St. Joseph Church, Makawao - Image 1
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St. Joseph Church Makawao

4.8
·72 reviews·Makawao, United States

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

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Annual Feast (Late April/Early May)

Taste legendary local treats

CrowdHigh
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St. Joseph Church, Makawao - Image 1

St. Joseph Church Makawao

Best Time

Annual Feast (Late April/Early May)

Taste legendary local treats

CrowdHigh

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.Reddit

4.8
(72 reviews)

"Experience the warmth and beauty of Maui's upcountry at this historic church, a true community gem.Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning Architecture

Stunning Architecture

Main Sanctuary

Admire the beautiful stained glass windows and the breathtaking blue sky dome above the altar.

Annual Feast Delicacies

Annual Feast Delicacies

Church Grounds (Event Specific)

Savor the legendary Portuguese Bean Soup and the island's best malasadas during their annual feast .

Reddit
Welcoming Community

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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Community Spirit & Events

St. Joseph Church is more than just a place of worship; it's a community hub. Keep an eye out for their annual Feast, often featuring delicious Portuguese Bean Soup and the best malasadas.Reddit These events are a fantastic way to experience local culture.

Thrift Store Finds

The church operates a thrift store that accepts donations. While some find it dusty, others appreciate the opportunity to donate clothes and find unique items. It's a great way to support the church and find treasures.Reddit

Best Times

When
Annual Feast (Late April/Early May)
Why
Taste legendary local treats
Crowd
High
When
Christmas Mass
Why
Experience festive holiday services
Crowd
Medium
When
Regular Service Times
Why
Enjoy a peaceful visit
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

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.Reddit :gift:

📅 Check Event Dates

Don't miss the annual feast for amazing food like Portuguese Bean Soup and malasadas.Reddit :foodie:

reddit.com

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.Reddit :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.Reddit :gift:

📅 Check Event Dates

Don't miss the annual feast for amazing food like Portuguese Bean Soup and malasadas.Reddit :foodie:

🙏 Visitor Blessing

Visitors are often called up for a special blessing at the end of mass. A truly touching experience.Reddit :pray:

🚗 Upcountry Location

Located in Makawao, it's a beautiful drive through Maui's upcountry. Enjoy the scenic route!

What Travellers Say

4.8
(72 reviews)

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.Reddit The church is also a beloved spot for its annual feast, famous for its delicious Portuguese Bean Soup and top-tier malasadas.Reddit 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

Beautiful architecture
Welcoming atmosphere
Delicious annual feast food

What People Dislike

Dusty thrift store

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.Reddit

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.Reddit

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.Reddit

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.Reddit

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.Reddit

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.Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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.Reddit 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.Reddit

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.Reddit

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.Reddit

📸 📸 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.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St. Joseph Church Makawao can be a peaceful stop for families. While the church itself is a place for quiet reflection, the annual Feast is a highlight for kids, offering fun treats like malasadas.Reddit The drive through upcountry Maui to get there is also scenic and can be an adventure in itself. Consider visiting during a less crowded time to allow children to appreciate the beautiful architecture without feeling rushed.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, St. Joseph Church Makawao offers a wealth of free experiences. Admiring the stunning architecture, including the stained glass and sky dome, costs nothing.Reddit Attending regular services is also free and provides a chance to connect with the local community. The thrift store is a great place to find affordable souvenirs or clothing items.Reddit

🍽️ Foodies

Food enthusiasts will find St. Joseph Church Makawao a must-visit, especially during its annual Feast. The Portuguese Bean Soup and the highly-praised malasadas are culinary highlights that draw people from all over.Reddit Plan your visit around this event to savor these authentic local delicacies. Even outside the feast, the church's reputation for these dishes makes it a destination for those seeking unique island flavors.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Heart of Makawao: Community and Cuisine

St. Joseph Church in Makawao is more than just a place of worship; it's a vibrant community hub. Its annual Feast is legendary, drawing locals and visitors alike for a taste of authentic Hawaiian-Portuguese heritage. The star of the show is undoubtedly the Portuguese Bean Soup, a hearty, flavorful broth brimming with beans, vegetables, and sausage.Reddit Equally famous are their malasadas, often hailed as the best on the island – chewy, moist donut balls rolled in sugar that are a true indulgence.Reddit These events are a fantastic opportunity to experience the warmth and culinary traditions of Maui's upcountry.

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,Reddit 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

The physical structure of St. Joseph Church Makawao is a significant draw for many visitors. Built in 1911, it embodies a timeless beauty that resonates with those who appreciate historical architecture. The stained glass windows are particularly noteworthy, casting colorful patterns of light that create a serene and contemplative atmosphere within the sanctuary.Reddit

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.Reddit 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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