Maui's Upcountry Neighborhoods
Makawao & Pukalani
One interpretation of the meaning of Makwao is “gates of the forest”. Makawao is located at about 1500’ elevation and enjoys cool nights and warm days. Just on the edge of the rainline, many days are sunny when further to windward still has rain. The towns origins were rooted in its “paniolo” (cowboy) history, which can still be seen in the wooden hitching posts around town. The 4th of July parade and rodeo is a slice of small-town “americana” which has disappeared in much of the homogenized mainland towns of today.
Pukalani, being even further from the rainline enjoys plenty of sunshine, and has its own country club, golf course and driving range. Located adjacent to the Haleakala Highway, it is just a short drive down the hilll to town if you cannot find what you need at the local Pukalani Superette or Pukalani Terrace shopping center. A public pool, playing fields and community center all contribute to the fun and sense of community that is Pukalani.
Kula
The broad open fields of Kula beckon to many who want to live in the “kua’aina” or backcountry of Maui. Located up to 4,000’ elevation, cool days and mornings are ideal for varied farming and outdoor activities. Many mornings you can see bicyclists taking advantage of the cooler temperatures and uncrowded country roads of Kula. With restaurants like the reknowned “La Provence” french bakery, Grandma's Coffee (Keoke'a), the 808 Café, and the Kula Hardware and local Morihara Store, many Kula residents are hard-pressed to think of a reason to go “down the hill”! (oh yeah, that “work” thing!)