Bringing a dog to Hawaii can be complicated. It’s fun to enjoy the awe-inspiring views and the friendly ambiance with your four-legged friend by your side, but first, you need to jump through a lot of hoops — and once you finally arrive, you will find that you are heavily restricted regarding where you can go and where you can let Fido run free.
None of this should necessarily stop you from traveling with your pup, but you’ll definitely want to pinpoint some dog-friendly spots in advance so you can feel confident that your dog will have a good time. Thankfully, there is an excellent option in the center of Maui’s Upcountry region. Located near the recycling center, it’s easy to find and a great stop to use up your dog’s excess energy before you spend the day exploring Maui’s top attractions.
Appropriately named Upcountry Dog Park, this small patch of dog-friendly land might not be the fanciest you’ve ever set foot on — but you won’t even notice, as the real draw is the sense of community. Between the adorable dogs running around and the pleasant greetings you receive, you’re bound to leave with a smile on your face.
While this park is primarily visited by locals and their dogs, tourists are always welcome. Everyone feels connected by their shared love of all things canine, so there is never any shortage of friendly conversation. If you prefer to simply relax as your dog gets a solid workout, you can hang out in the shade, which is primarily provided by a large tree in the small dog area.
This park provides all the essentials to keep both dogs and their human friends comfortable. There are plenty of poop bags near the entrance, plus water spigots to ensure that doggie visitors are always fully hydrated. Separate areas cater to smaller and larger dogs, with hills available so that the most athletic canine visitors can get lots of exercise.
The entire space is fenced, so you can feel confident that your dog will stick around. Parking is free but can feel limited at times. Thankfully, there is plenty of additional parking available in other areas of the expansive Eddie Tam Memorial Park — although you may need to make a bit of a trek with your dog on a leash, depending on where you’re able to find a spot.
Leashing is the name of the game when you visit Maui with a dog, but that doesn’t mean that your pooch needs to be restricted at all times. Upcountry Dog Park provides a valuable opportunity to run free and socialize. Stop by to discover why dog lovers are so fond of this gem of a park.
Insider Tips:
-There is a detailed sign near the entrance to the dog park that covers all the rules. Follow these closely to protect not only your dog but also, the many other canine friends who gather at this park.
-Take a quick look at the bulletin board if you get the chance. There, you will find plenty of insights about the best opportunities for dog lovers. While this information is most relevant for locals, it’s always worth checking out.