Maui is a nature-lovers paradise known for its award-winning beaches, hidden waterfalls, and verdant valleys. But which side of Maui is best to experience this pure island aloha bliss? The entire island of Maui is worth exploring for its rich experiences on every coast. However, most people don’t have time to see everything and prefer staying near the best attractions.
We’ve provided a breakdown of the regions in Maui and what makes each special. It will help determine the best side for you based on how you want to spend your Maui getaway.
About the Island of Maui
Maui is the second-largest Hawaiian Island. However, it only takes about three hours to drive from one side to the other. It was formed by two major volcanoes, Haleakala dominating the eastern side of the island and Mauna Kahalawai, also called the West Maui Mountains.
The island is characterized by a leeward (west side) and windward (east side). Most tourists visiting Maui stay on the leeward side since it’s sunnier and drier than the windy, rainy windward side.
Picking which side of Maui is best will save time on the road and place you near all your favorite Maui attractions.
South Maui
- Excellent Weather
- Best Beaches
- Tourist hub
South Maui specifies the southwestern shore of the island—the Haleakala Volcano dominates the southeast. Many consider this the central tourist hub with resorts, restaurants, retail shops, clothing boutiques, tours, art galleries, and nightlife. It also has the best weather and overall water conditions. Visitors can spend an entire vacation exploring this area.
Family Friendly
The major cities on the south side are Kihei, Wailea, and Makena. Kihei is family-friendly resort area with beachfront hotels, vacation rentals, and condos. Wailea features the area’s top luxury resorts, beautiful golf courses, and more. Makena has stunning natural beaches protected by the Makena Beach State Park.
Beach Hop
South Maui is known for having the most beautiful beaches in Maui. The sunny and dry climate year-round makes any day great for spending time at the beach—and there are plenty to choose from.
Beach-hop between Kamaole Beaches, learn to surf at Kalama Park, admire views of Molokini Crater, one of the top snorkeling spots, from Wailea Beach, and the stunning white-sand Keawakapu Beach. Enjoy water activities like swimming, snorkeling, stand-up paddle boarding, and more at each location. Additionally, visitors can find boat tours and rentals nearby.
Stay in Kihei
Stay in South Maui at our One-of-a-Kind Getaway. It’s located in Kihei near all the best beaches and attractions and has easy access to exploring other parts of the island.
Pro Tip: South Maui is also home to some of the best food trucks on island!
West Maui
- Upscale tourist area
- Best Surfing
- Best Sunsets
West Maui Mountains occupy most of the island’s western peninsula, while the coastal area has boomed into one of the top tourist areas in Maui. From charming beach towns to luxury resorts, this location is a paradise for vacationers ready to splurge on island luxury.
Resort Towns
Many of Maui’s world-class resort towns are in West Maui. Kaanapali has several high-end oceanfront resorts set on Ka’anapali Beach, one of the best beaches in the world. The luxury resorts of Kapalua Bay give easy access to the island’s stunning ocean-view golf courses overlooking Kapalua Bay.
Napili is a family-friendly town for snorkeling, spotting sea turtles, and whale watching. Lahaina was one of the most-visited towns in West Maui, but it’s undergoing redevelopment after being destroyed in a 2023 fire. Most of Maui’s best luaus are on the west side.
Surfing
Surfing enthusiasts will find the best surfing beaches in West Maui. It’s located on the island’s leeward side, so it gets lots of sun and little rain. It’s windier than the beaches in South Maui, which gives it better waves for the surf.
Sunsets
You’ll love visiting West Maui for the breathtaking sunsets every night. It’s the best area on the island to see sunsets. Enjoy them from the beach or take a sunset cruise. The Hawaiian island of Lanai is visible from West Maui, and a daily ferry service operates between Maui and Lanai.
North/Central Maui
- Main airport
- Ioa Valley
- Kitesurfing
North and Central Maui comprise the region nestled between Maui’s two major volcanoes. It’s not as developed as busier tourist areas in West and South Maui, but it still gets a lot of tourist traffic due to transportation hubs. Most visitors arrive in North Maui. The Kahului Airport (OGG) for international and inter-island flights and the Kahului Port for cruises are both on the Northside.
Laid Back and Rugged
North Maui is a more laid-back part of the island. It includes the cities of Kahului and Paia. Most of the north shore is a rugged coastline with undeveloped beaches. The consistent wind gives this area larger swells for experienced surfers and kitesurfing at Kanaha Beach Park. Hike the Waihe’e Ridge Trail with sweeping views from the mountain ridges to the coast. Explore Central Maui to see the lush Iao Valley, famous for the 1200-foot Iao Needle. Visit Wailuku, the gateway to Iao Valley State Park and the seat of the Maui government.
Although less touristy than other areas, North/Central Maui has the highest population on the island. Major cities like Kahului and Wailuku are commercial and business centers where you’ll see many local islanders.
Upcountry
- Scenic mountainous region
- Farm tours
Upcountry is one of Maui’s most unique parts, showcasing the island’s topography. It’s geographically centrally located but defines the mountainous region elevated by the Haleakala volcano. The elevation and volcanic soil create a special region abundant with vegetation. Explore this area to discover unique finds grown right here on the island.
Scenic Drives
Driving is the best way to get around Upcountry Maui. The verdant island landscape reveals itself at every summit, with long-quiet roads between points of interest. Driving tours provide visitors with a guided tour through the area with stops at local farms. Horseback ride tours are always popular.
Farms and Vineyards
Several farms are situated in the island’s Upcountry. The volcanic terrain provides lots of nutrients to crops, and the cooler climate makes it the ideal location for certain produce compared to hotter regions. Make stops at the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, Surfing Goat Dairy, O’o Farm, and Tedeschi Vineyards. In addition to farm tours, some farms also provide farm-to-table dining experiences.
Tours and Markets
The main tourist cities in Upcountry Maui are Kula, Makawao, and Pukalani. Many of the farm tours are located in and around Kula. Check the events calendar at the Oskie Rice Arena in Makawao for a show at Hawaii’s largest rodeo. Pukalani hosts the Upcountry Farmers Market, pineapple farm tours, and the Maui Alpaca farm with guest experiences.
East Maui
- Road to Hana scenic drive
- Exploring nature
Fasten your seatbelts because exploring East Maui is one of the top things to do in Maui. It’s where you’ll find the famous Road to Hana road trip. Road to Hana is a 52-mile scenic highway route winding along the Eastern coast. Along the way, visitors will encounter some of Maui’s hidden gems, hiking routes to secret waterfalls, and roadside food stalls.
Undeveloped Landscapes
East Maui is largely undeveloped, allowing visitors to experience the island’s natural beauty. The most notable sights are located on the Road to Hana. Road trippers can drive the entire route within a couple of hours, but there’s a ton to see and do that makes spending the whole day in East Maui worthwhile.
Waterfalls and Hiking
Hike to the island’s best waterfalls at Twin Falls, Alelele Falls, and Makapipi Falls. Pause to admire the incredible views at Nua’ailua Bay Lookout and the Keanae Valley Overlook. See unique attractions like the unusual Wai’anapanapa Black Sand Beach and the Seven Sacred Pools (Pools of ‘Ohe’o).
Hiking routes in Haleakala National Park explore the summit of Maui’s largest volcano. Don’t forget to stop at the famous Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread, made fresh daily with local bananas.
There are a few resorts and other accommodations located in East Maui. However, most tourists prefer the Road to Hana day trip and staying in a different area. The Hana Highway can be accessed from North Maui near the airport and South Maui.
Where to Stay in Maui
There are fun things to do around the entire island of Maui. Everyone should take time to explore all corners of the island, but there isn’t always time available to fit it into your Maui vacation itinerary.
If you’re curious about which side of Maui is best, we recommend that visitors stay in the popular tourist areas of South Maui or West Maui. These areas provide many accommodations, activities, shopping, dining, and entertainment options. You’re just a short drive away from most of the best attractions and access to the Road to Hana when you’re ready to explore the east side.
Our One-of-a-Kind Getaway in Kihei is in a desirable location in South Maui. It’s a short drive to popular beaches in South and West Maui. Also, guests benefit from fantastic weather and water conditions to experience the true paradise of Maui.
Book your stay today to experience South Maui.
