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Iao Valley State Park
Iao Valley State Park
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End of Iao Valley Road (Highway 32)
Wailuku, HI 96793
Good-for-Kids Rating
Babies
Toddlers & Pre-KSchool-Age KidsPre-Teens & Teens
Park
Iao Valley State Park Description
Deep in the cool rainforest, this lush valley is home to the Iao Needle, a natural rock pinnacle rising 1,200 feet into the sky. Start at the visitor center, with restrooms and informative displays about the monument's bloody history and the sacred mythology of the valley. From there, follow the walkway over shallow streams (where kids can wade and play), past a shallow lagoon where you can swim, and you'll eventually see the Iao Needle viewpoint. It's an easy nature walk for kids, with plenty of unique photo ops.
Kid Tips
Babies: This quiet walk through the heart of nature is easy with baby in a front-pack. Cool rainforest temperatures keep everyone comfy.
Toddlers & Pre-K: Little ones will enjoy wading in the shallow streams.
School-Age Kids: Bigger kids like playing or swimming in the shallow lagoon and will enjoy the easy hike.
Pre-Teens & Teens: Dramatic history, sacred mythology, and the quiet rainforest atmosphere go over well with teens.
Planning Notes
- Go early. The needle is often shrouded in clouds, so get there early for the best views (and to beat the tour bus crowds).
- Bring mosquito repellent. It can get buggy!
- Bring a camera. A short paved trail leads to a viewpoint, but you'll get even better photos from the bridge near the start, or from short trails looping down along Iao Stream.
- Bring a picnic and bottled water. There are no food services available in the valley, and no drinkable water. If car rides are boring for your kids, plan a picnic or scenic stop along Iao Valley Road at Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens, which includes the Hawaii Nature Centre and Iao Valley Interactive Science Arcade.
- Bring a towel and perhaps a change of clothes. Children may enjoy wading in the streams, or even swimming in the lagoon.
Just the Facts
Hours: 7 a.m.-7 p.m.
Fees: Free
Recommended Time: 1 to 2 hours
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What's Nearby?
- Bailey House Museum 2375 Main St # a
Wailuku, HI 96793
808-244-3326 20.886367777777778 -156.50747194444443 - Maui Academy-Performing Arts 81 N Church St
Wailuku, HI 96793
808-244-8760 20.88817277777778 -156.50320888888888 - Maui Historical Society 2375 Main St # a
Wailuku, HI 96793
808-244-3326 20.886367777777778 -156.50747194444443
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