Upcountry

On our last full day on Maui, Mei, the kids and I headed upcountry to Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm. We didn't know quite what to expect but figured an excursion away from the beach on our last full day wouldn't be all bad. 

As we headed up the slopes of Haleakala, the temperature drops and the skies turn grey as we get closer to the permanent cloud that sits on the mountain. It starts to remind us of Scotland or Ireland as it's greener up here too. 

The view up here is spectacular. This is the northern coast of Maui. The lavender field itself is unimpressive and quite small. However there is a flower garden with some unusual and gorgeous plants. A meandering path takes you down the hill past ferns, jacaranda trees, bromeliads and so many different proteas. 

We picked up some lavender souvenirs and a couple of lavender scones on our way out. 

Down the road a bit from the lavender farm is the historic town of Makawao. We stopped on their main shopping street for a look-see. This is a rustic street with a slightly hippy vibe. The stores tend to be local artists or mom-and-pops. There are chickens everywhere including on top of cars.

I bought a t-shirt from a watercolour artist and we snacked from a food truck in between meandering through the various unusual stores. I quite enjoyed seeing this different side of Maui.

After a brief rest, Mei, Stephen and I headed to Whaler's Village to hunt down a dinner reservation. We lucked out at Leilani's. Their calamari appetizer and parmesan crusted mahi mahi were quite good. We didn't partake of a third hula pie since we were saving up for one last shave ice.

And one last sunset.