It’s no secret that I think a visit to Maui without a trip to the upcountry is incomplete and while I could put together a full days itinerary (heck, multiple days!), if you’re short on time and looking for something for the whole family, it’s got to be a stop at the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm.

Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm

There’s more than one lavender farm on Maui, but the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm (AKL) is the special one.

Here’s what you need to know about visiting AKL:

A lavender farm anywhere is rather pretty, but the big reason to come to this one is for THE VIEWS.

I’ve heard people say that they expected to see more lavender, but that it was worth going just for the view, and honestly…that’s about the sum of it. Don’t get me wrong…there’s plenty of lavender growing on the property, just don’t expect to see sweeping fields of lavender.

That being said, the view is SPECTACULAR. It really gives you a different perspective on the island when you can see it stretched out at your feet.

If you’re a lavender enthusiast, the best time to visit the farm is June through September when it’s in full bloom although they have several varieties of lavender that bloom year round.

Lavender aside, the property is BEAUTIFUL and honestly I enjoy seeing a lot of the tropical flowers and trees more than anything.

It’s pretty compact and while it’s very hilly it doesn’t really require that much walking to see the whole property.

As much as I love this place, I think it’s pretty easy to see in an hour or so (and that’s probably on the generous side). That being said, DO NOT MISS THE GIFT SHOP.

AKL sells their lavender products in various shops around the island, but this is the holy grail. Every possible thing you could ever imagine made with lavender or lavender themed plus a lot of great merch in general.

And they have plenty of treats that you MUST try like lavender coffee, lemonade, iced tea, scones, brownies, etc. Grab a treat to enjoy out on the lanai while you take in the views.

The farm is at 4000 feet in elevation (the reason for the views), and it can get a little chilly – especially if you’re there first thing in the morning so check the weather and take a sweatshirt at least.

Entry to the farm is $3/person) and the current hours are limited to Friday-Monday, 10AM-4PM.

If lavender makes you think of France (that’s what it always reminds me of), make a stop nearby at La Provence. It’s a cute little French restaurant that doesn’t get talked about nearly enough. The outdoor restaurant serves light French inspired fare, light crepes, quiche and honestly whatever the chef/owner feels like making. The hours are a little hodgepodge too, but the main thing you need to know here is about the bakery…DO NOT MISS THE ECLAIRS. They’re as good as any I ever had in France.

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If you’re looking to make a day of it in the upcountry, consider adding some of these spots to your itinerary:

Haleakala National Park for sunrise or sunset (or just a quick hike midday)
Maui Wine
Surfing Goat Dairy Farm
Maui Pineapple Tour
O’o Farms Farm to Table Breakfast or Lunch
Drive across Kekaulike Road and down Olinda Road for great views and shopping in Makawao