Banyan Tree Park
#13 in Best Things To Do in Maui
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- 5.0Value
- 3.0Facilities
- 4.0Atmosphere
Sitting near the courthouse and the harbor in the town of Lahaina on Maui's northwest coast, this relatively tiny park is centered around something huge: One of the largest banyan trees in the country. The tree – which was brought to the island from India in 1873 – rises more than 60 feet in the air, offering afternoon picnickers copious amounts of shade. The park also hosts a variety of events, including Art in the Park. Held every second and fourth weekend of the month, Art in the Park features a variety of local artists selling paintings and handmade crafts.
According to recent travelers, a visit to Banyan Tree Park doesn't take much time, but it's worth a stop. The park is also within walking distance of Lahaina's shops and restaurants, not to mention the Courthouse Museum and a variety of other local attractions. There are a variety of plaques stationed throughout the park detailing the tree's history, but you can also pick up a pamphlet at the courthouse if you want to learn more.
You'll find the giant banyan tree overlooking Lahaina Harbor. You can reach this tiny town via the Honoapiilani Highway (Route 30) if you're driving; you can also get to Lahaina on the No. 20 bus from Kahului or Ma'alaea, or the No. 25 bus from Kaanapali. For more information on Banyan Tree Park, visit the Maui Tourism Board's website.
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#1 Road to Hana
To find excellent views of Maui's beautiful coastline, all you need to do is drive. The Road to Hana is a scenic highway (Highway 360) that twists through the lush rainforest and past the cascading waterfalls that line the island's eastern shore. Most people start their trip in Kahului (home to Maui's main airport) with the intention of motoring 52 miles to Hana. The trip isn't always easy: The route often surprises unfamiliar drivers with hairpin turns. But those who decide to step on the gas aren't sorry they did. Despite all the hype and mental preparation, travelers are regularly surprised by the drive's beauty.
The Road to Hana might seem short, but traveling it will most likely take all day given the number of scenic lookouts and other places to stop. Those who have driven the Road to Hana highly recommend taking your time and stopping as often as possible. Reviewers also recommend starting your drive early in the morning, as the road grows congested as the day progresses. If you'd rather let someone else do the driving, there are several tour companies that offer tours in luxury vans, including Valley Isle Excursions and Temptation Tours. Though pricier than driving yourself, taking a tour allows you to focus on the incredible scenery while someone else focuses on navigating the winding curves.
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