Pai’a

Pai’a is Maui's hippie and surfer town, with plantation-era architecture. Some say its residents are still in their 70s, but visitors adore its many unique and interesting shops, galleries, and restaurants. Pai’a is located in the northeast corner of Maui's central valley, a few miles east of Kahului's airport and just before the start of the road to Hana. Pai’a's center is located at the intersection of Hana Highway (Route 36) and Baldwin Avenue.

While in this area of the island, you can also see the windsurfers and big waves at Hookipa and spend some time in Maui's cowboy town of Makawao. In and around Pai’a, there are several good beaches, including Baldwin Beach. Though Kuau, the edges of Haiku, and Spreckelsville are considered separate areas, they share the same zipcode and are referred to as Pai’a.

Relax in white sands and enjoy body surfing or play on grassy areas opposite Baldwin Beach Park on the southwest corner. Eat at Mama's Fish House after a long day of surfing or sunbathing, but make reservations well in advance, up to 3-6 months. This is a testament to the delicious farm (or ocean) to table food served by the friendly muumuu-clad staff. Walk off your delicious fresh meal by visiting colorful fronted shops with unusual names like Aloha Bead Company, Maui Craft Guild, and Maui Hands, as well as art galleries like Cesere Brothers Photography and Art Project Pai’a.