Makawao is the most authentic paniolo (Hawaiian Cowboy) town on Maui. Each year the 4th of July Parade goes through town and ends at the Oskie Rice arena where there is Rodeo, Music, and a whole lot of fun.
Best known for the annual 4th of July Rodeo that has been held for the past 50 years, Makawao is the cowboy capital of upcountry Maui. Located at 1,500′ elevation, the region maintains a cooler temperature. With rain just about everyday in the early morning, the pastures are bright green year round.
If you are looking to get a taste of what cowboy (and cowgirl) culture in Hawaii is like, Makawao is the place for you. Wide open pastures with panoramic ocean views inspire the inner cowboy to come out. If you want a taste of local culture, pull up a bar stool at Stopwatch Bar & Grill. This is the best place to grab a cold beverage and talk story with local ranchers.
The HHSRA website has all the details about High School Rodeos on Maui. These kids are really good! If you want to see Paniolo’s in action, I highly recommend checking out one of these events.
While I am not a rodeo person myself, I have to say that the horses here have it pretty good.
And this bull seems to be very content with the lush green pastures.
If you are looking to spice up your vacation and break away from the tourist norms, be sure to visit Makawao, the cowboy capital of Maui. From local shops to happy live stock, Makawao is a welcome change from the typical Maui vacation.
Looking for more to do on Maui? Check out the 41 Best Things to do on Maui.
