Kings Gardens Maui: Mini Waterfall Hike, Organic Chocolate Tasting and Ancient Sites

The Legendary Kings Gardens Maui, an ancient Hawaiian archaeological site, is the setting for an easy walking tour that combines a short waterfall hike, a farm to table chocolate tasting and a look at the garden's history. The waterfall is the first one on the Road to Hana, and the gardens sit only 15 minutes from Paia town, so this is a taste of Hana without the long drive. The walk goes through a private rainforest and along ancient trails, past artifacts from the gardens of the last king of Hawaii and the ancient water tunnel of Mo'o, the giant lizard god. Guests also see the world's largest prehistoric dinosaur ferns. The chocolate side is all organic: cacao growing in the jungle, the path from tree to dessert, artisan chocolate made at the table, and a tasting treated like a wine tasting. Because the site is archaeological, only a limited number of visitors are admitted each year. The visit is also a fundraiser, and the money goes toward putting the gardens into preservation and conservation. Transportation can be arranged for an extra charge with 24 hours notice.