Maui Island Overview

Discovering Maui`s unique towns and villages adds to the days adventures. From the whaling village inspired shopping in Lahaina to the wooden sidewalk in the paniolo (cowboy) town of Makawao, each area has its own flavor. Not to mention ono grinds (really good food) which you can check out on our dining guide. 

West Maui

West Maui has the most abundant sunshine of anywhere on the island. Once the playground of island ali`i (royalty), the area has been a favorite of visitors from around the world. 

The devastating fires of August, 2023 decimated most of Lahaina, its historical sites and seaport. As Lahaina grows back from its cultural roots, visitors will have an opportunity to see this important part of West Maui rise from the ashes. It will never be the same, but with community vision, it will be meaningful, and something special once again.

Outside of Lahaina, the rest of the island is largely unchanged. Other spots in West Maui, such as our Kuleana resort, beaches, snorkeling and valley hikes remain popular.  See our beach guide or more hikes on our nature page.

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Central Maui

Maui was created from two volcanos, and Central Maui is the isthmus that connects them. Quaint Maalaea Harbor village lies to the south, while the business centers of Kahului and Wailuku are to the north. 

While in central Maui, pick up vacation supplies and groceries at Costco and Walmart. Just outside of Wailuku, a must see is Iao Valley State park, or hike the challenging Waihee Ridge Trail. 

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South Maui 

Miles of golden beaches are easily accessible in South Maui. This area is consistently one of the sunniest spots on the island, flanked by the verdant slopes of Haleakala volcano on one side, and glittering sand and sea on the other. 

Stunning views from shore include the islands of Kahoolawe and Lanai in the distance, plus the tiny Molokinin islet- a favorite snorkeling spot accessible by boat. In South Maui, you`ll love spending time outdoors- from the miles long Sugar Beach on the north end of Kihei, to Makena State Park, aka Big Beach, to the south past Wailea. In between is a plethora of shops, golf courses, outdoor markets and restaurants to fit any appetite. 

Upcountry & Haleakala

Paniolo (cowboys) compete at rodeo and polo grounds above the rustic town of Makawao, Mosey in and out of original Makawao storefronts and round up unique gifts, or browse galleries of filled with Maui artwork. The road from town up to the 10,000-ft summit of Haleakala is nothing short of stunning, with sweeping views of the entire island. Check out our Haleakala info before visiting.

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Northshore

With a laid-back beach-town surfer vibe, Paia is home to quirky shops, a big health food store and awesome casual open air dining. It`s also a great place to grab a picnic lunch on the way to Hana or one of the local surf spots.

The wind comes up strong off the Northshore, making for world-class surfing, windsurfing and kiteboarding. Even if you are not ready to hang ten, there are perfect spots to watch the action, such as the overlook at Hookipa. 

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Road to Hana & East Maui

A winding road, with a waterfall or jaw dropping ocean view around almost every curve, ends in a remote town that is Maui`s most Hawaiian. Start early and take your time- making stops along the way is half the fun.

Among stops are black, red and golden sand beaches, lava caves, tropical gardens and a roadside stand with the best banana bread around. Get an excellent history of the area at the Hana Cultural Center, mingle with the locals at Hana bay and buy a shave ice before continuing on to more beach parks, such as the Pools of Ohe`o. See our road to Hana page for more info.