The It-Girl's Guide to All Things Makawao: Shop, Dine, and Explore
Welcome to our charming Makawao Town! Located in Upcountry Maui on the slopes of Haleakala, the famed Hawaiian Paniolo (cowboy) Town has become the destination for curated boutique shopping island wide. And let's not forget the thriving art community and the food!
We've put together the ultimate it-girl guide to all things Makawao.
THE SHOPPING OF MAKAWAO
First up, Driftwood!
Yes, naturally we are starting with ourselves because we are awesome and it's our blog so.... 😉 Our beautifully curated boutique is all about the elevated island life. It can take you from beach to brunch, sunset picnics to sushi dinner, wedding guest to globe trotter, you will find an incredible selection of women's clothing, jewelry, and accessories as well as beauty, lifestyle, and gifts.
Driftwood is proud to support and feature over 20 local designers. And we are constantly striving to work with companies that are sustainably and ethically made. Our boutique was built with 90% recycled materials, we use only LED lighting, post consumer recycled paper goods, reusable shopping bags and compostable mailers. We are not perfect but we're dedicated to do better!
Our brands include, Spell, Acacia, Mai, Joah Brown, Pistola, Hammitt and so many more. Be on the look-out for our sister store Home By Driftwood coming this summer!
Over the hibiscus hedge you will find Keani Hawai'i
For your island inspiration look no further than our neighbor. This store captures the beauty of Hawai'i with lustrous pearls and tropical inspired jewelry. Stop by after shopping with us to get your luxury island fix. Shop house brand Keani as well as XIX Palms and Khush Clothing.
We are not the only cool girl in town. Next up on our not-be-missed-list is Tribe.
Tribe boutique is for our island tomgirl. Fearlessly fashionable she's retro beach meets streetwear with a side of flirt. Brands to shop, Farm Rio, Magnolia Pearl, Lokahi.
Next door is The Monarch Collective
This gem is all about local designers and makers from across Hawaii - over 30 of them! Don't miss best friends and co-owners Puka Perri and Taurus Moon collections.
First up on Baldwin Ave is Pink By Nature
Inspired by nature, Pink is modern classics, denim and button downs for days. Shop brands like Mother, Cotton Citizen and Aviator Nation.
If your feeling the island vibe don't miss Holoholo Surf
This is your Hawaiian surf shop featuring original aloha wear and bikinis alongside locally made surfboards. Must haves, in-house brand Holoholo and Posh Pua plus Oshan Essentials.
Ame Maui Paris
Sought and brought is the moto at Ame. Inspired by travel and a passion for exceptional living. You'll find a little bit of everything! Shop Jasmine Honey Jewelry, Bullet Proof Aura and Dos Gardenia.
Designing Wahine Emporium
Treat for your senses. A place for home, body, and heart. Take home, Saltwater Buddha Soaps, Honu Hoops and Maca Sea.
RESTAURANT HIGHLIGHTS OF MAKAWAO
If there is one thing we love as much as shopping its food and we've rounded up our town favorites.
But first Coffee!
Espresso Mafia
Say hello to new the kid on the block, Espresso Mafia who makes the best buzz on the block! Can't start the day without the Rose Latte with oat milk. Stay tuned for their opening down the road into their official home.
Komodas bakery
A local tradition since 1916 their donut on a stick cannot be matched! Come early they sell out quickly and are closed Wednesday and Sunday.
Stop Watch
Park your partner at this down-to-earth watering hole while you shop. Maui Cattle Company beef burger, some hurricane fries and a cold one plus a game will keep them occupied for hours.
Makawao Garden Cafe
For the ladies who lunch. Enjoy outdoor seating and people watching while you sip an Arnold Palmer and eat a snow crab and avo sandwich on freshly made focaccia bread.
Satori
Farm to table sushi food truck specializing in the local fresh fish with plenty of vegan and vegetarian options. Lilikoi Spicy Tuna roll is what's for lunch!
Road Dogs
Sometimes you just need a f*cking hot dog, know what I mean? Road Dogs have some fun takes on the classic dog. Try the Bacon Ranch Dog or if you're a spicy gal, like me, go for the Nacho-peño. Don't miss a lemonade to wash it down.
Maui Cookie Lady
This shop may be tiny, but it has big cookie energy! It features premium, freshly baked gourmet cookies that feature an array of locally sourced ingredients all hand rolled in small batches. For a mouthwatering experience try the Half Baked giant chocolate chip cookie stuffed with Reeses Snickers and Oreo.
Casanova
Come for the shopping and stay for dinner! Start with a glass of their sparkling organic rosé and the Polenta Al Gorgonzola. The fish specials are always amazing and the pasta is all homemade. Good luck deciding!
Near and noteworthy is
The Makawao Forest Reserve where you can hike a several well-maintained trails under the beautiful forest canopy. Our Favorite is the KahakapaoTrail.
This gorgeous nonprofit arts center is housed in a 1917 mansion offering tours galleries and classes. Take in the breathtaking grounds overlooking Maui's north shore coast.
Need to chill? Unwind at this award-winning day spa rooted in authentic Hawaiian healing traditions. We love the Aloha Spa Ritual Nourishing which includes coconut milk and honey bath followed by a sugar body polish and Lomi Lomi Hawaiian massage with housemade passion fruit body butter. I feel more relaxed just saying it!
This company produces handcrafted, locally made and authentic Hawaiian brand spirits. They're located in the heart of Maui pineapple region creating "Hawaii in a bottle". Take a tasting tour and see for yourself.
Thanks for tuning in for a quick crash course on some of the of the must-do's of Makawao. Don't leave all the fun to us, come join!
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