Haiku is an unincorporated Maui community that makes up part of the census-designated place of Haiku-Pauwela. Located in the north-central part of the island approximately 14 miles east of Kahului, the area once thrived thanks to a local pineapple plantation and its canneries. Eventually, the main refinery was moved to Kahului, which contributed to a decline in commercial activity in Haiku. Thankfully, the town of Haiku has been rediscovered. With the return of people and interest has come a boost in commercial life, with a number of shops and eateries figuring among the local businesses.

Haiku Maui Things to Do

Haiku is a rustic little community that makes for a fun day trip destination in Maui. Thanks to the area accommodations, it is also an option for where to stay on the island. Among the advantages to making Haiku your Maui travel base are the away-from-the-crowds atmosphere and the relative proximity that the area offers to great attractions, such as the beaches in neighboring Paia and the Makawao Forest Reserve to the near south. Since a portion of the Hana Highway passes through the Haiku area, those who are staying at one of the Haiku accommodations can find an easy route to destinations and attractions that are further off, such as Kapalua and its golf courses.

In Haiku itself, options for things to do include visiting one of the area wellness centers, perusing the goods at the village shops, taking the kids to see the animals at the Leilani Farm Sanctuary, and enjoying exciting zip line tours at places like Northshore ZipLine Company (pictured). Dropping by the Manawai Estate to learn about its chocolate and tropical fruit operations is just one more option for staying busy in Haiku, and there are places in the area where you can arrange fun Maui tours. Head to the Haleakala Bike Company in downtown Haiku, for example, and you can book one of the legendary bike tours that take you to the rim of the Haleakala crater to watch the sunrise.

Haiku Maui Restaurants

Whether you are just in Haiku for the day or are staying overnight, there is an ample amount of cafes and restaurants to select from around town. These eateries offer cuisine choices that are quite varied, from Japanese and French to American and local Hawaiian. Fish tacos, ocean-caught salmon fillets, sushi, pizza, and hamburgers are just some of the things that you will find on the lunch and dinner menus at the Haiku Maui restaurants. For breakfast, you can indulge in fresh muffins, hearty eggs and bacon, and pancakes with coconut syrup, among other things. And don’t forget that renowned Hawaiian coffee. Worth noting is that vegetarian and vegan options are available at some of the Haiku restaurants. Either at or near the Haiku Marketplace shopping center along Kokomo Road in downtown Haiku is where you will find the majority of the Haiku restaurants and shops, as well as the Haleakala Bike Company and a grocery store.

Haiku Maui Rentals

One of the main reasons why Haiku is worth considering when planning Hawaii vacations is the area vacation rentals. A portion of Haiku runs along the coast, and oceanview accommodations are available. These properties figure among the most desirable Haiku rentals. Options for properties with a view of the Pacific range from studio apartments to impressive homes with ample living space both inside and out. Prices for the Haiku Maui rentals vary according to location, size and amenities, and there are options to fit a range of budgets. Some of the more expensive rentals come with such perks as private pools and hot tubs, outdoor decks and patios that are well equipped for entertaining, and relaxing yards and gardens. One of the more common amenities among the Haiku Maui rentals is kitchen facilities, which can be very convenient, especially for families with younger children. The added privacy over your typical hotel room is just one more reason to keep these rentals in mind, and it is hard to beat Haiku if you are looking to stay somewhere that is removed from the more touristy parts of Maui.

While it isn’t located in Haiku proper, the Ho’omana Spa Maui calls the general region home and offers additional rentals to consider. These rentals are especially ideal for people who wish to put a major focus on wellness during their Hawaii vacations. There are two Ho’omana Spa Maui cottages to choose from – the Lehua Cottage and the Makena Cottage. Both are private and well-equipped. Guests who are interested in adding some adventure to their agendas can arrange eco tours. Activity options for these tours include horseback riding, ATV driving, zip lining, stargazing atop Haleakala, and mountain biking. The address for the Ho’omana Spa Maui is 1550 Piiholo Road, Makawao.