Kula, Hawaii

Kula is a district of East Maui that stretches across the upcountry, western-facing slopes of Haleakala (the East Maui volcano), from Makawao to Ulupalakua. Most of the residential areas lie between about 500 to 1,100 m (1,800 ft to 3,700 ft) in elevation. The word "Kula" in Hawaiian means "open meadows."

The district has traditionally been one where kama'aina (local residents) have preferred to live, as distinct from the generally hotter and busier tourist spots nearer to sea level (e.g., Kihei and Lahaina). Kula has a strong agricultural and ranching tradition, the latter on the lands above the residential areas. Indeed, there is frequent reference in Makawao (meaning "edge of the forest") to a paniolo (cowboy) ambience that derives from this ranching activity.

There are many micro-climates created by the combined effects of elevation, rain shadow, and land contour. Much of the west slopes of East Maui are dry or semi-desert due to a rain shadow effect: the prevailing trade-winds are from the north-east and east and Kula is in the 'shadow' of these winds. At the higher elevations and at night, especially in winter, it can be cool with temperatures dipping into the 40's or high 30's. Frosts are virtually unknown except at much higher elevations (7,000'+) on Haleakala.

There is a distinctive weather feature known as the 'Maui vortex'. A wind vortex forms as the trade-winds pass around the north-west corner of Haleakala (over Pukalani) and blow southward down the central valley of Maui over Maalaea Bay and then circle back up-slope over Kihei bringing a lei of clouds each late morning over Kula. About sunset time the downward breezes from the summit wipe out this 'lei of clouds'.

Kula's most famous produce is the Maui Onion, which mostly grows at the lower levels of Kula (below Hwy 37). It is also know for its Persimmons that ripen during the fall; they are mostly located in the Pulehuiki area. Other produce grown in Kula includes Lettuce, Cabbage, Herbs, and Pineapples. Kula is also known for the many varieties of Protea grown for commercial sale.

The Kula Community Association website is [1].

Points of interest

• Kula Botanical Gardens
• Enchanting Floral Gardens of Kula, Maui

See also

• Maui County