Things to do in Haiku-Pauwela

At Haleakalā National Park, you can step inside volcanic craters, walk through rain forest and swim in freshwater pools.

Kamaole Beach Park is actually three parks in one, with sandy stretches extending 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers), broken up by rocky barriers jutting into the Pacific Ocean. The beaches are identified as Kamaole I, II and III or just Kam I, II and III by locals. Spend time at all three and return to your favorite again and again during your Maui vacation.

Keawakapu Beach is more serene than its quite touristy neighbors on the southwestern shore of Maui. This beach stretches for about 1,200 yards (1,110 meters), and you should have no problem finding a good spot for sunbathing on the soft, white sand. If you’re looking to escape the crowds or for a spot to let the kids roam free and build sandcastles, Keawakapu Beach is for you. Scuba divers come here to see the fish species attracted to the artificial reef made from old cars.

The Haleakalā Crater is home to the “House of the Sun,” or the East Maui Volcano. Come here to watch the sunrise; it’s one of the best in the country and you can easily imagine that you are on another planet. The Haleakalā National Park is a refreshing change of scenery from Maui’s crowded beaches and is not to be missed.

Rising 1,214 feet (370 meters) from the valley floor is the rocky pinnacle known as 'Iao Needle. The lava formation covered in lush vegetation is the most recognizable landmark in 'Iao Valley State Park, and looks down on a valley floor of dense rain forest.