Not only does it have some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, Maui has some of the most intriguing museums. There are currently 27 museums and art galleries on the island of in Lahaina, 4 in Makawao, 3 in Hana, 3 in Wailuku, 2 in Kahului, 2 in Kihei, 1 in Paia, and 1 in Puunene. Whether you’re interested in Hawaiian history and culture, art, whales, or sugar, you’re sure to find something educational and entertaining.
Whalers Village Museum is the third most visited attraction on Maui and the most popular museum. It teaches what life was like for seamen on whaling ships in the 19th century. It also teaches about whales and 21st century conservation efforts. It has one of the largest collections of scrimshaw art in the world. It’s a small museum, so afterwards you’ll have plenty of time to go to Whalers Village has over 90 shops and restaurants.
Hana Cultural Center focuses on traditional Hawaiian history and heritage. It has a collection of historic artifacts and Kauhale Village, a recreation of a 16th century chieftain’s compound.
Maui Arts and Cultural Center celebrates modern Hawaiian culture and art, which continues evolving in the 21st century. Some performances are of traditional Hawaiian dance and music; others are by international artists. It includes the Schaefer International Gallery, a free visual arts exhibition.
The Wo Hing Temple Museum explores and preserves Maui’s Chinese heritage. The old cookhouse in back is now a theater, showing movies made by Thomas Edison during his visits to Hawaii between 1898 and 1906.
The Baldwin Home Museum offers a peek into missionary life during the 19th century. First home to Rev. Ephraim Spaulding, then to Rev. Dwight Baldwin and his family, it is the oldest house on Maui.
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