If you’re looking for “Jurassic Park vibes” on Maui (you know…those green, jagged mountains set in a jungle so lush and prehistoric that it seems like it could be home to a spare dino or two?), you’re going to want to visit the Iao Valley. 

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Iao Valley on Maui

In terms of actual history, Iao Valley State Park is the site where King Kamehameha I defeated Maui’s army and united the Hawaiian Islands. 

The spot has a lot of cultural significance, and it’s also the most accessible way to see the West Maui Mountains up close. 

To visit Iao Valley State Park, you must make reservations in advance here. 

Reservations are offered for 90 minute time slots beginning at 7AM and ending at 6PM. They ask that you arrive within the first 30 minutes of your time slot. 

Entry is $5/person plus $10/vehicle to park. 

In my personal experience, reservations are usually available last minute (at least a day or two before), but if you’re visiting during peak season or on a holiday, you’ll probably need to plan a bit more in advance. 

Once you arrive, you’ll park right in the valley and you’ll only need to do some light hiking (a stroll really) to see the best views. 

There’s a 0.6 mile paved walkway that leads to an overlook of the Iao Needle.  

There’s also a small botanical garden where you can learn about the plants brought to the valley by the Hawaiians who first settled there.

I don’t think it’s a place where you’ll spend more than an hour tops (given that a lot of people don’t think the parking and entry fee is worth it), but if you have kids, older people, or you’re just not up for serious hiking, it’s one of the most accessible, scenic places on Maui. 

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While you’re in the area, stop for breakfast/lunch/coffee and some shopping in historic Wailuku town. I especially love Momoda Bakery in Kahului. 

Maui Tropical Plantation isn’t far and their gift shop is one of the best on the island. 

And if you’re a serious hiker, nearby Waihe’e Ridge Trail is a must.

If you’ve read this far, you’re probably actually planning a trip to Maui…not just daydreaming.

When someone I know in real life tells me they’re going to Maui, I’ve got a list of spots and recommendations that tend to rattle off the top of my head. The ones that are top of mind…things I’m loving RIGHT NOW. So I finally just sat down and put them all in a Google Doc that I can easily send. Want a copy? I’ll send it to you for free. 

Grab my Top 25 favorite things on Maui RIGHT NOW >>> HERE.