Each Hawaiian island has its own distinct feel to it. Maui’s history is rooted in whaling and is known as the whale watching center of the islands. Whale watching (best from December to April) is free but that isn’t the only free attraction on the island.

Hale Kahiko

Hale Kahiko is a replica of an ancient Hawaiian village. Buildings are made with local materials including twine from coconut trees and thatching of Pili grass. There are three main buildings, the sleeping house, the men’s eating house, and the craft house.

My favorite part was the hula shows (on Wednesdays and Fridays) where the dance and movements are explained.

Entrance to both the village and the hula show is free.

Lahaina Town

Lahaina Town is a mixture of old and new. The new gives travelers modern conveniences while the old celebrates its whaling heritage. In the harbor is a replica of a whaling brig, the Carthaginian. There’s the historic seawall, quaint little shops and a must see, the 110 year old Banyan Tree. Wandering the town is free.

Whale Watching And Education

The best months to whale watch is from December to April. The best shore viewing location is Pali Lookout.

Want to learn more about whales? Then head over to the Pacific Whale Foundation’s Discovery Center. Admission is free (though donations are welcome) and the exhibits terrific. The Foundation also distributes free wildlife watching guides. Nature loving travelers should make this a first stop in Maui to ensure their trekking does not disturb the local habitats.

Iao Needle

One of the most dramatic sights in Maui (besides the Haleakala Crater which although the park charges an admission fee is also well worth seeing) is the Iao Needle. Protruding from the surrounding area, this sacred rock formation is a great photo opportunity. Admission to the State Park is free.

Maui gives the frugal traveler many free attractions to help stretch budgets. These attractions range from natural (the Iao Needle) to the man made (Lahaina Town).