Maui County, officially the County of Maui, is a county in the U.S. state of Hawaii. It consists of the islands of Maui, Lānaʻi, Molokaʻi (except for a portion of Molokaʻi that comprises Kalawao County), Kahoʻolawe, and Molokini. The latter two are uninhabited. As of the 2020 census, the population was 164,754. The county seat is Wailuku. Maui County is included in the Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina, HI Metropolitan Statistical Area of the United States.
Cities and Towns in Maui County, Hawaii
- Haiku: Located on Maui’s north shore, Haiku is known for its rural charm and lush landscapes, popular with those seeking a quieter, more natural setting.
- Haliimaile: A small, upcountry community known for its pineapple plantation history and now home to local artists and a renowned distillery.
- Hana: Famous for its seclusion and natural beauty, Hana is a remote town on Maui’s eastern shore, accessible by the winding Road to Hana.
- Hoʻolehua: Located on Molokaʻi, this small community is close to the Molokaʻi Airport and is known for its agricultural lands.
- Kaanapali: A popular resort area on Maui’s west coast, known for its beautiful beaches, golf courses, and luxury accommodations.
- Kahakuloa: A remote and small village on Maui’s northwest coast, known for its scenic beauty and traditional Hawaiian lifestyle.
- Kahului: The largest city in Maui County, Kahului is the commercial and retail hub, hosting the island’s main airport and harbor.
- Kapalua: A luxury resort area on Maui’s northwest coast, known for its golf courses, high-end accommodations, and beautiful bays.
- Kaumalapau: The main harbor on the island of Lānaʻi, primarily serving cargo ships.
- Kaunakakai: The largest town on Molokaʻi, known for its laid-back atmosphere and deep Hawaiian roots.
- Keanae: A small, isolated peninsula along the Road to Hana, known for its taro fields and dramatic coastline views.
- Keokea: An upcountry Maui community with a rural atmosphere, known for its local produce and art scene.
- Kihei: A sunny beach town on Maui’s southwest shore, popular for its beaches, snorkeling, and relaxed lifestyle.
- Kipahulu: A remote area on Maui’s eastern shore, part of Haleakalā National Park, known for its waterfalls and pools.
- Kualapuu: A small town on Molokaʻi, known for its coffee plantation and as a gateway to the Kalaupapa National Historical Park.
- Kula: An upcountry Maui community known for its farms, botanical gardens, and panoramic views.
- Lahaina: A historic whaling village turned popular tourist destination on Maui’s west coast, famous for its Front Street. The town was severely damaged in the deadly Maui fires of August 2023 and is on a path to rebuilding and recovery.
- Lanai City: The only town on Lānaʻi, known for its unique character, pine-lined streets, and small-town feel.
- Launiupoko: A community on West Maui known for its agricultural lots, luxury estates, and stunning ocean views.
- Maalaea: A small community on Maui’s central coast, home to a harbor, aquarium, and gateway to the Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary.
- Mahinahina: A residential area on Maui’s west coast, known for its quiet neighborhoods and proximity to beaches.
- Makawao: An upcountry town known for its paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture and arts community.
- Makena: A luxurious area on Maui’s south shore, known for its beautiful beaches and golf courses.
- Manele: A resort area on Lānaʻi, home to luxury accommodations and a beautiful harbor.
- Maunaloa: A small town on the west end of Molokaʻi, known for its quiet, rural atmosphere.
- Napili-Honokowai: A residential and tourist area on Maui’s west coast, known for its beautiful beaches and snorkeling spots.
- Olinda: An upcountry Maui area known for its cooler climate and forested landscapes.
- Olowalu: A small community on Maui’s west coast, known for its historic general store and coral reef.
- Paia: A small, bohemian town on Maui’s north shore, known for its surf culture, art galleries, and proximity to windsurfing spots.
- Pauwela: A small community on Maui’s north shore, near Haiku, known for its rural charm.
- Pukalani: An upcountry Maui town, its name means “heavenly gate,” known for its golf course and cooler climate.
- Puʻunene: A small community in central Maui, known for its sugar mill history and the Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum.
- Spreckelsville: A residential area on Maui’s north shore, known for its windsurfing beaches and golf courses.
- ʻUalapuʻe: A small community on Molokaʻi’s south shore, known for its fishponds and historical significance.
- Waihee: Located on Maui’s north shore, known for its lush landscapes and the Waihee Ridge Trail.
- Waiehu: A community on Maui’s north coast, known for its golf course and beach parks.
- Waikapu: A small town in central Maui, known for its plantation history and the Maui Tropical Plantation.
- Waikolu: A remote valley on Molokaʻi, accessible only by hiking or helicopter, known for its natural beauty.
- Wailea: A luxurious resort community on Maui’s south shore, known for its high-end hotels, golf courses, and shopping.
- Wailua: A small community on the east end of Molokaʻi, known for its traditional Hawaiian lifestyle.
- Wailuku: The county seat of Maui County, Wailuku is a historic town with government offices and cultural sites.
Each of these communities contributes to the diverse and rich tapestry that makes Maui County a unique and attractive destination.