Upcountry
14 spots
Upcountry Maui is a world apart — cool air, rolling farmland, lavender fields, and the gateway to Haleakala. This is where Maui gets surprisingly rural.
Getting Up the Mountain
The drive to Upcountry is half the experience – take Highway 37 (Haleakala Highway) from Kahului and watch the landscape transform from sea level to rolling green hills. Plan for about 45 minutes to reach Makawao or Pukalani, and don't rush it because the views of the West Maui Mountains and coastline are stunning. If you're heading to Haleakala National Park, tack on another 45 minutes of winding mountain roads.
What You're Actually Getting Into
This isn't beach Maui – you're trading palm trees for eucalyptus groves and cattle ranches that look more like Northern California than the tropics. Temperatures drop about 3 degrees for every 1,000 feet you climb, so it can be 20+ degrees cooler than the coast. Expect misty mornings, afternoon sun, and evenings cool enough for a sweater, especially around Kula and higher elevations.
The Towns Worth Your Time
Makawao is your classic paniolo (cowboy) town with the best local eats and that authentic small-town vibe tourists always claim they want but rarely find. Kula is where you'll find the famous lavender farm and protea flowers, plus some of the island's best farm-to-table restaurants. Skip Pukalani unless you need groceries – it's more residential and less charming than the other spots.
Don't Miss These Spots
Ali'i Kula Lavender is touristy but genuinely beautiful, especially in late morning light. For something more local, hit up Grandma's Coffee House in Keokea for the island's best coffee and malasadas with a view. If you're into hiking, the Waihou Spring Trail (also called the Bamboo Forest) is an easy walk through an otherworldly bamboo grove that feels like you're in another country.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I plan to spend in Upcountry?
A half-day will give you a taste, but a full day lets you really explore without rushing. If you're doing the sunrise at Haleakala, plan to spend the rest of the day up there since you're already made the drive and adjusted to the elevation.
What should I wear in Upcountry?
Layers are your friend – it can be 85°F and sunny at sea level but 65°F and misty in Kula. Bring a light jacket or sweatshirt, especially if you're staying for dinner or going higher up toward Haleakala.
Is it worth driving all the way up for just the lavender farm?
Honestly, no – the drive is too long for just one stop. But if you're combining it with lunch in Makawao, a stop at Grandma's Coffee House, or the bamboo forest hike, then absolutely. Make it a full Upcountry day.
Can I get good food up there or should I eat before I go?
The food scene is actually fantastic – Makawao has everything from local plate lunches to upscale farm-to-table spots. Grandma's Coffee House is a must for coffee and pastries, and there are several restaurants in Makawao that rival anything you'll find in Paia or Lahaina.
What's the best time of day to visit Upcountry?
Mid-morning through late afternoon is ideal – you'll miss the early morning mist but catch the best light for photos and activities. If you're not doing Haleakala sunrise, I'd head up around 10am and plan to be back down the mountain before dark since those winding roads are trickier at night.