Referred to as Upcountry by the locals, this hearkens back to 1793, when the first cattle was shipped from California to Hawaii as a gift for King Kamehameha I. By the 1880's, cattle ranching had taken a firm hold in this area and the cowboys became known as the Paniolos of the Upcountry.
Located on the northwest slope of Haleakala in Maui County, Makawao is home to 7,184 residents
Referred to as Upcountry by the locals, this hearkens back to 1793, when the first cattle was shipped from California to Hawaii as a gift for King Kamehameha I. By the 1880's, cattle ranching had taken a firm hold in this area and the cowboys became known as the Paniolos of the Upcountry.
Located on the northwest slope of Haleakala in Maui County, Makawao is home to 7,184 residents. With an elevation of 1,600 feet above sea level, Makawao (pronounced MAH-kah-WOU) has a land area of 4.7 miles and boasts a comfortable temperature range, usually between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. Makawao also borders a rain forest, so that tends to keep things about 5 degrees cooler than down at sea level. As you drive up the slopes of Mount Haleakala, you can't help but notice the stunning scenery that makes this area such an incredible paradise for residents and visitors alike. Modern day Makawao is home to an amazing array of art galleries, adorable boutiques, and incredible cuisine that is a complement to any palate!
Moving to Makawao is a big undertaking if you are coming from the mainland, but it is doable with some practical planning in advance. Remember that you will be moving onto an island, so renting a U-Haul isn't going to be an option. Give yourself at least 2 to 3 months (if you have that luxury) to rent an apartment, pack up your belongings and ship them to your new home. Remember that unpacking takes almost as long as packing and plan accordingly. Once you are here, you will probably never want to leave again!
There are 3 distinct neighborhoods in Makawao and each compliments the one next to it! Below are a few details about each neighborhood that might help you decide where you might like to settle, although the decision will likely be a tough one!
Pukalani: If you are looking for studio apartments in Makawao that offer incredible views in a pedestrian friendly area, Pukalani is an excellent choice of neighborhoods. Haleakala Hwy runs right through the middle of this neighborhood, making any commutes you might have in your future easy to manage on a daily basis. Pukalani Park is a favorite spot for taking a jog, walking your dog, or meeting up with friends for a game of frisbee. If you happen to be a golf nut, you will be happy to know that the Pukalani Country Club is also at the heart of this visually stunning neighborhood.
Town Center: The town center is also considered a suburban neighborhood, but that should be no surprise when you find yourself in the center of it all! The typical size of rental properties range from 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments, as well as a 3 or 4 bedroom house to rent. Punawai Pond is a favorite spot to relax, located just off of Haheka Rd, and is also a perfect picnic spot. Grab some provisions from Hali'imaile General Store on Haliimaile Rd. and enjoy a relaxing Saturday lunch spot with friends. If that sounds too laid back for your tastes, the Haliimaile Park and Tennis Center is a short walk from the pond and an excellent place to show off your skills!
Piiholo Rd./ Olinda Rd.: Are you looking for the perfect home to rent in Makawao right next to the Makawao Forest Reserve? Does living alongside the wilder side of Mount Haleakala sound like your vision of paradise done right? If so, then this neighborhood is the answer to your dreams. Your apartment search in this neighborhood will take you close to the Waihou Spring Forest Reserve as well as the Waihou Spring Trail, one of the most popular footpaths in the area for residents and visitors alike! If you are artistically inclined or just have a healthy appreciation for the arts, make sure to visit the A'ali'ikuhonua Creative Arts Center just off of Meha Rd. Your inner artist will not be disappointed!
Living on an island is a different style of life altogether. Makawao, like the rest of Hawaii, is remote and generally speaking, everyone thinks of one another as Ohana (family) in this tight knit community. There are so many attractions and beautiful places to see on a daily basis, it can be difficult to choose when you are visiting. However, this isn't a problem when you become a resident! You will come to enjoy daily or weekly trips to The Sacred Garden of Maliko, located on Kaluanui Rd., depending on what your schedule will allow. The garden is free to the public and features a 10,000 square foot greenhouse, 2 labyrinths, a shrine room, a Buddha Garden, water lily ponds and plenty of sitting areas for you to relax and ponder the beauty that surrounds you.
