Maui has beautiful weather year round, but a few days in the sun and heat can make anyone start looking for a place to cool down. If shave ice and palm trees aren’t enough to do the trick, a trip upcountry (anywhere along the road to Haleakala’s summit) might be the respite you need.
Makawao Town
Makawao is a cozy little upcountry town with unique shops, boutiques and restaurant. Coffee from Espresso Mafia and donuts on a stick from Komoda Bakery, hiking in Olinda forest or sitting down for a delicious pizza or pasta dish at Casanova’s are just a few of our top picks found in this upcountry gem.
Kula
Kula is a bit more spread out than the other two mentioned here, but has a lot to offer. The lavender scones and tea make for the perfect treat while relaxing and taking in the sights at Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm. For thrill seekers, Paraglide Maui can be found right up the road looking out into over the valley isle. Kula is also home to Ocean Vodka Farm and Distillery, Maui Winery and Surfing Goat Dairy, and several other farms and vendors of maui grown products that are definitely worth checking out.
Pukalani
The Saturday morning farmer’s market in Pukalani is one of the best ways to get fresh local produce as well as locally made and sourced treats like baked good, kombucha, coffee, hot sauce and more but be sure to come early before vendors sell out! Maui Aleworks/ Marlow Tavern and on site food trucks really make this stop worth it, Because of its location near the entrance of Haleakala Nation Park, Pukalani is the perfect stop before or after a trip to the summit.