Maui Neighborhood Guide
Maui Neighborhood Guide
Your full guide to real estate & lifestyle on all the beautiful sides of Maui - from a lifetime-local!
Let’s dive in, starting from South to North & West -
South Side:
Makena
One of Maui’s most luxurious neighborhoods with scenery to match! On the southern tip of Maui. Expect to find top home prices here, new construction, and unobstructed ocean views.
Wailea
Another of Maui’s most beautiful & luxurious neighborhoods - also home to the Wailea resorts, pristine beaches & golf, and some of Maui’s finest restaurants. Expect to find a wide assortment of condos & homes available here, with only a few available for short-term rental.
Kihei
Home to many of Maui’s locals, small businesses, and of course - popular beaches. Expect to find many condos, homes, and short-term rentals (as of Nov 2025, with a possibility for that to change with Bill 9.)
Central:
Wailuku
A true local’s spot - and for good reason! This central neighborhood boasts easy access to iconic spots like Iao Valley, historic Wailuku town, and beautiful Mountain scenery.
Waikapu/Waiehu/Wahe’e
Kahului
The most central spot in Maui, where you’ll find every store you need from Costco to Whole Foods - as well as the airport & hospital.
Maui Lani
Nearby Kahului, Maui Lani features newer homes & the Maui Lani Golf Course - this is a great spot for families & first-time home buyers.
Paia
Maui’s most eclectic neighborhood! You’ll find a buzzing artsy town dotted with small shops & restaurants, the famous Mama’s Fish House, and some of the most famous surfing. Look here for a home if you’re into water sports, arts, or nightlife.
Sprecklesville
Like Paia, this nearby neighborhood offers an ideal proximity to world-famous surfing, as well as the Maui Country Club. This is one of Maui’s more prestigious areas with many homes being spacious & near beach front.
Upcountry:
For those who dream of a slower pace, the Upcountry has it all - cool temperatures perfect for gardens, farms, and animals, lots of land, and a peaceful lifestyle. Upcountry is a highly desired part of the island and for good reason!
Kula
The further up Haleakala you go, the further into Kula you’ll find yourself. Look here for lots of land, panoramic views, cooler temps, and peace and quiet! There are also great schools close by. You won’t find many restaurants, or any nightlife - so pick this location for a relaxing lifestyle.
Makawao
Charming & quaint, this sector of the Upcountry is centered around a historic “paniolo” town featuring restaurants & shops. Nearby are lush forests
Olinda
Above Makawao sits Olinda, high on the slopes of Haleakala. This agriculture-focused neighborhood also has a creative community & a nature-focused lifestyle for hikers & ranchers alike.
Pukalani
Pukalani, also known as “hole in the heavens” features all of the benefits of Upcountry living with a slightly more urban feel - with nearby businesses & restaurants & Maui’s beloved Saturday Farmer’s market, this neighborhood offers a mix of rentals, condos, and homes for those looking for an Upcountry home.
Haiku
Haiku is a true tropical jungle, and what most imagine when they think of the Hawaiian islands! This winding, lush oasis offers a serene island lifestyle that is highly sought after, albeit remote from many daily conveniences. Most notable, Haiku gets rain daily, so choosing a home involves careful inspection for water-induced concerns.
West Side:
Olawalu / Laniopoko
Just before Lahaina, on the hills on the West Maui Mountains you’ll find Laniopoko & Olawalu - large, ranch-style homes with panoramic views dot the hills among tropical farms of all kinds. A mix of vacation rentals & long-term housing are options here.
Lahaina
Lahaina, originally the capital of Hawaii & historic town is currently being rebuilt after the devastating fires in 2023. Construction is still underway as of Nov 2025.
Ka’anapali
Continuing west, you’ll find Ka’anapalii - the resort town with pockets of luxury condos, homes, and vacation rentals. Some of Maui’s top beaches, snorkeling, shopping & real estate are found here!
Kapalua/Kahana/Napili
This luxury real estate market is known for ultra-luxury properties, mostly oceanfront, & along the award-winning golf courses. Known for exclusivity, and access to resort-style amenities.
Hana
Life in Hana is not for everyone, but for some, it’s the ultimate lifestyle -
Characterized by it’s seclusion, “old-school” hawaii vibes, historic homes & jungle properties - as well as a population of 730 people - Hana is for those who truly want to live the slow, island life.
Still have questions? Reach out to me here!