Things To Do
in Waihee-Waiehu
Waihee-Waiehu is a lush, rural-urban fringe on Maui that blends verdant valleys with coastal access. Nestled between Wailuku and the island’s north shore, it serves as a gateway to rainforests, waterfalls, and farms. The area exudes a laid-back Hawaiian charm with family-run eateries and scenic drives.
Visitors can easily pair nature experiences with culture, making it a versatile base for Maui exploration.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Waihee-Waiehu and check into your cozy accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh Hawaiian fruits and freshly brewed coffee while soaking in the enchanting views. Afterward, take a short hike at the nearby Waihee Ridge Trail, where you can immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes.
In the afternoon, explore the charming town and visit local art galleries and shops that showcase the talent of Hawaiian artisans. Indulge in a delicious lunch at a seaside restaurant, where fresh fish and local cuisine await you. Spend some time at the beach, feeling the sand between your toes and enjoying the warm, gentle ocean breeze.
As evening falls, enjoy a breathtaking sunset at the beach, where the sky bursts with vibrant colors. Head to a local eatery for a taste of traditional Hawaiian barbecue, indulging in savory flavors and warm hospitality. Wind down the day with a stroll along the shore, reflecting on your day's adventures.
Start your day with a visit to the Waihee Cultural Park, where you can learn about the rich history and heritage of the area. Participate in a morning workshop that teaches you traditional Hawaiian crafts or hula dancing. Enjoy a breakfast of local pastries and fresh fruit from a nearby market.
After lunch, explore the nearby Iao Valley State Park, where you can hike through lush greenery and witness picturesque waterfalls. Take your time to appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the valley, capturing photos along the way. Later, visit a taro farm to learn about this staple crop and its significance to Hawaiian culture.
In the evening, dine at a farm-to-table restaurant featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Engage with local musicians as they perform traditional Hawaiian music, enhancing your dining experience. As night falls, enjoy the serene atmosphere, reflecting on the day's cultural discoveries.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🧃Lunch for two at mid-range cafe | $40-70 |
| 🏨Hotel nightly (mid-range) | $150-250 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries | $70-150 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty and easy access to beaches and hikes
- Laid-back lifestyle and welcoming communities
- High costs of living and travel
- Limited public transportation and car-dependency
Places to Visit in Waihee-Waiehu
Visit one of these nice places.
Steep basalt ridges and dramatic canyon views with lush green scenery.
Viewpoint along Waihee Road offering emerald walls and waterfall glimpses in the wet season.
Iconic Iao Needle with tropical backdrop—great for sunrise or golden-hour shots.
Harbor silhouettes and pastel skies reflecting on calm water for coastal photography.
Food in Waihee-Waiehu
Waihee-Waiehu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fresh ahi tuna with sesame, soy, and greens; widely available at markets and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
Rice, hamburger patty, fried egg, and gravy—comfort food found at many local diners and plate lunch spots.
Meat (often pork) wrapped in taro leaves and slowly steamed; common at local delis and luau offerings.
Slow-roasted pork prepared in traditional pits, typically served with cabbage and poi in luau settings.
A quintessential Maui meal combo: meat, two scoops of sides, and macaroni salad.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly stalls offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and local handmade goods.
Indoor market with poke stalls, tropical fruit, and grab-and-go local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Show respect at temples and sacred locations; ask for permission before taking photos of people or ceremonies.
Casual, respectful attire is common; greet with aloha and remove hats when indoors in some venues.
Safety
Tipping in Waihee-Waiehu
Ensure a smooth experience
Typical restaurant tipping is 15-20% of the bill; round up for small services, and tip housekeeping in hotels if service is appreciated.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is useful for markets and small vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
June–August brings sunny days with steady trade winds; beaches are busy, water is warm, and hydration is essential.
September–November offers pleasant days with cooler evenings; surf remains manageable on many beaches; occasional showers possible.
November–February sees more rain in the valleys and higher surf on north-facing shores; pack rain gear and warm layers for evenings.
March–May brings milder weather and blooming landscapes; mornings can be misty, with evolving wildlife viewing opportunities.
Waihee-Waiehu at Night
Hiking in Waihee-Waiehu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Challenging, high-elevation hike with sweeping views over Waihee Valley.
Gentle to moderate rainforest trails with lush scenery and the iconic Needle.
Cool, forested hikes at higher elevations with pine forest scenery.
Airports
How to reach Waihee-Waiehu by plane.
Maui’s main airport for inter-island and international flights; located near Kahului; typically 15–25 minutes from central Waihee-Waiehu depending on traffic.
Small regional airport serving inter-island flights; located near Kapalua on the west coast; about 40–60 minutes from Waihee-Waiehu.
Inter-island service to Molokai; farther from Waihee-Waiehu but used for island hopping.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Long-standing families and newer residents with strong community ties and a sense of heritage.
Seasonal travelers drawn to beaches, hiking, and cultural experiences.
People maintaining traditional language, practices, and arts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Traditional water sport commonly practiced along Maui’s coastlines.
Kanaha Beach and other spots are popular for wave riding and windsurfing.
Multiple courses across Maui offering varying difficulty and scenery.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Waihee-Waiehu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Maui, vegetarian options are widely available at markets and many restaurants; look for veggie plates, tofu or seafood substitutions, and fresh fruit.