You'll Never Run Out Of Things To Do At This Remarkable Ranch Hiding In Hawaii
By Megan Shute|Published June 04, 2018
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Megan Shute
Author
With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
The Hawaiian Islands are well-known for incredible beaches, coastal towns, and ocean views, but that’s not all the Aloha State has to offer. Hawaii is also home to remarkable ranchlands, and plenty of paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) history. In fact, one of the largest ranches in the country is nestled on Hawaii Island’s northern tip, and while Parker Ranch is impressive, there’s another ranch nestled on the slopes of Maui’s Mount Haleakala that is one of our all-time favorite destinations. This is Ulupalakua Ranch, and it is here that you will find a restaurant, horseback riding, a country store, a winery, and more. It’s the ultimate destination for a day trip, and we think you’ll quickly fall in love with this unique slice of paradise.
Measuring in at 18,000 acres stretching from the Pacific Ocean to approximately 6,000 feet in elevation, Ulupalakua Ranch is Maui's second largest cattle ranch.
Founded in the mid-1800s, Ulupalakua was once one of Hawaii's greatest producers of sugarcane and was even a favorite destination of King Kalakaua and his royal party. Today, you'll find a little bit of everything at this unique ranch.
Overlooking the Ahihi Kinau Natural Area Reserve, La Perouse Bay, and the neighboring islands, you will find stunning views around every corner during your horseback riding tour with Makena Stables. Each tour — whether you visit in the morning or at sunset — is 1.5 hours long and features jaw-dropping views, lessons for those who need it, and light refreshments. Don’t forget your camera!
Offering more than 30 state-of-the-art clay stands adaptable to those of all skill levels, Maui Sporting Clays offers patrons a unique experience one might not expect to find in Hawaii. Open daily from 8 a.m. to dusk, reservations are required.
Check out Maui Sporting Clays website here for more information.
Formerly known as Tedeschi Winery, the vineyard is located 1,800 feet above sea level, and is perfect for a romantic escape or a friendly gathering. Wines include estate wines, rose ranch wines, and pineapple varieties, and are handmade by the community that has worked at Ulupalakua Ranch for generations. Enjoy a wine tasting, tour the grounds, and simply relax.
Serving up mouthwatering burgers made from beef, elk, and lamb, Ulupalakua Grill is known for their epic burgers and other deli favorites, including Hawaii plate lunches, soups, sandwiches, and more!
While you wait for your meal, do some shopping at the ranch store!
Combine Paniolo style and history with locally sourced food and unique gifts and you have Ulupalakua Ranch Store, an upcountry destination that is bursting at the seams with charm. The shop was once merely a pit stop for those visiting the nearby winery but has since become a destination in its own right. You'll find everything from western wear to branded merchandise to quirky souvenirs, work from local artists and Maui made items.
