Kahanu Gardens, Maui
Given the number of people who drive the famous Road to Hana, it is surprising how few turn off the curving highway to visit one of Hawaii’s most sacred places. Just outside the town of Hana resides the state’s largest heiau, an ancient Hawaiian temple, on the grounds of Kahanu Gardens.
Built from all kinds of stones in the area, including round river stones and lava flows, the terraced walls of Piilanihale Heiau rise to a height of 50 feet and stretch across nearly four acres. The heiau is believed to have been the home of Piilani, the first Maui chief to unite the entire island back in the 16th century. Unlike heiaus on the western side of the island, which were destroyed by missionaries, this heiau is nearly intact.
Visitors to the garden can meander through 50 acres of the property on a self-guided tour, following signs and a booklet, which takes about one to 1½ hours to complete. In addition to the heiau, the garden features Hawaii’s “canoe” plants, those brought to Hawaii by its Polynesian ancestors, such as taro, breadfruit and sugar cane.
“It’s more like a step back in time than a showy flower garden,” said Kamaui Aioni, director of the gardens.
Operated by the National Tropical Botanical Gardens, Kahanu Gardens is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The entrance fee is $10 per person. Children 12 and under are free.
Kahanu Gardens, Maui
808-248-8912
www.ntbg.org
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