Welcome to the North Shore of Maui
Lush, charming and hospitable, this area is full of character.
Less crowded and less developed than the rest of the island, Maui’s North Shore is not overrun by tourists—instead, it is filled with local artists and free spirits who have been attracted to its beauty for decades. Consisting of the towns of Paia, Spreckelsville, Haiku, and Hana, this region is known for its surfing and cool climate.
There are miles of beaches here and a locally-focused economy. Technically “off-the-beaten-path” from Maui’s main tourist locales, this area does play host to the Road to Hana, Maui’s most famous day trip.
Real estate here is varied, and you’ll find a wealth of vacation rentals on the North Shore, but the spirit of Aloha is very much alive and well in this region.
What to Love
• The privacy and seclusion
• The cultural and artistic vibe
• Quiet, tourist-free beaches
People & Lifestyle
The population is diverse on the North Shore of Maui, and the area is safe and quiet. You’ll find many native Hawaiians here, as well as farmers, surfers, and celebrities.
Dining, Shopping & Entertainment
Maui’s North Shore offers many dining options. Local favorites include
Mama’s Fish House, a local landmark with a seafood-driven Hawaiian menu and epic ocean views;
Paia Fish Market, where you choose the fish and method of preparation;
Nuka a sleek Japanese venue with a diverse small-plate list, plus sushi and specialty rolls; and
Cafe Des Amis, which offers an authentic taste of France and the Mediterranean.
Things to Do
Visitors love the North Shore for its access to the
Road to Hana, Maui’s most popular day trip, which winds through the lush, tropical rainforest and is considered one of the best ways to explore the island. The Ho’okipa Beach Park is also located here, a great surfing spot filled with a white sand beach and several picnic areas.
In Peahi, you’ll find Maui’s biggest surfing break; many of the top names in surfing flock here. The Makawao Forest Reserve, a 2,093-acre reserve, is also a popular spot for outdoor recreation.
Twin Falls, the first easily accessible string of waterfalls and pools on the Road to Hana, features a legendary snack stand and the Pipiwai Trailhead, a four-mile hiking trail leading up to Makahiku and Waimoku Falls.