Upcountry Maui

This is my home. Upcountry is the soul of Maui—a land of paniolo (cowboys), rolling green hills, cool, crisp air, and incredible bi-coastal views. It's a completely different side of the island that many visitors miss, but it's where you'll find a deep sense of Maui's history and local life.

Top Attractions & Activities

Haleakalā National Park

While the summit will be detailed in the "Adventurer" section, it is the region's dominant and defining feature.

Makawao Town

This historic town is the heart of paniolo country, and its rustic, western-style storefronts are now home to a vibrant arts scene. Visitors can explore unique boutiques, glassblowing studios, and art galleries.

Aliʻi Kula Lavender Farm

A serene and beautiful spot in Kula where visitors can walk through acres of fragrant lavender fields. The farm offers stunning panoramic views of the island and has a gift shop with a wide array of lavender products.

Surfing Goat Dairy

This is a fun, family-friendly stop in lower Kula. The farm offers tours where you can meet and feed the goats, and it's famous for its award-winning goat cheese tastings, which come in a variety of savory and sweet flavors.

MauiWine at ʻUlupalakua Ranch

Located on the historic grounds of ʻUlupalakua Ranch, this winery is famous for its unique pineapple wine. Visitors can enjoy tastings on a beautiful lanai under giant camphor trees and learn about the history of the ranch and winemaking on Maui.

My Favorite Hikes

Makawao Forest Reserve (Kahakapao Loop Trail)

This is my backyard. It's a 6-mile loop trail through towering eucalyptus and pine trees. The air is always cool and smells amazing. It's very popular with local mountain bikers, so be sure to watch for them, but it's a perfect escape from the heat of the coast and a truly refreshing walk in the woods.

Waihou Spring Trail

This is a shorter, quieter hike through an experimental pine forest that feels like it belongs in the Pacific Northwest. The trail leads down a steep switchback to a beautiful spring and small lava tube caves. It feels like a secret world hidden in the forest.

My Food Picks

Komoda Store & Bakery (Makawao)

An Upcountry institution since 1916. You MUST go early in the morning for their famous stick donuts and cream puffs. They often sell out by 10 AM, and the line of locals waiting outside is part of the authentic experience.

Kula Lodge

It's worth a stop for the view alone. The garden patio looks out over the entire central valley and the West Maui Mountains. It's a popular spot for breakfast on the way down from watching the sunrise at Haleakalā.

Haliʻimaile General Store

Don't let the name fool you. This is one of Maui's most celebrated fine-dining restaurants, set in a historic pineapple plantation store. Chef Beverly Gannon is one of the pioneers of Hawaiʻi Regional Cuisine, and a meal here is an unforgettable experience.

Ulupalakua Ranch Store & Grill

After a wine tasting at MauiWine, walk over to the ranch store and grab a burger from the grill outside. They serve beef, lamb, and even elk burgers raised right on the ranch. It's a true taste of paniolo country.