Upcountry Maui Community & Towns

Friendly Locals. Rural Life.

Upcountry Maui Spots

We love living and working in Upcountry Maui. At an elevation of 1500 up to 3500 feet up on the mountain, the region provides a great climate, spectacular views, and just enough rain to keep things beautiful. In the spring, along the highways, purple-flowered trees called jacarandas spice up the scenery.

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Our circle island Hana tours take a route through upcountry Maui either in the morning or in the afternoon. Visitors in the morning will be treated to quiet country settings and small local businesses. In the afternoon, tour guests will witness an incredible setting sun from high up on the mountain. All the major islands that makeup Maui County can be seen in one view.

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Fun Fact

Kipahulu is located between Hana and Kaupo and was added to the park in order to preserve the natural and cultural heritage of the valley.

Driving Through Areas Of Upcountry

Travel along the Haleakala Highway and onto the Kula Highway will take you through a number of small towns, each with it’s own charm and style. Hana tours will not visit Makawao (as it’s just a little too out of the way) but most day tours and trips up to the Haleakala National Park summit area should include at least a drive through that unique cowboy town.

A narrow street leads to Calasa Gas station in Kula

Kula views of West Maui Windmills and Maalaea Bay

Kula

This covers a huge area and it’s one of the most desirable places to live and visit on the island. A perfect mix of weather and views, people have been farming this area for centuries. The whalers and sailors loved the onions, potatoes, rice, and yams that came from Kula.

Ulupalakua View Of Molokini and Kahoolawe above south Maui hotels

Old stone walls mark the boundry of a Keokea ranch

An old gallery sign made from a surf board in Keokea

Keokea

This small village is anchored by a hospital located just above the highway. It has a great sense of community feel and it’s little shops, including a cafe, are a local favorite. It’s the last stop before the road turns quite winding too!

wine bottles line wall at tasting room at Maui Winery

Upcountry food and restaurants along road from Hana

Ulupalakua

This ranch located on another “corner” of the mountain has a winery, deli, and multiple churches to provide for the local population. The old winery once housed a king who partied within it’s walls. Some of Hawaii’s traditions were restarted out here that celebrated the culture like hula when it was banned elsewhere.

Historic building line the main street of downtown Makawao

Makawao

The paniolo (cowboy) town of Makawao is not some made-up facade like towns around the USA (I am looking at you Sisters, OR). This is a tried and true town with a rich history. Every 4th of July competition takes place at the rodeo grounds just above the main town after a big parade. You will find bbq grills, cafes, restaurants, and stores all with a ranch-style theme throughout the town.

The beautiful views of Maui's central plains can be seen from Pukalani

A path at Kulamala Park seeming leads to a Haleakala at sunset

Upcountry's most popular shopping center includes a Foodland store

Pukalani

This corner of the mountain seems to get the most sun out of all the communities in Upcountry. It sits at the furthest end of the rain shadow and tends to be the hottest as well. All of the main commercial stores and restaurants are found in this community, including a great local grocery store called Pukalani Superette!

Top Things to See in Upcountry Maui

Holy Ghost Church
This unusual octagonal church located in the town of Kula was built over 150 years ago. It has strong Portuguese influences which a large portion of the population living in this area were.
Maui Wine
Visit this winery by appointment to enjoy itʻs sweet tropical wines, including a pineapple variety that is a must-try experience. On this property a Hawaiian king enjoyed many parties. Lots of historical events happened from this place once known as the Rose Ranch.
Ulupalakua Ranch Deli
This is a great spot to take a break on an afternoon of exploring of upcountry to enjoy their bison burger. Itʻs really, really good. You will love the area and the deck for enjoying a picnic lunch.
Kula Botanical Gardens
Just off the Kula Highway is a wonderful family-run botanical garden. They have a ton of wildlife along with lots of plants, gardens, waterfalls, sitting areas and more. A nice spot to sit and enjoy a huge variety of flora and fauna.

Sightseeing Tours

Our circle island Hana tours are the only ones that come through this area of Maui. Traveling either earlier in the morning doing the “reverse” tour or wrapping around this side of the mountain in the late afternoon. Check out the options that will allow you to see some of this area. Book a private tour to see even more.

ALL SIGHTSEEING TOURS

Helicopter Tours

A helicopter flight over the islands is one of the most memorable experiences you will have. There is so much hidden in the mountains and jungles that you just canʻt experience from the ground. On our complete helicopter tour, you will even land at one of the upcountry Maui ranches, high above Ulupalakua.

ALL HELICOPTER TOURS

Facts About Upcountry Maui

Why is Upcountry Maui included in a Hana tour?

We travel through Upcountry Maui on the way around Haleakala on our circle island-style tours. Most of the guides who travel through this area at the end of the day will make only a stop or two for the restroom or if there is a beautiful sunset.
Are there any Hana tours that include visiting the summit?

Going up to the summit of Haleakala National Park on the same day as a visit to Hana will take too much time. You will simply be too tired and worn out from driving all day. We suggest you do a separate sunrise or sunset tour if you want to visit the park.
What are the stops in Upcountry Maui that a Hana tour makes?

Each guide has different spots they like to visit. The views from a couple of the parks are amazing in the morning and the afternoon. Most visitors are anxious to keep moving around the mountain to more exciting, out-of-the-way locations in the morning or they are ready to keep cruising back to the hotel in the evening hours. If there is something specific you want to see like the Holy Ghost Church, Rice Park, Sun Yat Sen Memorial, or something like that please let your guide know.

Get Answers To Your Questions

Your Road To Hana Experts

Having a perfect day in Hana means traveling with an expert guide. We know the Hana Highway well, so feel free to ask us any questions about this wondrous, winding road.

Top Road To Hana Stops

When all you have is just one day to experience some of the most beautiful tropical rainforests in all of the USA, then here are the stops we highly recommend seeing so you don’t miss a thing!

The Best Hana Highway Tours

The best tour on the road is the one that fits you perfectly. We match you up to the experience that is right for what you want out of your vacation. Hike, walk, ride or fly, we have all the best Hana tours.

Stress-Free Booking Experience

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