Wailuku, HI

Travel Guide

Wailuku
Wailuku showing heritage architecture
Wailuku showing outdoor art
Wailuku
Photo provided by Hawaii Visitors and Convention Bureau
It may take its name from one of Hawaii’s bitterest and bloodiest battles, but today this charming town is all about peace and tranquility.

Wailuku is Maui County’s capital town, a place where fierce battles were fought, Hawaiian kings went to rest, a sugar industry was born and missionaries worked. Its eclectic history is only part of the appeal. Today, it charms with its old churches, wooden storefronts, antique stores and quaint cafés.

The town is situated at the foot of the West Maui Mountains and bordered by Iao Valley’s lush green forests and tropical plants. This was the setting for one of Hawaii’s most savage battles, the origin of the town’s name. In 1790, the invading King Kamehameha defeated Maui warriors in his attempt to unite Hawaii. So many men died, it was said that several miles of the 'Iao River ran red with their blood. Wailuku translates as “waters of destruction.”

The area changed when the missionaries arrived in the early 1800s, bringing with them Christianity and Western culture. Further upheaval came with the growth of the sugar industry. This boom attracted immigrants from Europe and Asia, many of whom settled in the area.

Glimpse Wailuku’s history with a visit to Kaahumanu Church, the oldest on the island. This large bluestone structure is the fourth place of worship for the Wailuku congregation on this plot of land the first was a shed, the current structure was built in 1876.

Explore the Bailey House Museum, the former home of missionary teacher Edward Bailey and his family. The 19th-century building’s displays include Hawaiian and missionary artifacts, paintings and furniture.

One of the most popular parts of Wailuku is Market Street, with its assortment of retail shops, art galleries, restaurants and cafés. It’s here that the town’s peaceful atmosphere is pleasantly disrupted on the first Friday of every month: The area is closed off to traffic for 2.5 hours and plays host to a lively street party, which features singing, dancing, magicians and street vendors.

Located on central Maui, Wailuku is 5 miles (8 kilometers) from Kahului Airport. 

Where to stay in Wailuku

Maalaea

Ukumehame Ahupuaa

While visiting Ukumehame Ahupuaa, you might make a stop by sights like Maalaea Bay Beaches and Papalaua Beach Park.

Ukumehame Ahupuaa
Default Image

Wailuku Heights

4/5(1 area review)

When in Wailuku Heights, you can plan a visit to Iao Valley State Park and Maui Tropical Plantation, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Wailuku Heights
Yonegan Central Maui Getaways

Yonegan Central Maui Getaways

2 out of 5
197 North Market Street, Wailuku, HI
The price is ¥9,319 per night from Oct 1 to Oct 2
¥9,319
¥21,875 total
Oct 1 - Oct 2
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hotel in Wailuku. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and dry cleaning or laundry services. Popular attractions Iao Theater and Kaʻahumanu Church are ...
Yonegan Central Maui Getaways
Howzit Hostels

Howzit Hostels

1 out of 5
2080 W Vineyard St, Wailuku, HI
The price is ¥20,327 per night from Sep 1 to Sep 2
¥20,327
¥23,978 total
Sep 1 - Sep 2
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this hostel in Wailuku. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and parking (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
Howzit Hostels
Aston Kaanapali Shores

Aston Kaanapali Shores

3.5 out of 5
3445 Lower Honoapiilani Hwy, Lahaina, HI
The price is ¥24,635 per night from Sep 21 to Sep 22
¥24,635
¥33,398 total
Sep 21 - Sep 22
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this beach aparthotel in Kaanapali. Enjoy 2 outdoor pools, a full-service spa, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant ...
Aston Kaanapali Shores
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Kanai A Nalu-Spectacular Whale Watching, Beachfront, Wifi & Split Air thru out

Kanai A Nalu-Spectacular Whale Watching, Beachfront, Wifi & Split Air thru out

Wailuku
Book a stay at this beach condo in Wailuku. Enjoy free WiFi, a beach locale, and a garden. Popular attractions Maalaea Beach and Maalaea Harbor are located ...
Kanai A Nalu-Spectacular Whale Watching, Beachfront, Wifi & Split Air thru out
195-295/night, Oceanfront with 2 Master Suites, Fully Stocked, Amazing View!!!

195-295/night, Oceanfront with 2 Master Suites, Fully Stocked, Amazing View!!!

Wailuku
Book a stay at this beach condo in Wailuku. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and a beach locale. Popular attractions Maalaea Beach and Maalaea Harbor are located ...
195-295/night, Oceanfront with 2 Master Suites, Fully Stocked, Amazing View!!!
Aston Kaanapali Shores

Aston Kaanapali Shores

3.5 out of 5
3445 Lower Honoapiilani Hwy, Lahaina, HI
Book a stay at this beach aparthotel in Kaanapali. Enjoy 2 outdoor pools, a full-service spa, and a beach locale. Our guests praise the pool and the restaurant ...
Aston Kaanapali Shores
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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