Escape the beaches and head into the heart of Maui’s highlands - where rolling pasturelands, cool mountain air, and rich volcanic soil shape a slower, more soulful side of the island. In Upcountry Maui, you’ll find lavender fields, goat dairies, and panoramic views that stretch from mountain to ocean. This day plan blends local culture, flavor, and scenic beauty into one unforgettable experience.
Begin your day where the island begins - atop Haleakalā, Maui’s legendary volcano. Watch the first light of dawn spill across the crater as the sky ignites in color, a moment so spectacular it’s been cherished for generations. With a guided tour, you’ll skip the stress of reservations and enjoy a comfortable ride, storytelling, and a warm breakfast on your descent.
After sunrise, settle into the slow rhythm of Upcountry life. Stop in Kula or Makawao for a hearty island breakfast - fresh eggs, banana pancakes, and locally roasted coffee - all served with sweeping valley views. These beloved spots blend ranch-town warmth with Maui’s famous farm-to-table spirit.
9232 Kula Hwy, Kula
A historic, no-frills café serving strong Maui-grown coffee and famous banana bread.
Try the banana bread or fresh local roast - both baked with love and local legend.
4566 Lower Kula Rd, Kula
Casual, BYO all-day cafe for pasta, pizza & panini, plus local dishes & breakfast staples.
Famous for fluffy pancakes, pastas, and fresh-caught fish - all in a BYOB, no-rush atmosphere.
The afternoon is made for wandering through Maui’s agricultural heartland. Visit a lavender farm in the misty hills, meet playful goats at a working dairy, or join a guided adventure through the forests and botanical gardens of Kula. Every stop offers something authentic - local stories, stunning landscapes, and a taste of how Maui grows.
As daylight fades, head to a ridge overlooking the coast for one of the island’s most peaceful sunsets. The golden light spills over the slopes of Haleakalā, painting the clouds in orange and pink. Whether you’re photographing the scene, exploring a lavender field at dusk, or simply taking it in, Upcountry’s sunset feels like a quiet celebration of everything Maui is.
Finish your day with a meal that reflects the essence of Upcountry - fresh, local, and full of character. From plantation-style dining rooms to cozy town cafés, you’ll find menus that celebrate Maui’s farms and flavors. Pair your meal with a glass of wine from Kula’s vineyards and toast to a day well spent above the clouds.
900 Haliimaile Rd, Haliimaile, HI 96768
Acclaimed destination for Hawaiian regional cuisine features a pineapple plantation-styled setting.
Don’t miss the famous crab pizza and plantation-style ambiance by Chef Bev Gannon.
1188 Makawao Ave, Makawao
Relaxed eatery serving wood-fired pizzas, classic pasta & inventive specials in a charming setting.
A Makawao favorite for hearty pasta, live music, and locals who treat you like family.
Ready to explore more of the island? Discover our full series of Maui day plans - from the beaches of Kihei to the waterfalls of Hāna. Each itinerary is curated by locals, designed to help you experience the best of Maui one day at a time.
Explore More Maui Itineraries →
