The Hawaii Restaurant That Will Take You Millions Of Miles Away From It All

When most people think of Hawaii, it’s the gorgeous island of Maui that comes to mind: With a plethora of beach resorts, outdoor activities, world-class beaches and diverse geography, the Valley Isle is perhaps the most popular tourist destination in Hawaii. And for good reason – the island is home to countless incredible attractions, natural wonders, awesome adventures, and uninterrupted natural beauty. Nowhere is that more true than upcountry Maui, on the slopes of Mount Haleakala, and specifically Kula, a gorgeous little town in the middle of nowhere. The word Kula translates from Hawaiian to "open meadows," and is a perfect description of the serene natural beauty you’ll find in this area.

Hiding within this stunning little census-designated place is a restaurant that will take you millions of miles away from it all. This is the Kula Lodge & Restaurant, and it is not only remote and secluded but perhaps the most charming restaurant you’ll ever dine at. Let’s take a look:

Located on the slopes of Mount Haleakala at 3,200 feet in elevation, the Lodge sits in an enchanting terraced garden full of flowers and bears a striking resemblance to a chalet one might find in the Swiss Alps.

This rustic, natural-wood lodge is the perfect place from which to explore both upcountry Maui and Haleakala National Park.

Because it was built as a private residence, you will find only five rooms at this Maui destination, and dates book quickly due to its proximity to sunrises at Haleakala (the summit is just 21 miles from the lodge, making it the perfect home base for a vacation spent mostly within the National Park).

If you can’t get a room, however, Kula Lodge is home to an incredible restaurant that serves up mouthwatering American and Hawaiian cuisine in an absolutely jaw-dropping setting.

This family-style restaurant has a cozy atmosphere, and while the dining room is cozy…

…it is the outdoor seating area — complete with intricately laid brickwork which creates a series of charming perches lining the hillside — that draws locals and tourists alike for an unforgettable meal unlike anywhere else in Hawaii.

With panoramic views overlooking the slopes of Haleakala and the West Maui Mountains, it doesn’t get any prettier than dining in this lush garden overlooking an endless horizon.

Serving up progressive and contemporary cuisine created using fresh, local produce grown in Maui’s upcountry and seasoned with homegrown herbs and spices, your meal is sure to be top notch.

Not sure what you should order? We suggest any of their delicious pizzas made in the mesquite-fired pizza oven — yum!

Kula Lodge is not only a popular spot among locals for special occasions, business events, and even romantic sunset dinners, but is also a must-visit for anyone exploring the nearby National Park. Dinner reservations are encouraged.

The Kula Lodge is located at 15200 Haleakala Hwy, Kula, HI 96790, and is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. For more information, visit their website.

Have you ever visited this charming lodge and eatery? We almost think it could rival that of Hawaii’s most stunning restaurant.