Maui's quaint up-country town of Makawao is located at about the 2000' level on the slopes of Haleakala. Makawao is an upcountry treasure and is located in one of the most picturesque settings to be found on the island.
Makawao Storefronts are Reminiscent of an Earlier Time
Makawao's heritage was established years ago when it was central to the region of the wide-open cattle ranches which were (and still are today) found along the mountain slopes, as well as centrally located in the midst of Maui's lucrative pineapple industry. Makawao became known as Maui's "cowboy town" and was the gathering place of the "Paniolo" which was the name given to the Portuguese cowboy's that came to Maui to tend to the herds of cattle in the early portion of the eighteen hundreds. The cowboy culture here actually preceded the cowboys of the wild west in North America and this influence still remains today as a part of the flavor of old Makawao town.
Makawao Boutique
Hitching posts, saddles, cowboy attire and western facades on the quaint storefronts all point to the significance of Makawao's Paniolo past. Today however, instead of simply saloons, tack stores and general stores, the streets of Makawao are well known for their clothing boutiques, art shops and wonderful restaurants. Makawao is in fact, an upcountry treasure-trove of unique shops carrying unusual merchandise.
Makawao Rodeo
A day visiting the upcountry area should always include a visit to Makawao and if you are fortunate enough to be here over the Fourth of July weekend you will be treated to the largest rodeo to be found in the state of Hawaii. This three day extravaganza brings cowboys to Maui from all over the United States, Canada and elsewhere to compete in its thrilling rodeo events such as bull riding, cow roping, barrel racing and a myriad of similar challenging exploits.
Seabury Crafts Fair
Another big event that happens in Makawao every year is the Seabury Crafts Fair. This is held on the grounds of Seabury Hall which is a preparatory school here on the island. The event is a fund raiser for scholarships and thousands of people show up every year the Saturday before Mothers Day to enjoy the festivities and pick up that special gift hand made on the Maui.
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