You Haven’t Really Seen Maui Until You’ve Explored its Stunning Upcountry🌿

It’s a refreshing change from the island’s beaches and a must-see when you visit. 

The Upcountry is dotted with paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture, lush gardens, and breathtaking views of both the ocean and Haleakala Crater. It’s one of the best places on the island to slow down, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and connect with Maui’s more relaxed, pastoral side.

If you’re looking to balance your trip with something off the beaten path, Upcountry Maui is well worth the drive. 

But before I get to my favorite things to do, here are two quick tips for visiting this lovely part of Maui:

Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you choose to book through these links, I receive a small commission, which I will likely blow on mai tais, poke, and shave ice.  All of this internet voodoo takes place at no additional cost to you. 

• Don’t forget to bring a light jacket, it gets chilly up there!
• Many places in Upcountry are open daily but if you want to visit all 3 places on my list, you’ll need to go on a Friday or Saturday.   

Now let’s get to it! 

My 3 favorite places to visit in Upcountry Maui

Maui’s Ocean Vodka has become a favorite since we moved to Hawaii. So it’s no surprise that a visit to the Ocean Vodka Distillery was high on my husband’s to-do list on our first visit to the island. 

Set on a sprawling 22-acre farm, this family-owned distillery crafts Ocean organic vodka using deep ocean mineral water and local sugarcane, creating a truly Hawaiian spirit. They also produce Kula Rum, Fy Gin, and Brum spirits and you can try them all on the popular distillery tour.

The Distillery combines sustainability and stunning views with the opportunity to sample the organic spirits that are uniquely Maui.

It’s not just a tasting experience—it’s a chance to learn about Hawaii’s agricultural traditions and how they blend with modern craft distilling.

They also have a terrific cafe with island-fresh flatbreads and shareables like poke nachos and Thai veggie summer rolls. It’s the perfect place to stop for lunch when you’re exploring Upcountry.

Take the tour to learn about the vodka-making process and enjoy tastings in a setting with stunning views of both the ocean and mountains (they also frequently have live music).

Walk-ins are always welcome but if you want to be sure to get a spot on a tour, book in advance here.

What to Do at Maui’s Ocean Vodka Distillery:

• Take the distillery tour: Learn about the distillation process and see the sugarcane fields up close.
• Enjoy tastings: Sample the vodkas and rums, each with a unique Hawaiian twist.
• Soak up the views: The property overlooks both the ocean and Haleakala, so it’s a glorious spot for photos and the perfect place to unwind.
• Music on the lawn: Grab a seat at a picnic table and enjoy the laid-back Upcountry vibes with live music daily from 4:30 PM – 7:00 PM.

More Info: Ocean Organic Vodka Farm & Distillery

Open Daily for Guided Tastings: 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM (every 30 minutes)

Farm Store: 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM, Cafe: 11:30 AM to 7:00 PM

Home to over 45 varieties of lavender growing on its steep slopes, the farm offers a shop, a cafe, and guided tours. Learn all about the uses and benefits of lavender and even sample lavender-infused products like teas, lotions, and snacks. 

What to Do at Ali’i Kula Lavender:

• Take a walking tour: Stroll through the gardens and learn about the 45 varieties of lavender grown here. (Tip: pick up a handy map in the store!)
• Enjoy a tea service: Savor lavender-infused tea and scones on the shop’s deck.
• Shop for unique gifts: Their gift shop is packed with lavender-scented products, from bath salts to culinary treats.
• Relax and recharge: The farm’s peaceful atmosphere is perfect for slowing down and soaking in the natural beauty of Upcountry.

More Info: Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm

Hours: Friday-Monday 10:00 AM -4:00 PM (Closed Tuesday – Thursday)

3. Surfing Goat Dairy

Located right next door to Ocean Vodka, the Surfing Goat Dairy is a quirky and family-friendly stop where you can meet adorable goats and taste award-winning goat cheese and (my favorite) delicious truffles.

Do not miss the truffles, trust me.

While all of the Upcountry stops on my list are family-friendly, this dairy farm is one of the best things on the island to do with kiddos. 

This working farm is a fun blend of education and entertainment, giving visitors a glimpse into sustainable farming in Maui’s Upcountry. You can meet the goats, see how the cheese is crafted, and even try your hand at milking. 

There’s also a season “Kid” Goat Interaction Experience offered from December to Spring (baby goat season) where you can snuggle and play with a kid goat. And yes, there are surfboards in the pens (hence the dairy’s name).

What To Do at Surfing Goat Dairy:

• Go on a tour: Meet the goats on the Daily Casual Tour (30 minutes) to learn about the farm and cheese-making.
• Taste the cheese: Sample a variety of fresh, handcrafted goat cheeses, from classic flavors to unique tropical-inspired options.
• Participate in daily activities: Join the goats during their feeding time or watch them frolic in their paddocks. (You can purchase appropriate feed in the shop.)
• Pick up local goodies: The cute shop sells more than just cheese and chocolate. You’ll also find goat milk soaps, lotions, and other farm-made products.

More Info: Surfing Goat Dairy

Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM, (Closed Sunday & Monday)

More fun things to do Upcountry

The 3 stops above are my favorite but there’s plenty more to see and do on this part of the island if you have more time. From farm tours to cattle ranches, here are a few more fun Upcountry hidden gems:

Kula Country Farms – If you’re visiting Maui in the spring, summer, or fall, add this fourth-generation family farm to your itinerary. From February to June, pick your own strawberries in the strawberry patch. In October, stop by to pick out a pumpkin. The farm stand is open year-round for fresh local produce from Monday to Saturday, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM (closed Sundays).

Ulupalakua Ranch Store – When it comes to Hawaiian cowboys, the original Ulupalakua ‘paniolos’ date back to the early 1960’s. Sample Maui’s grass-fed beef at the Ranch Store Grill and embrace the paniolo way of life. 

Kula Botanical Gardens – A popular spot for Maui weddings, this botanical garden is home to panoramic views and 8 acres of native tropical plants.

Maui Alpaca Farm Tours – If your kids like the goats, they’ll love walking the alpacas and meeting the fluffball Angora bunnies! Open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM (tour prices vary).

Can you stay Upcountry?

You sure can. If you fall in love with the laid-back Upcountry lifestyle, you can actually stay in Kula on your next visit. Just off Haleakala Highway, the rustic chalets at the Kula Lodge are a favorite with Maui visitors who like to leave the tourist crowds behind.  

So hit the road & head Upcountry!

Maui’s Upcountry is a refreshing change of pace from the island’s busier tourist hubs. Whether you’re sipping organic local vodka with a view, wandering through fragrant lavender fields, or surfing with playful goats, this region is full of unique and memorable experiences.

Take a break from all those beautiful beaches and head uphill—Upcountry Maui might just be the highlight of your trip. 🌿

For more great things to do on Maui, start here:

The Everything Guide to the Best Maui Whale-Watching Tours

5 Unforgettable Maui Beaches (Don’t Leave Hawaii Without Seeing #3)

Headed to Maui? Here are 3 Reservations You Need to Make Now 🌺📆💻

First Trip to Maui? Here Are 10 Things You Don’t Want to Miss!

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