The Unexpected Cowboy Attraction You Can Find In Hawaii
By Lisa Curran Matte and Ashley Burns
VACATIONS
Makawao is an unexpected find on Maui — it's a cowboy town where real-life ranchers decked in cowboy hats and spurs belly up to the local bar right alongside local artists.
Before European explorers first set foot on Maui, Indigenous people relied on its unique forest for wood to build dwellings and the rich soil for growing food crops like taro.
In 1793, British sea Captain George Vancouver first brought long-horned cattle to the island, and the first horse was gifted to King Kamehameha in 1803.
The Upcountry climate was especially conducive to farming and ranching, so the industries thrived. Even today, Makawao retains its decidedly "Old West" identity.
While Makawao is packed with history, its most famous landmark might be the T. Komoda Store & Bakery. People line up for its iconic donut on a stick, malasadas, and cream puffs.
After a morning spent snacking, shopping, and perusing galleries, head north to Ho'okipa Beach Park and lounge on the white sand beach, go windsurfing, and view marine life.