Ho'okipa Beach Park, located on the North Shore of Maui near Paia, is a spacious state park and surfing spot featuring a beautiful white sand beach, picnic areas and pavilions. This area is not only popular with surfers but also attracts whale watchers who can enjoy watching whales in the background while surfers ride waves in the foreground.
Great place to see sea turtles! The parking lot is one way, which makes it a little easier to navigate. We got lucky and found a spot near the lifeguard tower and restrooms. The turtles were resting near on the beach just below the lifeguard tower. Make sure you keep your distance and do not approach them!! Follow all posted signs.
There were also tons of surfers to watch in the big waves. I would definitely not go in the water here unless you're an experienced surfer since the surf is big and rough.
April Whittemore — Google review
This beach is definitely not for swimming but if you are a surfer and definitely not a beginner Surfer this is a place to go. These photos were taken a little bit away from the beach park area we were more on the cliff at the end which is really the point but you can sit on the beach park and watch the Surfers spectacular and definitely lots of turtles there. There are picnic tables out there for you to kick back and enjoy the show.
Gina Valencia — Google review
This is a popular place for tourists and locals for surfing, snorkeling and swimming just up the road from Mama's Fish House. The surf was pretty cooperative today because it can get pretty rough. A portion of the beach area was closed to the public because of the sea turtle activity. We saw about a dozen or so sunning themselves in the sand. The lookout area is a great place to watch the surfers and see the turtles from a distance. No need to get close and disturb them. There is a quick trail down to the tide pools which can get you closer to some of the turtles if they are swimming in the area. Hold on to your hats out here because the winds are pretty strong. Only one outhouse at the lookout, but I would hold it if I were you.
Alex A — Google review
Fantastic place to watch and photograph Turtles. Bring a good telephoto lens. Good surfing, lifeguard stand has surfing info. Their main concern is that you stay clear of the Turtles.
charlie compton — Google review
Gorgeous! Last day of my trip before heading to the airport. Bam! DOZENS OF SEA TURTLES!!! Big waves. Lot of fun watching the surfers. Definitely has more of a locals vibe to it which is appreciated.
Nick Taylor — Google review
We stopped on our way to Mama's fish house. It is absolutely gorgeous. We were so lucky as we saw a sea lion and about 20 sea turtles. It was one of our most favorite experiences ❤️. ( please if you go there is a ten foot distance to be kept between you and the turtles this is for their protection ) respect nature and appreciate the gift it is. Thank you.
Karl Dehnert — Google review
There is no better place to see sea turtles in Maui. I didn't try counting, but there is easily more than fifty. Parking can be tough to find, but the stop is well worth it. Plus you'll see lots of locals surfing in the area as well.
Eric — Google review
This beach was beautiful! We only had about 20 minutes, and we had hoped to see turtles on the beach as we had been told this was a common spot for them. We did not see any on the beach in the brief time we had, but we saw many swimming in the waves. I wonder if the tide was not favorable for them at the time we were there (2 in the afternoon). Even though we did not see the turtles like we hoped, the beach was worth the stop! This is a very popular spot, so parking was challenging.
Andrew Kassouf — Google review
Really Cool Sunset views here. There is a board walk you can walk on that goes to a trail and you can hike on the trails cool rocks and see cool coves here. It’s also a nice layout beach.
Lance Winegar — Google review
Beautiful spot! Though lots of tourists, but that's to be expected. Would love to see a surf competition here some time, but I was content to see the massive bale of turtles that visited that day! Also walked through the parking lot and down into the pictured area to get a great view of some rocks and ocean. Someone put ornaments on a tree between the upper and lower parking lots, that seems pretty not cool .. I hope they removed that after the holidays.
Hannah Rose — Google review
We were informed you would find sea turtles on the beach and weren't let down.
Beach is nice, bunch of people surfing. Good rinse station. Small parking lot and there is a restroom
Joshua OBrien — Google review
Fantastic and gorgeous. We’ve stopped here just to see the turtles on our way back to accommodation. Even if it was a bit crowded, with many tourists looking at the turtles, worth the visit. There is a fence to protect the turtles from people and you should respect that. Once again, beautiful.
Ovidiu B — Google review
The most wonderful beach in the world! A local vendor told us about it and she said that the turtles show up at about 2pm-3pm & they just hang out and sunbathe for hours! They are SO ADORABLE! **NO TOUCHING!**. STAY PONO (righteous/respectful) & there's signs & a rope blocking their spot off. But oh my goodness if you're looking to see sea turtles up close and personal, THIS IS THE PLACE!
Natty and Daddy Show — Google review
Phenomenal place to either just watch big waves come crashing in, or sit in the shade and enjoy some sea turtles. Beautiful spot. Spend the day in the surf. Its just mesmerizing.
Ross Jordan — Google review
Spend the day here enjoying the views of the pacific ocean from the rocky lava cliffs or watching the surfers ride the waves while sharing the beach with the sea turtles that are basking in the sun! You can also enjoy laying out on the beach or picnicking under the picnic shelter. This stop should be on everyone's Maui bucket list!! You won't be disappointed!
Geeg X3 — Google review
This place can get very crowded, and it can be challenging to park close to the beach. However, there is ample parking atop the hill that involves a short walk. We LOVED watching the many Hawaiian Green Turtles sunning themselves on the shore -- it's quite a site to behold. And the view from the top (where the parking lot is located) is incredible!
Melissa D — Google review
The beach is crunchy brown and beautiful 😍. The surf and ocean colours are mind blowing. Lovely spot to bring the kiddies, die to shallow rock protected pools right on the beach. Or bring your chairs are park up on the bluff...the scenery can't be beat!!
Linda Crook — Google review
Really great place to watch the surfers, kite surfers, hydrofoils, and wind surfers. First visit was during a surfing competition. There are always turtles popping up in the water, and their resting spot is easily viewable. There were a lot of people smoking by the picnic tables. We spent a few hours here but moved around a lot to avoid the cigarette smoke.
Laura Vanderbeek — Google review
This is one of the beautiful beaches in Maui.
It is a must visit if you are in Maui.
At the look out in the top the views are fantastic, you can see the surfers 🏄 doing the surfing at 20 feet giant waves.
It is an amazing feeling to watch the ocean, and the beautiful back drop of the views.
Parking is free, decent parking space.
At the right side corner they are good number of turtles resting, it’s an amazing feeling to see them in their natural habitat, it is the best feeling I can say.
Vijay devara — Google review
About 25 years ago, I went to Oahu and saw 2 turtles 🐢 on the beach. Last year in Maui, I didn't see any because we didn't go to a beach. This time, I was not going to leave without spotting turtles. Well, the gold mine of turtles are here! You can't go up to them because a certain area on this beach is a protected area for them. I'm appreciative of that. They need a safe space. Anyway, head on out there. You won't be disappointed.
Side note: There is another place called Turtle Town at a beach that begins with an M.
If you are a surfer, THIS IS YOUR SPOT. The waves were so strong. You could thrive or die here. Depends on your swimming/surfing skills 🤷🏽♀️
Van — Google review
The view from the beach and on the beach is perfect, especially if you are lucky enough to meet surfers. Unfortunately, it doesn't seem like the most ideal beach for swimming, but you can certainly relax and enjoy the view. And there are also loyal "visitors" who came to brighten up life on this beautiful island!
Tomislav Vukasović — Google review
This is a great beach for surfing, which I don't do. But it's also a great beach for watching surfers and wind sailing/surfing. We enjoyed watching their moves, some great waves. Not the best for laying on the beach and catching some rays. Bonus, there were a ton of green sea turtles in a secluded section. It was amazing to see them up close, sunning themselves. And saw a few come in or go out with the rising tide.
janet schott — Google review
Amazing place to see turtles and fly drones! I absolutely love the way this beach is setup. Their is two different parking lots and the first is absolutely amazing for the views of surfers and the landscape. Lower towards the beach is a quaint parking area and a great place for picnics.
Average Bear — Google review
Love this beach. It does get busy, and sometimes parking is hard to find. Love the sea turtles. I am happy that they have made it harder for people to get down to the turtles and disturb their egg laying process. I am amazed that some people have no respect for these animals and will walk their eggs into the ground to get a picture for their Instagram.
Beautiful beach about a mile before you enter Paia from the west (Wailuku). Covered picnic bench area, fresh water rinse (it's in the middle of the sand, and is just a short length of hose on a spigot, so washing the sand off your feet feels a bit futile). Has a lifeguard station and ample dirt lot parking. Came here for the sunset and was not disappointed. You can watch the planes leave the airport from here, so take that as a plus or a minus, depending on your state of mind.
Gary Chow — Google review
One of the best beaches on Maui. Things to know, the water is very dirty during the Windward monsoon and other large rain events. Dont swim in it, and if you do, shower after. The views are spectacular, and it is best in the morning.
Andrew Gibbs — Google review
The sand is coarse, and rough, and irrating and gets everywhere.
L U — Google review
Beautiful water and sand.. Even saw some turtles!
Mary Bixler — Google review
Please treat this beautiful beach with immense Aloha.
Chris Barense — Google review
Currently closed for pavilion demolition. Excellent beach for walks anytime of day throughout the year. Beautiful trees border the sandy beaches.
Rebecca Boers — Google review
Nice beach, lots of sand! Great places to hang out. Do yoga. Eat a snack. Catch some sun, play in the water!
Kacee Kemper — Google review
Rainy Day in PAIA Friday DrumCircle..So instead of going home we all decided to Drum/Dance in the Pavilion/Baldwin beach..Had a great time & Stayed DRY... Blessings...7/6/2018...
Glen Lacy — Google review
Ita funking awesome. Amd seeing the north shore Maui change slowly is priceless be safe swimming if your new to the ocean please :)
Nestled in Paia, the Maui Dharma Center is a vibrant Tibetan Buddhism temple that welcomes visitors to explore its colorful surroundings and partake in Sunday and Thursday services led by Venerable Lama Gyaltsen. The center also houses a gift shop offering an array of study and ritual materials such as mala beads, incense, Tibetan singing bowls, thankgas, and prayer flags.
I was recently introduced to Buddhism a few years ago and began practicing Vipassana daily about 1 year ago. We kept walking by and each time I’d tell my partner my plans to meditate here. After we were robbed of all of our belongings we immediately came here to meditate. The garden appeared closed but a monk directed us around the side to an opening and invited us to stay. I meditated for some time with the soft woody clapping of the enormous tropical plant leaves jostling in the wind. I felt safe here to permit the intense thoughts and feelings I was experiencing despite STRONG aversion. Turns out they were impermanent; my internal space was entirely different when I left. I’m so grateful for the existence of the Maui Dharma Center and the teachings of the Buddha; every day I grow freer from the entrapment of my conditioning.
‘Bare attention also brings the mind to a state of rest. An untrained mind is often reactive, clinging to what is pleasant and condemning what is unpleasant, grasping what is liked, pushing away what is disliked, reacting with greed and hatred. A tiring imbalance of mind. As bare attention is cultivated more and more we learn to experience our thoughts and feelings, situations and other people, without the tension of attachment or aversion. We begin to have a full and total experience of what it is that’s happening, with a restful and balanced mind.’ - Joseph Goldstein
Lee G — Google review
Was really surprised to see this here. Didn’t think such a place would be so close to a tourist area. I didn’t get to go inside as it was closed that day. Also didn’t think such a place followed US holiday schedules. But who am I think think otherwise…
One old lady looked at me weird and I said I wasn’t going in the housing area but just taking pictures from the parking lot. She said ok nicely and went on her way. However a couple minutes later got a piercing look from another old lady sweeping the Stupa area. I would think a place like this would be more welcoming. But who am I to think otherwise…
Sam Sanson — Google review
The paintings in da stupa I have heard they were painted in4 days by some woman,-amazing. Turn the wheel clockwise and send your prayers and blessings out into the world.
Julie “Pupule julie” Neizman — Google review
The Maui Dharma Center follows the teachings of Gautama Buddha who lived over 2,500 years ago and is a wonderful place to visit to meditate or just to check out and walk around.
This Tibetan Shrine is dedicated to creating the opportunity to meet, utilize and integrate these ancient, humanitarian spiritual values into everyday modern life. The highest Buddhist goal is to attain the perfect union of compassion and wisdom in order to benefit others. Love and blessing!!
Manfred Arndt — Google review
We visited the Dharma Center on a closed day. The monks were very friendly and invited us in and offered us water as it was a hot day. Very peaceful place !!
Omu Sherpa — Google review
A wonderful place for short stay, meditation and Dharma practice.
J. W. — Google review
Peaceful spiritual place. Positive energy through out the temple.
dushyant chanan — Google review
Very much appreciate this sacred Stupa and Dharma Center in the heart of Paia town. It's rare to find such a holy place as this in the U.S. and especially one that is so accessible. The Stupa is open everyday from 6 am - 6:30 pm and was designed by the Resident Teacher the Venerable Lama Gyaltsen. After great efforts for it to be built, the Stupa was afterwards consecrated by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. There's an exquisitely large wooden prayer wheel inside including decorative, colorful paintings of Chenrezig, Green Tara and Buddha Amitabha inside the small shrine room. There's a lovely-sounding bell that is rung each time the wheel goes around, a comforting reminder of the positive intention for peace, love and joy for all beings.
Buddhist temple on the main street of Paia. The stupa is impressive and there is a small garden near it which was very nice. The staff at the place were nice. Really special atmosphere. Highly recommended to visit here while visiting Paia.
Gal N — Google review
Very nice and beautiful stupa with a big turning bell inside. Nice Buddha arts inside the stupa that incorporated with locals Hawaii’s culture.
Beautiful beach. It was very wavy the day we were there. Definitely not safe for anyone that isn't very experienced.
Susanna Miles — Google review
While this is listed as a park, it is basically beach access closes to Paia town. The park does continue down away and does have facilities. Many local families, few tourist. very laid back vibe......really Màui! The waves kicked up on my second trip as video shows. The kids were out on their boogie boards ripping it!
Eddie M. — Google review
Nice little tourist town.
Here are some pics of the ocean after you pass through Pa'ia.
joslyn mcbride — Google review
This beach was tops for us while visiting all of the Hawaiian islands. It has a private beach feel to it and is just a quick 6 minute walk from downtown Paia. The views are remarkable, and we even saw a couple of sea turtles swimming close by! There was not a lot of people at this beach, but the atmosphere was very welcoming. Recommend taking the family using Uber as it is only a $20 one way ride from the Maui mall. Take lots of pics as everything will be postcard quality!!
Michael R. Ingelsby — Google review
We did a quick drive by on our way back from cliff jumping. Super beautiful and loved how may sea turtles were hanging out on the beach. Truly would have loved to sit on the beach.
Jacqueline Hernandez — Google review
My Daughter found this beautiful beach, while we were on a helicopter tour. The water and beach are beautiful. We even seen some sea turtles sun bathing. They have plenty of shops and restaurants just two short blocks away. You can definitely spend the day.
Douglas Considine — Google review
Really neat place for a great beach experience
Waves at times..but clean place..
Love the outdoor shower and a reasonably clean restroom.
If lucky, you may find this huge turtle...looks like sick and need some attention from the local conservation department
Saj Geo — Google review
Nice beach.. you can see turtles around.. best for photos in the evening at sunset time ..
Sainath B — Google review
Really nice Beach. Waves were decent from what my crew said. The parking situation can be difficult in the afternoon. Restroom available, but dirty. A few homeless people inhabit the area.
I visited the studio before the pandemic. I was very impressed with the work I saw there. After the pandemic I order Adieu to cover up the unsightly circuit box in the foyer of my apartment. I think I need to repaint the hallway in a dark color and have a spotlight on Adieu so that it will pop.
Paul Priest — Google review
We went in and my 10 year old was looking at the various photographs trying to pick out one she wanted. The owner was very encouraging and kind to her. She was patient and talked with her about her art collection. They have beautiful work in there too!
Sharon Graeber — Google review
I was one of the first to walk into their new studio in May. Beautiful work. I loved the vivid colors and how unique each piece was. It's certainly worth a stop.
Andy — Google review
Absolutely stunning photographs in this small studio. Definitely worth stopping in to check them out if you are in Paia; if you're lucky you may even run into one of the Cesere brothers and get to talk to them about their experiences capturing the amazing images.
Ian Tucker — Google review
We went in, and the art was nice, but the guy at the counter was texting the whole time and then was really unnecessarily rude when we asked about a shark photo.
Gerin St. Claire — Google review
Great gallery with lots of beatifull art! We bought our poke pig here. We love him :)
Per-Olof Swedmark — Google review
Unbelievable work if you have a chance go see it the pig my favorite
Mantokuji Mission in Paia is a cultural gem, originally established as a Buddhist temple for Nisei Japanese immigrants. The annual Obon Ceremony and Festival held here in August is a must-see, featuring traditional dances and delicious food. The temple's architecture and serene surroundings make it a favorite stop on Maui, offering beautiful views of the ocean. Despite the erosion at the nearby beach, this sacred place remains an important part of Uchnanchu heritage and history.
This was actually my favorite stop on Maui . Imagine your final resting place with a view of the ocean.
Patrick McGourty — Google review
Beautiful place
Brett Endless — Google review
Beautiful temple in Paia. Obon festival celebrates ancestors.
Isaac Haupt — Google review
Beautiful, peaceful, Sacred. Right by Baby Beach.
Michelle Peacock — Google review
Beautiful grounds and architecture. The erosion at the beach is devastating. Hopefully an environmentally friendly permanent solution can be found to save the property.
Adam V — Google review
Very nice temple on the ocean. The obon season is here and they have a great obon festival!
Rick Collins — Google review
Just stopped in the check out the sights. Interesting place with history.
Duane Stone — Google review
Cultural gem for the Buddhist temple in the Paia camp in the depression Era prior to WWII. Still active service for a dwindling population of Nisei Japanese immigrants. The Summer O Bon dance a cultural must during August.
Elsonian — Google review
The obon ceremony was lovely. Well decorated comma clean grounds. This community is in need of funds, and that the sea is a routing there Cemetery and approaching the church. The former resident Minister returned from Japan to hold a service, which was excellent. The food they served after the ceremony was wonderful. Very enjoyable. I'm not a Buddhist and I did not feel uncomfortable or an outsider.
Royce Kent — Google review
Beautiful temple at the beach. Love the Uchnanchu heritage in this temple.
Pāʻia Secret Beach, also known as Paako Cove, is a hidden gem located near Makena Beach in Hawaii. This beautiful beach is situated in a quiet residential neighborhood and is surrounded by lava rock walls, making it secluded and private. Despite being one of the most photographed beaches in Hawaii, it remains relatively unknown to most people. The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling, although caution should be exercised due to occasional high currents.
It's an absolute special place. Also known as Baldwin Beach . Safe haven for locals and sea turtles. Both need space and to be respected. Beach has the softest sand and clear water. Please use reef safe sun tan lotion
Please, take all trash out, including your doggies poop.
Karen Thiess — Google review
Beware, this is a clothing optional beach. It wasn't crowded the day I visited. Very relaxing! The must wear clothing/family public beach area is just over the rocks. A bonus is the Green Sea Turtles on the public beach side.
Marlene Riggs — Google review
A smaller and more remote beach slightly east of Baldwin Beach. Access via a short walking path through a homeless occupied forest opens up to a less crowded and clothing optional beach.
Eric Blair — Google review
Great waves and a good place to swim. There are turtles swimming around. It's private enough that modesty is not required, if you know what I mean.
Russell Church — Google review
Great clothing optional beach. Not as crowded as Little Beach and lots of great places to sunbathe. Water is nice for swimming, while sometimes a bit wavy when windy out. We always see at least one turtle while we are here.
Anna Grace — Google review
Gorgeous little clothing optional beach. Easy walk from the parking lot at Lower Pā'ia Park. The crowd was quite young, 60% men/40% women. The older single men mostly stayed towards the west side and there were several groups of young men and women enjoying the sun and surf completely nude. As a bonus there were 5 large honu sunning themselves on the beach. The entire afternoon was quite refreshing and liberating 🤙
Dan T — Google review
Best beach in Maui IMO.... gorgeous sugary sand , crystal clear water and awesome manageable waves for hours of fun and we even spotted some turtles 🐢
Louise Borg — Google review
Loved this place! It was great to enjoy a Hawaii beach with virtually no crowds. It felt like we had the entire beach to ourselves. The sand was soft, water was a bit cold, but a great day to enjoy some sun at the beach.
Pueo Gallery offers a diverse range of artwork, including prints, photography, and glass art. The gallery is aesthetically pleasing and reasonably priced. Lyle, who works at the gallery, provides excellent customer service by discussing various options in person and via email. He even suggests taking pictures of spaces to help determine the right size and piece for customers. The gallery supports local artists like Erik Abel whose work can be purchased there.
New gallery, we purchased a print by Erik Abel. We are excited to frame it for our home. They have print, photography and glass art. Support local artists!
Brent Pearse — Google review
So glad we stopped in to view the beautiful art work. I too am a photographer and I know (or at least consider myself knowledgeable about fine photogtaphic art prints and while while Hawai'i is a photographers paradise, the artist in residence has quite a good eye. He invited me to go shooting sunsedta with him when I return to Maui one day, and I hope to have that opportunity one day.
Jeffrey Katz — Google review
Loved this Gallery. Beautifully designed with reasonable prices. Lyle's photography is spectacular. Went in with idea of purchasing one piece and came away with three. We will return on our next trip!
Barbara Crist — Google review
Just remembered to leave a great experience now, but was there in December. Absolutely loved the entire gallery. You could tell if there was a lot of thought and not only the art, but in the way that the art was presented. Not only that but customer service was wonderful!! I spoke at length with Lyle’s mother and was so impressed with everything. Would definitely recommend to anyone who is visiting Maui. Lyle’s eye and and attention to detail Is what makes his photos stick out among a sea of ocean photographers.
jeff hainsworth — Google review
Lyle was fantastic on talking about options in the Gallery and later via email! He even told us to take a picture of a space and email him the dimensions so he can help us find the right size and piece! Thanks Lyle!!
James — Google review
My partner and I found several pieces that we loved at Pueo, and Lyle and Linda were both flexible and prompt in answering our questions after we had left Pa’ia. We look forward to seeing our new art in our home.
Abode Maui Retreats is a facility that offers a range of services for individuals seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. Situated in a serene and tranquil environment, this retreat center provides various amenities to enhance one's well-being. Guests can partake in activities such as yoga, meditation, and spa treatments to promote harmony between the mind and body. Abode Maui Retreats also offers comfortable accommodations, ensuring a restful stay for all visitors.
Eternal Riders International is an exceptional place of worship, led by the remarkable Pascal. This small yet visionary chapel attracts individuals from various Christian backgrounds, providing a heartfelt experience for both long-time believers and newcomers to the faith. With a strong emphasis on serving the surfer community, ER engages in commendable work. For those seeking inspiration and spiritual guidance, their Sunday service at 10:15 offers a down-to-earth message accompanied by delightful refreshments and uplifting music.
Beautiful welcoming down to earth welcoming sweet beautiful music love community perfect for all humans ONLY LOVE IS REAL ❤️🙏🌈🌊
Jana Bradford — Google review
ER is a small chapel and community of gospel centered extreme sports enthusiasts. They have church service Sundays at 10:15, with coffee and croissants, good music, and great message.
Luis Castro — Google review
Pascal is a wonderful teacher and peacher who will touch your heart, whether you are a long time Christian or going to church for the first time. It's a little church with a big vision and great friends. Eternal Riders is doing wonderful work in the surfer community, check them out and grab some gear 🙂
Josef Guenther — Google review
It is a Christian Sports ministry. A KC Chapel Paia meets here every Sunday at 10.15am.
Sreedhar Subramaniam — Google review
Inspiring down to Earth message.. Favorite Maui Church!!
Sherry Grumbles — Google review
Such a chill place to worship God. So blessed to have had this experience.