Makawao

Craving an escape that transcends the usual tourist experience? Journey to Makawao, a captivating town nestled on the slopes of Maui’s majestic Haleakala volcano. Here, amidst verdant landscapes and a rich cultural tapestry, authentic Hawaiian charm awaits.

Beyond the picture-perfect beaches, Makawao offers a unique blend of history, art, and outdoor adventure. Delve into the town’s storied past, evident in its historic architecture and vibrant paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage. Explore a haven for artistic expression, with galleries showcasing diverse mediums and open studios fostering creative interaction. Indulge in a culinary adventure, savoring local Hawaiian flavors alongside international influences and farm-to-table freshness.

Makawao serves as a gateway to Upcountry Maui’s natural wonders. Embark on scenic hikes through lush forests, or explore the otherworldly beauty of Haleakala National Park, a dormant volcano offering breathtaking sunrises and star-studded nights. For a touch of adventure, saddle up for a horseback riding tour through rolling hills, experiencing the Upcountry from a paniolo’s perspective.

Escape the crowds and discover the relaxed charm of Makawao. Spend an afternoon browsing charming shops, unwind with a cup of locally roasted coffee, or simply soak in the tranquility of this captivating island town. Whether you’re a history buff, an art aficionado, or an outdoor enthusiast, Makawao promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning to return.

Flights To Makawao

Tips For Booking Cheap Flights To Makawao

  • Be Flexible with Your Dates: If you have flexible travel dates, you can save big on airfare. Midweek flights are usually cheaper than weekend flights. Also, flights during off-peak seasons are generally cheaper than flights during peak seasons.
  • Use Flight Comparison Websites: Websites like SkyscannerKayakEarlytripsTicketsaway and Google Flights allow you to compare prices from different airlines and find the best deals.
  • Set Price Alerts: If you have specific travel dates and destination, you can set price alerts on flight comparison websites. You will receive notifications when the price for your selected route drops.
  • Consider Nearby Airports: Maui’s main airport is Kahului Airport (OGG), which is about a 30-minute drive from Makawao. Flights to Kahului Airport may be cheaper than flights to other airports on Maui, such as Kapalua Airport (JHM) or Hana Airport (HNM).
  • Book in Advance: Booking your flight several weeks or even months in advance can help you save money. Airlines often increase prices as the departure date approaches.
  • Fly Budget Airlines: Budget airlines like Southwest Airlines, Frontier Airlines, and Spirit Airlines may offer cheaper flights to Maui than major airlines. However, be sure to check for additional fees for things like carry-on bags and seat selection.
  • Use Travel Rewards Credit Cards: If you frequently travel, using a travel rewards credit card can help you earn points or miles that you can redeem for flights. Some credit cards also offer sign-up bonuses that can be used to book flights.
  • Consider a Package Deal: Some travel agencies and websites offer package deals that include flights, accommodations, and car rentals. Booking a package deal can help you save money compared to booking everything separately.

Places To Visit

Historical Sites
  1. Makawao Hongwanji Mission: A Buddhist temple that was established in 1906, this historic site is a peaceful and spiritual place to visit. The temple’s architecture is a beautiful example of traditional Japanese design.
Natural Attractions
  1. Oskie Rice Park: This charming park in the heart of Makawao is a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of Maui. The park features a playground, picnic tables, and a large lawn for outdoor activities.
  2. Olivine Maui Winery: Located in the upcountry town of Kula, this winery offers tours and tastings of their unique pineapple wines. The winery is situated on a beautiful piece of property with stunning views of the island.
Cultural Attractions
  1. Hui Noeau Visual Arts Center: This non-profit visual arts center offers a variety of classes and workshops for all ages and skill levels. The center is housed in a beautiful historic building and features a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year.
  2. Makawao History Museum: This small museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Makawao. The museum features a variety of exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the town’s past.
Outdoor Activities
  1. Makawao Forest Reserve: This beautiful nature reserve offers miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as horseback riding and picnicking. The reserve is home to a variety of native plants and animals, and offers stunning views of the island.
  2. Haleakala National Park: While not located directly in Makawao, this national park is a must-visit destination on Maui. The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, and stargazing. The park is home to the Haleakala volcano, which offers breathtaking views from its summit.
Art Galleries
  1. Hot Island Glass: This unique gallery features hand-blown glass art in a variety of colors and styles. Visitors can watch the artists at work and even try their hand at glassblowing themselves.
  2. Maui Hands: This gallery features the work of over 200 local artists, including painters, sculptors, and jewelry makers. The gallery also offers classes and workshops for those interested in learning more about art.
Wellness Centers
  1. Maui Yoga Shala: This yoga studio offers a variety of classes for all levels, as well as workshops and retreats. The studio is located in a beautiful, peaceful setting and offers stunning views of the island.
  2. Maui Healing Retreat: This wellness center offers a variety of services, including massage, acupuncture, and energy healing. The center is located in a beautiful, serene setting and offers a variety of packages and retreats.
Natural Attractions
  1. Oskie Rice Park: This charming park in the heart of Makawao is a great place to relax and take in the natural beauty of Maui. The park features a playground, picnic tables, and a large lawn for outdoor activities.
  2. Olivine Maui Winery: Located in the upcountry town of Kula, this winery offers tours and tastings of their unique pineapple wines. The winery is situated on a beautiful piece of property with stunning views of the island.
Cultural Attractions
  1. Hui Noeau Visual Arts Center: This non-profit visual arts center offers a variety of classes and workshops for all ages and skill levels. The center is housed in a beautiful historic building and features a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year.
  2. Makawao History Museum: This small museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Makawao. The museum features a variety of exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the town’s past.
Shopping and Dining
  1. Makawao Avenue: This charming street is lined with unique shops, galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can find everything from locally made crafts and art to high-end fashion and home goods.
  2. Casanova Italian Restaurant: This popular restaurant is known for its delicious Italian cuisine and cozy, romantic atmosphere. The restaurant features a beautiful outdoor patio and a menu that changes seasonally.

Best Vacation Spots

  1. Makawao Forest Reserve: This beautiful nature reserve offers miles of hiking and biking trails, as well as horseback riding and picnicking. The reserve is home to a variety of native plants and animals, and offers stunning views of the island.
  2. Haleakala National Park: While not located directly in Makawao, this national park is a must-visit destination on Maui. The park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, camping, and stargazing. The park is home to the Haleakala volcano, which offers breathtaking views from its summit.
  3. Maui Tropical Plantation: This working plantation offers tours of its fields and facilities, as well as a variety of activities and attractions. Visitors can take a tram tour of the plantation, visit the farm stand, or enjoy a meal at the Mill House Restaurant.
  4. Makawao History Museum: This small museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of Makawao. The museum features a variety of exhibits and artifacts that tell the story of the town’s past.
  5. Hui Noeau Visual Arts Center: This non-profit visual arts center offers a variety of classes and workshops for all ages and skill levels. The center is housed in a beautiful historic building and features a variety of exhibitions and events throughout the year.
  6. Olivine Maui Winery: Located in the upcountry town of Kula, this winery offers tours and tastings of their unique pineapple wines. The winery is situated on a beautiful piece of property with stunning views of the island.
  7. Casanova Italian Restaurant: This popular restaurant is known for its delicious Italian cuisine and cozy, romantic atmosphere. The restaurant features a beautiful outdoor patio and a menu that changes seasonally.

Hotels

Top Hotels

  • Hotel Wailea: This luxury resort is located on 15 acres of tropical gardens overlooking the ocean in Wailea. The resort offers a variety of amenities, including a saltwater pool, fitness center, and spa.
  • Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui: This luxury resort is located on 22 acres of beachfront property in Wailea. The resort offers a variety of amenities, including a lagoon-style pool, spa, and fitness center.
  • Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort: This modern resort is located on 15 acres of beachfront property in Wailea. The resort offers a variety of amenities, including multiple pools, a spa, and several restaurants.
  • The Mauian Hotel: This boutique hotel is located on 7 acres of tropical gardens in Kihei. The hotel offers a variety of amenities, including a pool, hot tub, and barbecue grills.
  • Mana Kai Maui: This beachfront resort is located in Kihei and offers a variety of amenities, including a pool, hot tub, and fitness center. The resort also offers direct access to the beach.
  • Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui: This luxury resort is located on 22 acres of beachfront property in Wailea. The resort offers a variety of amenities, including multiple pools, a spa, and several restaurants.
  • The Plantation Inn: This historic inn is located in the heart of Lahaina and offers a variety of amenities, including a pool, hot tub, and restaurant. The inn is just a short walk from the beach and offers easy access to the town’s many shops and restaurants.

Budget Friendly Hotels

  • The Mauian Hotel: This boutique hotel in Kihei offers affordable rates and a variety of amenities, including a pool, hot tub, and barbecue grills. The hotel’s lush gardens and laid-back atmosphere make it an ideal home base for exploring the surrounding area.
  • Aina Nalu Lahaina by Outrigger: This condominium-style resort in Lahaina offers affordable rates and a variety of amenities, including a pool, hot tub, and fitness center. The resort’s spacious accommodations and convenient location make it a great option for families and groups.
  • The Old Wailuku Inn at Ulupono: This historic bed and breakfast in Wailuku offers affordable rates and a variety of amenities, including a complimentary breakfast and free parking. The inn’s charming decor and friendly staff make it a welcoming and comfortable place to stay.
  • Lahaina Shores Beach Resort: This beachfront resort in Lahaina offers affordable rates and a variety of amenities, including a pool, hot tub, and fitness center. The resort’s oceanfront location and stunning views make it a great option for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Maui.
  • Ka’anapali Beach Hotel: This beachfront resort in Lahaina offers affordable rates and a variety of amenities, including a pool, hot tub, and cultural activities. The hotel’s commitment to Hawaiian culture and hospitality make it a unique and memorable place to stay.
  • The Plantation Inn: This historic inn in Lahaina offers affordable rates and a variety of amenities, including a pool, hot tub, and restaurant. The inn’s convenient location and charming decor make it a great option for those looking for a cozy and comfortable place to stay.
  • Aston Maui Kaanapali Villas: This condominium-style resort in Ka’anapali offers affordable rates and a variety of amenities, including a pool, hot tub, and barbecue grills. The resort’s spacious accommodations and convenient location make it a great option for families and groups.

Best Time To Visit

  • Weather: The weather in Makawao, Hawaii is generally warm and sunny year-round, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. However, the winter months (December to February) can be cooler and rainier, while the summer months (June to August) can be hotter and more humid.
  • Crowds: Makawao is a popular destination year-round, but the peak tourist season is typically from December to April, when the weather is drier and cooler. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider visiting during the shoulder season (May to October) or the off-season (April to November).
  • Activities: The best time to visit Makawao depends on what activities you want to do. If you’re interested in whale watching, visit from December to May, when humpback whales migrate to the waters around Maui. If you want to attend festivals and events, plan your visit around the Makawao Rodeo (July), the Maui Ukulele Festival (October), or the Maui Fair (September).
  • Accommodations: Hotel rates in Makawao and the surrounding areas can vary depending on the time of year. If you’re looking for budget-friendly accommodations, consider visiting during the off-season or shoulder season, when rates are typically lower.
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