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Maui Tea Farm - Deep Research Report

Deep Research Report

Last updated: April 22, 2026

What it is

Maui Tea Farm is an organic tea and herb farm located on the slopes of Haleakalā Volcano in Kula, Upcountry Maui, at an elevation of approximately 4,000 to 4,100 feet. It is recognized as Maui's first and only commercial tea farm and is one of a handful of tea farms in the United States, and reportedly the highest elevation tea farm in the country. Owned and operated by Alex and Andrea de Roode, the farm cultivates traditional Camellia sinensis tea plants (for black, green, oolong, and yellow teas) as well as native Hawaiian herbal tisanes like māmaki. Beyond tea, the 14-acre farm also grows a diverse range of fruit trees, vegetables, and exotic botanicals, aiming for a self-sustaining homestead.

The farm offers guided tours and has an on-site tea and gift shop. The de Roodes also operate PONOinfusions, a brand for certified organic loose-leaf and bagged teas, custom blends, and iced teas, sourcing organic and fair-trade ingredients globally when not from their farm.

Visitor experience

Visitors to Maui Tea Farm can choose between two guided walking tours: the "Meet the Tea Tour" or the "Tea Lovers Tour." The shorter "Meet the Tea Tour" is approximately one hour long and provides a high-level overview of the farm, including insights into growing and harvesting tea and other botanicals. It concludes with a tasting of two teas. The more in-depth "Tea Lovers Tour," lasting about two hours, involves a stroll through various tea fields, offering sweeping views of the West Maui Mountains and Mā'alaea Harbor. This tour delves deeper into tea cultivation, the differences between tea types, conservation, and sustainable farming practices, ending with a tasting of five Maui Tea Farm and PonoInfusion teas alongside light snacks.

Guests learn about the Camellia sinensis plant, which produces traditional teas, as well as Hawaiian māmaki and other native plants and fruit trees on the property. The tours are educational, sharing the owners' knowledge of tea farming, tea culture, and their journey. Walk-in visitors are welcome to browse the on-site tea and gift shop, which sells specialty teas and accessories, without needing a reservation.

The farm's location in Upcountry Maui offers cool, pure, and often cloud-kissed air, creating a suitable climate for high mountain tea. The scenery includes beautiful views and a diverse organic garden.

Logistics

  • Location: Maui Tea Farm is situated at 18303 Haleakala Highway, Kula, HI 96790, in Upcountry Maui. It is located on the slopes of Haleakalā Volcano, en route to Haleakalā National Park Summit, approximately 30-40 minutes from the park entrance.
  • Access: When using maps apps, it's recommended to cross-check with two different systems to ensure correct navigation, as some may direct visitors towards Haleakalā National Park entrance instead of the farm. The farm shares a parking lot with Skyline Eco Adventures Zipline.
  • Reservations: Farm tours require booking ahead using their online booking system. The tea and gift shop welcomes walk-in visitors without a reservation. Cancellations for tours must be made at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
  • Timing: The farm and on-site shop are open Mondays to Saturdays from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM. They are closed on Sundays and major holidays like Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day. The "Meet the Tea Tour" lasts one hour, and the "Tea Lovers Tour" lasts two hours.
  • Parking: A shared parking lot with Skyline Eco Adventures Zipline is available.
  • Permits: No specific visitor permits are mentioned.
  • Duration: A visit could range from a quick stop to shop (15-30 minutes) to a half-day activity if participating in the longer "Tea Lovers Tour" and exploring the shop. The tours themselves are one or two hours.
  • Activity Type: It is best considered a half-day activity if engaging in a tour, especially the longer one, due to driving time to Upcountry Maui and the tour duration. A quick stop is possible for just the shop.

Safety and cautions

  • Footwear: Sturdy walking shoes are highly recommended as tours involve walking on grass and dirt paths, which can be uneven.
  • Weather: The farm is at a high elevation (4,000-4,100 feet), so the air is cool, and the climate can be cloud-kissed. Temperatures can range from 65 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit in summer, and dip into the 50s in winter. Visitors should bring a light jacket and clothing suitable for both rain and sunshine.
  • Accessibility: The location may not be ADA accessible, and visitors with special requirements should contact the farm ahead of time to discuss accommodations.
  • Children: Children under 16 must be supervised by an adult at all times during tours.
  • Hydration/Sun Protection: Hats and sunscreen are advised.

Editorial take

Maui Tea Farm offers a unique and educational experience for visitors interested in agriculture, sustainability, and tea culture. It is ideal for travelers looking for a calm, informative activity away from the coastal crowds, particularly those heading to Haleakalā National Park, as it's directly en route. Tea enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those interested in organic farming practices will find the tours highly engaging, learning about tea cultivation from "farm to cup" and the diverse botanicals grown in Upcountry Maui. The emphasis on Hawaiian māmaki tea also provides a cultural element.

Visitors who might prioritize this activity include families (the shorter tour is noted as family-friendly), couples, and individuals seeking a peaceful, enriching experience. It's a great complement to a day exploring Upcountry Maui or as a stop on the way to/from Haleakalā Summit.

Travelers who should skip it might include those solely seeking beach activities, fast-paced adventures, or who have limited mobility and are unable to walk on uneven terrain, although the farm states they try to accommodate special requirements if contacted in advance. Those with little interest in farming or tea may also find it less appealing.

This activity should not be confused with other tea-related experiences on Maui, such as Padma's Tea House & Healing Haven in Wailuku, the Maui Dragon Fruit Farm (which also offers herbal tea tastings but focuses on dragon fruit and other tropical fruits), or Silk Sky Tea House in Makawao. While Maui Tea Farm focuses on Camellia sinensis and māmaki tea cultivation, other farms like Ali'i Kula Lavender Farm and Surfing Goat Dairy are nearby but offer different agricultural experiences.

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