Welcome to Haiku
Picturesque rural community with vivid tropical forests and panoramic views from dramatic bluffs
A small, tranquil community hidden away from the rest of Maui’s bustle, Haiku’s rugged coastline and lush jungle are renowned for their beauty and rich history. Vine-wrapped stone structures from the past, raw, resplendent tropical scenery, and a pervasive warmth from the local population all allow Haiku to feel like a lesser-known gem of the island.
Early Haiku was known for its prominence in the sugar industry until an irrigation system in the 1870s allowed water from Haiku to funnel to the rest of the island and create a more expansive sugar empire. From sugar to a pineapple plantation to a small rural community, Haiku still feels largely untouched by modernity in the best way.
Despite its size, homes in Haiku truly dazzle with their size and abundance of luxe features. While there are a small number of pre-1940s homes and residences throughout the 20th century, the majority of homes in Haiku are more modern and come packed with high-end customizations and palpable style. Hilltop homes with staggering coastal views and unbelievable estates with plentiful acreage are the norm here - making each day your own private paradise.
What to Love
• Surfer’s paradise along Maui’s north-facing coastline
• Secluded and private, away from the tourist bustle
• Tons of nature and outdoor recreation at your fingertips
People & Lifestyle
Haiku is considered a conglomerate with Paulwea, and the two communities share a sense of isolated luxury melded with homey Mom-and-Pop storefronts to meet their day-to-day needs. Surfers and nature-lovers flock to the area to revel in its internationally-known waves and breathtaking hiking trails.
Dining, Shopping, & Entertainment
As one of the biggest appealing facets of Haiku is its relative separation from the more commercialized parts of Maui, there isn’t an exemplary amount of retail or shopping availability. However, what Haiku lacks in big malls and name brands, it makes up for with local shops and incredible little eateries. From art studios and coffee roasters at Pauwela Cannery to the charming neighborhood grocers such as Fukushima Store, residents aren’t without great ways to meet their day-to-day needs.
The culinary offerings in Haiku are wonderfully varied, despite the community’s small size. At Nuka, the intimate atmosphere is the ideal environment in which to enjoy their decadent sushi dishes and self-milled rice. Contemporary American fares masterfully crafted from all-organic and locally sourced ingredients are the stars of the show at Colleen’s at the Cannery, whose unique wine list is a great addition to the full menu of delectable breakfast through dinner meals.
Haiku’s inclusive dining culture provides for a myriad of diets, including vegan. Maui Kombucha is a fantastic, raw vegan fusion cafe that also serves as the island’s largest kombucha brewery. For desserts, pastries, baked goods, and a whole host of other sweet treats, residents stop in at Jaws Country Market or Baked on Maui to pick up a smorgasbord of deliciousness.
Things to Do
The striking visual appeal of Haiku largely dictates the style of entertainment in the community, and most activities are based around enjoying the lush beauty or taking advantage of the stellar surfing scene. Possibly the most arresting facet of Haiku, the Haiku Mill is an unforgettable wedding venue where old-world European charm is married to the gorgeous tropical vibes of Hawaii.
The annual Ha’iku Ho’olaule’a and Flower Festival is another riveting display of the area’s verdant landscape that adds the fun of live entertainment, the best of Maui’s food trucks, and vendors. Taking an athletic approach to experiencing the outdoors, the Hana Relay is a daunting yearly race with a trail that spans 52-miles across and around the island.
Haiku is home to Maui’s best big surf break, known as Jaws. During its peak, the waves here can reach a massive 30-80 feet in height. Surfers from all over the globe are drawn to this arena of jaw-dropping waves, and each year the Jaw Big Wave Surf Championship tests the mettle of even the most experienced competitors.
Schools
Haiku is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:
• Haleakala Waldorf School, PK & K-12, well-rated private school
