As you make your way up the west side of Haleakala, you'll find yourself in the open lands of Upcountry where you’re likely to see Hawaiian cowboys.
This charming assortment of small towns, ranches, and farms offer phenomenal local goods that make ideal gifts and souvenirs. Bring your appetite and get ready to taste fresh fruit, vegetables, coffee and wine. Make sure you stop and smell the lavender, eucalyptus, and hibiscus along the way. And since you're on the side of Haleakala, you might as well catch the panoramic views of the entire West Maui Mountain Range.
Paia is the gateway to upcountry from the North Shore. This vivacious, eclectic town has an inviting mix of boutiques, shops, and good eats at reasonable prices.
Head to the open ranches and farms of Kula to see beautiful botanical gardens and taste food that has literally come from just a few feet away. Talk about eating locally!
Makawao is the “Cowboy Capital” of Upcountry where a mix of farmers, artists, and ranchers reside. This wonderful, tight-knit community has plenty of quirky shops to peruse. Aside from one stop sign in the whole town, there is nothing stopping you from heading straight to the Cowboy Capital.
From Kahului, take the Haleakala Highway (route 37) to get to Upcountry.
If you’re hungry to try new flavors, take a culinary tour. The Paia Food Tour, and the Makawao Food and Art Tour are two great ways to taste the flavors of Upcountry.
From Kula, it’s very easy to stop by Haleakala National Park. The Puu Ulaula Overlook at Haleakala’s summit is open 24 hours a day.
Good food is easy to find in Upcountry’s many restaurants, cafes, and farms. For a taste sensation, try lavender-infused goodies at Alii Kula Lavender Farm. Or head to the Upcountry Farmer’s Market for an array of fresh dairy, bread, nuts, and diverse cultural dishes.
If you can't find a gift or souvenir to bring home in Upcountry, then you probably can't find a gift anywhere. The many artisans who live in Upcountry sell creations that are uncommon and unforgettable. Bring home an original work of art from the Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center in Makawao.
The fresh air and beauty of Upcountry farms are worth the trip alone, but fresh fruit, nuts, and wine (from Maui’s only winery) sweeten the deal. Add in hibiscus, eucalyptus, coffee, and honey, and you get farm tours that can’t be beat. Check out the 30,000 acre Haleakala ranch.
Upcountry is a beautiful place to tour no matter how you travel there, but there's something fantastic about touring it on horseback. It’s an experience that’s soothing, exciting, and unbeatable.
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