The best
activities to do
in Upcountry Maui
Although many might consider this region of Maui to be more of a visual journey, in this article we have highlighted the “Top 10” must-see destinations along the way. So fasten your seat belts as we set out on a journey that is sure to leave an impression.
Haleakala Crater
No trip to Maui is complete if you don’t experience the sunrise or sunset at Haleakala Crater. It’s a long journey up the mountain to the crater summit at 10,023 feet, but as you can imagine, the views are unsurpassed. Sit on top of the clouds and watch the sun rise or set over the Maui central valley. A destination where pictures speak louder than words, Haleakala (which means “House of the Sun”) is an incredible sight to take in.
MauiWine
Ready to sip some wine in the countryside? Look no further than MauiWine. Located next to Ulupalakua Ranch Store, MauiWine produces and bottles a variety of wines uniquely made from both pineapple and traditional grapes. As you enter the property at Maui’s only winery, take in the sights of beautifully carved Italian Cypress trees made into sculptures that reflect the rich history of the land.
Ulupalakua Ranch Store
Set alongside the “back side” of the Road to Hana is Ulupalakua Ranch Store. When coming from Upcountry, enjoy the beautiful drive through blooming Jacaranda trees as the road twists and turns along the countryside. As you head around to the Ulupalakua Ranch Store, make sure you bring your appetite. What once used to be a pit stop to people visiting the winery has now become a destination for fantastic food!
Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm
The Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm is truly a sight for sore eyes. Set along the slopes of Haleakala at about 4000 ft elevation, the lavender farm is a great place to visit for the entire family. Visit the farm and take a guided walking tour learning all about the history of the property and about the varieties of lavender grown on the farm, or roam the fields on your own just taking in the sights and smells of the beautiful countryside.
O’o Farms
One of the unique ways to experience the farm culture of Upcountry Maui is to visit O’o Farm. Standing out from the crowd, O’o delivers an exceptional farm-to-table experience in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable. The breakfast tour, known as the “Seed to Cup” tour, places more of an emphasis on the coffee that is being grown and roasted on site at the farm, while the lunch tour offers more in-depth information on farming practices and growing vegetables.
Upcountry Farmers Market
The Upcountry Farmers Market is definitely one of the local favorites. Held every Saturday right in the middle of beautiful farm country, this market boasts everything from organically grown leafy greens and vegetables, to freshly picked tropical fruits, coconuts, kombucha, coffee, homemade bread, farm-fresh eggs, cold-pressed juices and more!
Makawao Galleries & Shopping
Makawao is considered to be one of the most visited towns of Upcountry Maui. What used to be an old cowboy town filled with paniolo (cowboys) is now home to many amazing galleries filled with working artists, unique gift shops, and many fantastic dining options. While roaming the streets of Baldwin and Makawao Avenue, be sure to check out some of the incredible galleries filled with paintings, sculptures, blown glass, woodcarvings, handcrafted jewelry, and more.
Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center
With a rich history that dates back to the 1800s as one of Maui’s very first sugar mills, Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center has since transformed itself into a destination that has become a platform for creativity through exceptional visual arts education. Founded in 1934, Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center is a nonprofit arts education organization that offers everything from artist lectures, exhibitions, events, tours, classes and workshops for all ages, and more!
Pukalani Country Club
Made up mostly of residential real estate, the small town of Pukalani boasts very little to the eye of the tourist. With a few local grocery stores, a public pool and the charm of a small town, Pukalani is often surpassed by many people visiting the island. However, one destination that makes the “Top 10” list of things to do Upcountry lies right here in this sleepy little town.
The best
things to do
in Upcountry Maui
Mahalo Nui Loa for reading Pride of Maui’s Top 10 Things to Do in Upcountry Maui article. The activities in the upcountry part of Maui are truly spectacular. What’re your favorite things to do or places to visit?