Exploring Maui’s Most Popular Towns
Trying to plan your trip to Maui, but feeling overwhelmed with options and not sure where to start? While there’s no shortage of adventure on this Hawaiian island, the list of local and tourist favorites alike keep growing, which makes it hard to choose where to spend the majority of your time.
Each town on Maui has its own charm, so let us show you a hint of what there is to discover all around the island:
Kahului
Not only is it home to the airport, and the only Target and WalMart on the island, Kahului is Maui’s main business district and often referred to as “in town.” This is probably where you’ll go to pick up your rental, do your grocery shopping, or go to the doctor, but it is so much more than that! Kahului has some incredible kitesurfing at Kanaha Beach Park, outdoor concerts and events at the MACC (Maui Arts and Cultural Center), local vendors and crafts at the Maui Swap Meet, the gorgeous Botanical Gardens, and the fascinating history of the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum.
North Shore: Paia/Haiku
While Lahaina is often bustling with tourists, Paia has its own buzz-worthy attractions but with more of a laid-back vibe. Check out drum circles at Baldwin Beach every Friday evening where you can catch turtles basking in the sand and fire dancers after dark! Stop by the many boutiques for some local designs, Paia Fish Market to satisfy your hunger, and the Great Paia Lha Bab Peace Stupa for some serenity.
As you venture further into Haiku, you’ll find Twin Falls at the start to Road to Hana, farmers markets at La'akea Village, some serious surfing (and plenty of sea turtles!) at Ho’okipa Beach Park, and the beautiful Sacred Gardens of Haiku.
South Shore: Kihei/Wailea
Known for its nightlife and its stretch of hot, sandy beaches, Kihei boasts the original Maui Brewing Co. Brewery & Tasting room and tons of schools that offer surfing and stand-up paddle board lessons. There is no shortage of entertainment between bars, restaurants, and shops, but if you’re looking to escape into nature, we recommend Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge. This is also near where you would depart for boat tours to Molokini for some of the best snorkeling the world has to offer! As you move further south into Wailea, you’ll find the lava rocks of La Perouse Bay and some of the most breathtaking sunsets on the island.
Hana
The destination at the end of the famous Road to Hana is valued most for its journey there. All the way to Hana town you can find jungle hikes, swim in the seven sacred pools, and cliff jump off waterfalls. Red and black sand beaches, bamboo forests, the best banana bread on the island and more all await you!
Upcountry
A mystery to most, Upcountry has incredible sunsets from Poli Poli, and is home to Maui’s only winery, as well as Ocean Vodka distillery. While you’re there, don’t miss Grandma’s bakery or Freshie’s for breakfast, visit Ali’i Lavender Farm and finish off with Mahalo Aleworks for brews. And of course, Haleakalā is a must for sunrise or sunset!
And our personal favorite, check out all there is to do and eat right here in Wailuku!
We can’t wait to have you experience Maui for yourself!
Looking for a little more guidance? Feel free to stop by the Howzit Hostel reception desk. Our staff can provide more customized tips to help you make the most of your Maui vacation.