.
  • Hana Highway - This highway is a popular route for bikers, with scenic coastal views and plenty of opportunities to stop and explore along the way.
  • Waihee Ridge Trail - This trail is perfect for hikers who want to experience stunning panoramic views of Maui, including Kahului Bay and the West Maui Mountains.

Best Things to Do in Kahului: Activities and Tours

Kahului offers plenty of exciting activities and tours for visitors, here are some top choices:

  • Snorkeling and scuba diving - Maui is known for its clear waters and abundant sea life, making it the perfect destination for aquatic adventures.
  • Haleakala Sunrise Tour - Witness the breathtaking sunrise from the top of Haleakala Volcano.
  • Road to Hana Tour - This tour takes visitors on a scenic journey along the Hana Highway with stops at various iconic landmarks along the way, including bamboo forests, waterfalls, and beaches.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kahului

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Kahului:

Day 1: Explore the town of Kahului and visit the Maui Arts and Cultural Center. Day 2: Take a sunrise tour of Haleakala Volcano, followed by a hike in Iao Valley State Park. Day 3: Spend the day exploring the Road to Hana and visit the numerous waterfalls and beaches along the way. Day 4: Enjoy a day of snorkeling and scuba diving. Day 5: Hike the Waihee Ridge Trail and have a picnic lunch at Ho’okipa Beach Park. Day 6: Take a tour of the Bailey House Museum and enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant. Day 7: Spend the day relaxing at one of the many beaches in Maui.

Food and Drink Scene of Kahului

Kahului offers a variety of dining options ranging from traditional Hawaiian cuisine to international flavors. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poke Bowl - A traditional Hawaiian dish made with raw fish, rice, vegetables, and various sauces and seasonings.
  • Laulau - A dish made with pork, fish or chicken wrapped in taro leaves and steamed.
  • Spam Musubi - A popular snack made with grilled spam, rice, and nori.

Local Beverages

  • Mai Tai - A rum-based cocktail made with pineapple juice and other tropical flavors.
  • Kona Coffee - A bold, smooth coffee grown on the Kona coast of Hawaii.
  • POG - A fruity drink made with passionfruit, orange juice, and guava nectar.

Where to Stay in Kahului: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kahului offers various accommodation options for visitors, ranging from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly guesthouses. Here are some top picks:

  • The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua - A luxurious hotel located on the west coast of Maui, with stunning ocean views and top-notch amenities.
  • Maui Seaside Hotel - A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Kahului, ideal for travelers looking for convenience and affordability.
  • Old Wailuku Inn at Ulupono - A cozy bed and breakfast located in the historic district of Wailuku, offering a unique cultural experience.

What to Buy in Kahului: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kahului offers several unique souvenirs and local products that visitors can bring home as a reminder of their trip. Some popular items include:

  • Hawaiian Koa wood products - Koa wood is a native Hawaiian wood that is used to make various products, including jewelry and kitchenware.
  • Hawaiian shirts - Known for their colorful designs and breathable fabric, Hawaiian shirts are a popular souvenir for visitors to Kahului.
  • Macadamia nuts and chocolate - Hawaii is known for its delicious macadamia nuts and chocolate, which can be found in many stores and markets throughout Kahului.

Local Culture and Customs of Kahului

Hawaiian culture is deeply ingrained in the people and traditions of Kahului. Visitors should respect local customs, such as removing footwear before entering homes and sacred sites, and being mindful of the environment and local wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Kahului

The best time to visit Kahului is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. However, visitors can also enjoy the warm temperatures and abundant sunshine of summer (June to August) and winter (December to February).

Do’s and Don’ts of Kahului

Do:

  • Respect local culture and customs.
  • Embrace outdoor activities and adventures.
  • Try traditional Hawaiian food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Touch sea turtles or other wildlife.
  • Litter or harm the environment.
  • Leave valuables visible in your car.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kahului

Kahului is a relatively safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates. Visitors should stay alert and secure their belongings and valuables, especially when in crowded areas.

Health in Kahului

Maui has excellent healthcare facilities, including hospitals and clinics. Visitors should obtain travel insurance with medical coverage before arriving.

Getting to Kahului: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kahului is accessible by air and sea. The main airport on the island is Maui Kahului Airport, which is served by several airlines such as Hawaiian Airlines, Alaska Airlines and Delta Airlines. There are also ferries and cruises that arrive in Kahului Harbor.

Airports Near Kahului

  • Maui Kahului Airport

Bus Stations Near Kahului

  • Maui Bus Transit Center

Other Options

  • Car rental
  • Taxi and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft

How to Get Around in Kahului

There are several transportation options to explore Kahului and the neighboring areas, including:

  • Car rental
  • Bus services provided by the Maui Bus Transit Center
  • Bike rentals and tours
  • Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft

Where to Go Next from Kahului: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kahului is an ideal home-base for exploring the rest of Maui, including these neighboring destinations:

  • Lahaina - This historic town on the west coast of Maui is known for its unique architecture, art scene, and picturesque harbor.
  • Kihei - Located on the south coast of Maui, this beach town offers a relaxed vibe and stunning ocean views.
  • Upcountry Maui - This area is located in the mountains of Maui and is known for its farms, gardens, and picturesque towns.

Conclusion

Kahului is a beautiful and unique destination in the heart of Maui with something to offer everyone, from stunning natural beauty to exciting adventure activities and delicious culinary experiences. Use this guide to explore the best things to see, do, and experience in Kahului and its surrounding areas.