Surf's up in Paia, an island town just steps from Maui's best camping spots.
Say aloha to Paia, an easygoing surf town nestled on Maui's famous North Shore. Beach camping, volcano hikes, and crashing waterfall vistas deliver the best of island life. For year-round Hawaiian camping, it doesn't get better. Heading toward the heart of the island, you find Haleakala National Park. Arid volcanic landscapes make it one of the most sought-after destinations on Maui. While there are several campgrounds, one top pick is Hosmer Grove. Wake up to heart-stopping views—the campground is perched at 7,000 feet. It also has picnic tables, grills, and drinking water. Are you looking for more seclusion? Trek to one of the hike-in campsites or cabins. For epic Hawaiian landscapes, head east on Hana Highway to Waianapanapa State Park. This spot is famous for its black sand beaches, lava tube caves, and epic sea stacks. Just be sure to get a camping permit before you pitch your tent. If you're craving some R and R, let the surf lull you to sleep on the north beaches of Maui. Windsurfing, swimming, and surfing are right outside your tent. But if you want to pop a wine cooler room your hammock, that's just fine. Several shore-hugging county parks offer tent camping. Check out Baldwin Beach Park, Hookipa Beach Park, or Kanaha Beach Park (right by the Kahului airport).