Surfing Goat Dairy | Maui

Surfing Goat Dairy is a popular and unique farm located on Maui, Hawaii, known for its artisanal goat cheese production. Nestled in the Kula area on the slopes of Haleakalā, Surfing Goat Dairy offers a one-of-a-kind experience, combining agriculture, sustainability, and the production of high-quality dairy products.

Overview of Surfing Goat Dairy

• Location: Surfing Goat Dairy is located at 3651 Omaopio Road, Kula, Maui. The farm sits at an altitude of about 2,000 feet (610 meters), offering stunning views of the island’s landscapes, including panoramic vistas of the central valley, nearby mountains, and the Pacific Ocean.
• History: The farm was established in 1998 by Jon and Cathy Moore, who were inspired by their passion for sustainable farming and goat cheese production. They initially started with just a few goats, and the farm has since grown into one of the most recognized goat dairies in Hawaii.

Main Features of Surfing Goat Dairy

1. Goat Cheese Production

Surfing Goat Dairy is best known for its award-winning goat cheese. The farm produces a wide variety of cheeses, made from the milk of their Milking Nubian and Alpine goats. Their cheeses are crafted with attention to quality, flavor, and sustainability, often inspired by traditional European methods.

• Cheese Varieties: The dairy offers a range of cheeses, from fresh and soft cheeses to aged varieties. Some of their notable products include:
  • Fresh Chevre (plain or flavored with herbs)
  • Aged Chevre
  • Feta
  • Flavored Cheeses (e.g., garlic & herbs, honey)
  • Ricotta
  • Yogurt (made from goat milk)
  • Goat Milk Caramels
• Cheese Tasting: Visitors can enjoy a cheese tasting experience, sampling a variety of fresh and aged cheeses. The tastings allow visitors to appreciate the unique flavors and textures of the cheeses while learning about the cheese-making process.

2. Farm Tours and Goat Interactions

Surfing Goat Dairy offers guided farm tours, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about the goats, the farm’s sustainable practices, and the cheese-making process.

• Goat Feeding: One of the highlights of the tour is the opportunity to feed and interact with the goats. The goats at Surfing Goat Dairy are friendly and well-trained, making the experience enjoyable for visitors of all ages.
• Tour Experience: The tour includes a walk around the farm, where guests can observe the goats in their natural environment, visit the milking area, and get an up-close look at the cheese-making facilities. The guides often share interesting insights into how the goats are raised, the farm’s commitment to sustainable farming, and how they craft their cheeses.

3. Sustainable Farming Practices

Surfing Goat Dairy is committed to sustainability and environmentally friendly farming practices. The farm focuses on raising healthy, happy goats, while also using practices that promote soil health, reduce waste, and minimize environmental impact.

• Free-Range Goats: The goats are allowed to roam in spacious pastures, ensuring they have plenty of space to graze and interact with one another. This natural lifestyle contributes to the quality of their milk and, consequently, the cheese.
• Organic Feed: The farm uses organic feed for the goats whenever possible, contributing to the health of the animals and ensuring high-quality milk production.
• Waste Recycling: The farm also practices waste recycling, composting goat manure and other organic materials to enrich the soil for growing crops on the property.

4. Educational Opportunities

In addition to the farm tours, Surfing Goat Dairy offers educational programs for schools and other groups interested in learning about agriculture, dairy production, and sustainability. The farm hosts school tours and provides hands-on activities for children and adults, helping to raise awareness about where food comes from and the importance of sustainable farming.

5. Farm Shop and Specialty Products

The dairy has an on-site farm store, where visitors can purchase their products, including fresh cheeses, goat milk soaps, and other farm-related items. The store is stocked with a variety of handmade goods and local products, offering guests a chance to take home a piece of their experience.

• Goat Milk Soaps: The farm also produces luxurious goat milk soaps, made from the milk produced on the farm. These soaps are known for their moisturizing properties and are often available in different scents and formulations.
• Gift Baskets: For those interested in bringing a taste of the farm home, Surfing Goat Dairy offers cheese gift baskets, making for unique souvenirs or gifts for loved ones.

Why Visit Surfing Goat Dairy?

• Unique Experience: Visitors to Surfing Goat Dairy get a chance to learn about goat farming, cheese production, and sustainable agriculture in a beautiful and scenic setting. The hands-on experience of feeding the goats and sampling cheeses makes it an ideal stop for anyone interested in food, farming, or animals.
• Delicious Cheese: The farm’s high-quality, locally produced cheeses are a must-try for anyone visiting Maui. Whether you’re a cheese lover or just someone looking to try something different, Surfing Goat Dairy offers a variety of flavors and textures to satisfy all tastes.
• Educational Opportunity: For families, school groups, or anyone wanting to learn more about sustainable farming, Surfing Goat Dairy provides valuable educational experiences that can be both fun and informative.
• Stunning Views: The farm is located on the slopes of Haleakalā, offering stunning views of the island’s natural beauty. The surroundings, with lush green fields, rolling hills, and the Pacific Ocean in the distance, make it a perfect spot to enjoy the fresh air and scenic vistas.

Access and Facilities

• Hours: Surfing Goat Dairy is typically open daily, with tours offered at scheduled times. It is advisable to check the farm’s website or call ahead for the latest tour availability and hours of operation.
• Parking: There is a parking lot available at the farm, and it is easily accessible by car.
• Admission Fees: There are usually fees for the guided tours and cheese tastings, which vary depending on the type of experience chosen. The cost of the tour often includes a cheese tasting session.
• Restrooms: Restroom facilities are available for visitors on-site.
• Reservations: For larger groups, school tours, or special events, reservations are recommended.

Conclusion

Surfing Goat Dairy offers a wonderful blend of education, adventure, and delicious food, making it a great place to visit while in Maui. Whether you're interested in learning about sustainable farming practices, interacting with goats, or sampling some of Maui's finest goat cheeses, the farm provides an unforgettable experience in a beautiful and tranquil setting. It’s a perfect stop for foodies, families, and anyone interested in Hawaii’s agricultural heritage.