Discover why Paia beach is a hidden gem and worthy of your travel time. Find out how to get there, what you can do when you’re there, and where else to visit on Maui. Let’s read to know!!!
Overview of Paia beaches in Maui
Paia is on Maui’s North Shore, close to where most tourists reserve accommodations. It takes only 20 minutes to get to Kihei in South Maui and around 45 minutes to get to the popular beach towns of Lahaina and Kaanapali in West Maui.
Paia beach is a hidden gem in Maui which is a great place to take a break. With plenty of sand and waves to enjoy, these beaches are perfect for a relaxing day by the water. There are several restaurants and bars close by if you need to refuel.
It’s known for its clear blue waters and gentle waves which are an ideal place to relax and take in the natural beauty of Maui. The soft sandy beaches and serene setting make it an excellent spot to watch the surfers and take a dip. Besides that, visitors absolutely have a chance to take part in some amazing activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
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What to know before visiting Paia Beaches?
There are also a few things you should know before visiting Paia beaches:
Fees
All of the beaches are accessible without charge! This means you may enjoy the beauty of the island while still maintaining a low budget.
However, you need to prepare fees for parking, and also fees for using the beach facilities. The fees are not unreasonable, but they can add up if you plan to spend a lot of time at the beach. Overall, the fees are worth it because of the great amenities and beautiful setting, but be sure to budget accordingly.
Parking lots
Parking can be a bit of a challenge, but it’s definitely worth the visit. While there is no shortage of parking available in town, the closer you get to the beach the harder it becomes to find a spot. This can be especially frustrating if you’re visiting during one of the busier times of the year.
Fortunately, there are a few public parking lots available near the beaches. The largest lot is located on Baldwin Avenue, adjacent to the post office and municipal building. Other options include a smaller lot on Hana Highway, as well as a few side streets that offer free 3-hour parking.
Essential facilities
There are a few essential facilities that you will want to take advantage of when visiting the beaches in Paia. These include restrooms, showers, and picnic areas. If you are looking for a place to have a bite to eat, there are also several restaurants and cafes nearby.
Vacation packing list
When packing for a trip to the Paia Maui beaches, it is important to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. It is also important to pack a water bottle and snacks, as you will likely be spending a lot of time outdoors.
You may also want to bring a change of clothes, as you will likely get wet while swimming or snorkeling. A book can also be helpful to have while relaxing on the beach. Water shoes are a must-have if you plan on walking around in the sand, as it can be quite hot and there are a lot of coral reefs in the area.
This is benefits of each items:
- Sunscreen will protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
- A hat will keep the sun off your head and neck.
- A towel will help you dry off after a swim.
- Swimsuits are made for swimming in the ocean or pool.
- Snacks can give you energy to stay out all day.
- Drinks can help you stay hydrated in the hot sun.
- Sunglasses will protect your eyes from the bright sun.
- A camera who can capture memories of your trip to Paia beach.
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The best beaches in Paia, Maui
There are plenty of beautiful beaches to choose from in Paia, Maui. Let’s read!!!
Ho’okipa Beach (best beach)
You don’t feel like swimming, but you still want to see more Hawaiian sea turtles and skilled windsurfers. Visit the Ho’okipa Beach Park! Because of its powerful surf, this beach is a well-known windsurfing location. On the beach and along the exposed coral that borders the water, many of them are lounging.
They are federally protected, so keep your distance! The surf and rip currents over here should be avoided, just like at Baldwin Beach. Ask the lifeguards about the swimming conditions for the day at one of the two stands at either end of the beach where there are two lifeguard stations.
- Direction: 179 Hana Hwy, Paia, HI 96779
- Parking: Turn left when you see the Ho’okipa Beach Park sign on the Hana Highway as you’re traveling east. You have the option of parking at the lookout’s top lot alone or taking the circular path to the beach parking. Through the parking lot, the road runs one way only.
- Time to visit: Before sundown is the ideal time to visit. On the beach, a lot of turtles will spend the night. The turtles spend the entire day at various moments swimming, eating, and tanning.
- Activities: the world-famous spot for windsurfing and kitesurfing, as the steady onshore winds make it the perfect place to practice these sports. The beach is also a great place to go swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling
- Restaurants and bars close by: The Maui Cookie Lady, Bob’s Dogs of Maui, Mama’s Fish House, Kuau Store, Mana Foods, and Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice,…
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Kaulahao Beach
Do you need to see more sea turtles? Visit Kaulahao Beach, which is only a half-mile from Paia town. Due to the rocks, this isn’t the ideal beach for swimming, but there are sea turtles on the sand!!!
Plus, visitors arrive and depart from the small parking area there, probably stopping before starting the Road to Hana. It’s about a ten-minute walk from the Baldwin Ave & Hana Highway crossroads in Paia. The walkway does, however, come to a stop, forcing you to stroll along the Hana Highway’s shoulder. It’s not a very far distance, though, as you can see the sign for Kaulahao Beach and turn in a few minutes after the sidewalk ends.
- Direction: Kaulahao Beach, Paia, HI 96779
- Parking: Not too many parking spots but it wasn’t too busy in the evening. There is easy access to the beach. and a parking lot close to the shore.
- Time to visit: Anytime you go, there’s a good chance you’ll find turtles relaxing on the sand. Midday is the ideal time to go if you want to go snorkeling because the overhead light will make the water the clearest. Sunset is another magical time to travel.
- Activities: Great place to go swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
- The restaurants and bars close by: Lighthouse Sky Bar, Sigi’s Bar and Grill on the Beach at Golden Sands Resort – Penang, Chi Samui, Glass Dining & Lounge Bar.
Tavares Beach
- Overview: Tavares Beach – a sandy area close to Paia where you can take part in lots of amazing activities. Even some marine turtles may be seen along the reef! And if you are unfamiliar with the area, Tavares is simple to overlook. Due to a beach house that serves as a landmark and has a ceramic blue tile roof, it is frequently referred to as “Blue Tile House Beach.”
- Direction: Paia, HI 96779
- Parking: From Paia, take the Hana Highway to the east to reach Tavares Bay. The Paia traffic lights are about a half-mile away from the turning. A Beach Access sign should be visible close to the turning. You enter the parking lot immediately from the road. You shouldn’t have any trouble parking because there is lots of space in the parking lot.
If you’re unsure whether you’re at the correct location, look for the building next to the parking lot’s unique blue roof tiles.
- Time to visit: Since Tavares is a local favorite, it is recommended to visit during the week as weekends and holidays might be congested.
- Activities: Good for swimming, snorkeling, spearfishing, rock jumping, surfing, and windsurfing,..
- The restaurants and bars close by : Sammy’s Beach Bar & Grill, Rock & Brews, Guava Tree Bar & grill, Wow-Wee Maui’s Kava Bar and Grill, Aumakua Kava Lounge
Paia Bay Beach
Paia Bay is the finest first stop in Paia because it is the nearest beach to town. This white sand beach is roughly a ten-minute walk down Hana Highway from Baldwin Ave. There is a sidewalk the entire way, so don’t worry. We highly recommend stopping at Paia Bowls on the way for a smoothie, acai bowl, or iced Matcha latte to take to the beach! The trees, rather than beach chairs and umbrellas, give some shade from the sun’s beams.
- Direction: Paia Bay, Paia, HI 96779
- Parking: Due to its proximity to the town center and regular use by beachgoers, the Paia Bay dirt lot sees a lot of traffic. Many people used to park in the grassy area next to Hana Highway when it was full, but that is no longer an option according to the DOT’s new signs. Avoid a costly fine for parking illegally by doing yourself a favor.
- Time to visit: As the ocean and beach are normally at their calmest in the mornings, this is generally the best time to visit Paia Beach. When dawn and low tide coincide, this is especially true. At dusk, the park is very lovely. Even though the beach’s view is to the north, if you gaze down the beach to the west, you will be able to watch the sun setting behind the West Maui Mountains.
- Activities: Great place to go swimming, sunbathing, surfing, fishing, boating, and snorkeling
- The restaurants and bars close by: Paia Bay Coffee Bar, Choice Health Bar Paia, Surf club Tacos, Lima Cocina + Cantina,…
Paia Secret Beach
Paia Secret Beach can be found between Baldwin Beach and Paia Bay. This beach is somewhat private and frequently frequented by locals. It is known as a clothes optional or nude beach. Parking at Paia Bay and a short walk through the woods at the west end of the bay will get you to this beach.
Unlike the Kahului side of the beach where some people swim naked, clothing is expected on the Paia side of the beach. Visitors cannot access this beach by vehicle, and there are nicer swimming beaches nearby, but if you want to swim in the open air without worrying about crowds, come here!
- Direction: Puna Rd, Paia, HI 96779
- Parking: First, try to get there early in the morning or during the off-season, as the lot will be emptier and you’ll have a better chance of finding a spot. If that’s not possible, then consider parking on the street instead of in the lot. Just make sure to read the signs carefully and obey any restrictions that are in place.
And finally, if you’re still having trouble finding a spot, consider parking in Haiku and walking over to the beach. It’s only about a 10-minute walk, and it’s well worth it once you see the view!
- Time to visit: Paia Secret Beach is a great spot to visit during the summertime because the waves are perfect for body surfing and the temperatures are just right. The sand is white and the ocean is a beautiful blue. If you’re looking for some peace and quiet, this is definitely the place to go.
- Activities: Amazing spot to go swimming, sunbathing, surfing, boating,…
- The restaurants and bars close by: Koh Raham Restaurant and Beach Bar, Dudka Bar, 9 Million Restaurant, LOCCO’s Pizza Bar, Pura Vida Cafe,…
Baldwin Beach Park
The most popular beach on the North Shore, Baldwin Beach Park, is a must-see. Bathrooms, showers, picnic tables, BBQs, and lifeguards are available along this expansive stretch of white sand beach. Experienced bodyboarders and windsurfers enjoy visiting this location since the surf can be challenging at times.
Baldwin Beach has limited shade, which is the one thing it lacks. It is exposed to the sun and is comparatively wide open. So be ready with plenty of water, sunscreen, and perhaps even a rash guard or top that offers UV protection.
- Direction: Baldwin Park, Paia, HI 96779
- Parking: In Maui, Baldwin Beach offers free parking. Additionally, there is no fee to enter or use the services. Every day from 7 am to 8 pm, the park is open. The parking is gated and cars can be ticketed or towed after this point. As previously mentioned, complete amenities are offered, including a lifeguard.
- Time to visit: Baldwin Beach Park is best visited in the morning when the beach is peaceful and the ocean is tranquil, or around sunset. The sun will set behind or near the West Maui Mountains in the distance based on the time of year, creating a stunning Maui sunset.
- Activities: Picnic, boarding, surfing,…
- The restaurants and bars close by: Maui Cookie Lady, Flatbread Company, Paia Gelato Company, Mana Foods, Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice, Paia Bay Coffee Bar,…
Baby Beach (best beach)
Looking to chill off after a day of shopping or a scorching yoga class? Head over to Baby Beach, which is ideal for relaxing because it is protected from the heavy waves by a lagoon. Swim several laps, float on your back, or take a stroll through the beach’s enormous sand dunes and woodland area. It’s kid-friendly, but it can get windy in the afternoons, so go earlier in the day.
- Direction: Baby Beach, Sprecklesville Area, 207 Kealakai Pl, Paia, HI 96779
- Parking: There is a designated parking lot for Baby beach paia and it can be found just north of the entrance to the beach. The lot is small so it’s often full on busy days, but there is also street parking available nearby.
- Time to visit: The best time for visiting is on weekday mornings.
- Activities: Chilling, swimming, sunbathing,…
- The restaurants and bars close by: Big Mama Grill, Restaurants in San Nicolas, The Rum Reef Bar and Grill, Kamini’s Kitchen, …
Map of Paia Maui beaches
See more: Top 20 Best Beaches In Maui You’ll Fall In Love With
FAQs
What is Paia known for?
On Maui’s North Shore is where you’ll find Paia. It is renowned for its tranquil white sand beaches and relaxed country atmosphere. Paia, where professional windsurfing contests are held, is frequently referred to as the “windsurfing capital of the world.”
Maybe you concern: List Of 11 Best North Shore Beaches Oahu For Whole Family
How far is Paia from Maui?
Paia and Maui Ocean Center are separated by 12 miles. The distance on the road is 14.7 miles.
Can you have the best snorkel experience in Paia?
Paia, while being small, is teeming with charming boutiques, galleries, and a variety of top-notch restaurants. It’s not as well-known for snorkeling as some of Maui’s other areas, but it’s arguably most recognized for its diverse and eccentric local populace.
You can visit Paia beaches through this video before planning to travel
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Conclusion
So, if you want to find the best beaches in Maui, be sure to add Paia to your list. With its laid-back atmosphere and stunningly beautiful surroundings, it’s easy to see why this tiny town is a favorite destination for visitors and locals alike. Come and join Paia beaches!
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