Discovering the Charms of Upcountry Maui

Maui is known for its stunning beaches and lush coastal beauty, but there’s a hidden gem in the heart of the island that’s often overlooked by visitors – Upcountry Maui. This picturesque region, situated on the slopes of Haleakalā volcano, offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those looking to escape the crowds and explore a more rustic side of the island. In this blog post, I’ll take you on a journey through Upcountry Maui, featuring some of my favorite places.

Did you know that we have cowboys in Hawaii? Yes! A Hawaiian cowboy is a Paniolo (pah-nee-oh-loh) and there is a long history of ranching, farming and horsemanship here in the Hawaiian Islands. Upcountry Maui is a great way to experience this proud history. We have an annual rodeo held every July and there are even seasonal polo matches. This isn’t the snooty rich person’s polo so much as masterful horsemanship and a tailgate party for everyone.

Haku Maui 3643A Baldwin Avenue Makawao – Fresh handmade lei and lei po’o (flower crowns & lei making workshops. https://www.hakumaui.com/

Pukalani Superette 15 Makawao Ave, Makawao, HI 96768 Truly a local treasure this Family-owned market has been around since 1955, selling groceries, local produce, household goods & prepared foods. Grab drinks and snacks for the road and check out their selection of made-on-Maui gift items. They also have some of the coolest t-shirts on the island. Their prepared local food cannot be beaten either. https://www.pukalanisuperette.com/

Maui Goat Yoga Begin your day with an unforgettable experience at Maui Goat Yoga. Located on a working goat farm, this place offers a unique fusion of yoga, animal therapy, and breathtaking scenery. Imagine doing yoga in a serene outdoor setting while adorable goats roam around, adding an element of playfulness to your practice. It’s an experience that’s both peaceful and fun, and it’s sure to leave you with a smile on your face. Be sure to reserve your spot ahead of time: https://mauigoatyoga.com/

Photos below are from my friends Jean and Connie’s visit to Maui Goat Yoga.

Makawao Town After your morning of yoga and goat therapy, head to Makawao Town, a charming and historic cowboy town. You’ll be transported to a bygone era with its rustic storefronts and welcoming atmosphere. Explore the unique boutiques, art galleries, and local crafts, and don’t forget to try some delicious coffee and pastries at one of the local cafes.

T. Komoda Bakery 3674 Baldwin Ave, Makawao, HI 96768 While in Makawao, you can’t miss T. Komoda Bakery, a local institution known for its mouthwatering pastries. Their cream puffs and malasadas are legendary, and the bakery’s delightful treats have been satisfying sweet tooths for generations. Grab a box to take with you for the rest of your journey. Their operating hours vary and when they sell out they close for the day. The early bird gets the guava-filled malasada! If I ever give you something from Komoda’s, that means I love you. A malasada is a kind of donut without the hole that came from the Portuguese immigrants to Hawaii during the plantation days. https://g.co/kgs/JbyyaTx

Ocean Vodka Farm & Distillery Upcountry Maui isn’t just about natural beauty; it’s also home to some unique artisanal businesses. The Ocean Vodka Farm & Distillery is one such gem. Take a tour to learn about the sustainable and organic farming practices that go into their vodka production. The breathtaking ocean views from the distillery will leave you in awe, and the tastings are a must for those interested in trying a unique local spirit. https://oceanvodka.com/our-farm/

Kula Botanical Gardens The Kula Botanical Gardens offer a peaceful escape into nature with its diverse collection of tropical plants and native Hawaiian species. Stroll along winding paths surrounded by exotic flowers, koi ponds, and water features. It’s a botanical wonderland that showcases the incredible biodiversity of Maui. It also makes a wonderful place to have your wedding ceremony (hint hint). http://www.kulabotanicalgarden.com/

Surfing Goat Dairy Tucked away in the serene hills of Upcountry Maui, the Surfing Goat Ranch is a haven for both animal enthusiasts and those seeking an authentic Hawaiian experience. As soon as you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the friendly and playful goats that roam freely on this working dairy farm.

Here at Surfing Goat Ranch, you can embark on a guided tour where you’ll learn about the process of goat farming and cheese-making. Get up close and personal with the goats, and even try your hand at feeding and milking them. The highlight of this visit is undoubtedly the cheese tasting session, where you’ll savor an array of artisanal goat cheeses that are both delicious and made with love. The ranch’s passion for sustainable and humane farming practices is evident, making it an enlightening and heartwarming experience. https://www.surfinggoatdairy.com/

Ali’i Lavender Gardens Just a short drive from Surfing Goat Dairy, you’ll find the Ali’i Lavender Gardens, a botanical wonderland that provides a serene and fragrant escape. This enchanting space is a true sanctuary for nature lovers and those in search of tranquility.

The gardens feature a variety of lavender varieties, as well as numerous other exotic flowers and plants. Take a leisurely stroll along the manicured pathways, enjoying the vibrant colors and scents that surround you. Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop, where you can pick up lavender-infused products and souvenirs that make for great mementos of your visit. A lavender scone with a bit of liliko’i (passionfruit) jelly and a cup of calming tea is the perfect way to finish your garden journey.

https://www.aliikulalavender.com

Maui Wine As the day winds down, make your way to Maui Wine in Ulupalakua. The historic winery offers wine tastings and a serene setting with views of the island’s southern coast. Try their unique pineapple wines, and enjoy the panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape. https://mauiwine.com/

Bully’s Burger in Kula End your day with a hearty meal at Bully’s Burger in Kula. It’s a bit of a drive along the mountain with plenty of curves and slopes but you will be rewarded with the most delicious burger on Maui when you get there. This local spot is famous for its burgers made from free range, grass-fed beef from their adjacent ranch. Savor a juicy burger while taking in the stunning views. Sit in one of the picnic areas or hop onto a saddle to enjoy your cheeseburger in paradise. They have veggie and gluten free options as well as shave ice. Pro tip: Their operating hours vary so be sure to check and make sure they are open before you head over. Text them at 808-633-6776 to see what’s happening. Bully’s Burgers

Visiting Upcountry Maui is an incredible way to experience the diverse and captivating beauty of the island. From goat yoga to botanical gardens, artisanal spirits to mouthwatering pastries & burgers, this region offers a delightful array of experiences that are sure to leave you with cherished memories of your Maui adventure. So, if you’re ever on the island, make sure to take a day to explore Upcountry Maui and discover its unique treasures.

oxo, Rev Jules