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Lower Paia

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City
—°5
Lower Paia (United States)
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Practical info — Lower Paia

🌤 Weather — 5 days

📍 Nearby

Sights nearby

💡 Tips

  • Use the public parking lot at the entrance of town; street parking is extremely limited and very tight.
  • Keep at least 10 feet (3 meters) distance from green sea turtles at Ho'okipa Beach as required by law.
  • Paia is the last reliable stop for gas and snacks before starting the long drive on the Road to Hana.
  • Visit the town early in the morning to enjoy the colorful storefronts and boutiques before the crowds arrive.
  • Head to the Ho'okipa lookout to watch world-class windsurfers tackle the massive North Shore swells.

🍽 Food

🍽
Fresh Fish Tacos

A local favorite in the town's casual eateries, often made with the daily catch like Mahi-Mahi or Ono.

🍽
Tropical Smoothie Bowls

Refreshing treats filled with local fruits like dragonfruit and pineapple, great for a post-surf snack.

🍽
Paia Fish Market

A world-famous, casual spot at the main intersection known for its fresh fish plates and shared benches.

🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots

🛍
Surf Boutiques

Paia is a world-renowned windsurfing hub; shop for high-quality gear and unique island-style apparel.

🛍
Mana Foods

A legendary local grocery store known for its incredible selection of organic produce and hot food bar.

🧘
Baldwin Beach Park

The west end (often called Baby Beach) is much calmer and quieter for a relaxing morning walk.

🧘
Coastal Rock Pools

Walk along the shoreline east of town to find quiet spots away from the main tourist beaches.

Lower Paia is the gateway to the famous Road to Hana and the beating heart of Maui's North Shore. Once a bustling plantation town, it has evolved into a colorful, bohemian hub for surfers and artists. The main street is lined with organic cafes, eclectic boutiques, and art galleries. Baldwin Beach Park provides vast white sands for sunbathing, while Hookipa Park Beach is globally renowned as a premier destination for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Beyond the popular spots, travelers can find tranquility at Kuau Cove or the secluded Paia Secret Beach. Paia Bay is a local favorite for bodyboarding, and Kaulahao Beach gives a more rugged coastal experience. The local food scene is bustling, ranging from fresh fish markets to health-conscious eateries. Paia is also famous for the green sea turtles that frequently bask on the shore at Hookipa. Located just a short drive from Kahului Airport, it perfectly captures the laid-back Maui lifestyle.

Geography

Population
2,668 (2017)
Coordinates
20.91609, -156.38118

Facts

  • Gateway to the Road to Hana
  • Windsurfing capital of the world
  • Colorful hippie-chic vibe
  • Turtles basking at Hookipa
  • Near Kahului Airport
  • Famous for fresh fish tacos
  • Historic sugar plantation town
  • Whale watching in winter

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Notable places around

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Sights in the town Lower Paia (5)

Ku‘au Bay📍 landmark

A scenic bay near Lower Paia, popular for its beautiful coastal landscape.

Ku‘au Cove📍 landmark

A small and peaceful cove located in the Lower Paia area.

Paia Bay Beach🎡 recreation

A pleasant beach in Lower Paia, well-regarded for its natural beauty.

Paia Secret Beach🎡 recreation

A secluded beach in Lower Paia known for its quiet atmosphere.

Baldwin Beach🎡 recreation

A wide sandy beach in Lower Paia, popular for walking and outdoor activities.

Frequently asked questions

What is special about Lower Paia?
It is a funky small town on Maui, known as a mecca for windsurfers.
Which beach is closest?
Baldwin Beach Park is a beautiful sandy beach located very close by.
Is there good food available?
Yes, there are many healthy cafes and the famous Paia Fish Market.
Is it a good stop before the Road to Hana?
Absolutely, it's the last town to stock up on supplies and gas for the journey.
Are there any boutiques?
Yes, the town has many appealing shops with local art and surf wear.
Lower Paia: where is it located?
Lower Paia is located in United States.
Lower Paia: what is there to see?
Highlights include Ku‘au Bay, Ku‘au Cove, Paia Bay Beach.
Lower Paia: why is it worth visiting?
Lower Paia is the gateway to the famous Road to Hana and the beating heart of Maui's North Shore.
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