Sugar Cane Train
The Sugar Cane Train was a beloved attraction on Maui that carried passengers between Lahaina and Ka'anapali aboard a vintage-style locomotive. Originally inspired by the trains that once served the sugar cane industry, this open-air ride offered sweeping views of West Maui, historic narration, and a nostalgic experience for families. Although the train and stations were destroyed in the August 2023 Lahaina wildfire, it remains a cherished part of Maui's cultural memory and is hoped to return in the future as Lahaina rebuilds.
Sugar Cane Train, Maui
Editor's Note: Due to a fire that occurred on August 8, 2023, this beautiful Lahaina attraction was destroyed. We are leaving these pictures up for all of us who have made memories here and would like to remember the sugar cane train as it used to be. New pictures will be posted after the town is rebuilt.
From the old-school exterior to the historical discourse that goes on inside, the Sugar Cane Train on Maui gives you the ultimate walk through time. Located in near Lahaina and Kaanapali, the train is a larger-than-life reproduction of the actual sugar cane train that ran through the area in the early 1900s. Passengers are treated to a one-hour train ride featuring an authentic wooden trestle, a singing conductor and great panoramic views of the West Maui Mountains.
Officially known as the Lahaina-Kaanapali and Pacific Railroad, the Sugar Cane Train makes use of authentic elements, such as steam whistles and a narrow-gauge track. Some of the parts actually come from the actual train date back as far as the 1880s.
The train runs from the historic Lahaina to Puukolii, a distance spanning roughly six miles (9.6 km). The open-air coach sits 200 passengers and passes through a scenic resort town, Kaanapali, where you’ll get great views of the ocean and the nearby islands of Lanai and Molokai. As you pass through the 415-foot-high (126 m) wooden trestle, don’t forget to look at the window as this is the best spot to view the ocean. From December to April, you may even spot a few humpback whales - a common sight in the warm Pacific waters.
Over 5 million tourists have boarded the Sugar Cane Train since 1970. The train is also used for occasional parties and receptions, and many locals get on just to hang out or get to the Kaanapali resorts. Although the sugar mill it once served has long gone out of business, there are no signs that this train will go the same route!
Key Features of the Sugar Cane Train
- Historic reproduction: Modeled after the original trains used to transport sugar cane in early 1900s Maui.
- Scenic ride: 6-mile roundtrip journey with views of the West Maui Mountains, ocean, and nearby islands.
- Family-friendly: Onboard narration, singing conductor, and festive holiday-themed rides during special events.
- Open-air coaches: Seating for up to 200 passengers in vintage-style train cars.
- Temporarily closed: The train and Lahaina station were destroyed in the 2023 fire; restoration plans may emerge as Lahaina is rebuilt.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Sugar Cane Train?
A reproduction of Maui's historic sugar transport train, it provided scenic rides between Lahaina and Ka'anapali with historical narration and views.
Is the train still operating?
No. As of August 2023, the Lahaina station and train were destroyed in a wildfire. Operations are suspended indefinitely.
Was it good for families?
Yes. Children loved the open-air coaches, holiday train rides, and the conductor's narration and songs.
Where did the train run?
It ran between Lahaina and Pu'ukoli'i near Ka'anapali, offering views of Lanai, Molokai, and the West Maui coastline.