Haiku Travel Guide

Explore the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking and biking routes, best things to do, food and drink scene, local culture and customs, safety guidelines, and transportation options for your visit to Haiku, Maui, Hawaii.


Introduction to Haiku

Haiku is a small town situated in the northern coast of Maui, Hawaii. It is located on the Hana Highway, which is one of the most scenic routes on the island. This charming town is a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Haiku offers tourists a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and mouth-watering cuisine. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the top tourist attractions in Haiku, things to do, the best time to visit, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Haiku

The following are the top tourist attractions in Haiku that should not be missed during your visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Haiku Museum
  2. Maui Hands Gallery
  3. Haiku Mill

Natural Attractions of Haiku: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Twin Falls
  2. Ho’okipa Beach Park
  3. Haiku Forest Reserve
  4. Pua’a Ka’a State Park

Hiking/Biking Routes of Haiku

Haiku is known for its picturesque and challenging hiking and biking trails. Some of the popular hiking and biking routes in Haiku are:

  1. Makawao Forest Reserve Loop Trail
  2. Waihou Spring Trail
  3. Waihe’e Ridge Trail
  4. Bamboo Forest Trail

Best Things to Do in Haiku: Activities and Tours

Haiku offers tourists a range of activities and tours to choose from. Some of the best things to do in Haiku are:

  1. Surfing Lessons at Ho’okipa Beach Park
  2. Zip-lining in the Maui Forest
  3. Whale Watching Tour
  4. Coffee Farm Tour

Week-Long Itinerary for Haiku

In this section, we will provide you with a week-long itinerary for Haiku that covers all the top attractions and activities in the town.

Day Activities
1 Visit Haiku Museum and Maui Hands Gallery
2 Hiking and Biking at Makawao Forest Reserve Loop Trail and Waihou Spring Trail
3 Visit Twin Falls and Pua’a Ka’a State Park
4 Surfing at Ho’okipa Beach and Sunset at Haiku Mill
5 Zip-lining in the Maui Forest and Whale Watching Tour
6 Coffee Farm Tour and Visit Waihe’e Ridge Trail
7 Relax at the Beach or Explore Local Shops for Souvenirs and Local Products

Food and Drink Scene of Haiku

Haiku is a foodie’s paradise, offering a diverse range of food and drink options. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Poke Bowl at Nuka
  2. Tacos at Maui Tacos
  3. Sushi at Sushi Bar and Grill
  4. Pizza at Flatbread Co.

Local Beverages

  1. Mai Tai at Colleen’s at the Cannery
  2. Kombucha at Bucha Bar
  3. Craft Beer at Maui Brewing Company

Where to Stay in Haiku: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Haiku offers a range of accommodations, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some options:

  1. Lumeria Maui
  2. Haiku Plantation Inn
  3. Maui Tradewinds
  4. Banana Bungalow Maui Hostel

What to Buy in Haiku: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Haiku is known for its local and organic products, including coffee, honey, and tropical fruits. Here are some other souvenirs you can take back home:

  1. Handmade Jewelry at Lee Olulani Jewelry
  2. Maui-made Soap at Surfing Goat Soap
  3. Maui-made Candles at Maui Tarts

Local Culture and Customs of Haiku

Haiku has a rich cultural history, with influences from Asian, Hawaiian, and European cultures. Visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and traditions. Some of the customs to keep in mind are:

  • Remove shoes before entering homes and temples
  • Avoid wearing revealing clothing in sacred places
  • Show respect to elders and the community

Best Time to Visit Haiku

The best time to visit Haiku is between November and April when the weather is cool and dry. During this time, you can enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about excessive heat or humidity. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so make sure to book accommodations and tours in advance.

Do’s and Don’ts of Haiku

Do:

  • Respect the environment
  • Learn about local customs and etiquette
  • Take part in local festivals and events

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Disrespect cultural sites and traditions
  • Engage in illegal activities

Safety and Health

Safety in Haiku

Haiku is a relatively safe town, but visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety. Here are some tips:

  • Stay aware of your surroundings
  • Keep valuables out of sight
  • Use common sense when exploring remote areas

Health in Haiku

Visitors to Haiku should take precautions to avoid heat exhaustion and dehydration. Wear loose-fitting clothing and a hat, use sunscreen, and carry water.

Getting to Haiku: Transportation Options and Logistics

Haiku can be reached by air, bus, or car.

Airports Near Haiku

Kahului Airport is the nearest airport to Haiku, located approximately 10 miles away.

Bus Stations Near Haiku

There are several bus stations near Haiku, including the Wailuku Transit Center and the Kahului Transit Center.

Other Options

Visitors can also rent a car or hire a taxi to reach Haiku from nearby destinations.

How to Get Around in Haiku

Renting a car is the best way to get around Haiku as it offers greater flexibility. Visitors can also use taxis or book tours to explore the area. Biking is another option for exploring the town and nearby areas.

Where to Go Next from Haiku: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Haiku is conveniently located near several other attractions on the island. Some of the nearby destinations and excursions are:

  1. Hana Highway
  2. Haleakala National Park
  3. Paia Town
  4. The Road to Hana

Conclusion

Haiku is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its natural wonders, cultural experiences, and mouth-watering cuisine, it is a destination that should not be missed during your visit to Maui. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your perfect trip to Haiku.