One of the most sacred spots on the island, ‘Iao Valley—a National Natural Landmark whose biggest claim to fame is the 1,200 foot-high lava spire at its center—presents one photo opp after another, from lush vegetation along its valley floors to extensive views of the weathered central coast. As the site of one of Hawaii’s most brutal wars—the Battle of Kepaniwai in 1790—it’s rumored that its stream waters once ran red with the blood of victims. Poignancy is felt in the air here, but the same waters are now lucid and lovely, jutting up against moss-covered boulders and rocks that seem to dance between shadow and light. 4,000 acres of tranquility are enhanced by a steep but worthwhile climb up 133 steps, where you’ll be presented with 360-degrees vistas that practically beg to be captured. Plants abound on its Lookout Trail and Ethnobotanical Trail, but as “cloud supreme” (to which ‘Iao’s Hawaiian name translates), do know it’s best to arrive in the morning before the fog arrives. If you’d like to supplement your trip to the park with guided assistance, look no further than Valley Isle Excursions, whose tour of ‘Iao also includes a stop at Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens—a public space that honors the myriad cultures that shaped modern Maui.
https://www.tourmaui.com/tours/haleakala-maui-tour/

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Compare rooms and suites by Independent in Central Maui with rates, reviews, and availability. Most hotels are fully refundable.

Kai Poolside King | View from room

Maui Coast Hotel

South Kihei

United States

Jessica

$254 nightly

Jan 8 - Jan 9, 2026

Total with taxes and fees

Exterior

Maui Beach Hotel

Kahului

United States

Yukie

$206 nightly

Dec 21 - Dec 22

Total with taxes and fees

Sundeck

Kohea Kai Hotel Maui

North Kihei

United States

Robert

$199 nightly

Dec 10 - Dec 11

Total with taxes and fees

On the beach, sun loungers, beach towels, snorkeling

Napili Kai Beach Resort

Lahaina

United States

Craig

Outdoor pool

Mana Kai Maui- Official Onsite Rental

South Kihei

United States

Lauren

$573 nightly

Dec 13 - Dec 14

Total with taxes and fees

Exterior

The Whaler Resort Kaanapali Beach

Lahaina

Canada

Prableen

$561 nightly

Dec 11 - Dec 12

Total with taxes and fees

Outdoor spa tub

Hotel Wailea, Relais & Chateaux - Adults Only

Wailea

United States

Joseph

$899 nightly

Dec 16 - Dec 17

Total with taxes and fees

On the beach, white sand, sun loungers, beach towels

The Mauian - Boutique Beach Studios on Napili Bay

Lahaina

United States

Autumn Rosa

$293 nightly

Dec 15 - Dec 16

Total with taxes and fees

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Top Central Maui Hotel Reviews

Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa

Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa

10/10 Excellent

"Great "

Wailea Beach Resort - Marriott, Maui

Wailea Beach Resort - Marriott, Maui

10/10 Excellent

"The resort is very nice, the lobby beautiful, and the pools are very nice. What stands out is the service. Every single employee was extremely nice, helpful, courteous and resourceful. A terrific group of employees, which makes for a very special stay. The rooms are not spectacular, but they are clean, roomy with a terrific shower. This is a great resort. We were very happy."

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