goat farm tour maui

The 18 BEST Maui Farm Tours You Don’t Want to Miss

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Maui is known for its beautiful beaches and amazing snorkeling . But there’s another side to Maui you’ll want to make time to explore: its vibrant agriculture community. From farm-fresh produce to gourmet farm-to-table meals, enjoy local produce (and try something new!) on your trip to Maui . 

And watch our Maui Farm Tour video where you can see what to expect when visiting a farm on Maui:

Short on time? Pick from our favorites on this list: O’o Farms: Choose from a breakfast with a “seed to cup” coffee tour or a gourmet multi-course lunch with a farm tour . Maui Pineapple Tours: learn the tricks of the trade and go home with an airport ready pineapple! Maui macadamia tours: you already know macadamias will be coming home with you, so be sure to learn about the process and get a delicious farm to table lunch out of it! Ocean vodka distillery: the view here is unmatched. You can learn about making vodka plus have a great meal and drinks with a fantastic view.

Produce Farm Tours

Agriculture is the second largest industry on Maui , so dive into the local flavors with tropical fruit, freshly grown vegetables, or Maui coffee. 

1. O’o Farm Coffee Tour

Head upcountry for an immersive farm tour and farm-to-table experience with O’o Farm. Start your morning with a cup of their French press coffee and head out on your tour. You’ll then walk through the farm on their “seed to cup” tour, learning how a coffee seed is grown, harvested, and roasted into a cup of perfection.

Once the tour is finished, you’ll head to outdoor dining tables for a healthy breakfast and coffee tasting. Water and coffee are included but you’re welcome to kick up the experience even more by bringing your beverages (mimosas, anyone?).

There’s so much more to do in Upcountry. Check out our list of 15 amazing things to do in upcountry Maui.

2. O’o Farm Lunch Tour

O’o Farm offers a second, longer tour that focuses on the produce grown on the farm. You’ll start the tour with a walk through the property, learning about the different produce grown on-site. You’ll then sit down for a multi-course gourmet lunch prepared by a chef.

The leisurely lunch is truly special. Between each course, the chef comes out to discuss what produce is being used to prepare each dish. And just like the coffee tour, you’re welcome to bring your beverages, like a bottle of wine to enjoy with your meal.  

3. Ono Organic Farms

A family-run tropical fruit and coffee farm, Ono Organic Farms in Hana offers daily tours. And this isn’t just a farm — this 50-acre farm is one of the largest tropical fruit farms in Hawaii. All of their produce is hand-picked and you’ll see it sold at various places around Maui. 

On the tour, you’ll spend 90 minutes driving through the property stopping to learn about and sample the different fruits being grown. These are tropical and some exotic fruits, so there’s a good chance you’ll be sampling at least a few types of fruit you’ve never tried before. 

4. Maui Pineapple Tours

There are two pineapple plantations in the state of Hawaii and Maui is lucky enough to be home to one of them. On the tour, you’re guided through the entire operation, from growing pineapples through various stages to harvesting, and finally sorting and shipping.

On the 1.5-hour tour, you’ll learn all the secrets: how to pick the best pineapple at the store, how to cut a perfect pineapple, and even how to use a pineapple top to grow your pineapples at home. 

There are plenty of pineapple samples and you’ll even head home with a boxed, airport-ready pineapple.

Check out our review of this tour and the video below with our experience!

This tour makes an appearance as a stop on our Maui itinerary . 

5. Maui Dragon Fruit Farm

Take a walking tour of this dragon fruit farm located in the hills above Lahaina. You’ll eat plenty of fruit (yes, a lot of dragon fruit — they have 16 different varieties) as well as other fruits, depending on the season.

The tour lasts 1 hour and at the end you’ll enjoy a box of fruit to take with you and you can also purchase a dragon fruit smoothie (YUM) or add on another activity, like ziplining or aquaball. 

6. Punakea Palms (Coconut Farm Tour)

This tour has closed due to the Lahaina fire, but we’re keeping it on the list because we’re hopeful they’ll be back to offering tours! Use the button below to see if the tours are back up and running.

Ever wondered how a coconut tree produces coconuts that we then use the water, milk, and meat from? The Punakea Palms tour walks you through the entire process of this culturally important fruit. 

From a coconut tree growing out of a coconut (they don’t need to be planted in the ground right away…crazy!), to finally making coconut milk. Also located just above Lahaina, this is an easy tour to add onto a day of sightseeing. You’ll sample coconut water through various stages and head home with some freshly made coconut milk. 

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Get the maui itinerary.

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Maui.

7. Ku’ia Estate Chocolate

From farm to bar, take a tour that teaches you how chocolate is grown, farmed, and made into a delicious piece of food. The experience at Ku’ia is unique. You can start with a tour of their 20 acre farm, sampling cacao seeds directly from the tree. And you can visit their factory to do a full chocolate tasting, sampling different flavors and chocolate produced on Maui.

Ku’ia Estate Chocolate offers two guided tours from their farm and factory in Lahaina. One tour includes a farm tour and a tasting and the other is a tasting tour (9 varieties!). Learn more and book the tours below.

We enjoyed a sneak peek of the farm tour as well as a full chocolate tasting, which you can watch in the video below:

Take a look at what else west Maui has to offer: The 9 Best Beaches in West Maui The Best Snorkeling Spots in West Maui Kaanapali vs. Wailea: Here’s How To Decide Where You Should Stay

8. Maui Nui Thai

We found this farm stand and tour by happy accident. We had heard whispers of the best Thai food truck in upcountry and we were so thrilled when we found ourselves there for lunch.

But what we didn’t know before visiting was that it’s not just a food truck — it’s a farm. Behind the food truck is a 40 acre farm, where the ingredients used in the truck are sourced from. They also offer farmers market days and farm tours. 

Related read: 5 Best Maui Food Truck Parks

9. Kumu Farms and Maui Tropical Plantation

You don’t have to head up to Upcountry to enjoy a farm tour. Located in central Maui, Maui Tropical Plantation offers farm tours via a tram. This 45-minute tour takes you around the property where you can get a glimpse of different tropical plants and why they are culturally significant. They also make a stop to teach you about coconuts. 

Once the farm tram tour is over, you can head into the marketplace to purchase produce grown by Kumu Farms. They also offer coffee drinks from the local Oma Coffee Roasters and produce from local makers around the island. 

We enjoyed the farm tour but my favorite part was exploring the Kumu Farm shop and stocking up on the local goods. 

10. Kula Country Farms

Visit pretty much any grocery store on Maui and you’ll find strawberries from Kula Country Farms. This upcountry farm and store are famous for their strawberry picking (February – June) as well as their fall pumpkin patch. They are located on the way up to Haleakala and make a perfect stop to stretch your legs before continuing your journey. 

11. Maui Tea Farm

Located on the beautiful slopes of Haleakala (near Kula in Upcountry Maui), enjoy a scenic tour of Hawaii’s premier loose leaf tea farm. Their tea plants grow alongside native Hawaiian koa, ’ōhi’a, and māmane trees, as well as among coffee, citrus, olive and other fruit tress, flowers, and exotic botanicals.

They also specialize in the growing and processing of the unique, native Hawaiian herbal tisane known as māmaki (a plant in the nettle family with healing properties).

Travel up to 4,100 feet to enjoy this Maui farm tour. They offer two tours a day (10:00 am and 1:00 pm).

Keep exploring Haleakala: Haleakala Sunrise or Sunset: When Should You Go? The 4 Best Haleakala Sunrise Tours (+ our 10% off code)

12. La Kahea Community Farm’s Farm-to-Taco Cooking Class

This community-led Maui farm offers two tours and they are conveniently located in Maui’s Central Valley. The regenerative farmer on Maui has a mission to care for the land, promote food security, and feed people healthy food. We can all get behind that!

They offer two tours:

• Taste of Hawaii: A Maui Farm Tour – indulge in fresh fruit, sip ice-cold sugar cane juice, eat delicious rare treats, and take home a gift you can’t get anywhere else!
• Farm-to-Taco: A Farm Table Cooking Class – learn how to craft tortillas from scratch, harvest farm-fresh taco ingredients, and whip up banana “ice cream”.

Did you know we have a full Maui travel guide dedicated to helping you plan your entire vacation ? Get the best recommendations on where to stay, where to eat, what to do, and when to visit. 

13. Maui Macadamia Tours

We brag to all our friends about this tour because we were the first people to go on it! The owner, John, took us on an exclusive tour of his macadamia nut plantation a few years ago. See the video to learn more as this tour is so much more than picking mac nuts and processing them. John runs a lot on the farm that supports the Maui community.

They offer a macadamia nut walking tour and a farm-to-table lunch tour.

They also have Ulu Ulu Cafe (farm-to-table food truck) which we highlight as part of our North Maui day in our Maui Wayfinder Itinerary .

14. Maui Tea Farm

If you’re craving a change of pace and something different from anything else you’ve done during your Maui trip, this tea tour deserves your attention. Whether you’re a natural born tea lover or you’re curious about the process, they’re sure to capture your interest.

Head out with a small group of up to 10 guests for a 1 hour walking tour of the farm followed by a tasting of a couple of their teas. Children of all ages are welcome and kids under 5 join for free!

I hope you get to visit Maui during the humpback whale migration (December to March). It’s my favorite time to be in Hawaii and Maui is the best island for whale watching ! Check out our full guide to whale watching on Maui and book one of the best whale watching tours .

Animal Farm Tours

15. Maui Bees

When our three-year-old son started asking us detailed questions about how bees make honey, we knew it was time for a visit to Maui Bees. Located on the sunny slope of Haleakala, Maui Bees offers farm tours, a delicious cafe (using produce grown on-site or locally), and a private dinner experience.

You can visit the bee museum to watch bees flying into and out of a hive, walk the farm to understand how regenerative agriculture is improving the land and the food we eat, and see how the honey gets from hive to jar. 

We sampled the honey and took jars of both the winter and summer varieties home with us, which our son now eats by the spoonful.

16. Surfing Goat Dairy

Another great stop for adults and kids is Surfing Goat Dairy. Walk the farm to learn about, pet, and feed the friendly goats and then hear about the process of how cheese is made.

It’s an interactive and short tour where you’ll have fun feeding the goats and watching baby goats play. Then treat yourself to a sampling of their cheeses while you sit out on the farm and relax. They have tour options ranging from 30 minutes to 2.5 hours. 

17. Maui Animal Farm

This is a fun activity for the kids. A visit to Maui Animal Farm will have them walking through and interacting with a number of different fun farm animals on the petting zoo tour.

The tour starts out with a visit with some smaller animals — birds and bunnies. Then it moves onto some of the larger farm animals that you get to feed and learn about: pigs, goats, horses, tortoises, and more. 

Find more to admire: 10 Places to See Turtles on Maui The 5 Best Molokini Snorkeling Tours The 11 Best Snorkeling Spots on Maui (+7 crucial tips)

Alcoholic Beverage Farm Tours

Farm tours aren’t just reserved for animals and produce. These two farm tours offer locally crafted beverages and make for a fun stop or day out. 

18. Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery

Right near Surfing Goat Dairy is an organic farm and vodka distillery. They offer 35 minute distillery tasting tours, which include learning about sugar cane and the process of producing their vodka.

While this isn’t a normal farm tour, you can enjoy some of their produce grown on-site by visiting the farm cafe. Here you’ll have a selection of pizzas and salads to enjoy, with as many of the ingredients as possible sourced from their farm or locally. 

And possibly the best part? The view. Enjoy a sweeping view of central Maui and see the ocean on both sides. There is a large lawn for young ones to enjoy and plenty of chairs and picnic tables available to sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful view. 

19. Maui Wine

Yes, there is a winery here on Maui. And yes, it is just as beautiful as you would expect. Located in Ulupalakua in upcountry, you’ll stop at a winery after an absolutely beautiful drive to get there.

You’ll visit the winery with large gardens and beautiful views. And you can sample their wines, including their famous pineapple wine, made with Maui Gold Pineapples. The atmosphere is laid back — exactly what you would expect from a winery on Maui. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon.

Wine tasting on the slopes of Haleakala was #28 in our 33 Things to Do on Maui (check it out!).

Farm-to-Table Restaurants on Maui

If you can’t make it to a farm tour or you want to enjoy locally-grown produce more than once on your vacation, these restaurants offer a farm-to-table menu that highlights locally grown food and supports local farmers. 

1. Merriman’s

This famous Hawaii restaurant was a pioneer in the farm-to-table movement. At least 90% of the ingredients are locally grown or caught using sustainable methods. On Maui the Merriman’s restaurant is located in Kapalua, but there are other locations on Kauai, the Big Island, and Oahu. 

2. Hali’imaile General Store

The flagship restaurant from Chef Bev Gannon, this restaurant is located across from Maui Pineapple, making it a perfect stop for a farm-to-table meal after your pineapple farm tour. Open for over 30 years, its location in a historic building gives it charm and the fresh menu makes it a repeat destination for locals and visitors alike. 

3. Ulupalakua Ranch

This charming general store serves delicious burgers with meat sourced from their ranch. They’re also working to locally source as much of their produce as possible from local farms. It’s a perfect stop across the street from Maui Wine. 

4. Fork & Salad

Striving to use as many locally sourced, organic ingredients as possible, this casual salad spot is fast, well-priced, and delicious. With two locations in Kahului and Kihei, you’ll probably pass by a Fork & Salad location during your trip. Our favorite is to place an order online when we land on Maui and pick it up as we leave the airport. A delicious way to come home! 

5. Wailea Kitchen

“This menu can survive if the boats stop coming to Maui.” That is the notice on their website and on their menus. A true testament to why farm to table is so important for an island community. This restaurant not only offers great food, but beautiful views. Learn more about Wailea Kitchen . 

6. The Market Maui

A great deli and market, this is a place to stop for sandwiches, salads, and coffee. Their ingredients are locally sourced, and include meats, cheeses, and produce. They also serve food from The Market Maui on one of our favorite snorkeling tours. We love the Market Maui !

Map of Maui Farm Tours

Find more to do around the island: 15 Amazing Things to Do in Kihei: your South Maui bucket list The 15 Best Things to do in Kapalua and Napili 9 Things Maui Is Best Known For (You Won’t Want to Miss Them)

Planning a Trip to Maui

If you’re planning a trip to Maui, be sure to check out our itineraries . These itineraries take you on a carefully planned route seeing different areas of the island while checking out the best sights, beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and more, so you can make the most of your vacation days. 

Plus, each guide comes with a video overview of the island, so you can orient yourself, understand the geography, and catch a preview of what you’re going to experience on each excursion day. 

“We are here in Maui now and appreciate all the tips you gave us. We got your adventure guide and are thrilled with everything so far. Couldn’t have done Maui without it. Just saying, keep up to the good work!!” – Vince R. 

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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Surfing Goat Dairy Maui

Newest Maui Article: Lahaina Gateway

Surfing Goat Dairy Farm: Fun and Educational for Kids and Adults

Surfing Goat Dairy is a working dairy farm in the Upcountry section of Maui. It’s at:

3651 Omaopio Road Kula, HI 96790 808-878-2870

About Surfing Goat Dairy Farm

This is a fun place for both kids and adults. You can pet the goats, feed the goats, see how they milk the goats, and on some days and times, you can even milk a goat yourself.  You can see some parts of the farm on your own, or take an informational tour to see it all.  They offer free tastings of a variety of their goat cheeses.  And of course, you can buy their goat cheese spreads, gift baskets, goats milk soaps, logo hats, and even gourmet goat cheese truffles.

Visiting Upcountry Maui?  Make sure to book a reservation for tour and/or picnic at the Maui Alpaca Farm .

Click for more  things to do on Maui .

Surfing Goat Dairy photos

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Surfing Goat Dairy

Feed a buck, milk a doe, adopt a kid and eat a truffle—all on a savannah on the slopes of the world’s largest dormant volcano.

Yes, yes, and yes again, should you choose to visit Maui’s incomparable Surfing Goat Dairy —an experience that takes agri-tourism to new heights by giving it an inspired, tropical spin.

Photos by Natalie Brown Photography and article by Haleakala EcoTours

Surfing goat dairy is the genius and whim of thomas and eva kafsack, a former software entrepreneur and german teacher whose emigration from hamburg to maui proved to be a boon for cheese-lovers in the hawaiian islands and in pockets throughout the world..

One of only two goat farms in the Aloha State , Surfing Goat Dairy is located in lower Kula on forty-two acres of kikuyu and buffel grass—a savannah so drenched in heat and sun that it receives little more than ten inches of rain per year. Such aridness might be a deterrent for the ‘ohia on Haleakala’s upper slopes, but it’s a gift for the 250 French Alpines , Swiss Saanen  and crossbreeds who roam the sweltering, yellow-grassed land, two-thirds of which are devoted to pasture.

Rust-edged signs—which range from “Snowmobile Parking” to a buck’s story of evading castration—underscore Surfing Goat Dairy’s quirky, irreverent nature, while fences comprised of surfboards let visitors know they’ve arrived.

Tours begin with an overview of the farm by a lively guide before guests are led to the pasture to meet the stars of the show. There, dozens of friendly goats gather to greet visitors, who are encouraged to feed them (and there’s nothing quite like a charming Billy eating straight from your hand ). The warmth and openness from the resident goats might seem at first like a fluke—perhaps part of the farm’s legendary quirk—before guides remind you that goats are such social creatures they’ve been known to die of heartbreak. Looking for the buck ? He’s the alpha of the crew, standing taller than his compatriots and hanging back with cool confidence. Consider it deserved: bucks are an amorous breed, mating up to eighty times per night.

When the alfalfa is pau, mosey on back to the headquarters, where goats are milked twice a day in rows.

(Agri-curious guests can also sign up for their Evening Chores & Milking Tours.) The milk is then used to craft their cheeses , where vegetarian-friendly products are used to make their acclaimed creations. Pause for a peek as red-wax-wrapped globes of cheese are produced in small batches, or make reservations for their two-hour Grand Dairy Tour on Saturdays, which includes a longer glimpse into their intricate cheese-making process. And because this a farm characterized by aloha and a love of ohana , don’t be surprised to spot cats and dogs wandering around the premises—or to have an encounter with the farm’s pot-bellied pig , Charlie. Whether or not the goats can actually surf remains to be seen (although guests can grab an eyeful of babes climbing slanted surfboards after kidding season in May), the flock is well-equipped with choices should they choose to hit the surf below: the numerous surfboards scattered around the grounds are the result of a confrontation Eva had at the Maui Dump with a coterie of surfers who were retiring their boards. Eva—nothing if not environmentally-conscious —made them a deal: if they brought their old boards to her farm on Omaopia Road , she would gladly take them off their hands, an arrangement she still honors today–fourteen years after the farm was born.

Select tours are followed by a flight of the goat cheeses for which this idiosyncratic farm has become famous.

Flavors abound in this ultra-creamy cheese , from their spicy Ole! —chevre blended with jalapenos, artichokes and limes, to their Maui Lavender-infused Purple Rain . Herbs grown on the farm freshen up their Garden Fantasia , while piquant horseradish dominates the aptly-named Men’s Challenge . Take a bite of their O Sole Mio and you’ll understand why this sundried tomato blend took home the gold for the Best US Goat Cheese Spread in 2005, then savor the Udderly Delicious— their plain, salted chevre, which was served during the festivities at President Obama’s 2009 inauguration . Those jonseing for a sweeter treat will find their kick in the cinnamon, cranberry and honey laced Canada , while fans of exotic flavors will relish their apple banana and curry Mandalay . Can’t get enough? Order their Mo’ Betta Feta —which is ripened for five months in olive oil and brine—or splurge on a nibble from their acclaimed Shark Bite Line,  which includes a one-of-a-kind chevre blended with smoked oysters.

While Surfing Goat may be famous for its cheese—stores as far away as New York City’s Fairway carry their creations, and a number of restaurants and hotels around the islands feature their products front and center—they’re also riding the wave of specialty Hawaii chocolatiers through their line of Gourmet Goat Cheese Truffles.

These gems, with flavors that span from Balsamic Strawberry to Lilikoi Martini , are genuinely extraordinary. Using an intense dark chocolate for their shells and a rich semisweet for their ganache (with all of their cacao coming from San Francisco’s inimitable “bean-to-bar” Guittard ), their truffles are tempered—a crystallization process that gives each candy a remarkable texture and sheen—and filled with their signature goat cheese and fruit from their own organic orchard . Their Rum Raisin is especially noteworthy, comprised of aged rums the owner has collected from around the globe and star anise, cinnamon bark and cloves . Those searching for something on the lighter side ought to reach for one of their gourmet quarks, like their Upcountry-fresh Kula Strawberry . Goat milk soap, like pleasing plumeria and their classic oatmeal honey, are also available for purchase.

Goats got your goad?

Thomas and Eva offer members of their herd for purchase , while those off-island can adopt a furry pal—an arrangement that includes monthly pictures, daily care and visits. Parent of a goat or not, this is a place worthy of a return trip—if for nothing else than to glorify in its unique playfulness.

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Do you have/sell goat milk soap? I lived in Kihei for 5 years, moved back to New Mexico. I just used my last bar of goat milk soap that I purchased on the island.

Looks like they sell online here: surfing goat products.

I went to Surfing Goat Dairy on my trip to Maui in November 2018. It was great fun and I bought one of the goat cheeses with a little kick! So very good! I had been introduced to goat cheese here where I live in North Carolina. Jalapeno is my favorite from Goat Lady Dairy in Climax, NC just outside of Greensboro.

Best goat cheese.Whenever we get to Maui, Surfing Goat is our first place to shop. The Canada cheese is great!

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Two Decades of Goat Farming Excellence

Since 2002, Surfing Goat Dairy has proudly held the distinction of being Maui's largest commercial dairy, nurturing a thriving herd of more than 120 milking goats against the backdrop of the island's lush landscape. Our journey is rooted in a deep appreciation for sustainable farming practices, with our commitment to quality and tradition guiding our every step. Each day, like clockwork, we milk our goats, honoring the land that has been our foundation for so long. This dedication has allowed us to craft fresh, artisanal cheeses that have found their way onto the menus of local restaurants, dining tables across the country, and even the White House for President Obama's inauguration dinner. You can taste the flavors of our beloved island in every delectable bite.

More Than Just a Farm

But Surfing Goat Dairy is more than just a dairy farm. Not only are we top rated on Trip Advisor on things to do, we've opened our doors to enthusiasts and visitors from near and far, inviting them to experience the magic of our farm firsthand. Our goat tours offer a glimpse into our daily operations, allowing guests to interact with our friendly goats and even try their hand at milking. Moreover, our cheeses and truffles have earned such acclaim that we now ship them across the United States, sharing the unique tastes of Maui with cheese lovers and connoisseurs from coast to coast. Our story is one of passion, sustainability, and a deep love for our goats and the land they call home.

Come See Us!

We offer distinct and unique tours designed to cater to your preferences and desires. Find the perfect one for your ideal farm experience!

Review From Bill, A Local Maui Guide

"We really enjoyed the tour and all the information shared on our visit. It was so fun feeding the goats and we especially enjoyed seeing the two new born babies. Thank you for our blue ribbons! We stayed a bit longer after the tour and enjoyed a sampling of the yummy cheeses and chocolates. Great visit."

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Maui: Goat Farm, Distillery, & Glass-Blowing Tour W/ Tasting

Maui’s vibrant artisanal culture comes alive on this captivating 6-hour tour. Visitors will enjoy the island’s deep-rooted traditions , from centuries-old goat farming to premium spirit distilling and mesmerizing glass-blowing. Along the way, they’ll engage with local artisans, savor the flavors of Maui’s welcoming community, and gain a deeper appreciation for the land’s rich heritage. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast or simply seeking a unique adventure, this tour promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to discover more about Maui’s vibrant artistic tapestry .

• A 6-hour guided tour that immerses visitors in Maui’s local culture, showcasing its artisanal craftsmanship, agricultural heritage, and vibrant community.
• Includes visits to a goat farm, two premium spirit distilleries, and a glass-blowing studio, allowing for hands-on engagement with local artisans and their traditions.
• Offers a unique opportunity to savor the flavors and hospitality of Maui’s vibrant community, while exploring the island’s deep-rooted connection to the land.
• Provides transportation, snacks, and water, ensuring a seamless and stress-free experience for participants.
• Tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those under 21 years of age.

It's also worth checking out some other tours and experiences nearby.

• 2 Tank Lanai Cathedral Scuba Dive (Boat)
• 2hr Molokini Snorkel Trip – Redline
• 6 Dual-Zipline Mountain Adventure in Maui
• 7-Line Maui Zipline Tour on the North Shore

Tour Overview

This 6-hour guided tour immerses visitors in Maui’s vibrant local culture, taking them to a variety of businesses that showcase the island’s artisanal craftsmanship and agricultural heritage .

The tour kicks off with a visit to a goat farm , where guests can learn about its history and sample delectable artisanal goat cheeses.

Next, they’ll tour two exceptional distilleries, tasting their premium vodka, gin, and rum, as well as enjoying local snacks.

The final stop is a glass-blowing studio , where visitors can witness the mesmerizing process of forging glass into works of art.

Throughout the day, guests will enjoy hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, snacks, and water, making this an immersive and convenient Maui experience.

Maui’s Local Culture

Maui’s local culture offers visitors a unique window into the island’s rich heritage and artisanal traditions. From its centuries-old goat farming practices to the distilling of premium spirits and the intricate craft of glass-blowing, the tour showcases the diverse talents and time-honored skills of Maui’s community.

Guests can enjoy the island’s deep-rooted connection to the land, as they:

• Witness the care and craftsmanship that goes into producing artisanal goat cheese
• Discover the unique flavors and stories behind Maui’s award-winning distilleries
• Observe the mesmerizing process of transforming molten glass into breathtaking works of art

Guests can also:

• Engage with local artisans and gain insight into their passion for preserving cultural traditions
• Savor the flavors and hospitality that embody Maui’s vibrant and welcoming community.

Goat Farm Experience

Visitors embark on a captivating journey to a local goat farm, where they enjoy the time-honored traditions of artisanal cheese-making . They’ll learn about the farm’s history and the passion behind its award-winning cheeses.

Guests have the opportunity to observe the goats up close, witnessing their gentle demeanor and the care with which they’re tended. The highlight of the visit is the chance to sample the farm’s delectable goat cheeses, crafted using time-tested techniques and the freshest local ingredients.

This hands-on experience provides a genuine connection to Maui’s rich agricultural heritage and the island’s commitment to sustainable, community-driven enterprises.

Hawaii Sea Spirits

Hawaii Sea Spirits offers visitors a chance to tour their distillery and sample their exceptional vodka, gin, and rum, complemented by an array of delectable snacks.

The tasting experience allows guests to discover the unique flavors of these premium spirits, crafted with care and attention to detail.

The tour provides insights into the distillation process, highlighting the commitment to quality that permeates every step. Visitors can explore the following:

• The fascinating journey from raw ingredients to the final distilled product
• The distinct flavor profiles that make each spirit stand out
• The sustainable practices employed to minimize environmental impact
• The passion and expertise of the distillers behind these remarkable spirits
• The opportunity to savor and appreciate the art of small-batch distillation.

Haliimaile Distilling

Haliimaile Distilling’s tasting session allows guests to sample a selection of their expertly crafted spirits , showcasing the distillery’s commitment to quality and innovation .

Visitors can look forward to tasting a variety of the distillery’s offerings , including their signature creations. The knowledgeable staff guides participants through the tasting, providing insights into the distillation process and flavor profiles.

Whether it’s their smooth, versatile rum or their unique gin, Haliimaile Distilling’s spirits are sure to impress. The tasting is a highlight of the tour, offering a chance to delve deeper into the art of distilling and appreciate the dedication that goes into each bottle.

Glass-Blowing Demonstration

After exploring the distilleries, the tour then moves to a glass-blowing studio, where guests can witness the mesmerizing process of crafting intricate glass artworks. At the studio, visitors are captivated by the skilled artists who transform molten glass into stunning pieces of art. The heat of the furnace, the graceful movements of the glassblowers, and the transformation of the material into elegant forms create a mesmerizing spectacle.

The experience offers a deeper understanding of:

The artistry and skill required to create glass masterpieces

The importance of preserving traditional glassblowing techniques

The role of passion and creativity in the production of unique glass art

The connection between the natural elements and the final glass product

The appreciation for the dedication and commitment of the glass artists

Transportation and Logistics

Transportation during the 6-hour guided tour is provided, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Participants must bring a valid passport or ID card, and they’ll need to sign a waiver before the tour begins. The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, those under 21 years of age, or wheelchair users.

Snacks and water are included throughout the day, ensuring participants stay refreshed and energized as they explore Maui’s local culture.

The tour covers a lot of ground, visiting a goat farm, two distilleries , and a glass-blowing studio , so the provided transportation makes the experience seamless and stress-free. Guests can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the unique sights and flavors of Maui.

Visitor Requirements

Participants must bring a valid passport or ID card and sign a waiver before the tour begins.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, those under 21 years of age, or wheelchair users.

The tour’s visitor requirements ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants:

• Passport or ID card for age verification and waiver signing
• No mobility impairments or wheelchair users to accommodate the tour’s activities
• Minimum age of 21 to participate in the tastings at the distilleries
• Signed waiver to acknowledge and accept the inherent risks of the tour
• Adherence to all safety protocols and instructions provided by the tour guides

Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.

• Best Haleakala Downhill Self-Guided Bike Tour With Maui Sunriders
• Group Surf Lesson: Two Hours of Beginners Instruction in Kihei
• Small Group Waterfall and Rainforest Hiking Adventure on Maui
• Molokini Snorkeling Adventure Aboard Calypso From Maalaea Harbor
• Lahaina: Maui Kuia Estate Guided Cacao Farm Tour and Tasting
• Road to Hana Adventure Tour With Pickup, Small Group

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Limit on the Number of People per Tour?

The tour does not specify a limit on the number of participants. However, the tour operator likely caps group sizes to ensure an intimate experience and manageable logistics. It’s best to inquire about the typical group size when booking the tour.

Can I Purchase Any Products From the Businesses Visited?

Yes, you can purchase products from the businesses visited during the tour. The tour includes opportunities to shop for artisanal goat cheese, spirits, and glass art at the various stops along the way.

Are There Any Accessibility Accommodations Available?

The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. However, the tour provider may be able to accommodate specific needs if arranged in advance. Visitors should inquire about accessibility when booking the tour.

Do I Need to Bring Any Additional Items Besides a Passport/Id?

You’ll need to bring a passport or ID card and a signed waiver. No other additional items are required for this tour. The tour provider will handle the rest, including transportation, snacks, and water.

Is There an Option to Extend or Customize the Tour Duration?

The tour duration is fixed at 6 hours, but customers can inquire about extending or customizing the tour based on their preferences. Additional fees may apply for any customizations or extensions beyond the standard tour length.

Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby

• Water Bike Tour in Maui
• Haleakala Classic Vehicle Sunrise Tour With Breakfast
• The Maui Butterfly Farm Tour!
• Turtle Town Clear Kayak & Snorkel Tour (7am-10am)
• Lanai Snorkel and Dolphin Watch From Maalaea
• Maui Ocean Center All Day Admission Ticket
• Complete Island 60-Minute Helicopter Tour
• 2 Hour Beginner Group Surf Lessons
• Romantic Sunset Champagne -Private- Maui Air Tour: Intimate & Spectacular!
• Day Spa Activity in Maui, Hawaii
• Haleakala Sunrise Tour With Breakfast WEST SIDE Pickup
• Private Beginner Paddleboard 101 Lesson- Polo Beach, Turtle Town!
• Lahaina Kayak and Snorkel Excursion
• Discover Scuba Diving Class – Lahaina (Shore)
• Haleakala Maui Sunset Tour

This immersive tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Maui’s vibrant artisanal traditions .

Visitors can engage with local farmers, distillers, and glass-blowers, gaining an appreciation for the island’s deep-rooted connection to the land and its rich heritage.

With captivating experiences and flavors, this tour provides an unforgettable culture on the island of Maui.

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10 Things to Do in Maui’s Upcountry: From Farm Tours to Small Town Shops

While Maui’s beaches are arguably the destination’s most visited attraction, the often overlooked Upcountry region near the center of the island makes for a worthwhile getaway. 

Known for its rural and agricultural bent — drive past goat herds snoozing in the shade and riders on horseback instead of golf courses and 4-star restaurants  — a day in Maui’s Upcountry takes you off the beaten path and plunges you into the country heartland of the island. 

(Featured image: Makawao welcome sign. Photo credit: Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA) / Tor Johnson)

About Upcountry Maui

In Upcountry, farms thrive in the volcanic soil on Haleakala’s west-facing slope. Visit the area’s quaint towns, such as the paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) town of Makawao. The historic plantation architecture draws visitors to its main street, along with its local boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants.

And while Upcountry lies near the center of Maui, seemingly a world away from the shoreline swells, its elevation (the largest Upcountry towns lie anywhere between 1,500 to 3,500 feet above sea level) reminds you that you’re still on an island. At many of our favorite Upcountry stops, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping ocean views.  

Where is Maui’s Upcountry?

Maui’s Upcountry region lies near the center of the island, on the westward facing slope of the Halekala volcano. The larger Upcountry towns include Makawao, Kula, Pukalani, and Haiku. 

Our 10 favorite things to do in Upcountry Maui

From farm tours to souvenir shopping excursions, Upcountry has plenty of sights and activities to immerse visitors in this unique side of island life. 

1. Cuddle Goats at Haleakala Creamery 

I have two pet goats at my Pacific Northwest home, so it’s safe to say that I have a special place in my heart for the feisty ruminants. And don’t get me started on farm tours — swoon! 

So it should be no surprise that I’ve toured two Upcountry Maui goat farms, Surfing Goat Dairy and Haleakala Creamery . Both tours were delightful, with plenty of face time with the milking goats, the goat kids, and tastings. 

Haleakala Creamery was particularly satisfying with their selection of sweet and savory tasting offerings. At the microfarm, we tasted their goatlato (goat milk ice cream), goat yogurt, and my favorite  — caramel sauce. 

Not to mention major cuddle time with both the resident ranch dog and baby goats. Tours by advance reservation only. 

Haleakala Creamery, 170 Ho’omaika’i Place, Kula, HI, 96790 https://www.haleakalacreamery.com/

Surfing Goat Dairy, 3651 Omaopio Road, Kula, HI 96790 https://www.surfinggoatdairy.com/

2. Snack on a pastry from Grandma’s Coffee House

Coffee lovers looking for an authentic cup of joe in paradise can look no further than Grandma’s Coffee House. Four generations of coffee growers have mastered the cultivation of coffee beans on Maui — without chemicals or pesticides. 

You can’t go wrong peeking into the pastry counter and selecting a buttery pastry to top off your coffee break. The pastry shelf at this quaint cafe is filled with enticing goodies for a sweet treat. Or order a hearty meal of kalua pork or a loco moco for breakfast. 

Grandma’s Coffee House, 9232 Kula Hwy, Kula, HI 96790 https://www.grandmascoffeehousemaui.com/

3. Watch glassblowing at Hot Island Glass

Admire the artisans at work at this family-owned Makawao glass studio. Take a seat in their viewing area and watch the resident artists transform molten glass into stunning jellyfish sculptures, vases, bowls, or platters. 

Hot Island Glass, 3620 Baldwin Avenue Suite 101-A, Makawao, Hawaii 96768 https://www.hotislandglass.com/

4. Buzz around the Maui Honey Bee Sanctuary 

Satisfy your sweet tooth with a free honey tasting (and an epic view) at the Maui Honey Bee Sanctuary in Kula. Dedicated to spreading awareness about the importance of honeybees to the environment, the Upcountry beekeepers welcome visitors for both free self-guided garden tours and paid experiences, such as an immersive bee adventure tour. 

Shop the sanctuary’s boutique for bee-related souvenirs such as Maui honey, essential oil spray, beeswax candles, and jewelry. 

Maui Honey Bee Sanctuary, 16655 Piilani Highway, Kula, HI 96790 https://mauihoneybees.square.site/

5. Get a taste of the paniolo life at Ulupalakua Ranch Store

For major paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) vibes, head to the Ulupalakua Ranch Store. The rustic stop comes complete with wooden rocking chairs on the front porch and cowboy hats for serious Upcountry style. 

Then mosey to the counter in the back and order a burger. Take your pick from a Maui Cattle Co. beef burger, Ulupalakua elk burger, or a Maui lamb burger — there’s even a taro burger on the menu. Pull up a seat outside and watch the grill pros work their magic while you soak in the view.

Ulupalakua Ranch Store, 14800 Piilani Hwy, Kula, HI 96790 https://ulupalakuaranch.com/

6. Sip and shop at Maui Wine 

For the ultimate taste of local Maui, reserve a tasting at Maui Wine’s King’s Cottage Tasting Room — originally built in the 1870s for the last reigning king of Hawaii — and order a flight or wine by the glass. Our favorite? The pineapple wine, which is made from Maui Gold pineapples. 

Step inside the cottage to shop for local fare, such as handmade home goods and Upcountry-crafted sweet treats. Or keep your Maui vacation going even after you make it home, and sign up for a twice-yearly wine shipment with their wine club.

Maui Wine, 14815 Piilani Hwy, Kula, HI 96790 https://mauiwine.com/

7. Stop and smell the flowers at Ali’i Kula Lavender 

While the Mediterranean lavender species isn’t native to Maui, the fragrant plant flourishes in the dry Upcountry climate. At 4,000-foot elevation, you’ll find 20 varieties of lavender among the farm’s 55,000 lavender plants.   

Take a self-guided tour and soak in the views while winding your way through the walking paths. And don’t forget to visit the gift shop for lavender souvenirs to bring home, such as gardener’s lotion and lavender-strawberry pepper jam. 

Ali’i Kula Lavender, 1100 Waipoli Road, Kula, Hawaii https://www.aliikulalavender.com/

8. Nosh on malasadas and donuts on a stick

A trip to Upcountry Maui wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the historic T. Komoda Store and Bakery. This charming Makawao purveyor of rolls, pastries, cream puffs — and, yes, donuts on a stick — has been a Maui staple since 1916. 

Get there early to snag T. Komoda’s fresh treats — they disappear in a flash. And pack a little patience. You’ll probably have plenty of company when you visit, as long lines are typical. 

T. Komoda Store & Bakery, 3674 Baldwin Ave Makawao, HI 96768 

9. Stroll through a peaceful botanical garden

Take a self-guided tour at a heaven on earth for plant lovers, an 8-acre garden. Kula Botanical Garden’s tranquil winding paths lead you from one splendor to the next — from rainbow eucalyptus trees to an orchid house, resident chameleon enclosure, bird sanctuary, koi pond, and more. 

Kula Botanical Garden, 638 Kekaulike Avenue, Kula, Hawaii 96790 http://www.kulabotanicalgarden.com/  

10. Pick strawberries or pumpkins from Kula Country Farms

In the spring, pick your way through the Kula Country Farms strawberry farms for luscious red berries while admiring the valley views from this Upcountry roadside fixture. Or enjoy the farm’s sunflower and pumpkin patch in the fall. 

The fourth generation family farm also operates a year-round farm stand offering local produce, along with honey, jams, and baked goods. 

Kula Country Farms, 6240 Kula Highway, Kula, Hawaii 96790 http://kulacountryfarmsmaui.com

Getting to Upcountry

To get the most out of your day while in Maui’s Upcountry, we recommend renting a car. You’ll find bus service in the towns of Makawao, Pukalani, and Kula — but a rental car will get you farther afield for serious exploration. 

Renting a car for your Upcountry travels also affords you maximum flexibility for choosing which spots to visit and making stops on your timeline.  

Where to eat in Upcountry

As the agricultural heart of Maui, Upcountry has its share of island eateries. Taste the Upcountry life at these popular stops: 

• Kula Lodge and Restaurant , Kula – Rustic island vibes with wood-paneled walls and furniture, the expansive dining room windows and stunning vista views make this Kula restaurant more than just a pit stop on the way up to the Haleakala summit. 
• Kula Bistro , Kula – Cozy and casual family-style dining. The bistro offers both island favorites (such as loco moco and mahi mahi benedict) along with Italian dishes such as bolognese and lasagna. 
• O’o Farm , Kula – Score a meal with a tour at O’o Farm, an 8.5-acre farm that supplies ingredients to the trendy Pacific’O restaurant in Lahaina. Breakfast and lunch tours available with advance reservation. 
• Bully’s Burgers , Kula – Drive south on Piilani Highway, and keep going until it feels like you’ve driven to the end of the island. The road keeps going, but on your left you’ll find a solitary burger joint overlooking South Maui and the ocean beyond. Swing your leg over the saddle rack bar facing the vista views or pull up a picnic bench while you wait for your meal. 

Beyond Upcountry Maui

Have some extra time after touring Maui’s Upcountry? Stop at laid back Paia town , once a bustling sugar town turned current-day surfer destination, health food hub, and boho beach attraction.     

Hi, I’m Gina — managing editor, Maui enthusiast, and human behind the keyboard here at Maui Trip Guide. When I’m not on the island at my Kihei condo, you can find me planning my next travel adventure from my home in the Pacific Northwest.

Further Reading...

Meet Some of Maui’s Most Pampered Goats: Farm Tour at Haleakala Creamery

Lei Po‘o (Flower Crown) Workshop at Paper Garden | Maui Trip Guide Things to Do

The Best Luau on Maui? We Compare Maui’s Premier Dinner Shows

We're working on updating our site to reflect the changes resulting from the recent wildfire tragedy. This includes updates on Maui businesses and sites as we receive incoming reports. Please read our message about the wildfire, along with resources for how to help those on the island, here . Mahalo.