Visiting the North Shore and Waikele Outlets

Question

Hi all,

We are an early 60s Aussie couple travelling to Maui in late October this year. We’re only there for a week and would like to have a look at the famous beaches along the North Shore along with including some of the special scenery along the way. We’d also like to visit Waikele Outlets on our way back to the hotel from the north shore if possible.

We’re keen to hear any tips or recommendations on drivers who could accommodate what we’re wanting to do. The stopover in Maui is coming at the end of our trip on the US mainland so expenses could be running low by then so something that isn’t too expensive is preferable.

Obviously local knowledge is better than anything else really hence this post for advice.

Answer

Aloha! Visiting Maui’s North Shore and including a stop at Waikele Outlets is a fantastic plan. While the North Shore is on Oahu (the famous surfing and beaches like Sunset Beach and Pipeline are there), Maui also has a northern coastline with beautiful beaches, though it’s less commercialized. Since you mentioned Maui, I’ll focus on Maui’s north coast along with practical advice for shopping stops.

North Shore Highlights (Maui version):

Paia Town: A charming small town with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafés. Great for a morning stroll and coffee.
Ho’okipa Beach: Famous for windsurfing; often you’ll see pros riding waves. It’s scenic and has lookout points perfect for photography.
Hana Highway Viewpoints: Even if you’re not doing the full Road to Hana, you can stop at Twin Falls, waterfalls along the way, and short scenic lookouts.
Baldwin Beach Park: A classic Maui beach with golden sand and a relaxed vibe; perfect for a leisurely walk or sitting by the water.

Shopping Considerations:

Waikele Outlets is actually on Oahu, near Honolulu, so if your Maui trip is strictly on Maui, this stop isn’t feasible unless you’re taking inter-island flights. For Maui-based shopping options instead:

Whalers Village in Kaanapali: Oceanfront shopping center with a mix of brands, restaurants, and occasional cultural demonstrations.
Maui Mall in Kahului: Larger mall with more standard retail options, affordable for those on a budget.
Local Farmer’s Markets: Paia and Upcountry markets often have handmade goods, snacks, and souvenirs at reasonable prices.

Transportation Tips:

For a budget-friendly approach, renting a car is the most flexible. Maui roads are generally easy to drive, and having your own car allows you to stop frequently for scenic views.
If you prefer a driver, look for local shuttle services or private tour drivers who can customize a half-day or full-day tour of Maui’s north coast. Some small companies may accommodate a personalized itinerary at reasonable rates.
Ask about shared rides or small group tours that include scenic stops along the north coast; this can sometimes be cheaper than private drivers.

General Tips:

Start your day early to avoid crowds at popular beaches.
Pack water, sunscreen, and light snacks for stops along the way.
Check local weather forecasts, as the northern coasts of Maui can be wetter in late October compared to the leeward side (Kaanapali, Lahaina).

In summary, focus on Maui’s north coast beaches and scenic stops like Ho’okipa, Paia, and Baldwin Beach. For shopping, consider Maui’s malls and markets instead of Waikele, which is on Oahu. Renting a car or hiring a local driver for a half-day scenic tour will give you flexibility without breaking the budget.