Iao Valley State Monument: A Maui Gem
Boasting lush greenery, captivating landscapes, and rich historical significance, the Iao Valley State Monument in Maui is a must-visit spot for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a tranquil escape amidst Hawaii's natural beauty.
Natural Beauty: The highlight of the monument is the Iao Needle, a distinctive rock formation that rises 1,200 feet above the valley floor. Visitors can marvel at the needle from the designated viewing areas, offering spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding lush rainforest and cascading waterfalls. The vibrant greenery and the soothing sound of the Iao Stream make this a serene and picturesque destination.
History and Culture: The Iao Valley has significant historical and cultural importance to the Hawaiian people. In ancient times, this valley was the site of the Battle of Kepaniwai, where forces of King Kamehameha I clashed with Maui's warriors. Today, visitors can explore the Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens, which features a collection of ethnic gardens representing the diverse cultures that make up Hawaii's population.
Outdoor Activities: The Iao Valley State Monument offers various outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Hiking trails wind through the valley, providing opportunities to explore the diverse plant life and spot native bird species. Picnic areas are scattered throughout the park, perfect for a leisurely lunch surrounded by nature's beauty.
Visitor Information: The monument provides educational exhibits and information about the valley's natural environment and cultural significance. Visitors can learn about the native flora and fauna of the area, as well as the historical events that have shaped the valley's landscape.
Accessibility: The Iao Valley State Monument is easily accessible by car, with a parking lot located near the entrance. The park is open year-round, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the valley in every season.
In conclusion, the Iao Valley State Monument is a hidden gem in Maui, offering a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or a journey through Hawaiian history, this iconic destination has something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy.
Tours and Experiences for Iao Valley State Monument

Step into the heart of Maui with this unforgettable private upcountry adventure. Start your day in the lush and sacred Iao Valley, then head to the famous Maui Gold pineapple farm for a sweet, behind-the-scenes tour complete with a fresh pineapple to take home. Watch master glassblowers in action at Makai Glass Studio, explore the art-filled cowboy town of Makawao, and finish with a tasting of handcrafted spirits at Ocean Vodka’s organic farm.
This tour blends natural beauty, local craftsmanship, and authentic Hawaiian culture — all with luxury door-to-door service in your own private vehicle. No crowds, no rush — just a perfectly curated Maui experience.
Includes: All tastings, entry fees, private transportation, bottled water, and light snacks.

Get the most out of your experience by securing the first-class seating option, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows for uninterrupted views of the island of Maui. Take in the birds eye view and soak in Maui’s amazing sights seen only from the air. Start by touring the West Maui valleys, rainforests and waterfalls. See how Maui got the name ‘The Valley Isle’ touring between the two mountain ranges.
Continue on across the channel to the world's tallest sea cliffs on the island of Molokai. This truly spectacular sight, not accessible by land, will take your breath away.
Finally, Aloha the slopes of Mt. Haleakala, land at the our exclusive and remote location at Ulupalakua Ranch. Refreshments are served while you take 20 minutes to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, pastoral setting, and sweeping views of what Maui folks call “both oceans.”

We are one of the very few companies with permitted access to enter Haleakala National Park. Our drivers/guides are all very seasoned and experienced with the sites and scenic drive providing a wealth of history and information.

Experience the diversity Maui has to offer by customizing your own private tour of Maui, The Valley Isle, with preferred locations and flexibility along the way. Whether you prefer more of an adventure tour, sightseeing, cultural, farms, food & spirits, or a combination, we will provide you with an exceptional experience! To keep it interesting, if you have special requests, please let us know, to see if we can accommodate you.
In addition, there are local spots we prefer not to have listed, to choose from during the tour. There are also tasty Hawaiian snacks, lunch places, food trucks, and upscale restaurants to choose from during tour.
Your private guide will make sure you receive a unique experience that offers a broad perspective on how diverse this 727 square mile island is.

RESERVATIONS ARE NOT INCLUDED WITH THE SHAKA GUIDE TOURS
Shaka Guide is an audio tour app that gives you the benefits of a guided tour with the freedom to explore on your own terms. This Maui Tour Bundle comes with six socially-distanced audio driving tours, including the famous Road to Hana.
• Classic Road to Hana (10-12 hour tour)
• Loop Road to Hana (10-12 hour tour)
• Reverse Road to Hana (10-12 hour tour)
• West Maui Coastline Tour (8-10 hour tour)
• Sunrise at Haleakala (4-6 hour tour)
• Sunset and Stargazing at Haleakala (4-6 hour tour)
The app uses GPS to give you turn-by-turn navigation to historic sites, popular attractions, world-class beaches and scenic hikes with stories about the places you’re visiting and music to entertain you along the way.
*Please use the link in your confirmation email to download the app*
*Download the Shaka Guide app to access your purchased tours.*

On this exploration, we will take you to Iao Valley which was kapu to all but Hawaiian Royalty. Iao Valley were used as a burial site for Hawai’i’s ali'i for centuries. Ocean Vodka distillery is a must visit to see the making of world famous vodka made from sugar cane. Last we take you to Lavender farm.

Get a birds eye view and take in amazing sights seen only from the air. Start by touring the West Maui valleys, rainforests and waterfalls. See how Maui got the name ‘The Valley Isle’ touring between the two mountain ranges, while learning about its deep and rich history.
After crossing the channel to Molokai, sit back and enjoy views that will take your breath away. You can admire the world's tallest sea cliffs and see a lesser known Hawaiian island from the air.
Continue your flight along the stunning other side of the West Maui Mountains and marvel at the difference in landscapes. You'll also be able to take in the sights of the Kapalua and Kaanapali resort areas and their golden beaches and crystal clear ocean bays.
Before returning to the heliport, aloha the slopes of Mt. Haleakala, land at the our exclusive and remote location at Ulupalakua Ranch. Take 20 minutes to enjoy the breathtaking scenery, pastoral setting, and sweeping views of what Maui folks call “both oceans.”

Don't miss a thing as GuideAlong's Maui Audio Driving Tour takes you on an incredible journey across Hawaii's “Valley Isle”. Along the way you'll be guided to all of the island's famous highlights and includes the Road to Hana, Haleakala, Iao Valley, the best spots for seeing whales and turtles and more lessor known spots across the island.
You'll hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips and directions that play automatically along the routes.
And enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace so you can spend more time at places that interest you, and bypass any that don’t.
✅ Stories, tips and directions play automatically based on your location
✅ Travel at your own pace
✅ Tours work offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed
✅ Suggested itineraries for half, full or multi day use
✅ Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates.
✅ Like having a tour guide along for the drive
Purchase one tour per vehicle.