Makawao: Paniolo, Art and Trails Nearby

Makawao can be explored through several distinct themes: local history in the town center, church architecture and art, the Paniolo tradition, and trails in the surrounding area. There is also the Makawao Rodeo, which takes place on a set date each year. These distinctions are useful for planning: culture and history sit alongside horseback riding, hiking and a specific annual event.

Local History and Architecture

The Makawao History Museum site on Baldwin Avenue is currently closed. Check its status again before your trip. A self-guided tour description published in November 2014, “Discover Historic Makawao Walking Tour,” lists 20 representative buildings and places in the town center. The “Historic Makawao Town” Story Map explores Makawao’s historic landscapes and rich history. The two approaches differ in focus: the tour centers on buildings and places in town, while the Story Map focuses on the landscapes and history of Makawao.

St. Joseph Church has a Gothic structure, a soaring interior and magnificent stained-glass windows. Near Makawao, Makawao Union Church was built in 1917 as a memorial to Henry Perrine Baldwin. The two churches have different emphases: St. Joseph stands out for its architectural features, while Union Church is notable for its memorial purpose and connection to Baldwin.

Art, Kaluanui and Local Connections

Viewpoints Gallery is located in the Courtyard in Makawao. It showcases representational and contemporary works in a range of media by artists and craftspeople from Maui; the specific selection on display may change. Hui Noʻeau’s mission includes preserving the historic Kaluanui Estate. At Kaluanui, there is a walking tour featuring more than 70 plant and tree species. This places art and crafts on one hand, and the preservation of the historic estate and its plant diversity on the other, as distinct themes.

T. Komoda Store was established in 1916 and is famous for its cream puffs.

Paniolo Tradition and Rodeo

Makawao is known for its tradition of Hawaiian cowboys, the Paniolo. At Piʻiholo Ranch in Makawao, you can go on a horseback ride and learn about Hawaiʻi’s Paniolo. The Makawao Rodeo takes place annually on July 4 and has been an Upcountry Maui tradition for more than 50 years. Rodeo weekend includes a parade, barrel racing, calf roping and bareback bronc riding. The horseback ride offers an activity-based way to experience the Paniolo tradition, while the rodeo is an annual event with a set date and named program events. If you’re planning your stay around it, check the dates of that year’s rodeo weekend in advance.

Trails Nearby

Near Makawao, the trails in the Kahakapao Recreational Area in the Makawao Forest Reserve are designed for biking, horseback riding and hiking. The outdoor options therefore extend beyond hiking. Check current trail alerts before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Hana, Maunaloa, Paia, Kaunakakai, Kahului, Pukalani, Kaanapali, Kīhei.

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