
Piiholo Ranch Stables
Experience Maui's stunning upcountry on horseback at Piiholo Ranch, a working ranch with breathtaking views and exceptional wranglers.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temps, best light

Piiholo Ranch Stables
Best Time
Cooler temps, best light

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience Maui's stunning upcountry on horseback at Piiholo Ranch, a working ranch with breathtaking views and exceptional wranglers.
"The scenery was absolutely beautiful and the ride was a memory we will never forget. Worth every penny!"

🐴 Well-Cared Horses
Horses are happy & well-cared for. Guides are patient & experienced.
💰 Worth the Splurge
Can be pricey, but the memories are unforgettable.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Upcountry Trail Ride
Piiholo Ranch
Explore Maui's stunning upcountry on horseback, with breathtaking views and well-cared-for horses.

Bunkhouse Lunch Experience
Piiholo Ranch Bunkhouse
Enjoy a delicious lunch at the historic bunkhouse after your ride, a true taste of ranch life.

Ranch History & Aloha
Piiholo Ranch
Experience the genuine aloha and rich history of this working Maui ranch, with excellent wranglers.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Maui Horseback Adventure
Embrace the Upcountry Charm
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Anyone gone zip lining on Maui before or have any advice? Which zip line tours are the best?
🐴 Well-Cared Horses
Horses are happy & well-cared for. Guides are patient & experienced.
💰 Worth the Splurge
Can be pricey, but the memories are unforgettable.
⚖️ Weight Limit
Be aware of the ~220 lb weight limit for riders.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Upcountry weather can change; dress for cooler temps. :cloud:
Tips
from all over the internet
🐴 Well-Cared Horses
Horses are happy & well-cared for. Guides are patient & experienced.
💰 Worth the Splurge
Can be pricey, but the memories are unforgettable.
⚖️ Weight Limit
Be aware of the ~220 lb weight limit for riders.
🧥 Dress in Layers
Upcountry weather can change; dress for cooler temps. :cloud:
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for riding. :athletic_shoe:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Piiholo Ranch Stables is lauded for its authentic Maui ranch experience, featuring well-cared-for horses and exceptional wranglers. Visitors consistently highlight the breathtaking upcountry scenery and the genuine aloha spirit. While the price point is noted as an investment, the unforgettable memories and personalized attention make it a highly recommended activity for many.
"Our family of four had the best experience riding horses here. This is a real ranch, not a tourist place. The horses are very happy and well cared for. Our guide Molly was fantastic, giving us personal attention and guidance on a private 2 hour ride into the upcountry. The scenery was absolutely beautiful and the ride was a memory we will never forget. Worth every penny!"
Melanie “Gladiola419” M
"Went for a 3 hr lunch ride. My two kids rode horses while another employee drove my wife and I out to the remote lodge on a ATV. Scenery was nice, views awesome, lunch good. Kids and parents enjoyed. After ride wrangler gave us some places to visit in area. Glad we did. Only drawback was weight limit to ride horses. Need to get a few bigger horses. 220 lb. Weight limit."
John Vassallo
"Last Summer my daughter and I went for a ride... it was truly life changing. We had lunch at the bunkhouse, learned about the area, met a chameleon and had some papaya along the way. It was life changing for us... my daughter was crying at the end of the ride because it was so amazing. It was spendy ($700 for 2) but I can justify that with the memory I will have forever. If you can go, please do."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Piiholo Ranch is located in Maui's upcountry, near Makawao. From Ka'anapali, you'll typically drive east towards Kahului and then head inland towards Pukalani and Makawao. The drive can take around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the ranch.
Public transport on Maui is limited, especially to upcountry locations like Piiholo Ranch. It's highly recommended to have your own vehicle or arrange for a private transfer.
From Kahului Airport (OGG), take Highway 37 towards Pukalani. Continue on Highway 37, which becomes Highway 377 as you head towards Makawao. Follow signs for Piiholo Ranch. It's advisable to use GPS or a mapping app for precise directions.
Yes, ample parking is available at Piiholo Ranch for visitors. You can usually park close to the stables and check-in area.
While taxis and rideshares operate on Maui, their availability in the more remote upcountry areas like Piiholo Ranch can be inconsistent. It's best to confirm availability and pricing beforehand if you plan to rely on them.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Pricing varies depending on the length and type of ride. Longer rides, like the 2-hour or 3-hour options, can be more expensive, with some reviews mentioning costs around $700 for two people for a special experience.
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular times or specific ride durations. This ensures you secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
There is a weight limit for riders, generally around 220 lbs. This is to ensure the safety and well-being of the horses.
Piiholo Ranch offers various options, including different lengths of rides and potentially private tours. Some packages may include lunch at the bunkhouse.
The price typically includes the guided horseback ride, the use of a horse, and the expertise of the wranglers. Some packages may include lunch or other amenities.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear comfortable, long pants (like jeans) and closed-toe shoes, preferably with a slight heel. Avoid shorts and open-toed shoes. Dressing in layers is also advised as the upcountry weather can be cooler than the coast.
Reviews consistently praise the horses at Piiholo Ranch, describing them as well-cared-for, happy, patient, and experienced. The wranglers are also noted for their expertise.
You can expect beautiful, expansive views of Maui's upcountry, rolling hills, lush landscapes, and potentially distant ocean vistas. It's a real ranch environment, not just a tourist trail.
Yes, children can ride horses, but age and weight restrictions may apply. It's best to check with the ranch directly when booking to confirm suitability for younger riders.
While horseback riding is the main attraction, visitors can also enjoy the ranch's history, beautiful scenery, and potentially witness roping practice. Some packages include lunch at the bunkhouse.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Some of the longer or special ride packages at Piiholo Ranch include lunch, often served at their historic bunkhouse. It's important to check the details of the specific tour you book.
The bunkhouse lunch is described as good and a nice part of the ranch experience. It offers a taste of local ranch life and hospitality.
While not explicitly stated, it's generally best to inquire with the ranch about their policy on outside food. However, given the dining options available, it might not be necessary.
It's advisable to contact Piiholo Ranch directly when booking if you have specific dietary needs or restrictions to ensure they can accommodate you.
The nearby town of Makawao offers several dining options, from casual cafes to more upscale restaurants, if you're looking for additional food choices before or after your ranch visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire upcountry landscape offers stunning photo opportunities. Look for scenic overlooks during your ride, the historic bunkhouse, and the beautiful horses themselves.
It's generally best to focus on your ride and safety. Some wranglers might allow quick photos if conditions are safe, but it's not guaranteed. Consider a phone armband or a secure pocket for your device.
While not a standard offering, you might be able to arrange for a private photographer or inquire if the ranch has any recommendations for local photographers who can capture your experience.
A smartphone is usually sufficient for capturing the views. If you're serious about photography, a mirrorless or DSLR camera with a versatile lens would be ideal, but ensure it's secured during the ride.
Generally, personal photography is welcome. However, always be respectful of the ranch's operations and other guests. Ask permission before taking close-up photos of staff or other visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a ride that aligns with your children's stamina and interest levels. Some tours may offer shorter durations, which can be ideal for younger kids. The opportunity to experience a working ranch, see beautiful scenery, and potentially enjoy a ranch-style lunch makes this a memorable outing for the whole family. Always check age and weight restrictions when booking to ensure everyone can participate.
💖 Couples Seeking Romance
Consider booking a private ride for an even more intimate and personalized experience. The serene environment and the shared adventure of riding through beautiful terrain create a perfect setting for connection. A special lunch at the bunkhouse can further enhance the romantic ambiance, making it a truly special occasion.
💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
To maximize value, consider booking a slightly shorter ride if available, or look for packages that might include lunch. While not a 'budget' activity in the strictest sense, the unforgettable experiences and high level of service often lead travelers to feel it's worth every penny for the lasting memories.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Piiholo Ranch Experience: More Than Just a Ride
Beyond the ride itself, the ranch provides opportunities to learn about the area and its legacy. Some packages include a delicious lunch at the historic bunkhouse, offering a taste of local ranch life and hospitality. This adds another layer to the experience, making it a memorable day trip. The personal attention and genuine aloha felt by guests contribute to the feeling that this is a special place, often described as 'life-changing' by those who visit.
While the experience is highly rewarding, it's important to note practical considerations. The ranch has a weight limit for riders (around 220 lbs) to ensure the well-being of their horses. Additionally, the upcountry climate can be cooler than the coast, so dressing in layers is recommended. Booking in advance is crucial, as popular tours can fill up quickly, especially for longer or private rides.
Choosing Your Piiholo Ranch Adventure
For those seeking a more exclusive or personalized experience, inquire about private rides. These can be ideal for couples, families, or small groups wanting dedicated attention from their wrangler. Some of the premium packages also include a special lunch at the ranch's bunkhouse, which is a highly recommended addition that enhances the overall ranch immersion.
When booking, pay close attention to the details of each tour, including duration, what's included (like lunch), and any specific requirements. The ranch's website or booking platform should provide this information. Remember that these rides are popular, so booking well in advance is key to securing your preferred date and time, especially during peak travel seasons.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit