
St. Joseph Church Makawao
A historic Maui church known for its stunning architecture, welcoming spirit, and legendary annual feast featuring Portuguese Bean Soup and malasadas ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Taste legendary local treats

St. Joseph Church Makawao
Best Time
Taste legendary local treats
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Maui church known for its stunning architecture, welcoming spirit, and legendary annual feast featuring Portuguese Bean Soup and malasadas.
"Experience the warmth and beauty of Maui's upcountry at this historic church, a true community gem."

🎯 Donate to Thrift Store
Support the church by donating gently used clothes. They also have a thrift store for shopping . :gift:
📅 Check Event Dates
Don't miss the annual feast for amazing food like Portuguese Bean Soup and malasadas . :foodie:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning Architecture
Main Sanctuary
Admire the beautiful stained glass windows and the breathtaking blue sky dome above the altar.

Annual Feast Delicacies
Church Grounds (Event Specific)
Savor the legendary Portuguese Bean Soup and the island's best malasadas during their annual feast .

Welcoming Community
During Services
Experience a warm welcome, especially if you're a visitor. They often offer a special blessing for guests .
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Planning Your Visit
Community Spirit & Events
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Insider Tips
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Best place to donate clothes?
🎯 Donate to Thrift Store
Support the church by donating gently used clothes. They also have a thrift store for shopping. :gift:
📅 Check Event Dates
Don't miss the annual feast for amazing food like Portuguese Bean Soup and malasadas. :foodie:
Last two days in Maui - any recs?
🙏 Visitor Blessing
Visitors are often called up for a special blessing at the end of mass. A truly touching experience. :pray:
🚗 Upcountry Location
Located in Makawao, it's a beautiful drive through Maui's upcountry. Enjoy the scenic route!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Donate to Thrift Store
Support the church by donating gently used clothes. They also have a thrift store for shopping. :gift:
📅 Check Event Dates
Don't miss the annual feast for amazing food like Portuguese Bean Soup and malasadas. :foodie:
🙏 Visitor Blessing
Visitors are often called up for a special blessing at the end of mass. A truly touching experience. :pray:
🚗 Upcountry Location
Located in Makawao, it's a beautiful drive through Maui's upcountry. Enjoy the scenic route!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise St. Joseph Church Makawao for its beautiful architecture, particularly the stained glass windows and sky dome, and its incredibly welcoming atmosphere, especially for visitors who receive a special blessing. The church is also a beloved spot for its annual feast, famous for its delicious Portuguese Bean Soup and top-tier malasadas. Some find the thrift store a bit dusty, but it remains a valuable community resource.
"Beautiful church built in 1911! Beautiful service. Very welcoming."
Jackie C
"Me reviewing a church? Yes, only because they serve some scrumptious eats!
FOOD:
Portuguese Bean Soup
Once a year usually around then end of April or early May, the kitchen comes alive for their annual Feast and out comes a delicious brew. The soup is semi-thick with a savory flavor and just a hint of sweetness, red kidney beans, onions, cabbage, carrots, sausage, and a whole lotta love.
Waffle Dog
Unfortunately the exterior was super soggy and was cold, though the batter did have a good flavor with a bit of syrup mixed in. The hot dog was a plain Oscar Meyer weiner. Some things just shouldn't sit out and be made-to-order.
Chow Fun
They sell it in a cone or quart, so I bought the latter for $10. They use the tan-colored dried noodles as opposed to the soft white kind, and they were a bit overcooked. Overall flavor was good but I encountered a long piece of hair that I pulled out of my mouth. Sigh... It's an honest mistake.
DESSERT:
Malasada
Come Fat Tuesday in Hawaii, this is what we eat. It's simply a donut ball that is chewy and moist on the inside and rolled in white sugar, about 10 times more than a regular donut. A lot of places make this but these guys do it BEST!
THRIFT STORE:
I am so not a fan of these but I just wanted to pop in and check it out. Used clothes, a plethora of old & dusty glass knick knacks, and old DVD's are for sale. No thank you!"
Maui World Travelers
"Beautiful church, have been here twice from off island for Christmas Mass and it's always a delight :)"
Hannah Rose
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St. Joseph Church is located in the charming town of Makawao on Maui. It's easily accessible by car, offering a scenic drive through the island's upcountry. Parking is generally available near the church.
Public transportation options on Maui can be limited, especially in upcountry areas. It's recommended to have a rental car or use ride-sharing services to reach St. Joseph Church Makawao.
The best route often depends on your starting point. If coming from the Kahului area, take Highway 37 (Haleakala Highway) and then turn onto Highway 377 towards Makawao. Enjoy the picturesque drive!
Generally, parking is not a significant issue. There are usually ample spots available near the church, especially outside of major event times. Arriving a little early for services can ensure a convenient spot.
Absolutely! St. Joseph Church Makawao is a wonderful stop on a day trip exploring Maui's upcountry, including towns like Paia and the scenic drive towards Haleakala National Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee to enter St. Joseph Church Makawao for services or to admire its architecture. It is a place of worship, and visitors are welcome to attend services respectfully.
The church is typically open during daylight hours for quiet reflection. Specific hours for services can be found on their official website or by contacting the church directly. The thrift store may have separate operating hours.
For regular services, booking tickets is not usually required. However, for special events like Christmas Mass, it's advisable to check with the church beforehand as seating might be limited or require advance arrangements.
Yes, the thrift store is open to the public. It's a great place to find unique items and support the church's community initiatives. Check their operating hours before visiting.
As a place of worship, modest attire is appreciated. While there isn't a strict dress code, visitors are encouraged to dress respectfully, especially if attending a service.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
St. Joseph Church Makawao features beautiful architecture, including stunning stained glass windows and a striking blue sky dome above the altar, creating a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Photography is generally permitted for personal use, but it's always best to be discreet and respectful, especially during services. Avoid flash photography that might disturb worshippers.
The blue sky dome is a prominent and beautiful feature of the sanctuary, designed to evoke a sense of heavenly presence and peace for those attending services.
Yes, visitors are often welcomed with a special blessing at the end of mass, making it a memorable and inclusive experience for those from out of town.
Services are known for being welcoming and community-oriented. You can expect a blend of traditional worship with a warm atmosphere, often including a special welcome for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The church is famous for its annual Feast, where they serve delicious Portuguese Bean Soup and some of the best malasadas on the island. These are highly anticipated local treats.
The annual Feast typically takes place around the end of April or early May. It's a popular event, so it's worth checking the church's schedule for the exact dates each year.
While the annual feast is the most renowned food event, the church's thrift store might occasionally have baked goods or other items for sale. For a wider variety of dining, explore the nearby town of Makawao.
Malasadas are a highlight of the annual feast. While they might occasionally be available at other church events, they are most reliably found during the feast itself.
The Portuguese Bean Soup is described as semi-thick with a savory flavor, a hint of sweetness, and packed with red kidney beans, onions, cabbage, and sausage. It's a beloved dish.
📸 📸 Photography
The interior, with its beautiful stained glass windows and the striking blue sky dome, offers stunning photographic opportunities. The exterior architecture also makes for a lovely backdrop.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and the church's policies. It's best to inquire directly with the church administration before flying a drone near the property.
While personal photography is generally allowed, it's crucial to be respectful. Avoid flash photography during services and be mindful of other worshippers. Always ask for permission if photographing individuals.
Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the stained glass windows, while late afternoon might offer softer light for exterior shots. Consider the angle of the sun to best illuminate the interior dome.
Try searching for 'St. Joseph Church Makawao interior,' 'Makawao church stained glass,' 'Maui church dome,' and 'St. Joseph Church Makawao architecture' to find great images.
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👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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🍽️ Foodies
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Heart of Makawao: Community and Cuisine
Beyond the feast, the church also operates a thrift store that serves as another cornerstone of its community outreach. While some reviews mention it being a bit dusty with a variety of old items, it's a place where you can donate clothes and find unique treasures. Supporting the thrift store is a direct way to contribute to the church's ongoing mission and local support efforts. The church itself, built in 1911, stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of the Makawao community.
Architectural Beauty and Spiritual Serenity
Dominating the interior is a breathtaking blue sky dome situated above the altar. This celestial-inspired feature is designed to evoke a sense of peace and spiritual connection, making the space feel both grounded and transcendent. Visitors often remark on the stunning visual impact of this dome, which adds a unique and memorable dimension to the church's design. Whether attending a service or simply visiting to admire its beauty, the architecture of St. Joseph Church offers a tranquil escape and a glimpse into the craftsmanship of a bygone era.






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