10 Towns, Resorts, and Villages to Visit in Maui
Head Out on a Road Trip to the Towns of Maui
Heading out of Lahaina on a road trip to the towns, resorts, and villages in Maui promises an eye-opening journey. Maui is one of the most popular of the Hawaiian islands to visit thanks to its sandy beaches, picturesque natural parks, and stunning valleys. While these features are all impressive, a large part of The Valley Isle’s charm comes from the many communities across its lands.
If you really want to take in the local culture and explore the best this island has to offer, you’ll have to visit the best communities on the island. Here are the interesting towns, resorts and villages in Maui to add to your itinerary.
1. Kihei
A charming beach community
Categoría: Parejas, Familias, Foto, De aventura
Kihei is a lovely community to visit on Maui if you’re interested in stunning beaches and a calm atmosphere. White sands stretch for miles along the shore here, and you can go for a swim or a dive in its welcoming waters.
This town is also home to the Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary, so whale watching is easy as the massive mammals often breach off the shore here. Additionally, you can embark on an eco-tour in a boat to see Kihei from a different angle.
2. Wailuku
A popular destination with lesser crowds
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For an authentic slice of island life, central Wailuku is Maui’s best-kept secret. This historic town blends its vintage, small-town character with a fresh, creative local energy. It’s the perfect base camp for a day of unique sightseeing and outdoor exploration.
Spend your morning admiring the mist-shrouded peaks of the iconic ʻĪao Valley, then dive into deep Hawaiian history by visiting the rare, hilltop ruins of the Halekiʻi-Pihana Heiau war temples. Get your nature fix wandering through the culturally themed displays at Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens or enjoying fresh farm-to-table treats at the bustling Maui Tropical Plantation marketplace just down the road.
Wailuku
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3. Makawao
A small town at the foot of a volcano
Categoría: Parejas, Familias, Foto, De aventura
The small town of Makawao lies at the foot of Haleakala, a large, dormant volcano in Maui. If you’re looking to bring back something memorable from your trip, this town is the best place to get a souvenir. Not only will you find unique offerings compared with the rest of Maui, but you’ll find many different offerings in the town itself.
The arts scene here is notably diverse, and Makawao is ranked as one of the best art spots in the entire United States. Additionally, the town sports a Wild West feel and embraces it with weekly rodeo and barrel racing events.
4. Paia
For a seaside getaway
Categoría: Parejas, Familias, Foto, De aventura
Paia is the place to be if you’re looking for a seaside getaway in Maui. It’s one of the best towns for this in the entire country thanks to its tranquil shore and laid-back atmosphere. The community has a distinct hippy vibe, so relaxation is easy.
Plus, Paia is located conveniently next to Ho’okipa Beach Park, which is one of the best spots anywhere on Earth for windsurfing. That means you can enjoy thrilling adventures and laid-back relaxation all in the same area.
5. Hana
What gave Maui’s famous highway its name
Categoría: De aventura, Historia, Foto
Hāna is a remote coastal haven that stands as Maui’s ultimate frontier of peace and natural wonder. Reached by a world-famous, winding highway that slow-rolls past lush jungle canopies and roadside fruit stands, this quiet community offers a soul-stirring retreat from the modern world.
Within the valley, an array of majestic natural wonders awaits, from the towering bamboo forests of Haleakalā National Park’s Kīpahulu district to stunning red-sand coves. Team up with a local guided excursion to effortlessly explore these treasures and learn the authentic legends of the land. Plan ahead by booking your timed entry to the famous black sand beach, pack your sense of adventure, and prepare to experience the quiet, beating heart of East Maui.
Hana
6. Lahaina
Discover Hawaiian flavors in Maui’s capital
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Lahaina is the capital of Maui where you’ll find plenty of culinary pleasures. A lot of travelers to Hawaii visit for the beaches, but the food is a major draw as well. With malasada and other treats available, it’s no wonder foodies from all over the world are drawn here. If you visit the town of Lahaina, you can taste some of the best local food in the state.
Plus, most of the local restaurants here offer signature cocktails as well. Additionally, you’ll find several boutiques offering custom crafts, clothing, and accessories that you can take home with you.
7. Kaanapali
For pristine beaches and shopping
Categoría: Parejas, Familias, Historia, Foto, Gastronomía en , De aventura
Kaanapali is, by far, one of the most popular destinations in all of Maui. This town is where you’ll find the iconic Sugar Cane Train and the Whalers Village shopping center where you’ll find a wide variety of items available that the whole family can enjoy.
Plus, the beaches here are especially pristine, with much to offer to children needing calm waters and surfers looking for waves. If you ever want to get away from the hustle and bustle of this town, Lahaina is little more than 10 minutes away by car.
8. Kula
Where to get a taste of the simple life
Categoría: Parejas, Gastronomía en , Historia
Escape to Kula, a peaceful agricultural sanctuary nestled high on the cool, misty slopes of Haleakalā. Offering a refreshing taste of Maui’s tranquil Upcountry life, this rolling countryside district thrives on a rich heritage of family farming and artisanal crafts. Foodies and nature lovers can wander through independent local estates, picking fresh strawberries, touring aromatic lavender fields, or sampling award-winning cheeses at a local goat dairy.
With its crisp mountain air, distinct lack of crowds, and sweeping bi-coastal ocean views, Kula is the ultimate destination to slow down. Spend your day exploring historic architectural gems like the landmark 19th-century octagonal Holy Ghost Church, browsing roadside farm stands, and savoring true farm-to-table dining right from the source.
Kula
9. Kaupo
Remote but big in history
Categoría: Parejas, Familias, Historia, Foto, Gastronomía en , De aventura
The Kaupo area is the best place to visit in Maui if you’re looking to trek through ancient Hawaiian history. It’s remote and consists of basalt rock and withered grasslands.
If you do plan to venture on this rewarding path, traveling too far past Kaupo village will be met with a road that’s increasingly difficult to navigate. A lot of local car rentals won’t let you travel this path, as there are rough roads and too many potholes. The ranch lands are also quite scenic and relaxing, and you’ll feel like you’re in cowboy country.
10. Keokea
Home to Maui’s natural wonders
Categoría: De aventura, Historia, Foto
Discover Kēōkea, an enchanting mountainside sanctuary where old-school Hawaiian character meets breathtaking natural beauty. Far removed from the bustling beach crowds, this tight-knit rural community thrives amidst the lush greenery and mist-shrouded pastures of the high Upcountry.
Because of its unique elevation, Kēōkea acts as a natural viewing deck for the entire island, treating visitors to sweeping, unobstructed vistas of the West Maui Mountains framed by the ocean below. Spend a tranquil morning wandering past historic storefronts, relaxing under the shade trees of the hillside park, and enjoying locally grown coffee at a welcoming neighborhood café.
Keokea
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