Okay, so you’re about to do the Road to Hana. You’ve got your snacks, your playlist, your Google Maps downloaded offline, and rough plan for the day. Perfect. But before you leave Paia and officially start the adventure, there’s one stop you absolutely need to make first…Belle Surf Cafe.

It’s tucked away a little off the main drag in Paia, but that’s kind of the whole vibe of Belle Surf Cafe. It’s a little hidden, a little laid back, and one of those spots where you walk in and feel like you’ve stumbled onto something good.

The place is SO cute. Think airy, beachy, surfy. It feels like a spot where locals actually hang out.

Who This Spot Is Perfect For…

This is the spot for you if you’re an early riser doing the Road to Hana (which, if you’re not starting early, we need to have a separate conversation). It’s a perfect breakfast and coffee stop before the road gets going and the day gets long. You want something good in your stomach before you start navigating those one-lane bridges ; )

It’s also a great little hangout spot if you’re spending time in Paia later in the day. The town itself is worth poking around in for a bit, and Belle Surf Cafe is a place you’ll definitely want to hang out. And if you happen to find yourself there later in the day, they’ve got drinks and live music which honestly sounds like a pretty perfect afternoon to me.

Extra Details

The coffee is really the star of the show here and it does NOT disappoint. Get a good latte or cold brew, grab something to eat, and you are SET for the road ahead. The food is solid too…think the kind of fresh, well-made breakfast fare that actually keeps you full for a few hours (important when you’re going to be driving and hiking all day). Pricing is pretty reasonable for Maui, especially compared to the resort areas. 

So here’s my actual advice: don’t just swing through the drive-through of whatever’s convenient before you hit Hana Highway. Build a little extra time into your morning, find Belle Surf Cafe, and start your Road to Hana the BEST way. 

I’ve made it my job for the last 10 years to explore Maui.

And after hundreds of beach days, rainforest hikes, snorkeling trips, and reconnaissance missions to find the best hotels… and mai tais… I put everything I know into one place.

This is my Maui Digital Map — hundreds of my favorite spots. Beaches, snorkeling spots, hikes, farm tours, scenic drives, places to eat.

Yes, I share hidden spots I don’t talk about so much on social media…but also—tourist doesn’t have to be a dirty word. Popular places are popular for a reason.

So I break down what’s worth it, what’s not, where to spend your money, where to save it, and how to avoid crowds at some of Maui’s most popular (and best) places so you actually enjoy your time.

I’m also sharing all of my travel guides on when to go, where to stay, detailed hotel reviews…
plus dozens of itinerary options based on where you’re staying and what you love to do.

It’s everything you need to see the best of Maui and actually relax. A Vacation in a box…all YOU need to do is pack your suitcase. 

Get access to my Maui digital map and itineraries here.