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Hawaiian Vacation for Two!
Travel the Historic Ka'anapali Trail
By Karee Carlucci Published: 07/02/2007
Through the centuries, Ka‘anapali has been rewarded with a rich tapestry of history. The area’s natural beauty has always beckoned people to explore long stretches of sandy beach, cultivate wetlands and fertile plains, and enjoy the verdant slopes of Mauna Kahalawai.
Because of the beautifully landscaped grounds and resort towers lining the beach, many people don’t realize that in ancient times, Ka‘anapali (which was then known as Keka‘a) was the site of a thriving fishing village, lush fields of taro plants, and a fierce battle between two warrior chief brothers. The whole area was steeped in legends, such as the feats of Maui the demi-god and Pu‘eo the guardian owl. In the early 20th century, Ka‘anapali sported a horse racing track on the beach and railroad tracks leading to a pier that extended far into the ocean.
Today, the Ka‘anapali Beach Resort Association offers a real life glimpse into the area’s treasured past with the Ka‘anapali Historical Trail & History and Legends Tour. Every Tuesday and Friday, beginning at 9 am, visitors and residents alike can discover the history, legends and living lore of this special place. Guided tours are complimentary and about 90 minutes in length.
Employees of hotels within the resort take their guests on an interactive journey which begins toward the north end of Ka‘anapali at Royal Lahaina Resort and moves through ten historic sites along the trail to the southernmost tip of Ka‘anapali at Hyatt Regency Maui. The Ka‘anapali Trolley is available to shuttle people to the first four sites, and the last six sites are located along a scenic walk between beach and golf course greens.
Each site is marked by a lava rock monument in the shape of Pu‘u Keka‘a, the resort’s famous Black Rock promontory. Look for an interpretive plaque imbedded at the top of each monument, for a self-guided view of the trail.
This journey of discovery moves through six centuries in time: From the 15th century high chief who ruled a prosperous community at Keka‘a to the 18th century warrior chief who excelled in the sport of cliff diving, and from the 1890’s horse track on the beach to the 1960’s airstrip and Windsock Lounge. The stories are fascinating and the guides who tell them bring each scene to life.
Reservations are required for the guided tour. A colorful trail brochure with descriptions and a map is available for a self-guided tour. As the Hawaiian saying goes, “Pipi holo ka‘ao - A well told tale travels far and wide.” This tour is the perfect example of that. Call the KBRA office at (808) 661-3271.
Locations
Maui, West Maui
Photo Gallery - Travel the Historic Ka'anapali Trail
Click here for Slideshow. You can also click on any of the photos to start slideshow.
