Welcome to Kula
A rural community in Upcountry Maui well-known for its farms and bi-coastal views
Kula is a charming, rural community in Maui's Upcountry, near the slopes of Mount Haleakala. Kula is a Hawaiian name that means "open country." This picturesque area of homes, farms, and ranchland has deep roots in the island's agricultural and ranching past and is now at the center of the island's "farm to table" culinary revival. Kula is home to the Kula Botanical Gardens, filled with carnations, orchids, and beautiful birds.
Kula has the greatest views in Upcountry Maui, with panoramic vistas of the island and the Pacific Ocean. It is home to some of the most expensive real estate in Hawaii. The farms in this area offer seclusion and breathtaking scenery.
What to Love
- Fresh fruits and vegetables available at weekly farmers' markets
- Milder weather (not as hot as other areas of Maui like Kihei and Lahaina)
- Tight-knit community
Local Lifestyle
Kula is generally known for its peace and tranquility, where hiking, sightseeing, and hunting are popular pastimes. Kula and its surrounding natural areas are often hotspots for cyclists, who often organize rides throughout the area.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
Located near Kula Lodge,
Kula Market Place features a wide selection of products, including jewelry, ornaments, cuisine, and more from over 200 local vendors. You'll also find hand-thrown pottery, island designer wear, quality sculptures, pastries, heirloom quilts, and homemade jellies and jams here.
Morihara Store features an array of pantry goods, produce, and refrigerator staples. The employees are friendly, and this store carries a good selection of products. If you're looking for tools for a home DIY improvement project, head to
Kula Hardware and Nursery, your locally-owned hardware store. The staff is friendly and always willing to provide any advice you may need.
Enjoy locally sourced innovative cuisine and amazing upcountry Maui views at
Kula Lodge. Wood-fired pizza, fine wines, incredible views, and local favorites create an unforgettable dining experience.
Kula Bistro serves freshly made pastas, desserts, and a wide variety of fish and steaks in a relaxed, family-style atmosphere. The restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and specializes in Italian-inspired home-style cuisine.
Grandma's Coffee House,
La Provence,
Nui's Garden Kitchen, and
Kula Sandalwoods Café & Inn are a few of the other prominent eateries in the area.
Things to Do
Head to
Kula Botanical Gardens for a unique experience in nature. This botanical garden is home to around 2,000 indigenous species of Hawaiian flora and animals. Relax by the koi pond, visit the carved tiki exhibit, or meander through the aviary.
The
Waiakoa Loop Trail is one of Maui's most challenging hiking trails. If you complete the loop, you will be treated to some of the most breathtaking views on the island.
The farm stand at
Kula Country Farms is open six days a week and sells fresh vegetables and fruits. Grab some of their renowned Kula onions and Kula strawberries, as well as cucumber, herbs, asparagus, zucchini, and more. There are also baked products available for purchase.
The
Surfing Goat Dairy is one of Hawaii's two remaining goat farms as of 2014. This dairy farm is open for guided tours, allowing customers to meet the goats and explore the grounds. While here, visitors can try their hand at milking goats and assist farmers with their evening tasks.
Haleakala National Park spans over 3,000 acres and features gorgeous scenery. Here, you can traverse rock gardens around the Haleakala Crater or explore crimson landscapes that resemble Mars. Similarly, you can see numerous waterfalls and streams in the Kipahulu area of the park, located near the coast.
