Makawao Travel Guide

Tourist Guide

Makawao
Haleakala National Park featuring landscape views and desert views
Haleakala National Park showing a sunset, landscape views and tranquil scenes
Haleakala National Park featuring tranquil scenes
Haleakala National Park which includes landscape views and desert views

Reflective of Hawaii’s unique rural culture and artistic heritage, this town should be included in any trip to Maui.

When you visit Makawao, you might be surprised by the Western-style façades, steakhouses and signage with cowboy fonts. You have entered paniolo country. “Paniolo” is a Hawaiian name for a cowboy. Many paniolos are found in what is known here as Upcountry Maui. Come understand this piece of Hawaiian culture and experience Makawao’s artistic features. 

Pass the beautiful volcanic formation of Mount Haleakala as you drive into Makawao. The area’s grassy knolls and dramatic ocean views rival any others in Hawaii. Look for cattle with paniolos wrangling them into new grazing sites. 

Beyond its paniolo heritage, Makawao is known in Maui as a haven for artists. Stop at the Hui No’eau Visual Arts Centre, where local glassblowers, sculptors and painters exhibit works showcasing the unique beauty of the region. The charming, villa-style grounds of the museum are also wonderful for a warm afternoon walk. For another moment in an even more tranquil space, meander through the serene labyrinths of The Sacred Garden of Maliko.

For a taste of authentic local food you can get only in Makawao, buy a doughnut or pastry from Komoda Store & Bakery. Many tourists familiar with Maui will make a detour just to taste these rich treats once again. Arrive early for the best selection. Save room for delicious food from the pizzerias, bars, grills and traditional Hawaiian restaurants in the area. 

Drive 13 miles (20 kilometres) from Kahului to reach Makawao. Once you’re here, public parking is free and all attractions are walking distance from each other. Many people make Makawao a daytrip. Several upscale hotels and a few inns are here to accommodate your overnight stays. Wake up early to experience a sunrise as it graces the eastern Maui horizon.

Gods Peace Of Maui

Gods Peace Of Maui

2 out of 5
1290 Haliimaile Rd, Makawao, HI
The price is AU$303 per night from 25 Aug to 26 Aug
AU$303
25 Aug - 26 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this spa B&B in Makawao. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Popular attractions Hali imaile Farmer's Market and Hui Noʻeau Visual ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (26 reviews)
"A bit of confusion about our room assignment first couple days, but otherwise great location, great view of Haleakala, hot tub felt great at end of day, and Mika and Tammi are wonderful hosts. Breakfast is just self-serve coffee/tea, fig bars and instant oatmeal. But there's a full kitchen and supermarket ..."

Reviewed on 22 Aug. 2025

Gods Peace Of Maui
Lumeria Maui Educational Retreat Center

Lumeria Maui Educational Retreat Center

3.5 out of 5
1813 Baldwin Ave, Makawao, HI
The price is AU$707 per night from 26 Aug to 27 Aug
AU$707
26 Aug - 27 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3.5-star boutique hotel in Makawao. Enjoy free breakfast, onsite spa services, and a garden. Popular attractions Hali imaile Farmer's Market and ...
8.4/10 Very Good! (206 reviews)
"A wonderful, off-the-beaten path experience away from all the tourists."

Reviewed on 31 May 2025

Lumeria Maui Educational Retreat Center
Historic Upcountry Maui Property With Pool, 7Bedrooms, Sleeps 16

Historic Upcountry Maui Property With Pool, 7Bedrooms, Sleeps 16

Makawao
The price is AU$4,710 per night from 10 Sept to 11 Sept
AU$4,710
10 Sept - 11 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this vacation home in Makawao. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and a garden. Popular attractions Enlighten Up Massage and Makawao Park are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (66 reviews)
50th anniversary family trip
"This is a beautiful property that easily and comfortably accommodated our family of 12. The large main house was perfect for gathering, with a spacious living room and well stocked kitchen. The grounds were gorgeous where the little ones loved running and playing, and a large pool and hot tub were ..."

Reviewed on 13 Aug. 2025

Historic Upcountry Maui Property With Pool, 7Bedrooms, Sleeps 16
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Historic Upcountry Maui Property With Pool, 7Bedrooms, Sleeps 16

Historic Upcountry Maui Property With Pool, 7Bedrooms, Sleeps 16

Makawao
Stay at this vacation home in Makawao. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and a garden. Popular attractions Enlighten Up Massage and Makawao Park are located ...
10/10 Exceptional! (66 reviews)
50th anniversary family trip
"This is a beautiful property that easily and comfortably accommodated our family of 12. The large main house was perfect for gathering, with a spacious living room and well stocked kitchen. The grounds were gorgeous where the little ones loved running and playing, and a large pool and hot tub were ..."

Reviewed on 13 Aug. 2025

Historic Upcountry Maui Property With Pool, 7Bedrooms, Sleeps 16
Private lush 2 Acre Mountain Home Maui Permitted#STMP 2013-0001 many amenities

Private lush 2 Acre Mountain Home Maui Permitted#STMP 2013-0001 many amenities

Makawao
Stay at this vacation home in Makawao. Enjoy free WiFi, a garden, and laundry facilities. Popular attractions Makawao Park and Enlighten Up Massage are located ...
9.8/10 Exceptional! (207 reviews)
"This home was fantastic! The kitchen was stocked with all we needed for meal prep. The beds were spacious and comfortable. Tasey was quick to respond to texts. The entrance key code made it super simple to come and go from the home. The location of the house was perfectly in between beaches and the ..."

Reviewed on 17 Aug. 2025

Private lush 2 Acre Mountain Home Maui Permitted#STMP 2013-0001 many amenities
Exceptional Upcountry Villa with breathtaking views

Exceptional Upcountry Villa with breathtaking views

Makawao
Stay at this vacation home in Makawao. Enjoy free WiFi, private pools, and a sauna. Our guests praise the property condition in our reviews. Popular attractions ...
10/10 Exceptional! (44 reviews)
Amazing!
"We had the most amazing experience in Hawaii and was mostly due to where we stayed! David and Dawn were the most amazing hosts! Very responsive and helpful with restaurants, things to do and made our stay very comfortable! This place was perfect for our family of 5 and the views - stunning!! We plan ..."

Reviewed on 24 Jul. 2025

Exceptional Upcountry Villa with breathtaking views
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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