Haiʻkū, Maui. Photo by Victoria Hoag.

By Alexandra Mitchell

Haʻikū on Maui, is definitely one of the best places to live in all of Hawaiʻi.

It’s still the North Shore, still close to beaches, but away from the everyday hustle and bustle that Pāʻia Town can have.

It’s not so far out that you feel like you’re stuck in the country, but it’s also a place where you can feel totally comfortable in recluse.

Tucked away in the jungle, Haʻikū has a laid back community of folks that were born and raised on Maui, and those who live there because they too believe it’s one of the best places to live on earth.

In Haʻikū, you can find interesting small businesses, surf board shaper studios, restaurants, coffee shops, organic farms, spiritual centers, day spas, there’s even a few animal refuge non-profits.

Haiʻkū, Maui. Photo by Victoria Hoag.

One of the favorite things about living in Haʻikū is that it’s quiet, and it’s private. In most areas, each home seems to have it’s own vibe going on, even in the communities where homes are close to each other.

With the jungle landscape, light to heavy rains, calm breezes, and the scent of fresh soil below your feet, Haʻikū is truly a wonderful place to be.

Depending on where you choose to live in Haʻikū, there are different views, different landscapes, various elevation levels, and different issues that may arise when buying a fixer upper. Mold and water damage are probably the most common issue living in Haʻikū due to rain, and the effects of water, wear and tear. Even the properties at higher elevation with cross ventilation can have mold and water damage. Before putting in an offer, have the roof, foundation, and indoor flooring conditions professionally assessed.

Termites are also a very common issue in Haʻikū. If you want to avoid termites, make sure to keep up with the landscaping around the perimeter of your home. Consider placing gravel or cement around the exterior of your home, and under outdoor staircases. This may help alleviate future termite damage.

Even in the most beautiful situations, there always seems to be some sort of sacrifice in life, and accepting the idea that you possibly won’t find a move-in perfect house in your price range in Haʻikū, might be the sacrifice you’ll have to make if you want to live in Maui’s Shangri-La.

Have you experienced any other issues while working on a fixer-upper in Haʻikū? Let us know in the comment section below…