Maui was named after this mythological being, perhaps because the shape of the island is said to resemble his head and body. But it was a man named Piilani who made the greatest impact here as the first ruler to unite all of Maui.
In 1790, after a fierce battle in Iao Valley, King Kamehameha took control of Maui and made Lahaina the new capital of the unified Hawaiian Kingdom. For nearly five decades, Lahaina served as the center of government for Hawaii. Simultaneously, the town experienced a surge in its whaling industry. At the height of the whaling era (1840-1865) as many as 500 ships anchored in Lahaina’s port.
Maui has many historical places of interest that shouldn’t be missed. From ancient myths to its booming whaling era, Maui’s rich history will add a fascinating new dimension to your visit.
HISTORICAL SITES ON MAUI:
Halekii-Pihana State Monuments
Two historical sites with remnants of a lava rock heiau (religious temple) and a reconstructed house of refuge that existed in Old Hawaii (circa 1240). Like all heiau and ancient Hawaiian sites, these areas should be treated with the utmost respect and reverence.
Olowalu Petroglyphs
Primitive drawings etched in rock allow you to see history preserved in stone. These simple figures depict life of the ancient Hawaiians.
Iao Valley State Park
The valley was a sacred burial ground for the alii (Hawaiian royalty). In 1790, the Battle of Kepaniwai took place here, uniting Maui with the Hawaiian Kingdom. Learn more
Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum
This stately plantation home lets you learn all about Maui’s plantation life and sugar industry with authentic machinery, photo murals, and artifacts. Learn more
Whalers Village Whaling Museum
This free museum is home to hundreds of whaling artifacts, photo murals, interpretative graphics, and scrimshaw, illustrating life at sea in the 1800s. Learn more
