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Sitting along the emerald hills of Maui’s lush north shore lies Haiku, a charming upcountry village that offers a refreshing alternative to the island’s busy beach resorts. Known for its misty jungles, rolling pastures, and laid-back vibe, Haiku is a hidden gem that draws in adventurers, artists, and travelers seeking authentic connection — to nature, culture, and themselves.
Whether you’re planning a full stay in Haiku or a quick detour off the Road to Hana, this peaceful community has much to offer. Here's how to make the most of your time in Haiku, Maui.
1. Start with Twin Falls
Kick off your adventure with a visit to Twin Falls, one of the most accessible and rewarding waterfall hikes on the island. Located just past mile marker 2 on the Road to Hana, this easy-to-moderate trail weaves through bamboo forests, guava trees, and muddy jungle paths to reach a series of waterfalls and swimming holes.
Pack water shoes and a towel — and don’t be afraid to get wet! Local vendors near the trailhead often sell fresh coconuts and smoothies, perfect for a post-hike refresh.
2. Enjoy the Haiku Marketplace
At the heart of the village is the Haiku Marketplace, a community hub filled with local food, art, and character. Set in the historic Haiku Cannery building, the marketplace includes health-conscious eateries, a kombucha bar, artisan boutiques, a surf shop, and a well-stocked general store.
Try a locally sourced poke bowl, sip on small-batch kombucha, or grab a handmade gift to remember your trip. The vibe is casual, friendly, and authentically Maui.
Colleens at the Cannery
No visit to Haiku is complete without a meal at Colleen’s at the Cannery, a beloved local staple located in the historic Haiku Cannery building. This laid-back café and bar serves up hearty breakfasts, fresh island-inspired lunches, and cozy dinners — all with a focus on quality ingredients and welcoming service.
Whether you’re fueling up before a waterfall hike or winding down after a day on the Road to Hana, Colleen’s offers something for everyone. Locals rave about the banana macadamia nut pancakes, wood-fired pizzas, and daily fish specials. The open-air seating, rustic charm, and local artwork make it a perfect spot to soak in the upcountry vibe.
Bonus: The espresso bar and cocktail menu are just as good as the food.
3. Book a Jungle Eco Tour
Haiku’s lush landscape is best explored with the help of local guides who know the trails and hidden gems. Eco-adventure tours offer a chance to hike off the beaten path, explore secret waterfalls, swing into jungle pools, and learn about native Hawaiian flora and history.
Whether you’re a family with kids or a solo explorer, these tours provide safe, insightful access to Haiku’s wild beauty — often with fresh fruit picked right from the trail.
Northshore Zipline Tour
For adrenaline with a view, NorthShore Zipline in Haiku delivers an unforgettable experience. Set on a historic World War II base in the lush upcountry jungle, this family-friendly zipline tour features seven lines, sky bridges, and soaring platforms with panoramic views of Maui’s north shore.
It’s the perfect mix of adventure and natural beauty — with expert guides, a safe and fun environment, and just enough thrill to keep your heart racing. Great for first-timers and seasoned zipliners alike, NorthShore Zipline is a must-do for anyone looking to add excitement to their Haiku itinerary.
Check out tour availabilities here!
4. Visit Ho’okipa Beach and Lookout
Though technically just outside Haiku in nearby Paia, Ho’okipa Beach Park is an essential stop. Known as a global windsurfing mecca, it also offers jaw-dropping views of the coastline and excellent sea turtle spotting — especially in the late afternoon.
Bring a camera and take a walk down to the beach where you’re likely to see dozens of honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) basking on the sand.
5. Relax at a Wellness Retreat
Haiku is home to a vibrant community of yogis, healers, and wellness seekers. It’s not uncommon to find yourself attending a sunrise yoga session overlooking a jungle valley, or joining a sound healing circle beneath the stars.
Many local retreat centers and eco-lodges offer single-day experiences or longer stays focused on mindfulness, nature connection, and self-care. Whether you're looking to deepen your practice or simply unwind, Haiku is a sanctuary for the soul.
6. Launch Your Road to Hana Adventure
Haiku serves as a perfect starting point for the legendary Road to Hana — one of the world’s most scenic drives. If you’re short on time or not ready to brave the full route, just exploring the early portion from Haiku offers lush vistas, waterfalls, botanical gardens, and coastal lookouts.
Be sure to drive carefully — the roads are narrow and winding, but the rewards are immense. Starting early from Haiku gives you a head start on the crowds.
7. Savor the Local Flavors
Haiku may be small, but it packs a flavorful punch. From Thai food trucks to vegan cafés and fresh fruit stands, there’s no shortage of delicious options. Try local specialties like taro chips, lilikoi (passion fruit) treats, or fresh-baked banana bread.
Nuka
For an unforgettable evening, check out Nuka, a beloved Japanese restaurant known for sushi made with locally caught fish and seasonal island ingredients. Reservations recommended — this spot is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Haiku is more than a place — it’s a feeling. A slow-paced, rain-kissed, quietly magical corner of Maui where life flows with the rhythms of the land. Here, you’ll trade crowded beaches for bamboo trails, loud nightlife for waterfall serenades, and screen time for starlit skies.
If you’re craving a deeper, more grounded connection to Hawaii — one rooted in nature, culture, and community — Haiku awaits with open arms and endless green horizons.
Travel Tips:
- Bring a light rain jacket — showers are frequent but often brief.
- Respect the land and trails — much of Haiku includes sacred sites and private property.
- Support local — from food to tours to handmade goods.
If you would like to read and learn more about interesting things in Hawaii! Check out our blog page here on our website!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Haiku, Maui known for?
Haiku is known for its lush rainforests, laid-back upcountry vibes, bamboo jungles, waterfalls, and artistic community. Located on Maui’s north shore, Haiku offers a peaceful escape from the crowded beach resorts and is a popular hub for travelers exploring the Road to Hana, Twin Falls, and NorthShore Zipline. It’s the perfect destination if you’re seeking authentic, nature-connected experiences in Maui.
2. Is Twin Falls in Haiku worth visiting?
Absolutely — Twin Falls Maui is one of the best waterfall hikes near Haiku and a favorite stop at the start of the Road to Hana. The trail is easy to moderate and leads to multiple waterfalls, jungle pools, and bamboo forests. It’s great for families, beginners, and anyone wanting a quick but beautiful hike.
Pro tip: Wear water shoes, expect mud, and grab a fresh coconut or smoothie from the local stands at the trailhead.
3. What can I find at the Haiku Marketplace?
The Haiku Marketplace is the heart of the village and one of the best places to eat and shop on the north shore. You’ll find:
- Local cafés and bakeries
- A kombucha bar
- Artisan shops and surf boutiques
- A general store
- Farm-to-table poke bowls and fresh island dishes
If you want an authentic taste of Haiku’s food, creativity, and community, this is the place to go.
4. Where should I eat in Haiku?
Two must-visit Haiku restaurants are:
✔ Colleen’s at the Cannery
A beloved local café with hearty breakfasts, wood-fired pizza, espresso drinks, and island-inspired entrées. Perfect before or after waterfall hikes.
✔ Nuka Sushi Maui
A north shore favorite known for its fresh local fish, creative rolls, and cozy Japanese ambiance.
Both offer the laid-back, neighborhood feel Haiku is famous for.
5. Are there any eco or jungle tours in Haiku?
Yes! Haiku is one of the best places on Maui for jungle eco tours, offering guided waterfall hikes, rope swings, jungle pools, and educational experiences about native plants and Hawaiian culture. These tours often include access to hidden spots you wouldn’t find on your own, making them ideal for families, couples, or adventure seekers.
6. Is NorthShore Zipline in Haiku good for families?
Definitely — NorthShore Zipline in Haiku is one of the top family-friendly adventures on Maui. Located on a historic WWII base, the tour features:
- 7 ziplines
- Sky bridges
- Panoramic north shore views
- Professional, fun guides
- A safe and exciting environment for kids
Guests love pairing a Haiku zipline day with Twin Falls or the early Road to Hana stops.
Check availability here: https://nszipline.com/
7. Can I visit Ho‘okipa Beach from Haiku?
Yes — Ho‘okipa Beach Park is just minutes from Haiku and is a must-see stop for:
- World-class windsurfing
- Breathtaking coastal views
- Daily sightings of honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles)
- Sunset photography
It’s one of the top beaches near Haiku and a favorite for both locals and visitors.
8. Are there wellness retreats in Haiku?
Haiku is one of Maui’s best hidden sanctuaries for yoga retreats, meditation sessions, sound healing, and eco-lodges. Many retreat centers sit on jungle ridges with ocean views, offering peaceful environments for relaxation, mindfulness, and self-care. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a restorative, nature-centered Maui experience.
9. Is Haiku a good place to start the Road to Hana?
Yes — Haiku is one of the best starting points for the Road to Hana. Beginning your journey here means you avoid the early crowds and can easily visit:
- Twin Falls
- Garden of Eden
- Rainbow Eucalyptus trees
- Early jungle lookouts
Even if you don’t drive the full route, the first portion near Haiku is lush, scenic, and unforgettable.
10. What local foods should I try in Haiku?
Haiku has a diverse and delicious food scene. Must-try items include:
- Fresh poke and taro chips
- Banana bread stands
- Thai food trucks
- Kombucha and farm-fresh smoothies
- Island-grown produce
Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or craving comfort food, Haiku’s café culture delivers.
11. Is Haiku Maui a good place to stay?
Haiku is ideal for travelers who want peace, greenery, and a more authentic side of Maui. Stay here if you love:
- Waterfalls
- Jungle hikes
- Farm stays
- Wellness retreats
- Local food scenes
- Easy access to Paia, Ho‘okipa, and early Road to Hana stops
It’s perfect for those looking to escape the busy resort areas and connect with Maui’s natural heart.
12. What should I know before visiting Haiku?
- Expect occasional rain — it’s part of the lush charm.
- Pack water shoes, bug spray, and a light rain jacket.
- Respect land and local communities — much of Haiku is rural and sacred.
- Support local shops, restaurants, and tours whenever possible.
Haiku is a place where travelers are welcomed — especially those who travel with care and aloha.
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