Makawao is the distinctive center of Maui’s “Upcountry” lifestyle and is nested inland from the island’s famed shores on the pastoral slopes of the Haleakala volcano. Referred to as a “paniolo town,” Makawao is home to the Hawaiian cowboy, ranch living, and a thriving community of artists. It’s an undeniably unique portion of the island, which finds harmony between new and old, and the refracted morning sunlight paints a bucolic scene across the hills.

 

Makawao’s historical past as a plantation gave way to its modern status as a rural hotspot for cowboys, rodeos, farming, and ranching, all fueled by the presence of vast upland fields and prime land. An influx of potters, painters, and other creators has established Makawao as a little-known haven for the innovation and is visited by artists across the nation.

 

Architecture spans across the decades in Makawao, and as a result, the Makawao real estate market is wonderfully diverse. Makawao homes just minutes away from quaint shopping, apartments, and condos in the heart of downtown and more spacious, million-dollar properties boasting panoramic views of the West Maui Mountains and the Pacific are all among the options in Makawao. Contact the 'Ohana Real Estate Team of Makawao realtors & agents to find condos, beach houses & single-family homes for sale in Makawao, HI.

 

• Rural-meets-hipster lifestyle

• Annual world-famous Rodeo and a fascinating country culture

• Just 20 minutes from Kahului Airport but feels miles away from the urban bustle

 

Wander through downtown Makawao, and you might be invited into the studio of a local artist to watch glassblowing techniques or order your own custom painting. Most residents spend their days creating, enjoying the creations of others, on horseback wrangling steers, or enjoying the fare in cute cafes while people-watching.

 

Everything a cowboy or artisan could need for their day-to-day living is easily found in Makawao’s charming grocery stores and markets, including the Rodeo General Store. Prepared meals, a selection of alcohols, gourmet vegetarian items, desserts, and even a coffee bar are all contained within the four walls of this simple yet classy shop. 

For a greater selection of baked goods just as decadently made, residents know to head to Komoda Bakery and Store. This adorable eatery is especially revered for four specific baked goods on the menu: stick donuts, long Johns, cream puffs, and guava malasadas. Pair your donut from Komoda with the perfect cup of coffee from Sip Me, whose brews are all percolated from organic, locally sourced, and roasted beans of the highest quality.

Makawao additionally has plenty of sit-down restaurants, which make wonderful settings for date nights and family celebrations. Casanova has a lively atmosphere and dishes out of mouthwatering, wood-fired pizzas, in addition to a full menu of Italian cuisine and satiating wines. If you’re in the mood for authentic Mexican, Polli’s is the place to go. Homestyle quesadillas, fresh guacamole made daily from Maui avocados, and fresh seafood are all contributing factors to Polli’s status as Maui’s favorite Mexican restaurant.

 

In a land of cowboys, the rodeo season is undoubtedly the highlight of the year - with good reason. Held annually on the Fourth of July — in tandem with fireworks and other holiday celebrations — the Makawao Fourth of July Stampede Rodeo is the largest in all of Hawaii, and recent renovations hope to accommodate 2,500 competitors. 

Makawao additionally takes part in Maui’s year-long tradition of Friday parties, in which several participating towns each take on one Friday a month to host an exciting celebration and community event. Makawao’s party takes place every other third Friday each month and includes live entertainment from local musicians, food vendors, and of course, artwork. 

The Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center is set in a circa 1917 historic mansion and provides a highly refined way to enjoy arts through education and non-accredited classes. Its public studios offer year-round access to fine arts equipment and materials and encourage growth in the community. Gorgeous golf greens and high-class amenities are available at the Pukalani Country Club, whose name can be translated to mean “entrance to heaven.”

 

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

 

• Kamehameha School - Maui Campus, K-12, highly rated private school