Are you visiting Maui for the first time? Below is a list of “Insider Tips” for things to see and do in Paia on Maui’s North Shore. Paia is a historic plantation town, best known for great food and boutique shopping in Maui’s upcountry.
It’s a sure bet that visitors to Maui, Hawaii want to see Haleakala, but I also recommend the Road to Hana for a more off the beaten path and authentic experience.
Take a yoga class in Makawao
When I want to escape the tourists, my favorite place to visit are the North shore beaches or take a yoga class at Lumeria in Makawao, Maui.
If this is a romantic trip, I recommend Haleakala at sunrise or sunset for kissing with a view.
If you happen to be traveling with four-legged friends, the best place to walk the dog is Keawekapu Beach.
Museums are wonderful, but if you are traveling with kids, you’ll want to visit The Maui Ocean Center.
Local food in Paia, Maui
If you are looking for local, up country Maui cuisine, I recommend Paia Fish Market or Flatbread Pizza. If you are looking for good quality, yet affordable food, I suggest you visit Café Des Amis. My ham and Gruyere cheese crepe with a green salad was perfect for a light lunch. Across the street from Cafe Des Amis is Mana Market; perfect for picnic items, soups, salads and home baked items like Macadamia Nut pie. Yum!
The best place to go for coffee & a breakfast treat is Grandma’s Coffee House for Hawaiian coffee, breakfast & pastries. For an expensive, yet quality meal, go to Mama’s Fish House. While Charley’s is the spot for late night dining and live music in Paia, Maui.
Looking for a little exercise? Walk along the Waihe’e Ridge Trail or Olinda Forest Waihe’e Ridge has great views!
Looking for exciting night life? Go dancing at Casanova’s or Charley’s for live music.
The Maui Time will keep you posted on what’s happening in Maui.
If you are visiting Maui n the springtime you should attend Whale Day. In the summer you’ll want to check out the Maui Film Festival. Come to Wailea or Lahaina for whale watching in the winter.
Makawao, Maui’s cowboy town
Just outside of Paia you can visit the cowboy town of Makawao. Have lunch at the Market Fresh Bistro or go horseback riding at Thompson Ranch. Makawao is the place to be during Fourth of July for horses and Paniolo (cowboy) rodeo events.
What are your favorite things to do in Paia or Makawao on the Hawaiian island of Maui?
Mahalo to Lumeria Maui for assistance with this post. Photos and article by Travel Writer Nancy D. Brown. I was a guest of Maui Visitors and Convention Bureau.
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