The lush valley in Central Maui is dominated by the Hawaiian landmark 1,200-foot tall vegetation-covered Iao Valley Needle and consists of a 6.2-acre state park. Iao Valley is an important site in Hawaiian history as it was the location of the 1790 Battle of Kepaniwai when King Kamehameha I overpowered Maui leader Kalanikupule and his army to unite the islands. The valley also contains many secret burial places of Hawaiian rulers. Hawaii Nature Center and Kepaniwai Park's Heritage Gardens are located within the valley. Show All
