A Guide to Upcountry Maui: Explore Makawao, Kula & Ulupalakula

When planning a Maui vacation, many visitors picture the island's golden beaches, stunning ocean views, and luxury resorts in areas like West and South Maui. However, for those looking to venture beyond the well-trodden tourist paths and experience more authentic, in-the-know spots on the island, Upcountry Maui offers a unique glimpse into Maui's countryside charm. 

Upcountry Maui has something for everyone, from misty slopes and breathtaking landscapes to rustic towns filled with culture, history, and adventure. In this edition of the Maui Resort Rentals blog, we'll take you on a brief journey to three of Upcountry's most iconic regions: Makawao, Kula, and Ulupalakula. 

First, What is Upcountry Maui?

Upcountry Maui refers to the elevated regions located on the slopes of Mt. Haleakala, the dormant volcano that forms the island's southeastern portion. Unlike the bustling coastal areas, Upcountry is a quieter, more rural side of Maui where agriculture, ranching, and small-town communities thrive. The area is fertile, cool, and dotted with unique farms, quaint towns, and scenic roads that wind through landscapes of rolling hills, pastures, eucalyptus groves, and panoramic ocean views.

Upcountry Maui includes several charming micro towns, with the most notable being Makawao, Kula, and Ulupalakula. Each area offers its blend of history, culture, and things to do, making Upcountry a must-visit destination for anyone looking to dive deeper into the heart and soul of Maui No Ka Oi.

How to Get Upcountry

Getting to Upcountry Maui is a scenic journey in itself. From Kahului Airport or major resort areas in West Maui or South Maui, you'll drive along the Haleakala Highway (Route 37), which gradually climbs in elevation as you head toward the cool and misty slopes of Haleakala. 

The drive typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour from the major tourist hubs, and it offers breathtaking views of the coastline and rolling pastures. Whether you're planning a Maui Upcountry day trip or staying overnight in the area, the drive is a smooth and accessible way to experience a less-explored side of Maui.

Makawao: An Artistic Cowboy Town

Tucked away on the northern slopes of Haleakala, Makawao is a town that seamlessly blends Maui's paniolo (cowboy) heritage with its vibrant arts scene. Once a thriving center for cattle ranching, Makawao is known today for its laid-back charm, eclectic art galleries, cafes, and local boutiques. 

History of Makawao

Makawao's history dates back to the 19th century when cattle ranching took off in Upcountry Maui. Paniolos, or Hawaiian cowboys, became integral to the area, and their influence is still evident today. One of Makawao's biggest events is the Annual Makawao Parade, held annually in July, which celebrates this rich cowboy culture. 

Things to Do in Makawao

Stroll through Makawao's historic downtown, where you'll find charming wooden storefronts, galleries, and local shops. Be sure to stop by T. Komoda Store & Bakery, a local favorite for its cream puffs and stick donuts, which have been satisfying sweet cravings for over 100+ years. Art lovers can explore galleries like Hot Island Glass, where you can watch glassblowers create intricate pieces, Maui Hands, or the Viewpoints Gallery, showcasing local fine art.

For the adventurous, Makawao Forest Reserve offers excellent hiking and mountain biking trails through pine forests and fern groves. The Kahakapao Loop Trail is a favorite for both casual hikers and seasoned bikers looking for an immersive nature experience. Venture a little further towards Haiku and visit the Sacred Garden of Maliko for a one-of-a-kind Upcountry Maui experience.

Restaurants in Makawao

After a day of exploring, treat yourself to a meal at Casanova Italian Restaurant for fresh pasta and live music. We also love Makawao Public House, Freshies, and Satori Maui. Or, you can enjoy a farm-to-table experience at Hali'imaile General Store, an award-winning restaurant just outside Makawao. 

Kula: Lavender Fields & Scenic Vistas

A little further up the slopes of Haleakala, you'll find Kula, a serene area known for its cool climate, sweeping views, and fertile farmlands. It's the perfect place for travelers looking to slow down and soak in Maui's pastoral beauty. Plus, the coastal views from Upcountry Maui are out of the world!

Kula's Agricultural Roots

Kula has long been an agricultural hub in Upcountry Maui, with farms producing everything from lavender to tropical fruits, herbs, and flowers. Thanks to its fertile volcanic soil and temperate climate, the area is ideal for growing crops that thrive in cooler weather, such as Maui onions, potatoes, and proteas. 

Top Attractions in Kula

A visit to Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm is one of the most popular activities in Kula. The farm features over 45+ varieties of lavender, and visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through the fields, take guided tours, or savor lavender-infused treats from the on-site cafe.

For those interested in farm-to-table experiences, O'o Farm offers tours and gourmet lunches made from freshly harvested ingredients grown right on the farm. The combination of delicious food and stunning views makes this a Kula highlight.

If you prefer scenic drives, Kula's winding roads provide stunning panoramic views of the island. On clear days, you can see as far as the West Maui Mountains and the islands of Lanai and Molokai.

Kula Hiking & Outdoor Activities

Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to Haleakala National Park, home to the famous Haleakala Crater. While technically not part of Kula, this natural wonder is easily accessible from the area and is a perfect spot for hiking or watching the sunrise burst over 10,000 feet above sea level. Please note that it is now required to reserve your place for sunrise at Haleakala.

Kula's Dining Scene

For dining, Kula Lodge and the Kula Bistro are must-visits. They offer delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner options with a focus on local ingredients. Marlow is also amazing! For breakfast, lunch, or brunch, La Provence offers a taste of French cuisine with a Hawaiian twist, serving fresh-baked croissants and quiches in a quaint garden setting.

Ulupalakua: Wine Country & Ranch Life

Located on the southern slopes of Haleakala, Ulupalakula is a region rich in history and known for its ranches and wineries. Visitors can enjoy the wide-open spaces and stunning views, along with some truly unique Maui experiences.

History of Ulupalakua

The area's history is deeply connected to ranching, with Ulupalakua Ranch being one of Maui's oldest working ranches. The region's ranching past is still alive today, and visitors can experience this heritage through various tours and activities.

Things to Do in Ulupalakua

One of the most popular attractions in Ulupalakua is the MauiWine tasting room, located at the historic King's Cottage. MauiWine offers tours of its vineyards and a chance to sample wines made from local grapes, including its famous pineapple wine and Lokelani sparkling wine. The serene atmosphere and beautiful grounds make it a perfect stop for couples and wine lovers.

Ulupalakua Ranch also offers a variety of activities, including horseback riding tours—these tours allow visitors to experience Maui's Upcountry from a new perspective. As you ride across the sprawling fields, you'll enjoy sweeping views of the ocean and the nearby islands.

Outdoor Adventures in Ulupalakua

For those looking for outdoor activities in Upcountry Maui, Ulupalakula is a great place to explore. You can hike through the Waikamoi Preserve, a stunning nature reserve home to native Hawaiian plants and birds. Although access is limited to private guided hikes, witnessing one of Maui's most pristine natural environments is worth the effort. You must contact the Waikamoi Preserve to inquire about availability. 

Ulupalakua’s Dining Scene

After a day of exploration, stop by the Ulupalakua Ranch Store & Grill for a casual farm-to-table meal made from fresh, local ingredients. Known for its delicious burgers made from Ulupalakua beef or Maui venison, this casual eatery offers an authentic taste of ranch life in Maui.

Upcountry Maui Farmers Markets

Exploring the local farmers markets in Upcountry Maui is one of the best ways to experience the area's fresh produce, local crafts, artisanal products, and the community. Here are our three favorite Upcountry farmer's markets:

1. Upcountry Farmers Market

Location: Kulamalu Town Center, near Longs Drugs (Kula)

When: Saturdays, 7–11 am

What to Find: This is one of Maui's most popular farmers' markets. It offers a wide variety of locally grown fruits and vegetables, fresh-baked goods, honey, fresh fish, tropical flowers, and handmade crafts. You'll also find vendors selling kombucha, locally roasted coffee, and freshly made snacks like samosas and poke.

2. Kula Country Market

Location: Kula Country Farms, 6240 Kula Hwy (Kula)

When: Open daily, 9am-5pm

What to Find: Though more of a farm stand than a traditional farmers market, Kula Country Farms offers fresh, seasonal fruits and vegetables grown on their farm. Visitors can also shop for local jams, pickles, and snacks. Depending on the season, you can pick your own strawberries or pumpkins during special events.

3. Makawao Farmers Market

Location: 3654 Baldwin Avenue (Makawao)

When: Wednesdays, 9am-1pm

What to Find: This mid-week market is a great place to stock up on organic produce, baked goods, locally crafted jewelry, and eco-friendly products. It's smaller than the Upcountry Farmers Market but offers a relaxed vibe with a focus on sustainability.

Continue to Experience the Magic of Upcountry Maui

Whether you're a first-time visitor to Maui or returning for a deeper exploration of the Valley Isle, Upcountry Maui offers a refreshing escape from the island's busier and hotter coastal areas. From the artistic cowboy town of Makawao to the scenic vistas of Kula and the ranches and winery of Ulupalakula, there's no shortage of things to do and discover. This diverse region showcases the island's rich history, local culture, and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic Maui travel experience.

When planning your visit to Maui, let the Maui Resort Rentals team help you create the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Our fantastic vacation condos, homes, and estates in West and South Maui provide the ideal home base for exploring everything the island has to offer, including the hidden gems of Upcountry Maui. 

Contact Us today to book your stay, and let us help you design your next dreamy Maui vacation.