North Shore, Maui

Maui’s North Shore is less developed, less crowded, has cooler days, and is in a more natural state than the popular resort areas of South and West Maui, making the real estate opportunities in this lush town highly desirable. 

Maui played host to the first capital city of the Kingdom of Hawaii. King Kamehameha named Lahaina the kingdom’s capital in 1820, although it was moved to Honolulu in 1845. Many celebrities have made Maui their home over the years, including Willie Nelson, Woody Harrelson, Ram Dass, Mick Fleetwood, Charles Lindbergh, Steven Tyler of Aerosmith, and many more. The North Shore is strategically located for visitors to conveniently explore the natural sites and attractions on the Road to Hana and Upcountry Maui, while also being close to world-class beaches.

 

Avid hikers, adventurers, beachcombers, and surfers won’t run out of things to do no matter how long they stay on the North Shore. The North Shore is also quite centrally located, and since the island is relatively small, it is also located within moderate drive times to the rest that Maui has to offer.

 

This section of Maui sports an incredible amount of diversity in a short stretch. If you find yourself in Paia, you’ll enjoy the warm sunshine and the funky atmosphere of a quirky beach town. Drive just a few miles east to Haiku, and you’ll be right in the heart of Maui’s rainforest, a lush area with plenty of foliage fed by frequent gentle rains.

 

• World-class beaches and a surfer’s paradise 
• Laid-back, relaxed approach to life in a small town 
• Lush, green, and breathtaking vegetation

It won’t shock you to hear that Maui residents are by and large very relaxed and very happy — how could you not be when you’re surrounded by the gorgeous haven of rainforests and beaches? North Shore is no different. People move at a slower pace, favor flip-flops over dress shoes, and take full advantage of the many outdoor activities available to them.

 

It’s a close-knit community with a healthy mix of Hawaiian natives and mainland transplants; neighbors are friendly and hospitable to one another and almost everyone is active through surfing, hiking, swimming, or biking.

 

All of Maui runs on fresh seafood and the fishing trade, so any local will send you first to Mama’s Fish House, the infamous beachside seafood joint with classic Polynesian decor and daily fresh fish. It’s the perfect spot for a romantic night or special occasion. Paia Fishmarket is another great locale for the catch of the day and fantastic fish burgers.

 

Flatbread Company serves up — you guessed it — excellent flatbread pizza, craft cocktails and is a local favorite. Cafe Des Amis will be your spot for great lilikoi margaritas and food, while Nuka is an intimate, upscale sushi restaurant in Haiku.

 

Paia is the “downtown” of North Shore — an eclectic small town with tons of charm and locally owned and operated shops. Mana Foods & Health Market will be your new favorite place to grab groceries, lunch or healthy bites for the family.

 

The North Shore has many uncrowded, dramatic, and beautiful beaches where sunbathing, swimming, and world-famous surf spots are plentiful. The biggest surfing wave in the world most years can be found at Jaws in Peahi, while Hookipa is the haven for windsurfers around the world. Kanaha is the most popular place to learn windsurfing, and Kite Beach is where the sport of kitesurfing was literally invented!

 

North Shore is the gateway to Road To Hana, the 64.4-mile-long stretch of Hawaii Routes 36 and 360, which was named one of the top things to do in the state of Hawaii. Up in the rainforests of North Maui lies Twin Falls, a waterfall destination that makes for an excellent day hike. You can also explore the hikes and sights of Haleakalā, the volcanic national park.

 

Paia Town is a fantastic place to stroll around and take in the cute, unique shops and local eateries. You will never run out of things to do on the North Shore!

 

North Shore Maui has plenty of elementary, middle, and high schools for children in the area as well as a mix of public and private schools. Hana High School and Maui High School are the two options for the area, while Seabury Hall, Montessori of Maui, and Haleakala Waldorf School round out the top private schools in the area.