Nestled on the slopes of Mount Haleakala is a gorgeous landscape known as upcountry Maui. This picturesque area is known for its incredible paniolo culture, and some of the coolest farms you'll ever experience, including this remote farm restaurant. But there's one farm that stands out in the crowd: Surfing Goat Dairy, a magical wonderland home to more than 200 adorable goats, and some amazing dairy products.
The land was purchased in 1999, and was originally supposed to be a bed and breakfast - but the plans were scrapped in favor of expanding the farm’s goat herd, as well as the goat cheese business on Maui. We think they made the right decision - high quality goat cheese is much more unique!
Owned and operated by German expatriates Thomas and Eva Kafsack, Surfing Goat Dairy started as a dream with a single herd of goats purchased from a neighboring island dairy farm that was going out of business.
The picturesque dairy farm has been in operation ever since, and has won several awards for their outstanding array of more than two dozen goat cheeses.
Surfing Goat Dairy produces a variety of cream cheeses and soft cheeses, ranging in flavors from "Udderly Delicious" (plain) to "Pirate’s Desire" (anchovies and capers) and "Mandalay" (apple banana and curry). In addition to brine-ripened feta cheese, soft cheeses include those ripened under wax, in olive oil with garlic, and even coated in mesquite ash.
The farm owners started selling their products at locals farmers markets, but word quickly spread and their outstanding goat cheese products were picked up by retail locations - including wine stores and high end grocery shops - and gourmet restaurants.
As of 2014, Surfing Goat Dairy is one of only two goat dairies in Hawaii. Located on the slopes of Mount Haleakala, the 42-acre farm is also one of the islands’ top agritourism destinations.
The 200 goats that call the farm home have plenty of space to roam, as nearly two-thirds of the property is dedicated pasture space.
Casual tours - as well as Evening Chores + Milking Tours, and Grand Dairy Tours - are offered daily and range in price from $12 to $28. Reservations for the casual tour are not required.
Don’t forget to stop at the Dairy Store, where more than 30 different cheese products are offered for tasting and purchase, as well as light snacks and beverages.
For more information, or to book a tour, call 808.878.2870, or email the dairy at [email protected]. The farm is located in Kula at 3651 Omaopio Road.
Consider making a stop at the breathtaking Kula Ali’i Lavender Farm for the quintessential day in upcountry Maui.
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