Attractions and Places To See around Makawao - Top 20

Makawao offers a variety of natural attractions. You can visit the First Falls, a waterfall known for its short, enjoyable hike and swimming area. The Makawao Forest Reserve is a haven for nature lovers, featuring diverse flora and extensive trails for hiking and mountain biking, such as the Kahakapao Loop Trail. For a tranquil experience, the Sacred Garden of Maliko provides a peaceful setting with lush gardens and labyrinths.

Yes, for those seeking a challenge, the Haleakala Climb is a demanding ascent up a volcano, gaining 10,000 feet over 36 miles of paved road with incredible island views. Another challenging option is the Baldwin - Olinda Roads Climb, which takes you from the coast into cool, lush upcountry forests on the slopes of Haleakala.

Makawao is rich in Hawaiian cowboy (paniolo) culture. You can explore the historic Makawao Town Center with its plantation-era buildings, now housing boutiques and galleries. The Hui Noʻeau Visual Arts Center, located on the former Baldwin Family estate, showcases local artists and offers a beautiful setting for a stroll. While the physical Makawao History Museum is currently closed, its digital resources offer insights into the region's past.

Absolutely! Hoʻokipa Beach is a great family-friendly spot where you can watch sea turtles and observe windsurfers. Makawao Park Eddie Tam Center offers recreational fields, a dog park, picnic areas, and playgrounds, including a popular hill for cardboard sliding. The Sacred Garden of Maliko is also a peaceful place for families to explore.

The Makawao Forest Reserve is a prime location for hiking, offering seven trails for various skill levels, including the scenic Kahakapao Loop Trail and the quieter Waihou Spring Trail. For more options, you can explore various running trails around Makawao, such as the Kahakapao Loop Trail run, which is a moderate 9.5 km route.

Makawao and its surroundings offer excellent cycling. The Haleakala Climb is a legendary road cycling challenge. You can also find various road cycling routes, including the difficult Pukalani to the Windmills loop, or explore touring bicycle routes like the challenging Piʻiholo Road via Olinda Road loop.

Don't miss T. Komoda Store & Bakery, famous for its cream puffs and malasadas – arrive early as they sell out quickly! For unique glass art and live demonstrations, visit Hot Island Glass. The Maui Cookie Lady offers oversized cookies and creative confections, while Mahalo Aleworks, located nearby, is Upcountry's only brewery with great views.

Makawao's upcountry location provides a cooler climate than Maui's beaches. While outdoor activities are enjoyable year-round, the dry season (roughly April to October) generally offers more consistent weather for hiking and cycling. However, be prepared for potential rain, especially in the Makawao Forest Reserve, as it can occur every 30 minutes on routes like the Hāna Highway.

Yes, the Haleakala Climb offers stunning panoramic views of the entire island of Maui and the crater. The Hāna Highway is a world-renowned scenic drive with over 700 turns and numerous bridges, offering breathtaking scenery. The Makawao Forest Reserve also provides ocean and island views from its trails.

Makawao stands out for its unique blend of Hawaiian cowboy (paniolo) culture, vibrant arts scene, and cooler upcountry climate. It offers a distinct experience away from the coastal resorts, with historic plantation-era architecture, local art galleries like Viewpoints Gallery Maui, and a strong sense of community, all set against a backdrop of lush forests and volcanic landscapes.

The Sacred Garden of Maliko is an ideal spot for relaxation and meditation. It features a tranquil environment with a vibrant greenhouse, fish ponds, rock garden labyrinths, and a Buddha garden, offering several sitting areas to enjoy the peaceful scenery.