Historic Paia town on Maui’s north coast is about four miles from Kahului. Formerly a bustling center of Maui sugarcane plantation life, Paia had a sugar mill as well as plantation housing. The town grew rapidly during World War II when U.S. Marines were stationed nearby in Haiku.
Today Paia still reflects its unique history and many of the old plantation style wooden buildings now house a variety of lovely boutiques, art galleries, antique stores and specialty shops as well as bakeries and restaurants. The rustic storefronts give this small country town a quaint charm.
Bordering Paia are two of Maui’s nicest beaches including Baldwin Beach Park with a protected lagoon for young children. Hookipa Beach attracts the world’s best windsurfers and kitesurfers and is known as one of the best spots for windsurfing in Hawaii.
During the calmer summer months these are great swimming and snorkeling beaches. When the surf is too big you can enjoy sunbathing, beach walks, and watching the professionals ride the formidable waves.