The Sugar Cane train is a relaxing and scenic diversion from the hustle and bustle of the beaches and resorts of west Maui. After a morning of surf lessons and snorkeling my wife and I took the opportunity to unwind on the nostalgic steam railroad that runs 6 miles from Lahaina Town and the Kaanapali Resort. We got to Lahaina Station early and enjoyed perusing the lovely old station turned gift shop with toys and collectibles that the littlest train lover would enjoy.
Then the train arrived with all the whistles and gurgles and spurts steam engine enthusiasts and kids love. These relics of the 1800’s are marvelous artifacts of the industrial age and are true inspirations to mechanically inclined. This particular railroad is a portion of the old narrow gauge line that was used to transport sugar cane from the fields of west Maui to the Pioneer Mill in Lahaina. The old cane fields are now golf courses, residential neighborhoods interspersed with some small farms but the scenic vistas of West Maui Mountain, and the Auau Channel with Molakai and Lanai in the distance are more than enough to look at.
We rode in May but the brochure claims that between December and April it is common to see humpback whales frolicking in the distance. The highlights of the 1 hour and ten minute trip included crossing a 325 foot long curved wooden trestle and the switch yard at Puukolii Station. Train enthusiasts and small kids will thoroughly enjoy this delightful little railroad. Depending on the time of day, some snacks and drinks would be great to have along, especially if you’re traveling with little children.
Tickets are $22.50 round trip for adults, and $15.50 for children 3-12, under 3 are free!
Our tickets were given in exchange for our honest review.