If you look up into the hills of Maui, you probably won’t spot Awalau Farm. This 30-acre farming community is hidden in a place known as upper Haiku, and it’s filled with caves, trails, and waterfalls. It’s a haven for guests to learn about the natural rhythms of Maui through hiking, gardening, or ecosystem classes. Awalau is family-friendly, and a great choice for anyone who wants to get their hands a little dirty.
The History
Awalau Farm is 30 acres found between a eucalyptus reserve and a bamboo forest. It boasts incredible views of the north shore as well as hidden pools where people come to rest and rejuvenate. The farm is largely a place to garden, tend goats, and improve the property through clay harvesting. It’s operated by Jeremy Safron, an author, farmer, restaurateur, yoga teacher, and inventor.
This champion of nature dabbles in everything from martial to mystic arts, and he’s regarded as a Renaissance man by students and friends alike. Saffron is a sincere believer in the power of energy, and he encourages his staff to appreciate all the Earth has to offer.
The Haunted Haiku Hike
There are a number of things to do at Awalau, but the area might be best known for its Haunted Hike. In this interactive experience, guests can learn about the history of Upcountry Haiku, as well as the ghosts, monsters, and cryptids of the state. Even if you don’t believe in the more supernatural stories, you’ll get to see some of the stranger (read: eerier) plants in the region with your own eyes. This is a memorable and fun way to really get to know Maui — the good, the bad, and the odd.
Enchanted Farm Tour
The enchanted farm tour is designed for children, but it’s fun for anyone who likes to indulge in a little fantasy. Dragons, fairies, centaurs, and other mythological beings are discussed along the trail, and everyone on the tour will learn a little more about what it’s like to live off the land. Kids can hear about flying goats, pet unicorns, and multi-colored sheep. They can mine for gems deep inside hidden caves. For anyone with an active (or overactive) imagination, this is a truly fun tour to take.
Farm Immersion
Awalau Farm offers outdoor learning opportunities for those who want to take a break from city life. Work with exotic fruit trees and build community with fellow workers at the same time. This vegetarian community and animal sanctuary may ask you to collect wood for fires, help eradicate an invasive species, weed the trees, or prune some plants. Those who have previously worked on a farm are appreciated, but anyone is welcome to join. As you work, you’ll also learn more about Maui. You might even be able to take all those tips home with you to your own garden.
Awalau Farm may not be easy to find, but its location just adds to its mystery. The guides are incredibly enthusiastic and ready to share everything they know about what it’s like to live here. People come to Awalau to try a different lifestyle, if only for a day. If you’ve ever wanted to experience Maui on another level, the staff is committed to showing you its history and beauty from a very different lens.
Insider Tips:
-This is a vegetarian community and animal sanctuary, and you will be asked to observe the customs.
-Farm immersion takes place on Tuesdays and Wednesdays only and new students are generally accepted between May and June.
-The Farm Immersion is likely to be unavailable during the rainy season (Nov-Apr).
-Check the Farm’s Facebook page for special events, as they may plan different hikes and outings based on natural phenomena.
-Flashlights are encouraged on the Haunted Hike trail.
-There are no overnight stay opportunities on Awalau.