Another of Maui’s Upcountry treasures, Kula lies just south of Makawao and at a higher elevation in the mountains. Its position makes it a prime spot for those who favor cooler weather, and the sweeping views of ranch lands, hilled terrain, and lower elevations of Maui appeal to nature lovers and country cowboys alike.

 

Due to its weather and distance from the hubbub of more tourist-centered cities such as Lahaina and Wailea, Kula is popular among year-round residents searching for a home in the heart of the island. Nestled between the upper forest of Mount Haleakala and the beaches, Kula is known for its gentle country fields and was once one of the twelve foundational districts of Ancient Hawaii.

 

Kula has an incredible range of architectural styles, due in part to the fact that its homes date from the early 1900s to contemporary new-builds. Tudor estates from the 1920s with large lots, multimillion-dollar, modern mansions with jaw-dropping bi-coastal and mountain vistas, and so much more are all available in Kula.

 

• Homes with massive acreage and open land
• The Kula Botanical Gardens
• Just 20 minutes to the Kahului Airport
• Central location granting quick access to many of the island’s most alluring attractions and beaches

 

In Kula, the tangible beauty of life is highly celebrated, emphasized by a booming culinary scene and a dedication to maintaining the natural beauty of the land. Farms, luxury homes, meadows, lavish botanic gardens, and rustic shops all blend together seamlessly in balance with the landscape.

 

The best of Hawaii’s food, wares, arts, and culture are on display in Kula, especially in the commercial areas. While the town isn’t as busy as many of the coastal tourist cities, Kula shoppers have the pleasure of exploring more local goods than can be found anywhere else. The Kula Marketplace, for instance, is stocked with handmade items and gourmet ingredients right from the island. 

 

Dining is the veritable showstopper in Kula, and venues can range from cozy cafes to resplendent upscale establishments. Casual and effortlessly cool, BYOB is encouraged at Kula Bistro, which has a homestyle flair and a focus on Italian cuisine. Fresh pastry and delectable French fare can be enjoyed at La Provence, whose breakfast and brunch are revered among locals. 

 

Start your mornings right with a drink from Grandma’s Coffee House, and you’ll fall in love with their Maui organic, locally-roasted coffee blends grown on the slopes of Haleakala. At Ocean Vodka, guests can tour the incredible distillery and watch the magic happen first-hand. Maui Winery is another company invested in creating purely Maui-grown products and is famed for its pineapple wine. At Kula Lodge, diners can grab a drink from the lively bar before strolling through the property’s gardens.

 

The theme of embracing all things nature-related and appreciating the bounty of Maui resonates in Kula’s variety of activities, as well, and much of the town’s attractions are celebrations of the earth. Kula Country Farms, for example, is well-loved for its farm-related events, including a u-pick strawberry field and fall pumpkin patch that elevates fall vibes to the next level. 

 

Boundless wonder and rejuvenation are the themes of the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, which grows 45 types of lavender and hosts tours to allow visitors immersion in the scent known worldwide for its calming effects. Haleakala National Park is another chance to jump into the magical appeal of Kula’s landscape, which radiates with a palpable sense of ancient history and sacred beauty. 

 

Community events keep Kula strong, and often, local businesses participate in this fostering of togetherness. At Maui Winery, the annual Christmas Tree Lighting provides a way for the company to give back to the community. The Upcountry Farmers Market gives residents the opportunity to browse the finest produce and foods from their neighborhood farms and is a popular outing for families.

 

Kula is home to several excellent schools. Top educational opportunities include:

 

• Carden Academy of Maui, PK & K-8, highly rated private school