South Maui Coastal Heritage Corridor facts for kids

The South Maui Coastal Heritage Corridor is a special project in Maui, Hawaii, designed to protect and share the beautiful coastline of South Maui. It stretches for about 15 miles along the western side of the island. This project helps people enjoy the beaches, learn about Hawaiian history, and protect the natural environment.

Many different groups work together to make this corridor a great place. These include the Tri-Isle Resource Conservation and Development Council, which is a non-profit group, and partners like the Natural Resources Conservation Service (part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture). Other partners are the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the University of Hawaii. People from the local community of Kihei also help out.

The project has already put up special signs called interpretive signs between Maalaea and La Perouse Bay. These signs tell interesting stories about the history of the area and its importance to Hawaiian culture and traditions. There are also plans to build a network of bike paths, so you can explore the coast on two wheels!

Exploring the South Maui Coast

The South Maui Coastal Heritage Corridor covers a long stretch of coastline, offering many different places to visit and things to see. From sandy beaches to historical sites and wildlife areas, there's something for everyone.

Amazing Beaches and Parks

Along the corridor, you'll find many beautiful beaches perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or just relaxing. Some popular spots include Sugar Beach, which is known for its long sandy stretch, and the three Kamaʻole Beach Parks (I, II, and III) in Kihei, which are great for families. Further south, you'll discover stunning beaches like Wailea Beach, Polo Beach, and the famous Oneloa Beach, also known as Big Beach, which is part of Makena State Park.

There are also many parks where you can enjoy the outdoors. Kalepolepo Park is home to the historic Koʻieʻie Fishpond, an ancient Hawaiian fishpond. Kalama Park and Cove Park in Kihei offer green spaces and ocean views.

Historical and Cultural Sites

The corridor is rich in history and culture. You can find places like the Vancouver monument, which marks a historical event. The Koʻa i Kamaʻole Fishing Shrine, located near the Kihei Public Library, is a significant cultural site.

Further south, you'll find Keawalaʻi Church, a historic church with a long past. The Hoapili Trail, also known as the King's Highway, is an ancient path that offers a glimpse into old Hawaii. These sites help us understand the traditions and stories of the Hawaiian people.

Wildlife and Nature Spots

Nature lovers will enjoy the areas dedicated to wildlife. The Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge is a very important wetland where many types of birds, including endangered Hawaiian stilts and coots, come to live. You can often see them from the Maui Coastal Wetlands Boardwalk.

The Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Sanctuary is another key area, especially during whale season (roughly November to May), when humpback whales come to Hawaii's warm waters to breed and give birth. You might even spot them from the shore at places like Papawai Point.

Near the southern end of the corridor, you'll find the ʻĀhihi-Kīnaʻu Natural Area Reserve. This reserve protects unique lava flows and marine life, making it a great spot for snorkeling and exploring the underwater world. It's a special place where land and sea ecosystems meet.