Upcountry Maui: Activities, Restaurants, Hidden Gems

Upcountry Maui is a cozy little secret, where the vibes are as chill as the air is cool. It’s a fabulous spot to trade in the beach towel for boots, whether you’re hiking through forests or wandering around quirky little towns.

It’s a much quieter side than other spots on the island like Lahaina, and you’re in for a treat. Here are the best things to do in Upcountry Maui.

Visit the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm

The Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm is one of the most unique and fun things to do in Upcountry Maui, where relaxation is planted at every corner!

With 13.5 acres of rolling lavender hills at your fingertips, you’ll feel like stepping into a purple dream. Take a guided tour to learn all about lavender’s benefits on health, or just wander through the paths and soak in the calming scents.

Make sure to swing by the quaint little café – lavender scones and tea are on the menu! And don’t forget to grab some sweet-smelling goodies from the gift shop to bring a piece of this purple paradise home.

Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area is your go-to spot for some of the coolest hikes on the island. Tucked away at a higher elevation, this place swaps palms for pines and gives you a fresh, misty atmosphere to explore.

Lace up your boots and hit the Redwood Trail; it’s like a mini getaway to the Pacific Northwest, right here in Maui!

The forest is dense, the paths are peaceful, and the views are absolutely unbeatable. Bring your camera, because you’ll want to capture the surreal beauty of this hidden forest gem.

Ever wanted to step into a cowboy town with a tropical twist? Makawao Town is your spot. This paniolo (that’s Hawaiian for cowboy) town is full of charm with its rustic art galleries and local boutiques.

Stroll down the main street, grab a coffee from a local café, and watch artists at work, crafting everything from hand-blown glass to intricate wood carvings. If you’re here in July, don’t miss the Makawao Rodeo – it’s a fun activity from the past mixed with local flair, and definitely something to write home about!

Ready for something uniquely Upcountry? Head over to Surfing Goat Dairy. This place is part dairy farm, part tourist attraction, and it’s all fun.

Take a tour to see the goats up close, learn how goat cheese is made, and of course, sample some of the best cheeses you’ll ever taste.

They even have evening tours that end with a gourmet cheeseboard under the stars. It’s a perfect mix of cute goats, delicious eats, and unforgettable Maui nights.

There’s nothing quite like the stars from Haleakalā’s summit, and you’ll feel like watching the universe on a giant IMAX screen, but a natural one.

Wrap up warm and head up after dark for a stargazing experience that’s out of this world. Local guides can tell you all about the constellations and ancient Hawaiian navigation stories.

If you’re a photo enthusiast, it’s a prime spot to capture the night sky in all its glory, and you’ll love stargazing in Maui.

For breathtaking views that are worth every step, the Waihe’e Ridge Trail awaits. This hike will take you through lush greenery to viewpoints that overlook deep valleys and the sparkling ocean.

It’s a moderate hike, so bring water and your best hiking shoes, but the path is well-maintained, and the scenery is some of the best on the island.

When you reach the top, the panoramic views will make you feel like you’re on top of the world.

Of course, one part of traveling to Maui is food, and you’ll have an amazing time on the island if you’re a foodie. Here are some excellent places to eat.

Kula Bistro

Locals and visitors love Kula Bistro, located in the heart of Upcountry Maui. Casual and cozy, the menu is huge and includes Italian and local Hawaiian dishes.

Whether you’re in the mood for a big plate of pasta or fresh fish, Kula Bistro delivers. Don’t skip the desserts, especially the homemade tiramisu which is a favorite. Big portions and reasonable prices make it a must-stop in Kula.

Last but not least, there are plenty of seats and the setting is as authentic as it gets!

Located in Keokea, Grandma’s Coffee House has been serving local coffee since 1918. This place is more than just a cup of joe; it’s a spot where you can enjoy stunning views of the coast and the island of Lanai.

Their breakfast menu is big, French toast and homemade banana bread are must-tries. Sit on the patio, sip on their signature coffee, and soak up the old-school charm of this historic coffee house.

Ulupalakua Ranch Store & Grill is a one-of-a-kind dining experience on a working cattle ranch. They specialize in grilled items and serve up some of the best grass-fed beef burgers on the island, all raised on the ranch.

The atmosphere is casual and full of character, just like the paniolo (cowboy) spirit of the area. Eat here after a ranch tour or a tasting at the nearby MauiWine and taste the local Maui farm to the table.

If you like it, make sure to taste their original pineapple burger, with no buns but two delicious slices!

O’o Farm in Kula is a farm-to-table experience like no other. This 8-acre sustainable farm grows organic produce and offers tours that end with a gourmet lunch made with ingredients picked during the tour.

The setting is all natural and peaceful, you can eat in the open air overlooking the farm.

It’s a meal and an education on sustainable farming and the importance of local agriculture. The portions are massive, so make sure to come hungry!

La Provence brings a little bit of the French countryside to Maui with its charming bakery and bistro in Kula. This cozy spot specializes in French pastries, crepes, and bread all made with love by the French chef and owner.

The outdoor patio is a quiet spot to enjoy breakfast or lunch with views of the surrounding greens. Try the quiche Lorraine or a croissant sandwich for a taste of France with a Maui twist.

Upcountry Maui, on the slopes of Haleakalā, has a deep history in agriculture and paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture. The soil was perfect (and still is) for farming and pineapple and sugarcane were grown.

In the late 1800’s, Haleakalā Ranch was established, and with it came the paniolo who managed the cattle across the uplands. This mix of farming and ranching created a unique cultural fabric.

Today, Upcountry Maui still has its rural charm and agricultural heritage, visible in the farms and paniolo traditions, and that’s a very different setting than you would get in Lahaina or Kihei.