Paia, Maui — ranked by water quality and bacteria risk
Paʻia is a colorful surf town on Maui's north shore, known for its boutiques, health-food restaurants, and art galleries along Hana Highway. It is the last supply stop before the Road to Hana and a popular base for visitors who prefer a laid-back alternative to the resort areas.
The beaches closest to Paʻia are all within a five-minute drive — you can easily visit two or three in a single afternoon. The north shore here catches consistent trade-wind swells, making it a world-class destination for windsurfing and kiteboarding but also meaning the water can be rough for casual swimming.
All four beaches are along Hana Highway (Hwy 36) within 10 minutes of Paʻia town. Baldwin Beach and Baby Beach are just west of town, Hoʻokipa is just east, and Kanaha is further west past Kahului. You can walk to Baldwin Beach from town in about 15 minutes along the road shoulder.
Best for families: Baby Beach (shallow, calm). Best for beachgoing: Baldwin Beach (widest sand). Best for watching: Hoʻokipa (windsurfers and turtles). Best for board sports: Kanaha Beach.
After heavy rain, bacteria levels spike at beaches near streams and river mouths. If a brown water advisory is active near Paia, Maui:
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health or any government agency. Water quality ratings are estimates based on publicly available testing data and geographic analysis. They are not real-time measurements and may not reflect current conditions.
Always verify current water quality conditions with the Hawaii DOH Clean Water Branch before entering the water.
This site does not recommend or advise anyone to swim at any beach. We share government data and geographic analysis so you can make your own informed decisions. By using this site you accept full responsibility for your own safety. See our Terms of Use for full details.
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