The cool pastures and quiet towns of Upcountry prove there's much more to Maui than just sun and sand. Located on the slopes of Haleakala Crater, Upcountry seems like a world away from Maui's oceanfront resorts areas. Small, charming towns are scattered throughout the area's winding roads. With lower temperatures than most of the Island, it's a good idea to bring a light jacket.
The combination of its pineapple plantation and paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage along with a thriving arts community make Makawao a uniquely enjoyable place to hang out. Since the late 19th century, horseback riding paniolo have been wrangling cattle in Maui's upland fields. You can still get a taste of cowboys life at weekend rodeo events, as well as the annual Fourth of July Makawao Rodeo. These days, however, you're just as likely to run across a serious art galleries and boutiques. It is mixture of personalities and interests that make Makawao so fascinating.
Ali'i Kula Lavender spans more than eight acres, with over 25,000 blooming lavender plants and more than 40 different varieties. Self guided and organized garden tours are available daily. Many unique lavender gifts have been created, ranging from culinary, aromatherapy, bath and body products.
Visit a state of the art, working goat diary with over 25 cheeses, including 11 National Award winners. Daily casual tours, orchard tours, barbeques, special events, goat milk soaps, citrus relishes and specialty fruits and herbs.
In Kula, you'll find fruitfull farming communities that harvest some of Maui's freshest produce (including the famous Maui onion).The delicious Kula onion is sweet, flavorful and approximately mellow. Most of the local restaurants incorporate it into their menus. There are several other farms in the area, including protea, flower and an aromatic lavender farm. To the south, in peaceful "Ulupalakua, you'll find a working ranch.
The stretch of coastline here is considered a fantastic windsurfing location. During winter, the big north shore waves make Ho'okipa Beach a magnet for pro windsurfers and kite surfers. Watch the pros race around in the winter or swim and sunbathe in the calmer summer months. Note that during the winter, wave conditions can be extremely dangerous so please heed all posted signs for your safety.
Pa'ia
The picturesque plantation-era storefronts of Pa'ia are home to many ethnic eateries and dozens of colorful boutiques offering unique gifts, surf gear and variety of locally produced art, jewelry and clothing. Browse the charming shops and galleries before heading out to Ho'okipa Beach Park.
