Founder & certified Hawaii travel expert with 20+ years of experience in Hawaii tourism.
Things to Do on Maui for Shoppers
Shopping Activities, Tips, & Information
Maui offers an enchanting shopping experience, from luxury boutiques to laid-back local markets. Here, you can stroll open-air malls beneath swaying palms, browse vibrant galleries displaying island-inspired art, and pick up handmade treasures that reflect Maui’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. The Shops at Wailea beckon with upscale, international brands, while outdoor markets and boutique-lined streets in Lahaina and Pa‘ia invite exploration. If you’re after unique finds, the Maui Swap Meet in Kahului is your go-to for artisanal crafts, tropical produce, and authentic Hawaiian souvenirs.
Shopping on Maui: A Paradise for Retail Therapy
Maui, the second-largest Hawaiian island, is a shopper’s dream. Its shopping scene blends high fashion and homegrown craftsmanship—think couture beachwear, locally roasted coffee beans, fine art pieces, and island-style accessories you won’t find anywhere else.
Luxury Malls
The Shops at Wailea: Maui’s premier shopping destination, offering top designer names like Louis Vuitton, Tiffany & Co., and Prada, along with fine dining and upscale art galleries.
Whalers Village: Located in Ka‘anapali, this open-air complex features resort wear, jewelry, and surf shops catering to the chic traveler and the beach-bound adventurer.
Local Boutiques and Markets
Pa‘ia Town: Known for its bohemian vibe, Pa‘ia offers funky surf shops, one-of-a-kind clothing boutiques, and health-conscious eateries—all in a relaxed, small-town setting.
Maui Swap Meet (Kahului): Held every Saturday morning at the University of Hawai‘i Maui College, this bustling market is the perfect place to score local produce, handmade crafts, tropical flowers, and souvenirs at wallet-friendly prices.
Farmers’ Markets and Specialty Shopping
Upcountry Farmers’ Market: This market, held on Saturday mornings near Pukalani, showcases organic produce, local honey, fresh-baked goods, and island-grown coffee beans.
Makawao Art Galleries: Explore the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) town of Makawao and discover artisan galleries offering fine woodwork, ceramic sculptures, and colorful prints inspired by Maui’s landscapes.
Hawaiian Quilt Shops: At specialty stores on Maui, you can explore the centuries-old tradition of Hawaiian quilting. Each piece tells a story, stitching together the island’s heritage in exquisite patterns and hues.
Tips and Tricks
Don’t be shy about bargaining: At the Maui Swap Meet, friendly negotiation can yield even sweeter deals on handcrafted goods.
Be mindful of taxes: While Hawai‘i doesn’t have a traditional sales tax, it does apply a general excise tax on most purchases—factor this into your budget.
Check store hours: Boutique and market hours can vary, so plan to ensure you don’t miss out on your must-visit shops.
Maui’s shopping scene is a tapestry woven from the threads of luxury, local artistry, and island tradition. Whether you’re seeking a designer handbag, a carved koa wood sculpture, or a hand-dyed pareo, Maui will leave you with souvenirs as memorable as the island. Your adventure in retail paradise awaits!
