A Foodie’s Guide to Maui: Farm Tours and Culinary Delights

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Maui is home to some of the finest restaurants in the world, with iconic spots like Mama’s Fish House and Merriman’s, known for their fresh seafood and oceanfront views.

While indulging in award-winning meals is an experience in itself, Maui has even more to offer for anyone eager to dive deeper into its culinary scene.

This guide takes you beyond the dining table and into the heart of Maui’s vibrant food culture. Think farm tours where you can taste produce fresh from the fields, cooking classes that teach you how to prepare traditional Hawaiian dishes, and bustling local markets filled with tropical fruits and artisanal treats.

If you’re ready to explore the flavors of Maui in new and exciting ways, keep reading!

1. Explore Maui’s Farm-to-Table Culture

One of the most rewarding ways to experience Maui’s local flavors is by visiting the farms themselves. You’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the farm-to-table movement that makes Maui such a food lover’s paradise.

Here are just a handful of farms to whet your appetite:

O’o Farm

Tucked into the slopes of Haleakala, O’o Farm has two of the most delicious and educational experiences on the island: a coffee & brunch tour and a farm-to-table lunch tour. You’ll learn about regenerative farming while walking through their orchards and gardens, and then enjoy a multi-course meal prepared right on-site using the day’s bounty.

Moku Roots

Just below the Ali’i Lavender Farm in Kula, Moku Roots is a true hidden gem. I’ve taken so many friends and family here; it’s a great experience every time. The views are breathtaking, and the food is outstanding—creative, farm-to-table vegan dishes like ulu (breadfruit) gnocchi, black pearl mushroom ceviche, and lilikoi mousse.

Friday sunset dinners and Sunday brunches are BYOB and often paired with yoga or sound baths beforehand. The menu changes weekly, and reservations are a must. Also, the owner has said farm tours are in the works, so keep an eye out!

Maui Bees Farm

For a truly unique dining experience, Maui Bees Farm offers a 7-course farm-to-table dinner, using organic ingredients sourced directly from their farm. You’ll also get a tour and a glimpse into sustainable farming practices.

Surfing Goat Dairy

This award-winning dairy farm invites you to meet their playful goats, learn about cheese-making, and sample their delicious products. You can try everything from creamy spreads to chocolate truffles (yum!). Springtime visits are extra special—it’s kidding season so adorable baby goats are scampering about everywhere!

Kupa’a Farms

Calling all coffee and chocolate lovers! Kupa’a Farms hosts a “Maui Chocolate Coffee Tour” where you’ll learn how cacao and coffee are grown and transformed into tasty treats. Expect hands-on experiences, a friendly guide, and plenty of samples. Plus, the chance to make your own spiced hot chocolate! Reservation only. Great for families or couples looking for something unique.

Maui Ku’ia Estate Chocolate

Located in West Maui, this farm will take you on a sensory journey starting from cacao cultivation to artisanal chocolate tastings. If you’re looking for something else to do after your tour, I highly recommend checking out their Sunset Jazz Show on Sundays.

2. Sample Maui’s Craft Scene

If you’re into good food and a good drink, Maui’s craft scene won’t disappoint. Whether you’re more into wine, beer, or spirits, there’s something here for you, and the settings are just as amazing as the sips.

Ocean Vodka Farm and Distillery

Every visitor I’ve taken here has absolutely loved this place! Savor organic vodka made from sugarcane and deep ocean mineral water plus other premium spirits. Their expansive lawn is a great place to relax while you eat, drink, and take in a stellar Upcountry sunset. 

Maui Brewery Co.

Sip handcrafted beers from Hawaii’s largest craft brewery. There are three locations on Maui (Kihei, Ka’anapali, and Kahana). The Kihei location is the most popular, and it’s the only one that offers tours.

Hali’imaile Distillery

This distillery makes small-batch spirits like Pau Maui Vodka, crafted from local pineapples. And they offer short tours and tastings if you’re curious about the process.

Make a day of it by touring the Maui Gold Pineapple Farm just across the street, visiting Makai Glass Studio next door, and enjoying a meal at the Hali’imaile General Store (their pineapple upside-down cake is a must!).

MauiWine

For a taste of Upcountry’s unexpected wine scene, head to MauiWine, known for its pineapple wines and historic estate. The standard tasting is simple but enjoyable, especially when paired with their small bites like goat cheese drizzled with lilikoi pineapple wine syrup and crackers (yum!). For a more in-depth experience, consider booking one of their guided tasting options. Walk-ins are welcome, but I highly recommend making a reservation ahead of time.

📖 Related Read: Sampling Maui’s craft scene is a great way to unwind and enjoy the island’s local artistry. But for more ways to relax, be sure to check out my Best Relaxing Activities on Maui post.

3. Get Hands-On with Cooking Classes

Take your love for food to the next level with Maui’s interactive cooking classes:

• Coconut Information Farm Cooking Class
  Want to become a coconut expert? This farm in Haiku has a class that walks you through the entire process, from husking the coconut to creating a tasty dish with coconut noodles. Along the way, you’ll sample fresh fruit and learn about sustainable farming in a fun, interactive setting.

• La Kahea Community Farm
  Located on 10 acres of lush farmland in Central Maui, La Kahea hosts a weekly farm-to-table cooking class where you’ll learn how to make fresh tacos using ingredients harvested from the farm. The class also includes fruit tastings, fresh sugar cane juice, and even banana nice cream (yum!).

📖 Related Read: Best Workshops, Lessons, and Classes on Maui: 22 Hands-On Experiences You’ll Never Forget

4. Check Out Maui’s Food Truck Parks

Maui’s food truck parks are where it’s at if you want good eats without the fuss. It’s an affordable and chill way to try everything from fresh poke to Thai to vegan tacos, all in one spot. If you want to eat like a local, these are the places to go.

Costco Food Truck Park

This park has two locations—one directly across from Costco’s warehouse and another across from Costco’s gas station. It’s a convenient stop for a quick bite before or after your flight. Some of my favorites include Thai Mee Up, Ono Teppanyaki & Seafood, and Da Grateful Dough.

South Maui Gardens

South Maui Gardens started off as a plant nursery and has since blossomed into a vibrant community hub with over a dozen food trucks, tropical gardens, cute shops and cafes, picnic tables, and outdoor games. They also host a fun events like hula shows, concerts, and comedy nights.

Honoapiilani Food Truck Park

If you’re staying on the west side and looking for something nearby, this food truck park has about ten food trucks, everything from poke bowls and Hawaiian plate lunches to Mexican street tacos and wood-fired pizza.

📖 Related Read: Hitting up a food truck park is just one of the many fun activities featured in my 41 Best Things To Do on Maui. Check it out for more ideas!

5. Shop and Snack at Local Markets

Maui’s farmers markets are a goldmine of fresh produce and locally-made goodies. Whether you’re trying to find some exotic fruits to taste, handmade jams and sauces to bring home, or snacks for your beach day, these two markets are worth a visit.

1. Upcountry Farmers Market

Held every Saturday, this is Maui’s largest farmers market and my personal favorite. With over 40 farms participating, you’ll find locally grown produce, tropical flowers, baked goods, art, and many other unique Maui-made items. Also in the area, be sure to…

• Grab a coffee at Crème Maui—a cute cafe located in a repurposed trolley bus.
• Visit Okoa Farms—Open everyday of the week, this store sells a wide selection of fresh produce and other value added products straight from their farm.
• Dine at Marlow—An Italian restaurant and popular stop for an espresso and light breakfast before or after your market visit.
• Visit the Food Truck Park—a handful of food trucks next to the Longs Drugs parking lot (Thai Mee Up & Maui Pizza Truck are always delicious).
• Make a day of it!—The Upcountry Farmers Market is a great jumping-off point for exploring Maui’s Upcountry (a place you don’t want to miss).

2. Maui Swap Meet

If you are looking for great souvenirs or unique island products, head to Maui’s largest open-air market at the University of Hawaii Maui College campus in Kahului.

You’ll find arts and crafts, clothing, jewelry, food, flowers, locally grown produce, and much more from dozens of vendors.

It costs just 75 cents (cash only) to get in and there’s ample free parking available.

Tips: 

• Bring cash! While some vendors may accept cards, most transactions are cash-only (or Venmo). 
• Arrive early to avoid the crowds, the mid-day heat, and to snag the best selection.
• If you get hungry after shopping, check out the Costco Food Truck Park just down the road (scroll up for more details).

📖 Related Read: Both of these great markets are included in my Ultimate Maui Itinerary. Be sure to check it out for even more ideas to make the most of your trip!

6. Indulge at Maui’s Annual Food Festivals

For food lovers who time their trip right, Maui’s food festivals are an excellent way to experience the island’s top culinary talent in one place.

• Hawaii Food & Wine Festival
  Usually in the fall, this prestigious festival brings world-class chefs to the islands for a multi-day celebration of food, wine, and cooking demonstrations. If a caviar tasting bar, truffle station, and seafood feast sound like your kind of party, check out this event.

• Kapalua Food & Wine Festival
  Held every summer in the upscale resort area of Kapalua, this festival combines gourmet food, wine tastings, and incredible ocean views.

• Maui AgFest
  Celebrate Maui’s agricultural roots at this family-friendly summer festival, where you can sample local products, learn about Maui’s farmers, and participate in culinary workshops and tasting competitions.

📖 Related Read: If you’re interested in other annual events happening on Maui, check out my blog posts on best things to do in the Winter, Spring, Fall, and Summer.

7. Experience Authentic Hawaiian Cuisine at a Luau

A luau will give you a great introduction to the dance, music, history, and food of Polynesia. Most luaus serve traditional Hawaiian dishes like poi, kalua pork, laulau, and haupia.

Popular luaus include:

• Old Lahaina Luau
  This is the most popular luau on the island and the go-to for an authentic Hawaiian luau experience. You’ll enjoy pre-show crafts and cultural demos, watch them unearth the pig from the imu, and take in a beautifully choreographed show, all set against a stunning ocean backdrop. Dinner is served to your table (no buffet lines), and they even send you home with fresh banana bread.

• Te Au Moana
  Held at the Wailea Beach Resort, this luau has an incredible oceanfront setting and includes fun pre-show activities like lei-making and crafts. Dinner is served family-style with Hawaiian favorites and an open bar. The performance highlights Polynesian stories, music, and hula, with a fire knife finale. It’s a beautiful evening with one of the best sunset views around.

• Wailele Luau
  Held at The Westin Maui, this luau has a relaxed but upscale feel. You’ll get a lei and welcome drink, then have time to browse vendor booths or take photos before the show. There’s a kid-friendly buffet with mocktails, and the main buffet includes a wide range of local dishes plus an open bar. The night wraps with live music, hula, and a fire-knife dance that’s always a crowd favorite.

📖 Related Read: A luau is one way to experience Hawaiian culture, but it’s far from the only option. Be sure to check out my post on Top Authentic Things to Do on Maui for more budget-friendly ways to learn about the island’s history and traditions.

Savoring Maui: A Final Taste of Island Experiences

As you can see, Maui’s food scene goes far beyond its world-class restaurants. From farm-to-table tours and hands-on cooking classes to local food truck parks and authentic luaus, the island has endless ways to explore its culinary treasures.

If you’re eager to discover more unique experiences on the island, my digital travel map of Maui is your perfect guide. It’s packed with insider tips, local gems, and everything you need to explore, relax, and enjoy the beauty of Maui.

Here’s to savoring every taste, every view, and every moment on this beautiful island. Mahalo for reading!