A brief summary
Upcountry Maui offers a completely different side of the island—cool mountain air, working farms, paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage, and Haleakala National Park. From Kaʻanapali, it’s about 50 minutes to Makawao and 1 hour 45 minutes to the Haleakala summit. From Kihei or Wailea, Makawao is just 25–30 minutes away, with the summit about 60–75 minutes from the coast. Sunrise visits to Haleakala require a timed reservation through Recreation.gov ($1 per vehicle), in addition to the park entrance fee, and reservations should be booked up to 60 days in advance. This guide covers drive times, what to see in Kula, Makawao, and Ulupalakua, and how to plan an Upcountry day trip from your West or South Maui vacation rental.
What Is Upcountry Maui?
If your Maui vacation has been all beaches, palm trees, and ocean views, Upcountry is where the island reveals a different side of itself. Just a short drive from the coast, the scenery shifts to rolling pastureland, cool mountain air, working farms, and small towns shaped by Maui’s paniolo heritage.
Stretching from roughly 1,000 feet above sea level to the 10,023-foot summit of Haleakala, Upcountry is home to Haleakala National Park, the ranching town of Makawao, Kula’s farms and botanical gardens, and the open landscapes of Ulupalakua. It’s a quieter, slower-paced side of Maui that’s well worth setting aside a day to explore.
How far is Upcountry Maui from West and South Maui rentals?
One of the best things about visiting Upcountry is that it’s surprisingly close. Whether you’re staying in Kaʻanapali, Kihei, or Wailea, you can comfortably explore the region as a day trip. South Maui guests have the shortest drive to Makawao and Kula, while visitors staying on the west side should allow extra time—especially if Haleakala is on the itinerary.
| Destination | From Kaʻanapali (West Maui) | From Kihei / Wailea (South Maui) |
| Makawao | 50 min | 25–30 min |
| Kula (Aliʻi Kula Lavender, farms) | 60 min | 35 min |
| Ulupalakua (MauiWine) | 1 hr 15 min | 45 min |
| Haleakala summit | 1 hr 45 min – 2 hrs | 60–75 min |
A few things to know before you drive:
- Haleakala Hwy (Hwy 378) is a well-maintained two-lane road, but it climbs steeply and continuously. We’ve found that guests who are sensitive to winding roads do better when they allow extra time and plan for a few scenic stops along the way.
- MauiWine in Ulupalakua: The winery specifically advises taking Hwy 37 only. GPS has been known to suggest alternate routes that don’t go through correctly — ignore them.
- Fuel: Fill up in Pukalani before heading into upper Kula or Ulupalakua. Gas stations are sparse above that point.
For more on driving conditions and road etiquette on Maui, see our Driving on Maui guide.
What should I plan before visiting Haleakala National Park?
Whether you’re hoping to watch the sunrise above the clouds or simply explore the summit during the day, a little planning goes a long way. Daytime visits are straightforward, but sunrise requires an advance reservation that many first-time visitors don’t realize they need.
Sunrise vs. Daytime Visits
A daytime visit to Haleakala National Park requires only the park entrance fee—currently $30 per vehicle, valid for three days. No reservation is needed.
Sunrise is different. Any vehicle entering the Summit District between 3:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. must also have a timed sunrise reservation booked through Recreation.gov. The reservation costs $1 per vehicle and is separate from the park entrance fee. America the Beautiful and other interagency passes cover the entrance fee but not the sunrise reservation.
How to Book a Haleakala Sunrise Reservation
- Where to book: Recreation.gov — Haleakala Summit Sunrise
- Reservation fee: $1 per vehicle (non-refundable)
- Park entrance fee: $30 per vehicle, valid for three days
- Reservations open: 60 days in advance at 7:00 a.m. HST, with an additional limited release 48 hours before each date
- One reservation covers one vehicle, not each passenger
- Bring your confirmation email (digital is fine) along with a photo ID matching the reservation holder
- Reservations remain valid regardless of weather, so it’s worth checking NPS Haleakala conditions the evening before your visit
If your preferred sunrise date is sold out, don’t give up. Cancellations do happen, and the additional batch released 48 hours in advance gives you another opportunity to secure a reservation.
Is Sunrise Worth It?
Sunrise at Haleakala is worth it — but it’s not the only memorable way to experience the summit.
If you aren’t able to get a sunrise reservation, or simply prefer a slower start to your day, consider visiting for sunset instead. No reservation is required after 7:00 a.m., and many visitors find the smaller crowds and changing light just as rewarding. The main thing to plan for is the drive back down the mountain after dark.
What to Wear at the Summit
One of the biggest surprises for first-time visitors is just how cold Haleakala can feel. While it may be warm enough for shorts at the beach, the 10,000-foot summit often sits between 30°F and 40°F at sunrise, with strong winds making it feel even colder.
Dress in warm layers, including:
- A fleece or insulated jacket
- A windproof outer layer
- Gloves and a warm hat
- Comfortable walking shoes for the summit overlooks
From the park entrance, allow about 30 minutes to drive to the summit parking areas.
The combination of altitude and cold can affect visitors more than expected. Take your time, stay hydrated, and consider your group’s comfort—especially if you’re traveling with young children or anyone with cardiovascular or respiratory conditions.
Downhill Biking from Haleakala
If you’d rather experience the mountain on two wheels, several operators offer guided downhill bike tours that begin near the summit and descend toward the coast. It’s a completely different way to experience Upcountry, combining panoramic views with a mostly downhill ride.
What farms, producers, and stops are worth the drive to Kula and Ulupalakua?
Upcountry’s cooler climate and rich volcanic soil make it one of Maui’s most productive agricultural regions. As you wind through Kula and Ulupalakua, you’ll find working farms, wineries, and local producers that offer a completely different experience from the beach. Rather than trying to visit them all, choose one or two that match your interests and enjoy the slower pace that makes this part of the island so special.
Aliʻi Kula Lavender — Kula
Set 4,000 feet up the slopes of Haleakala, Aliʻi Kula Lavender is one of Upcountry’s most scenic stops. Wander peaceful gardens, take in panoramic views across Central Maui, and browse the gift shop for locally made lavender products, teas, and baked goods.
Plan on about an hour here. The feedback we hear from guests is that the lavender fields are smaller than older photos may suggest, so think of it as a beautiful garden and viewpoint rather than a commercial lavender farm.
- Hours: Friday–Monday, 10:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
- Admission: Admission: $5 per person ($2 for seniors, military, and kamaʻaina; children 12 & under free)
- MPP Guests: Complimentary admission is included through the Xplorie program with select MPP Vacations rentals.
- Before you go: Check current hours at aliikulalavender.com.
Surfing Goat Dairy — Kula
A fun stop for families, animal lovers, and anyone who appreciates local food, Surfing Goat Dairy is a working farm known for its award-winning cheeses. Visitors can meet the goats, take a farm tour, or book one of several hands-on experiences.
- Hours: Tuesday–Saturday, 9:30 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
- Best for: Families, cheese lovers, and interactive farm experiences.
- Before you go: Booking online in advance saves 10%.
Ocean Vodka Organic Farm & Distillery — Kula
If you’re looking for a relaxed lunch stop in Kula, Ocean Vodka combines panoramic Upcountry views with craft spirits, guided tastings, and a farm-to-table café. It’s an easy place to slow down before continuing your drive toward Ulupalakua or Haleakala. Open daily, reservations are recommended for tastings and the Farm Café.
Kula Country Farms — Kula
For a taste of everyday Upcountry, stop by this fourth-generation family farm. The farm stand offers fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, jams, and locally made products, while neighboring Maile Tea Company is a great place for tea, coffee, or a smoothie.
Visiting in season? Spring brings popular U-pick strawberry days, while fall transforms the farm into one of Maui’s favorite pumpkin patch destinations. If you’re traveling during either season, it’s well worth checking what’s happening before your visit.
- Farm Stand: Monday–Saturday, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.
- Seasonal highlights: U-pick strawberries (spring) and pumpkin patch (fall)
MauiWine — Ulupalakua
Located on historic Ulupalakua Ranch, MauiWine is one of Upcountry’s signature stops. Enjoy a seated tasting of estate-grown wines—including the winery’s well-known pineapple wine—in the charming King’s Cottage before exploring the surrounding grounds.
- Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
- Reservations: Strongly recommended.
- Driving Tip: Follow Hwy 37 to reach the winery, as some GPS routes can be inaccurate.
Matching Upcountry Stops to Your Day
If your day includes Haleakala, don’t try to fit everything in. Instead, pick one or two stops that match your interests:
- Scenic gardens & views: Aliʻi Kula Lavender
- Families & local food: Surfing Goat Dairy
- Lunch & craft spirits: Ocean Vodka Organic Farm & Distillery
- Wine tasting: MauiWine
- Fresh produce & local shopping: Kula Country Farms
Part of Upcountry’s charm is slowing down. Leave room to linger over lunch, browse a farm stand, or pull over for one of the island’s best panoramic views before making your way back to the coast.
Where should I eat in Upcountry Maui?
Makawao’s food scene runs wider than most visitors expect — and it’s something we regularly hear guests mention when they come back from an Upcountry day. The town’s paniolo roots, its Japanese plantation community — families who settled Upcountry from the late 1800s onward — and a current generation of chefs working with locally grown ingredients have produced a range of dining options that reflects the actual character of the place.
Komoda Store & Bakery — Makawao
A Makawao institution since 1916, Komoda is famous for its cream puffs, stick donuts, and guava malasadas — all baked fresh overnight. The most popular items often sell out before mid-morning, so arrive early. Closed Wednesday and Sunday. Opens 7:00 a.m.
Grandma’s Coffee House — Keokea
A perfect breakfast or coffee stop before or after Haleakala. The Franco family has grown organic coffee on the slopes of Haleakala since 1918, and the coffee house serves it alongside hearty breakfast plates and homemade baked goods. Open daily from 7:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. — well-timed for an early Upcountry start.
Casanova — Makawao
Casanova runs as both an Italian café and a full restaurant from the same address at the main crossroads of Makawao. The café opens Monday–Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. with espresso, fresh-baked croissants, panini on focaccia, and housemade sandwiches — a natural stop before Haleakala or on the way back from a sunrise visit. The restaurant opens for dinner Monday–Sunday from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. with wood-fired pizza, handmade pasta, and seafood.
Satori Maui — Makawao
A farm-to-table sushi food truck parked on Baldwin Ave, serving fresh local Hawaiian fish, creative rolls, ramen, and Maui Kombucha on tap. The menu is dairy-free and largely gluten-free, with strong vegetarian and vegan options. We’ve seen it become a go-to lunch stop for guests exploring Makawao between farm visits. Casual, outdoor, and easy to fit between other Makawao stops. Open Tuesday–Saturday, noon–7:00 p.m. Closed Sunday and Monday.
Polli’s Mexican Restaurant — Makawao
In Makawao since 1981, Polli’s is one of the most casually welcoming stops on Baldwin Ave — generous portions of Mexican classics, fish dishes, vegetarian options, and a bar known for its margaritas. Open Monday–Thursday from 4:00 p.m.; Friday–Sunday from noon.
Makawao Public House — Makawao
Dinner only, with a menu that draws on paniolo heritage and locally sourced seasonal ingredients. One of the newer additions to Makawao’s dining scene and a 2025 Readers Choice winner. Reservations recommended. Opens daily at 4:00 p.m.
Haliʻimaile General Store — Haliʻimaile
Not in Makawao town, but worth the mention — Haliʻimaile General Store sits between the coast and Upcountry, directly on most routes to and from Haleakala. Chef Beverly Gannon has run it since 1988, with a menu built around regional Hawaiian cooking and local Asian influences, sourced from Upcountry farms and fishermen. An excellent place to end the day before heading back to the coast. Open daily for lunch 11:00 a.m.–2:30 p.m., dinner from 4:30 p.m. Reservations strongly recommended.
Our recommendation: If you’re starting early, coffee at Grandma’s Coffee House or pastries from Komoda set the day up well. For lunch in Makawao, Satori or Casanova’s deli are both easy stops between farm visits. If you’re staying Upcountry into the evening, Makawao Public House or Haliʻimaile General Store are strong choices before heading back to your vacation rental.
How Should I Plan an Upcountry Maui Day Trip?
Upcountry isn’t a place to rush through. Rather than trying to squeeze every attraction into a single day, choose an itinerary that matches your interests and leave room for the unexpected—a scenic lookout, a farm stand, or a coffee stop that wasn’t on your original plan. You’ll experience far more of what makes this part of Maui special by slowing down.
Option 1: Haleakala Sunrise & Makawao Morning
If watching the sunrise above the clouds is on your Maui bucket list, make it the focus of your day. Leave Kaʻanapali around 2:00 a.m. or Kihei and Wailea around 2:30 a.m. to reach the summit in time for sunrise. Remember that sunrise requires a timed reservation.
Afterward, make your way back down the mountain and spend the morning exploring Makawao. Pick up fresh pastries at Komoda Store & Bakery, wander Baldwin Avenue’s galleries and boutiques, and enjoy a relaxed breakfast before heading back to the coast.
Best for: Couples, photographers, and anyone visiting Haleakala for the first time.
Option 2: Farms, Gardens & Upcountry Flavors
If you’d rather skip the early alarm, enjoy a slower day exploring Maui’s agricultural heart. Start the morning in Makawao with coffee or pastries before making your way through Kula’s farms and gardens. From there, continue to Ulupalakua for a wine tasting and lunch before taking the scenic drive back to your vacation rental.
Be sure to check opening days before you go, as attractions like Aliʻi Kula Lavender and MauiWine have limited weekly operating schedules.
Best for: Families, couples, and anyone looking for a relaxed day of local food, scenic views, and small-town charm.
In our experience, this is the itinerary most guests end up recommending to friends.
Before You Head Upcountry
A little planning goes a long way when visiting Upcountry.
- Check opening days: Some farms, wineries, and attractions aren’t open every day, so it’s worth confirming hours before you set out.
- Dress in layers: Temperatures are noticeably cooler than the coast, especially if you’re visiting Haleakala.
- Fill up on fuel in Pukalani: Gas stations become less common as you continue through Kula and toward Ulupalakua.
- Respect the landscape: If you’re visiting Haleakala National Park, stay on marked trails to help protect fragile native plants like the rare silversword.
If you’re planning a longer stay, our 7-Day Maui Vacation Itinerary shows how an Upcountry adventure fits alongside beach days, the Road to Hāna, and other island highlights. Heading back to West Maui? Explore our West Maui guide for beaches, restaurants, and activities close to your vacation rental.
Where Should You Stay to Explore Upcountry Maui?
From sunrise above the clouds at Haleakala to fresh pastries in Makawao and wine tasting in Ulupalakua, Upcountry reveals a side of Maui many visitors never experience. Staying in West or South Maui lets you enjoy the island’s beaches while keeping these day trips within easy reach. What we’ve found is that guests who set aside a full day for Upcountry — rather than squeezing it between beach plans — come back with the strongest memories of the trip.
Ready to start planning? Browse our West Maui and South Maui vacation rentals to find your perfect home base, and don’t forget to explore our included Xplorie activities for complimentary experiences, and make the most of your time on the island.
About This Guide
This guide was researched and written by the MPP Vacations editorial team. Our information draws on the National Park Service, Recreation.gov, official business websites for each farm and restaurant listed, and our team’s ongoing work with Maui’s Upcountry communities. We have no commercial relationship with the businesses mentioned unless explicitly noted. Hours, prices, and seasonal offerings should be confirmed directly with each business before your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Upcountry Maui worth visiting on a day trip from the coast?
Yes — if you want a day that looks and feels different from the beach. The Haleakala summit is a genuinely distinct environment: high altitude, often above the cloud layer, and quiet in a way that’s hard to find near the shoreline. Makawao has its own pace and character. That said, Upcountry rewards visitors who take their time. If you have a short trip and beaches are the priority, keep this for a return visit or a longer stay.
Do I need a reservation to visit Haleakala National Park?
For sunrise only — defined as entering the Summit District between 3:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. That reservation ($1/vehicle) is booked through Recreation.gov and is separate from the $30 park entrance fee. After 7:00 a.m., no reservation is needed; pay the entrance fee at the gate. The park does not accept cash.
Can I combine Haleakala and the Upcountry farms in one day?
A sunrise summit + Makawao breakfast is a natural combination and works well timing-wise. Adding Kula farms or MauiWine to the same day is possible but makes for a long one. Most guests find it more satisfying to split the two experiences across separate days.
What should I wear for the Haleakala summit?
Plan for winter-level temperatures. Summit temps at sunrise average 30–40°F, and the wind sharpens that cold. Bring warm layers, a windbreaker, gloves, and a hat regardless of how warm it is on the coast when you leave. The temperature drops gradually as you climb — by Pukalani it’s noticeably cooler; near the summit it can be 30 or more degrees colder than the beach.
Is Aliʻi Kula Lavender Farm open every day?
No. Aliʻi Kula Lavender is open Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. It is closed Tuesday through Thursday. Admission is $5 per person. Confirm at aliikulalavender.com before making the drive.
What is Makawao known for?
Makawao has its roots in paniolo culture — Hawaiian cowboys who worked the cattle ranches of Upcountry Maui beginning in the 1800s. That history shows in the town’s architecture and in the annual Makawao Rodeo held each Fourth of July weekend, one of the longest-running rodeo events in the state. Today the town also has a strong arts community, with locally owned galleries, boutiques, and bakeries along Baldwin Avenue.
What is paniolo culture, and where does it come from?
Paniolo — the Hawaiian word for cowboy, adapted from the Spanish español — traces back to the early 1800s, when King Kamehameha I received a gift of longhorn cattle and later brought skilled vaqueros from California to teach ranching methods to Hawaiian workers. Those techniques were absorbed into a distinctly Hawaiian ranching tradition that continues across the island’s Upcountry ranches today.
