Top 10 Places to Learn Hawaiian Culture on Maui

Widely regarded as one of the most authentic luaus in Hawai?i, this beloved tradition shares Hawaiian history, hula and cuisine in a beautiful oceanfront setting. The evening unfolds as a cultural journey, weaving storytelling, music and dance together in an unforgettable celebration.

The island’s hub for Hawaiian music, hula festivals, art exhibits and cultural workshops throughout the year. Whether attending a concert, festival, or gallery show, guests can immerse themselves in the living traditions and creativity of Hawai?i.

Operated by the Maui Historical Society, this historic home-turned-museum showcases Hawaiian artifacts, kapa cloth, featherwork and missionary-era history. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life and legacy of Maui’s people

Weekly concerts at Napili Kai Beach Resort feature masters of Hawaiian slack key guitar, one of the islands’ most treasured musical styles. Each performance blends music and storytelling, keeping this deeply Hawaiian art form alive for future generations.

Launch from Ka?anapali Beach and experience paddling a traditional Hawaiian outrigger canoe across the ocean. Guided by local watermen, you’ll hear legends of the land, learn about ancient wayfinding and connect with Maui’s proud seafaring heritage in a truly hands-on way.

Explore Maui’s agricultural heritage with a guided tram tour through fields of coffee, pineapple, sugarcane and more. Guests enjoy live demonstrations such as coconut husking, while learning how these crops shaped the island’s history. 

In a charming Upcountry studio, you can learn the timeless art of lei making using traditional Hawaiian techniques. As you weave, expert instructors share the cultural meaning and history behind this cherished island tradition, making it as educational as it is memorable.

More than a scenic wonder, Haleakala is a sacred place deeply tied to Hawaiian legends and traditions. You can join a ranger-led program to learn its stories and history, or simply explore on your own and experience the mountain’s breathtaking beauty and cultural significance.

This museum tells the story of Maui’s sugarcane era and the lasting influence it had on the island. Through exhibits and historic artifacts, visitors discover how sugar shaped the economy, brought together people from diverse cultures and left an enduring mark on Maui’s history.

A sacred site at the heart of Maui’s history, Iao Valley is best known as the location of the Battle of Kepaniwai in 1790. Today, interpretive signs and cultural tours highlight its significance, while the valley itself offers a serene setting to reflect on the island’s past.