Maui is definitely paradise and it’s no wonder The Conde Nast Traveler magazine has voted it the best island in the US several times. Visitors from all over the world dream of living here; those that live here are so lucky to be able to.
With so many beautiful areas to choose from, locals know the best place to escape the heat is by heading upcountry, or more specifically, to the exquisite beauty of Kula. Kula means “open beauty,” and rests at a 1,000 to 8,000 elevation, known as the breadbasket of Maui.
Cattle is the main livestock that is raised in Kula. You can also find wild axis deer, sheep, goats, even elk. Kula is Maui’s premiere agricultural location; it provides an abundance of local organic produce, agricultural products, and flower farms.
You can also find the infamous Maui Onion, Kula Strawberry, and Kula Tomato. Many also don’t realize that peaches, apples, and almonds are grown in Kula, although not on a commercial scale.
Weather
Kula gets approximately 32 inches of rain a year with temperatures dropping to 40 degrees during the winter. In the summer, it’s much warmer and you won’t really want to spend too much time outside because it can feel as though you are being burnt by the sun.
You can even feel a drastic change in temperature when you drive from Makawao to Kula! It is one of the few places on Maui where you may find fireplaces or wood stoves.
Points of Interest
Not only is Kula beautiful, it has places and things that shouldn’t be missed, including:
Kula Country Farms: A 4th generation farm located in Kula is where you can find some of the freshest produce on Maui. They are most known for their annual Fall Pumpkin Patch held in October and fresh strawberries that can be picked daily.
Surfing Goat Dairy: Known for their 18 national cheese awards, this farm is a favorite among families. You can sample their goat cheese truffles or cheesecake. They also offer tours of their farms as well as opportunities for kids to pet or milk the goats.
Ali’i Kula Lavender Farms: Find delicious biscuits and tea made with lavender available on the property. You can explore the grounds on your own or participate in their guided tour to learn about the growing lavender located on Maui.
Church of the Holy Ghost: The church’s white, octagonal structure is one of Kula’s most notable landmarks and can be seen from as far away as the shores of South Maui. Built in 1894, it was a gift to the Portuguese Plantation workers from the king and queen of Portugal.
Places to Eat
Kula Lodge: This rustic but gorgeous restaurant is a favorite breakfast spot, particularly for those brave souls who biked down the slopes of Haleakala in the early morning for sunrise. Enjoy a delicious local favorite, the loco moco, while admiring stunning views.
Their outdoor dining area includes this brick pizza oven, pictured below. They grow almost all of their own herbs, and for the winter months, you can sit by the cozy fireplace inside.
Brick pizza oven at Kula Lodge
Kula Bistro: Find homestyle food such as their yummy pastas, pizzas, and desserts served up with an Italian flair. Organic green vegetables and lettuce are grown locally.
Nui’s Thai Truck: A hidden gem in Kula, you will find tasty Thai curry, pad Thai, and Thai-infused tapioca, a favorite among local residents of upcountry Maui.
Kula Sandalwoods: Find delicious French toast, homemade Portuguese sweet bread, and country-style omelets with fresh vegetables. Try their kalua pork sandwiches at lunch while enjoying your meal in their gazebo or terrace surrounded by ocean views.
E Komo Mai! Welcome to Kula!
Kula is beautiful, remote enough to where you can get away from the hustle and bustle of Central or South Maui, but close enough to still feel not so isolated. Since the homes are fairly spread apart, many of the neighbors rarely interact with each other.
If you’re not in a rush, you can enjoy the casual drive going from one place to another. Living here, you can enjoy the cool air, clear starry nights, and gorgeous sunsets.
Many of the local farm businesses have needed to be self-sufficient as far as supplying their own energy and gathering supplies. Although, Kula is slightly isolated, many new businesses are popping up in the area, such as the Kula Goat Farm.
Want to Know More?
If you would like to know more about living in Kula, please contact me.
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