Is the south or west side of Maui better?

Both areas have their own unique charm and attractions. West Maui is known for its historical landmarks, cultural entertainment and surf, while South Maui offers a more transient casual vibe, both with luxury resorts and pristine beaches. Each area also has its own distinct weather patterns and natural scenery.



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Maui's beach parks are spectacular on any side of the island, but the beaches on the leeward side are generally considered to be the most beautiful. To save you a Google search, “leeward” is a term that refers to the side sheltered from the wind.

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For a more authentic feel, skip the mega-resorts of West and South Maui and head to the North Shore, East Maui, or Upcountry, where you're more likely to interact with locals than with tourists. Upcountry is the least touristy area.

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Maui's North Shore is less developed, less crowded, has cooler days, and is in a more natural state than the popular resort areas of South and West Maui.

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The south and west side of the island are known as sunny and dry areas while the north and east coast are much more wet and lush. Having said that, we should point out that even in the wettest locations on Maui, the rain is a hit or miss.

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There's plenty of gorgeous water to be found at Maui's beach parks, but the clearest is in Honolua Bay, especially during the summer. Honolua is Hawaiian for “two harbors,” and the bay was originally used to receive ships and unload supplies.

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Compared to West Maui, you'll get to other areas of the island faster when driving from South Maui. From the airport, it takes around 30 minutes to get to South Maui. For a road trip to Hana, expect it to take 2 to 2.5 hours to get to Hana without stopping.

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Both South Maui and West Maui are located on the leeward side of the island, where you'll experience more sun, typically calmer water, and you'll have a number of beautiful beaches to visit.

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Maui's North Shore beaches are at their prime in July and August when the waves are swimmer-friendly and much smaller than during the island's renowned winter swells.

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Initially developed in the 1960s, West Maui remains one of the most popular destinations to stay and play on the island of Maui. Here you'll now find the resort area of Ka'anapali stretches along the coastline here. Ka'anapali also hosts most accommodations and eateries on the island's west side.

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Kahekili Highway One of the most dangerous roads in Maui is also considered one of the most dangerous roads in the country. This is Kahekili Highway, also known as State Highway 340. Drivers navigate rocks to one side and steep cliffs on the other for about 20 miles between Kapalua and Wailuku.

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What is Maui's South Side like? Maui's South Side is known for some of the island's most expensive real estate and its ultra high-end Wailea resorts. Nearby Kihei, just north of Wailea, is known for its relaxed beach town vibe and long stretch of sand. Both tourists and locals intermingle in Kihei.

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Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach located on Maui is known to have rough water and is reported to be one of a handful of red sand beaches around the world. Makena Beach in Maui has the nickname of “breakneck beach” because the surf breaks right on the shore, making it very dangerous to swim in.

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Weather On Maui There is a wet and a dry side to the Island. The south side of Maui, including the areas of Kihei, Wailea and Makena, is typically warm and dry, receiving less then 10 inches of rain per year. The west side, including Lahaina, Ka'anapali and Kapalua, receives more rain—nearly triple the amount.

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Hamoa Beach You might see this scenic spot if you take the popular Road to Hana drive, or if you're looking for a place to get in some snorkeling. The bright blue water draws surfers, swimmers, and snorkelers to its crystalline expanse. There's still plenty of sunbathing and camping to be done on shore, though.

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Baby Beach (Lahaina) Baby Beach is a unique treasure for families because there are reliably fewer waves here compared with other beaches, and because Lahaina—which literally means relentless sun—is balmy and beautiful most days of the year.

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Starting point: West Maui Time Estimate: As a straight drive, it's 4 to 5 hours. Directions: Take Highway 30 to Highway 380 and turn right at the traffic light. Continue on Highway 380 until you reach Highway 36, then turn right again.

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The Road to Hana is by far the most famous scenic drive on Maui! The route takes you along gorgeous spots on the island, including Paia Town, the impressive Twin Falls, Keanae, and Huelo Point Lookout.

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