kula town
Locals know to escape the heat, head to the rolling hills and expansive pasture land of Kula, and the quaint communities beyond of Ulupalakua and Keokea. Kula means “open country”, and this loosely designated area that sits between 1000 feet to 8000 feet elevation, is known as the breadbasket of Maui. The “farm to table” phenomenon has catapulted many gardens and farms into creating some outstanding farm tours and tasting opportunities of their locally made products. Relaxed and slow- paced, the regionʼs farming and ranching history and shear isolation, as there is no direct public road connecting it to South Maui, have helped to maintain the “vibe” we know and love as Kula.
Heading along Hwy 37, make sure to pass the turnoff for Hwy 377 that takes you to Haleakala Summit, and continue on Hwy 37 through beautiful Kula to begin your journey. The area is known for its tropical gardens, lavender, protea, sweet Maui onions, goat cheese, coffee, carnations and orchid for leis, cattle, and plenty of generations old farms, cowboys, and artists. Stop in to one of the handful of eateries and cafes that dot the hillside. With amazing views of the ocean below and a cool breeze, this part of your Maui vacation will be a welcome reprieve from the busy tourism hubs of Kihei and Wailea below.
kula town
Locals know to escape the heat, head to the rolling hills and expansive pasture land of Kula, and the quaint communities beyond of Ulupalakua and Keokea. Kula means “open country”, and this loosely designated area that sits between 1000 feet to 8000 feet elevation, is known as the breadbasket of Maui. The “farm to table” phenomenon has catapulted many gardens and farms into creating some outstanding farm tours and tasting opportunities of their locally made products. Relaxed and slow- paced, the regionʼs farming and ranching history and shear isolation, as there is no direct public road connecting it to South Maui, have helped to maintain the “vibe” we know and love as Kula.
Heading along Hwy 37, make sure to pass the turnoff for Hwy 377 that takes you to Haleakala Summit, and continue on Hwy 37 through beautiful Kula to begin your journey. The area is known for its tropical gardens, lavender, protea, sweet Maui onions, goat cheese, coffee, carnations and orchid for leis, cattle, and plenty of generations old farms, cowboys, and artists. Stop in to one of the handful of eateries and cafes that dot the hillside. With amazing views of the ocean below and a cool breeze, this part of your Maui vacation will be a welcome reprieve from the busy tourism hubs of Kihei and Wailea below.
history
The area that makes up Kula, KeoKea and Ulupalakua is primarily comprised of three large ranches Haleakala Ranch, Kaonoulu Ranch, and Ulupalakua. In the mid to late 1800s, the Great Mahele occurred, which divided up Hawaiian lands for sale, and these influential families began acquiring the land for use. Many Chinese and Portuguese laborers, after fulfilling their contracts, moved into the area to farm the land. They were soon joined by a large number of Japanese and Korean immigrants who have maintained the agricultural character to this day.
Today the real estate values in Kula rank as one of the priciest in Hawaii. With its quaint communities, low traffic, cooler temperatures, and impeccable views, the property values have skyrocketed. And, a new type of residence now dot the area. The “gentlemanʼs farm”, comprised of a plot of land, and a large upscale home is becoming more frequent.
history
The area that makes up Kula, KeoKea and Ulupalakua is primarily comprised of three large ranches Haleakala Ranch, Kaonoulu Ranch, and Ulupalakua. In the mid to late 1800s, the Great Mahele occurred, which divided up Hawaiian lands for sale, and these influential families began acquiring the land for use. Many Chinese and Portuguese laborers, after fulfilling their contracts, moved into the area to farm the land. They were soon joined by a large number of Japanese and Korean immigrants who have maintained the agricultural character to this day.
Today the real estate values in Kula rank as one of the priciest in Hawaii. With its quaint communities, low traffic, cooler temperatures, and impeccable views, the property values have skyrocketed. And, a new type of residence now dot the area. The “gentlemanʼs farm”, comprised of a plot of land, and a large upscale home is becoming more frequent.
points of interest
4051 Omaopio Rd
Kula, Award winning vodka made on the slopes of Haleakala. Tours available.
3651 Omaopio Rd
Kula A favorite for families and foodies alike. This farm is known for their 18 national cheese awards. Favorites include Udderly Delicious, Ole, and the Men’s Challenge made with horseradish. Try their line of goat cheese chocolate truffles or lilikoi (passion fruit) goat cheese cheesecake. Enjoy any of their platter or treats at the outdoor cafe. Petting and milking opportunities for the kids. Tours available.
2505 Kula Hwy
9am-5pm Daily
Offering a variety of tropical and asian trees, shrubs and flowers. The gardens offer a small gift shop,the Hibiscus Cafe, and is well worth the stop.
3158 Lower Kula Rd
7am – 9pm
Authentic French cuisine made by Chef, Thierry Michelier. Crepes, flaky croissants, and filet mignon, with the option to dine al fresco taking in the ocean views.
Lower Kula/ Alanui Place
Kulaʼs most notable landmark, the brilliant white, octagonal structure can be seen from South Mauiʼs shores. This gift from the king and queen of Portugal to the islandʼs Portuguese plantation workers was built in 1894, and has been recently restored.
4566 Lower Kula Rd
7:30am – 10:30am & 11am – 8:15pm
Formerly Cafe 808, this restaurant has undergone a major renovation. Specializes in homestyle food with an Italian flair, youʼll find pizzas, pastas, great breakfast food and homemade desserts. Located across from the Morihara Store, where purchasing alcohol for BYOB is an option.
4581 Lower Kula Rd
Small Grocer and Convenience store.
15200 Haleakala Hwy
This rustic restaurant is a favorite breakfast spot for those coming down from catching sunrise atop Haleakala Crater. Warm up beside the fireplace, admire the art in the downstairs gallery, and enjoy a tasty loco moco while admiring the impeccable views. Be sure to stroll the garden in the back before you go.
Next door to the Kula Lodge
7am – 7pm
Offering a wide variety of specialty gourmet foods and locally made products, including jewelry, pottery, heirloom quilts, and arts and crafts.
15427 Haleakala Hwy
Mon-Fri: 7am – 3pm
Sun: 7am-11:30pm
Diners can expect French toast with home-made Portuguese sweet bread, and country omelets with fresh local veggies, and kalua-pork sandwiches for lunch. There is a gazebo and terrace, with ocean views.
638 Kekaulike Ave
Established in 1968, this 6 acre botanical garden has a wide variety of tropical plants. Gift shop with snacks for purchase.
Located directly across from the winery, this is a great place for lunch. The store opened in 1849, and now houses a small deli where patrons can find made to order deli sandwiches or hot off the grill specials made from the ranchʼs livestock, like beef or elk. Enjoy yours outside on the veranda.
Kula Hwy/ Waipoli Rd
Bathroom, Grills, and tables.
points of interest
4051 Omaopio Rd
Kula, Award winning vodka made on the slopes of Haleakala. Tours available.
3651 Omaopio Rd
Kula A favorite for families and foodies alike. This farm is known for their 18 national cheese awards. Favorites include Udderly Delicious, Ole, and the Men’s Challenge made with horseradish. Try their line of goat cheese chocolate truffles or lilikoi (passion fruit) goat cheese cheesecake. Enjoy any of their platter or treats at the outdoor cafe. Petting and milking opportunities for the kids. Tours available.
2505 Kula Hwy
9am-5pm Daily
Offering a variety of tropical and asian trees, shrubs and flowers. The gardens offer a small gift shop,the Hibiscus Cafe, and is well worth the stop.
3158 Lower Kula Rd
7am – 9pm
Authentic French cuisine made by Chef, Thierry Michelier. Crepes, flaky croissants, and filet mignon, with the option to dine al fresco taking in the ocean views.
Lower Kula/ Alanui Place
Kulaʼs most notable landmark, the brilliant white, octagonal structure can be seen from South Mauiʼs shores. This gift from the king and queen of Portugal to the islandʼs Portuguese plantation workers was built in 1894, and has been recently restored.
4566 Lower Kula Rd
7:30am – 10:30am & 11am – 8:15pm
Formerly Cafe 808, this restaurant has undergone a major renovation. Specializes in homestyle food with an Italian flair, youʼll find pizzas, pastas, great breakfast food and homemade desserts. Located across from the Morihara Store, where purchasing alcohol for BYOB is an option.
4581 Lower Kula Rd
Small Grocer and Convenience store.
15200 Haleakala Hwy
This rustic restaurant is a favorite breakfast spot for those coming down from catching sunrise atop Haleakala Crater. Warm up beside the fireplace, admire the art in the downstairs gallery, and enjoy a tasty loco moco while admiring the impeccable views. Be sure to stroll the garden in the back before you go.
Next door to the Kula Lodge
7am – 7pm
Offering a wide variety of specialty gourmet foods and locally made products, including jewelry, pottery, heirloom quilts, and arts and crafts.
15427 Haleakala Hwy
Mon-Fri: 7am – 3pm
Sun: 7am-11:30pm
Diners can expect French toast with home-made Portuguese sweet bread, and country omelets with fresh local veggies, and kalua-pork sandwiches for lunch. There is a gazebo and terrace, with ocean views.
638 Kekaulike Ave
Established in 1968, this 6 acre botanical garden has a wide variety of tropical plants. Gift shop with snacks for purchase.
Located directly across from the winery, this is a great place for lunch. The store opened in 1849, and now houses a small deli where patrons can find made to order deli sandwiches or hot off the grill specials made from the ranchʼs livestock, like beef or elk. Enjoy yours outside on the veranda.
Kula Hwy/ Waipoli Rd
Bathroom, Grills, and tables.
You can stop by The Island Fresh Café to grab one of our tropical fruit, drinks or maybe some Hawaiian food for the road
You can stop by The Island Fresh Café to grab one of our tropical fruit, drinks or maybe some Hawaiian food for the road
Thank you for interest in joining our community!
Suscribe with your email and recieve updates for the Island Fresh Café. We will get you know about our island Maui and what’s new at the Café! Discounts, specials and much more!
Thank you for interest in joining our community!
Suscribe with your email and recieve updates for the Island Fresh Café. We will get you know about our island Maui and what’s new at the Café! Discounts, specials and much more!