Only a few minutes from the airport the North Shore of Maui is most well-known for it’s laid back vibe, rugged coastline, and high intensity water sports.

Claiming two of Hawaii’s famous surf locations, Ho’okipa and Jaws, the North Shore of Maui is home to professional windsurfers, big wave surfers, kiteboarders, young families, and movie stars alike.

Paia is the main town on the North Shore, though by no means large. A one traffic light haven with a handful of gift shops, restaurants, shaved ice, and artist store fronts, Paia has an ultra chill attitude harkening back to its roots as a hippy surf town. With several small uncrowded crescent beaches it can be a great stop along the road to Hana.

Further along lies the quaint communities of Haiku-Pauwela, an off the beaten path cluster of restaurants, shops, and surfboard makers set up in the old canneries.