While we love Hawaii’s capital city of Honolulu, as well as the various cities and resort towns that populate the islands’ shores, we are slightly obsessed with the charming small towns that can be found across the islands — from Kauai’s western shores to the southern tip of Hawaii Island. The next time you feel the need to escape for a weekend, we know just the place. With old-world charm, plenty of history, and tons of farmland, there’s no better destination to get away from it all.
Located in upcountry Maui on the rural northwest slopes of Mount Haleakala is a charming little town worthy of a visit — and a little recognition.
Dana/Flickr With a population of approximately 7,100, Makawao is one of Hawaii’s biggest little towns.
The town is famous for its Hawaiian cowboy, or paniolo, history.
Warren Antiola/Flickr Horseback-riding paniolo have wrangled cattle in the wide open fields of Maui’s upland since the 19th century.
Dominated by agriculture and ranch land, Makawao consists of nine square miles and is often considered to be the hub of upcountry Maui.
Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr
You won’t find a single stoplight in this two street, one stop sign town — but what it lacks in major city conveniences, it makes up for with old world charm.
Prayitno/Flickr
With its historic plantation past and a thriving arts community, Makawao is a true gem.
Terry Straehley/Flickr The town is home to countless working artists, including glassblowers, painters, and wood sculptors.
In the shell of what was once one of Maui’s oldest sugar mills, you will find the Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center.
Anson Chappell/Flickr Opened in 1934, this amazing art mecca offers everything from artist lectures, exhibitions, and tours to events, classes, and workshops for those of all ages. Don’t forget to take a stroll around the stunning grounds before you leave.
Makawao is home to countless charming shops full of global and exotic imports as well as incredible restaurants, cafes, and food trucks, but its the town’s agricultural roots that truly blow us away.
Frank Hamm/Flickr
For the ultimate farm-to-table meal in Makawao, head to the Hali’imaile General Store.
Hali’imaile General Store/Facebook hough called a general store, this establishment is actually a critically-acclaimed restaurant that serves up seafood and eclectic American food with Asian overtones. Located on the MauiGold Pineapple Plantation, the beautiful plantation setting and quaint country ambiance make this a must-visit destination.
Speaking of which, you won’t regret visiting the MauiGold Pineapple Plantation!
Dski911/TripAdvisor Take the tour, taste the pineapple, and take some home with you.
You can even check out the neighboring Haliimaile Distilling Company.
MauiGuy808/TripAdvisor Their specialty? Vodka distilled from pineapple!
While you will most likely find your way headed through Makawao by accident if you’re doing any serious exploring on the island of Maui, this charming agricultural community is the perfect place to get away from it all.
Allie Caulfield/Flickr
Have you visited the small upcountry town of Makawao? Share your opinions and experiences in the comments below. And to discover another unique small town in Hawaii perfect for a weekend getaway, click here.
Dana/Flickr
With a population of approximately 7,100, Makawao is one of Hawaii’s biggest little towns.
Warren Antiola/Flickr
Horseback-riding paniolo have wrangled cattle in the wide open fields of Maui’s upland since the 19th century.
Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr
Prayitno/Flickr
Terry Straehley/Flickr
The town is home to countless working artists, including glassblowers, painters, and wood sculptors.
Anson Chappell/Flickr
Opened in 1934, this amazing art mecca offers everything from artist lectures, exhibitions, and tours to events, classes, and workshops for those of all ages. Don’t forget to take a stroll around the stunning grounds before you leave.
Frank Hamm/Flickr
Hali’imaile General Store/Facebook
hough called a general store, this establishment is actually a critically-acclaimed restaurant that serves up seafood and eclectic American food with Asian overtones. Located on the MauiGold Pineapple Plantation, the beautiful plantation setting and quaint country ambiance make this a must-visit destination.
Dski911/TripAdvisor
Take the tour, taste the pineapple, and take some home with you.
MauiGuy808/TripAdvisor
Their specialty? Vodka distilled from pineapple!
Allie Caulfield/Flickr
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