Upcountry Maui: Things to Do + 2024 Visitor Guide!

Hey there, if you’re thinking about spending a few days in Maui, Upcountry Maui is a must-visit!

Imagine this: stunning landscapes, cool farms, and a chill vibe – Upcountry Maui is like a hidden gem away from the usual beach and resort scene.

Sure, catching a sunset at Haleakala and hiking the summit are classic Maui activities, but why not spice things up? Dive into the agritourism scene on the volcano’s slopes.

Every time we hit Maui, a day in Upcountry is a must for us. It’s super chill, and you pick up so much on a tour or two!

Our goto spot is Hali’imaile General Store – fantastic eats! And being plant enthusiasts, checking out farms and gardens is our thing. Ali’i Lavender Farm? Always on our list!

Ever seen lavender in full bloom at Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm? It’s a vibe.

Wanna amp up your Upcountry experience? Tour a pineapple farm, savour local wine, hang with kid goats, try your hand at goat milking, and sample some cheese. Take a leisurely stroll through lavender fields or hit up a farmers’ market.

Trust me, Upcountry Maui has it all – and then some!

Where is Upcountry Maui?

So, where exactly is Upcountry Maui?

When we talk about “Upcountry Maui,” we’re pointing to the higher elevations surrounding the impressive 10,023-foot Haleakala, Maui’s grand volcano.

Upcountry Maui is like the farm and ranch hub, boasting rural landscapes that are easy on the eyes, a misty cool climate, and jaw dropping views out to the coast.

Hawaiians have been working the rich volcanic soils on these slopes for ages, growing goodies like sweet potato and taro. Fun fact: this is where the paniolo, or Hawaiian cowboys, picked up the art of lassoing cattle from vaqueros brought in by King Kamehameha I!

The key players in Upcountry Maui are Kula, Makawao, Haiku, and Pukalani. And if you decide to cruise down Haleakala on a bike, chances are you’ll make a pit stop in the charming town of Makawao.

Weather’s a tad cooler up in these higher elevations in Maui, so toss on a jacket. And if you’re planning a visit to the Haleakala summit, don’t forget to stash a warm blanket in the trunk – you’ll thank yourself at the top!

Best Things to Do in Upcountry Maui

1. Take the Maui Pineapple Tour

The Maui Gold pineapple isn’t just any pineapple! It’s famed for its exceptional sweetness, flavour, and high Vitamin C.

On every visit to Maui, we make it a point to grab some papaya, lilikoi, and a Maui Gold pineapple for our vacation rental – simply delicious!

In Hali’imaile in Upcountry Maui, take a tour of a working pineapple farm owned by the Maui Gold Pineapple Co.

During the farm tour, dive into the details of how the Maui Gold pineapple grows, and witness pineapples at different stages of growth.

Standing in a pineapple field in Maui, watching an expert slice a pineapple, and sampling the sweet juicy fruit right in the field where it’s grown is an incredible experience.

At the end of the 90 minute tour, grab an “airport ready” Maui Gold pineapple to take home. With multiple departure times, it easily fits into a day trip to Upcountry Maui.

2. Indulge in Delicious Cheese at Surfing Goat Dairy

Touring Surfing Goat Dairy is one of the coolest things to do in Upcountry Maui!

Maui’s largest commercial dairy, Surfing Goat Dairy, offers tours where you can meet cute goats, witness milking, and get a peek into the cheesemaking process.

Located in bucolic Kula, Surfing Goat Dairy has 120+ milking goats and a tradition of honouring the land and nurturing their animals.

Best part? Their cheeses and truffles are delicious!

Kid Oriented 30 minute tours let you interact with adorable kid goats (under 3 months old!) and even bottle feed one! Kid season is usually December through March.

Opt for a 30 minute casual tour to meet the animals, feed goats in the pasture, and get a glimpse of the cheese production.

An evening chore and milking tour is a one hour experience that lets you assist with milking the goats!

At the end, pick up a flight of delicious dairy cheeses to take back. Tour prices range from $25.00 to $40.00 for an adult, with discounts for children 311 years old. Book tours online.

Read Also: Best Things To Do On North Shore Oahu

3. Explore the Kula Botanical Garden

Spread over eight acres on the slopes of Haleakala, Kula Botanical Garden is a pleasure to stroll. Take a self guided tour through the entire garden in about an hour.

Located in Kula, the garden contains tropical species from all over the world. Most specimens are labelled with the name and the country of origin. There are many mature trees, vines, and plants to admire and photograph.

Protea at the Kula Botanical Garden is a standout, along with native Hawaiian plants, a tiki exhibit, a koi pond, and a small pond and waterfall.

Open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the last entrance for the day at 3.15 p.m. At the time of writing, admission is $10.00 per adult and $3.00 for kids 612. Tickets available at the gate.

4. Visit the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm

On the slopes of Haleakala in Upcountry Maui, the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm is a lovely, peaceful place to stroll.

With about 55,000 lavender plants and 20 different varieties, the farm is a delight. While most varieties bloom in summer, there are a few that bloom year round.

Apart from lavender, find olive trees, proteas, fruit trees, hydrangea, and succulents growing at the farm.

If the store is open, grab some lavender forward bath products. If the cafe is open, try the lavender scones and tea!

Open for tours Friday through Monday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission fee of $3.00 per adult.

5. Tour O’o Farm

A tour of O’o Farm is one of the most delightful experiences in Upcountry Maui!

Located above Kula, O’o Farm is a popular agritourism destination producing crops sustainably. Fruit, vegetables, flowers, and herbs thrive on the farm.

Enjoy bonus views of the coast from the farm!

O’o Farm offers two tour experiences, both ending with a delicious meal prepared by the farm’s chef.

The Coffee and Brunch Tour is a “seed to cup” tour focusing on the coffee bean. The 3 hour tour begins at 8.30 a.m. and is offered Mondays through Fridays.

The Gourmet Lunch and Farm Tour is a more general tour ending with a gourmet lunch. The 3 hour tour starts at 10.30 a.m. and runs Mondays through Fridays.

6. Take a Leisurely Stroll in Makawao

The charming town of Makawao in Upcountry Maui is a delightful spot to explore.

With a past steeped in paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) traditions, Makawao hosts the lively Makawao Rodeo every Fourth of July, complete with a parade and exciting competitions!

Today, Makawao is renowned for its vibrant arts community. A stroll through town is a must, with numerous shops and galleries to browse. Check out Holoholo Surf for beautiful dresses and swimwear that give off that colourful island vibe!

Artisans at work, from glassblowers to painters and sculptors, add to the town’s creative atmosphere. Don’t miss a stop at Komoda Bakery for delectable pastries – the cream puffs and malasadas are our favourites!

The bakery is open daily from 7 a.m. until 1 p.m., excluding Wednesdays and Sundays. If you appreciate photographing old churches, visit the historic Makawao Union Church dating back to 1917.

7. Savour a Special Meal at Hali’imaile General Store

Driving from the west side just to dine at Hali’imaile General Store? Been there, done that! If you’re spending a day in Upcountry Maui, wrapping it up with dinner here is a no brainer.

Nestled amidst pineapple fields on the lower slopes of Haleakala, Hali’imaile General Store boasts over a century of history, initially serving as the store for the pineapple plantation.

Established as a restaurant in 1987, it’s currently run by the Gather Restaurant Group. Seafood lovers, vegetarians, and meat enthusiasts alike will find delights on the menu.

Must Tries include the coconut veggie curry and the renowned sashimi Napoleon. Save room for dessert – the dark chocolate mousse with chocolate cake and the lilikoi crème brûlée are divine.

The cocktails are equally topnotch! Find Hali’imaile General Store in Makawao. Open daily for lunch (11 a.m.  2.30 p.m.) and dinner (5 p.m.  8.30 p.m.). Reservations are recommended!

8. Browse the Upcountry Farmers Market

Visiting Upcountry Maui on a Saturday? Make sure to swing by the weekly farmers’ market!

The Upcountry Maui Farmers’ Market brings together local producers offering a variety of fresh, locally grown organic vegetables, tropical plants, flowers, macadamia nuts, coconuts, and colourful fruits.

You’ll also find packaged delights like lilikoi butter, coffee, raw and vegan foods, and ethnic prepared foods like Thai and Indian.

Friendly vendors and a fun atmosphere make for an enjoyable stroll. We picked up some sweet papaya and lilikoi butter on our visit.

The market is held every Saturday from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Kulamalu Town Center in Pukalani. Keep an eye out for signs as you approach and bring cash for purchases.

Read Also: Best Cheap Eats in Waikiki

9. Try a Burger at Ulupalakua Ranch Store

Ranching is a significant part of Upcountry Maui, and the Ulupalakua Ranch keeps Hawaii’s paniolo culture alive.

Spread over 18,000 acres on the southern slopes of Haleakala, the ranch partners with organisations to preserve native flora.

For burger enthusiasts, the Ulupalakua Ranch Store & Grill is a must visit, serving burgers made with grass fed beef raised on the ranch. Choose from beef, lamb, elk, and venison, with unique toppings like grilled pineapple, kimchee, or Portuguese sausage.

Meat lovers in our family make it a lunch stop whenever we visit. Find the store in Kula, open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

10. Enjoy a Tasting at MauiWine

Established in the early 1970s by C. Pardee Erdman, owner of Ulupalakua Ranch, MauiWine is the island’s first working winery.

Located in old estate buildings, the winery produces a range of wines, including the much sought after pineapple wines featuring Maui Gold pineapples!

For a delightful experience, opt for flight tastings or wine by the glass. Reservations are recommended. If you’re a guest with a reservation, take a self guided tour of the estate.

Find MauiWine open Tuesday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sit outside on the patio of the King’s Cottage Tasting Room for a scenic tasting!

11. Explore Ocean Vodka Organic Farm + Distillery

Situated on 80 acres on the picturesque slopes of Haleakala in Upcountry Maui, the Ocean Organic Vodka and Distillery offers a unique experience.

Crafted with deep ocean mineral water from the Kona Coast and organic sugar cane, Ocean Vodka is a true delight!

Visit the farm + distillery in Kula for a tasting session. Discover the process of growing various Polynesian sugarcane varieties and how the cane juice transforms into the distilled vodka.

For a bite, the property features a cafe where you can enjoy local fare and cocktails made with Ocean Vodka. Open daily, tastings run from 11 a.m. until 5 p.m. Reservations can be made online, but walkins are also welcome.

12. Drop by Kula Country Farms

The farm stand at Kula Country Farms is a fantastic spot for fresh fruit and local products, especially if you’re planning a visit when the Upcountry Maui Farmers’ Market is closed.

Offering produce from local farmers and their own farm, you can find strawberries, blueberries, squash, herbs, and flowers. From February to June, enjoy picking your own strawberries, a delightful activity for kids!

Explore the children’s garden, meet farm animals, and indulge in their variety of honey, jams, and fresh baked goods. The farm stand is open year round, Monday through Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

13. Discover Maui Tea Farm and Enjoy a Tea Tasting

As a family owned business in Kula, Maui Tea Farm is a haven for tea enthusiasts.

Growing various teas and tisane herbs, the farm also features fruit and vegetable trees and plants, creating a picturesque setting. The farm offers tours, with the “Meet the Tea Tour” providing a personalised experience for up to 10 people.

Explore the farm on a one hour walking tour, followed by a guided tasting of two of their teas. Priced at $36 per adult and $18 per child (511), bookings can be made online.

14. Play Golf at Pukalani Country Club

Situated at an elevation of 1,100 feet amidst the rolling hills of Upcountry Maui, the Pukalani Country Club offers a stunning 18 hole golf course spread over nearly 160 acres.

Book a tee time online to enjoy a round of golf in this beautiful setting. The Pukalani Club House Restaurant and Bakery serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with delicious burgers being a highlight.

15. Hike at Hosmer Grove

For a pleasant bird watching experience, take a hike on the Hosmer Grove Trail, the lowest elevation hike in the Summit District of Haleakala National Park.

Spot iconic Hawaiian birds like the i’iwi and ‘apapane, both endemic to Hawaii, in addition to other bird varieties. The easy 0.6mile loop trail takes you through a grove of introduced trees to native shrubland.

Located at mile marker 10.5 on Highway 378, it’s one of the easiest hikes on Maui, offering a glimpse into the area’s unique history.

16. Witness the Haleakala Crater Sunset

Cap off your day in Upcountry Maui by heading to the summit of Haleakala for a breathtaking sunset above the clouds!

Unlike sunrise, no reservation is needed, and you can drive up if the weather is favourable. Enjoy the sunset from the actual summit, the Haleakala Visitor Center, or the Kalahaku Overlook in the Summit District.

If the sky is clear, consider staying back for some stargazing. Arrive 30 to 60 minutes before sunset to secure a parking spot and bundle up as it gets chilly.

An entrance fee of $30 per vehicle grants access to Haleakala National Park for three days. Don’t forget your National Parks Pass if you have one!

How to Get to Upcountry Maui

To reach Upcountry Maui from the west side or Hana, renting a car is essential.

The best route is to drive to Kahului and then take Highway 37 or alternate routes to reach your desired destinations (refer to the map).

Here are driving distances to Kula in Upcountry Maui from different parts of the island:

 Kahului — 13.9 miles, 22 minutes

 Kapalua — 44.6 miles, 1 hour and 8 minutes

 Kaanapali — 39.4 miles, 57 minutes

 Lahaina — 35.9 miles, 50 minutes

 Kihei — 22.3 miles, 35 minutes

 Wailea — 26.6 miles, 40 minutes

 Paia — 11.2 miles, 22 minutes

 Hana — 45.9 miles, 1 hour and 54 minutes

Tours heading to the Summit District of Haleakala pass through Upcountry Maui, providing a glimpse of the beautiful countryside and sometimes stopping at Makawao.

However, for a truly immersive experience in this scenic part of the island, renting a car and dedicating a day to explore Upcountry Maui is highly recommended!

Have you secured reservations for these highly rated Maui adventures?

Road to Hana Tour

1. SmallGroup Road to Hana Tour: Sit back and enjoy the scenic views without the stress of navigating hairpin bends or finding parking. Perfect for the whole group!

2. Haleakala Sunrise Tour: Experience the iconic sunrise atop the volcano hasslefree, no need to reserve a parking spot or drive up in the dark.

3. Maui Whale Watching Raft Tour: Witness massive humpback whales at eye level on a thrilling raft tour, a must do winter activity. Alternatively, opt for a more relaxed boat whale watching tour.

4. Maui Snorkeling Excursion: Explore the Molokini Crater and Turtle Town, the two most epic snorkelling destinations on the island, in one fantastic trip.

5. 7 Line Maui Zipline Experience: Glide over the forests on the north shore of Maui, enjoy ocean views, and conquer obstacle course challenges on this exhilarating ziplining adventure.

6. Oceanfront Luau in Wailea: Enjoy a sunset buffet and traditional Polynesian entertainment. Consider the option of a Kaanapali oceanfront luau for a different experience.

Renting a Car in Maui

To explore the diverse attractions across the island, renting a car is essential. We recommend using Discover Cars for Maui car rentals. They search various rental companies, offering the best deals with free cancellations and no hidden fees.

Where to Stay in Maui

Choose your accommodation based on preferences:

For more space and cooking options, explore vacation rentals on VRBO in Kihei, Kapalua, or Wailea.

Many visitors prefer the west side, offering resorts, hotels, and vacation rentals.

Begin your search on VRBO for quality and diverse accommodation options.

Ensure you have a memorable Maui experience by planning ahead and booking these fantastic adventures and accommodations!

More Maui Travel Inspiration

Considering a trip to Maui? Explore our comprehensive guides to create the ultimate Maui itinerary!

If you’re a first time visitor, start with the best things to do in Maui, capturing iconic experiences from beautiful beaches to the volcanic crater.

Driving the Road to Hana is a must-do. Check our guide to the best stops, waterfalls, and short hikes along the way.

Wai’anapanapa State Park, a top stop on the route, requires reservations. Dive into our guide to Maui’s black sand beach in this popular state park!

Maui boasts one of Hawaii’s two national parks. Read our roundup of the best things to do in Haleakala National Park, including the ultimate guide to sunrise at Haleakala.

Explore our guides to the best hikes in Haleakala National Park, including the Sliding Sands Trail and the Pipiwai Trail.

Discover the best Maui hikes, from easy to challenging. Check out guides to the Kapalua Coastal Trail and Waihee Ridge Trail for astounding views.

Dive into our roundup of the best waterfalls in Maui, from the 400 foot Waimoku Falls to Upper Waikani Falls near Hana.

Water activities are abundant! Explore our guides to whale watching and the best Molokini snorkeling tours, or snorkel from shore with our roundup of the best spots in West Maui.

Enjoy beach time with our guide to Wailea Beach and Maluaka Beach along the Turtle Town stretch of coast.

Experience a different side of Maui at the Iao Valley State Monument. Explore lush landscapes and serene ambiance.

Spend a day in Upcountry Maui, touring farms and gardens. Milk goats, visit a tea farm, go wine tasting, and more.

Plan your Maui adventure with these guides for a memorable and diverse experience on the island!

Conclusion

Upcountry Maui is a captivating blend of natural beauty, rich agriculture, and unique cultural experiences. Whether you’re tasting pineapple on a farm tour, indulging in goat cheese at Surfing Goat Dairy, or savoring a sunset above the clouds at Haleakala, Upcountry Maui offers a diverse range of activities for every traveler. 

From charming towns to culinary delights, this hidden gem adds a distinct flavor to your Maui adventure. So, don’t miss the chance to explore the higher elevations, enjoy the cooler climate, and create lasting memories in Upcountry Maui during your visit to the island!