The Hawaiian Islands are home to countless state parks, waysides, recreation areas, monuments, and historic sites, not to mention the small city and county parks — as well as beach parks, of course — scattered across the islands. You could easily visit a new place every day for a year and still not experience all of the incredible parks found in the Aloha State, which is likely why you’ve never heard of this small, roadside park in Hawaii that offers a peaceful setting and jaw-dropping views.
Nestled at approximately 2,400 feet above sea level off Maui’s scenic Kula Highway between mile markers 18 and 19 is Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park.
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This off-the-beaten-path gem serves not only as a peaceful place to stop and admire the views, but also as a memorial to Dr. Sun Yat-Sen, a Chinese revolutionary and political leader.
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Yat-Sen served as the first provisional president when the Republic of China was founded in 1912 after the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty the previous year and is often referred to as the father of modern China.
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Between rebellions, Yat-Sen often took refuge at his older brother’s ranch in Kula, where his family found shelter on the slopes of Mount Haleakala as he traveled the globe for his cause.
Adrian M/TripAdvisor Yat-Sen had many Chinese supporters in both Kula and Honolulu, where you will find another memorial park dedicated to his life.
The park was created when ‘Ulupalakua Ranch donated the land for the park in 1989, and today features a bronze statue of Yat-Sen along with a few other memorial statues.
Rebecca S/TripAdvisor
While the history of this park is special, we can’t get enough of the views. Not only can you see the coastline of Maui as well as the West Maui Mountains, but also in the distance, you will witness the beauty of Kaho’olawe, Lanai, and Molokini.
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The next time you find yourself driving along the Kula Highway through upcountry Maui, make a stop at this little-known park. Not only will you be treated to phenomenal views, but you might just learn a thing or two.
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Address: 13434 Kula Highway, Kula, HI, 96790
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Adrian M/TripAdvisor
Yat-Sen had many Chinese supporters in both Kula and Honolulu, where you will find another memorial park dedicated to his life.
Rebecca S/TripAdvisor
Kevin D/TripAdvisor
Have you ever visited the small yet stunning Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park for yourself? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below, then click here to discover one of our current favorite state parks.
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