Haleakalā National Park: Sunrise Adventure Plan

So you’re on Maui and you’re ready to make the most of the short time you have there. Let’s go!

But before you have a spontaneous adventure on Maui, if you’re planning on taking in the sunrise from Haleakalā, be sure to plan it properly. By planning I mean have reservations (but not about going on the adventure itself).

haleakala sunrise1

1. Make a Reservation for the Haleakalā Sunrise Before You Go

The most important preparation is to make sure your papers are in order to enter the park (have a park pass OR pay the park entrance fee) and have a reservation in the Park’s system (make the reservation online). Without planning, you will be turned away and an entire day ruined… as much as a day can be ruined in paradise.

So:

  • Sunrise reservation ahead of time.
  • Park entrance fee OR Park’s pass at the Park entrance. If you don’t have a Park’s pass, then entrance fee is $30 as of this writing and will grant you access to the entire park (yes, including access from the Road to Hana) for 3 days.

How do I get into the park for sunrise? 

You can log into the website up to 60 days before your planned adventure.

Make an online reservation via www.recreation.gov. Also, be prepared to pay the entrance fee (or use a park pass) on the day of your visit. The entrance fee must be purchased with a credit card.

Why do I need a reservation for Haleakalā Sunrise?

The Park requires reservations for all vehicles entering the park between the times of 3am to 7am daily, “to ensure visitor and employee safety, protect natural and cultural resources, and provide a quality visitor experience at the summit during sunrise hours (3:00 AM to 7:00 AM).” [source]

If you want to go after sunrise time, then you can go to Haleakala without a reservation.

You need a reservation only if you want to go to the Haleakala National Park summit between the hours of 3:00 AM and 7:00 AM.

What is the cost for a sunrise reservation? 

The reservation fee is $1.00 USD per vehicle. The person whose name is on the sunrise reservation will need to present a paper copy of the reservation and their photo ID at the entrance station, on the day specified on the reservation.

Do I need to join a Haleakalā tour?

If you have your own transportation, booking a tour is not necessary to watch the Haleakalā sunrise; however, you do need a reservation if entering the park between 3:00 AM to 7:00 AM. You can drive to the summit of Haleakala yourself.

I’m here last-minute, can I still enter to see the sunrise?

  • Tickets are not available the day before, over the phone with the park, or in-person on the day-of.
  • Last-minute tickets are available online two days in advance.
  • Last-minute sunrise reservations are released at 7:00 AM HST. For example, if you want to see the sunrise on Sunday morning, go online at 7:00 AM Friday.

Be quick: the online inventory renews at 7:00 AM every day, but often sells out within fifteen minutes.

Haleakala Sunrise Reservations Summary

  • Reservations are only for sunrise and can only be used on the day that was reserved.
  • The reservation fee is not part of the entrance fee. Entrance fees will be collected upon entry to the park. Visitors with national park passes, please have your pass and ID ready to present at the gate for entry.
  • Reservations are available online up to 60 days in advance of your sunrise visit on recreation.gov.
  • A visitor may only purchase one sunrise reservation per three-day period.
  • A small number of last-minute tickets are released online two days beforehand. Last-minute sunrise reservations are released 7:00 AM HST. After the reservations initially released two months in advance sell out, the website will show tickets as “not yet released” until 7:00 AM two days in advance.
  • Calling the park directly, or visiting in-person, will not result in a reservation since staff at Haleakalā National Park are unable to make reservations for you.
  • For questions, call the recreation.gov hotline at 1-877-444-6777
  • Viewing sunset does not require reservations at this time.

2. Sunrise Planning Tips for Viewing from the Top of Haleakala Crater

Once you have all the bureaucratic things (reservation plus park entrance fee or parks pass) in order, now the fun planning begins!

  • Get up early. 3:30AM is not too early. The day is a-wastin’, and the drive to the summit will take you longer than you think.
  • Watch for police and cows on the side of the road. Drive the speed limit! Cows don’t wear lights and they tend to cross the roads whenever they want, in the pitch black of night. Not a good combination.
  • If you are late, the top parking lot will be full and you may be turned away and have to drive down to park at the visitor center parking lot instead of at the summit.
  • Have a valid park pass OR $30 (the machines only accept credit cards as payment) entrance fee. You can use your Receipt to go to the Road to Hana the next day (or the same day).
  • If you need a restroom, there is one at the visitor center on the way up and another at the summit visitor area.
  • Your car will make it up to the summit. Yes, the switchbacks are long and semi-steep considering you are driving up 10,000 feet, but any properly functioning rental car will be fine.
  • The parking lot at the summit will be busy with tour buses and people. Walk up the path a little ways and you will find some spots to view the sunrise without being in the midst of a huge crowd.
  • As mentioned, if the summit parking lot is full and you are not in the mood for a half-mile walk to the summit from the other parking lot, the view from the visitor center parking lot is wonderful, too. Plus you won’t have to share the morning with hundreds of other tourists and drummers.

Time Getting to Haleakala National Park

It takes an average of 2 to 2.5 hours for most visitors to drive to Haleakala’s Summit, but can take between 2.5 to 3.5 hours if you are coming from the opposite end of the Island. This, however, doesn’t take into account additional stops along the way in Upcountry Maui, like stops for shopping and food and cows or nene birds crossing the road. Also, early in the morning other drivers unfamiliar with the road may be inching along the windy switchbacks.

The entrance station to the park is at 7000 feet, and the summit is another 3,023 feet upwards at 10,023 feet.

How long does it take to drive to the top of Haleakala?

From the park entrance which is already at 7000 feet, the summit is another twenty-minute drive, so factor that into your calculations. Expect to be driving in what feels like the park for a good 40-45 minutes.

What town is closest to Haleakala?

Kula in Upcountry Maui is the town closest to Haleakala National Park. From Kula it is 15 miles (24 km) to Park Headquarters Visitor Center (in the park) and another 10 miles (16 km) to the Summit Visitor Center.

Depending on your home time zone, you will likely be up way before Hawaiian morning time anyway, so take advantage. We arrived on Maui in the early evening, got ourselves checked-in to our accommodation in Kula, and set the alarm for 4:00 AM. The roosters were up all night anyway so they weren’t bothered by us heading out at 4:15 AM.

We left a little late, but made it to the summit with fifteen minutes to spare! And the benefit of being late meant we did not have to stand outside freezing our buns off for as long as everyone else.

What time is sunrise at Haleakala summit?

Here is a handy chart of the sunrise and sunset times throughout the year at the summit of Haleakala (and the rest of Maui).

January 1 – 6:56am/6:00pm
January 15 – 6:58am/6:10pm
July 1 – 5:41am/7:16pm
July 15 – 5:46am/7:15pm
February 1 – 6:55am/6:21pm
February 15 – 6:48am/6:29pm
August 1 – 5:52am/7:09pm
August 15 – 5:57am/7:01pm
March 1 – 6:39am/6:35pm
March 15 – 6:27am/6:40pm
September 1 – 6:02am/6:49pm
September 15 – 6:06am/6:33pm
April 1 – 6:12am/6:49pm
April 15 – 6:00am/6:49pm
October 1 – 6:10am/6:19pm
October 15 – 6:14am/6:06pm
May 1 – 5:50am/6:55pm
May 15 – 5:42am/7:01pm
November 1 – 6:20am/5:55pm
November 15 – 6:28am/5:49pm
June 1 – 5:38am/7:08pm
June 15 – 5:38am/7:12pm
December 1 – 6:38am/5:47pm
December 15 – 6:47am/5:50pm
Haleakala summit sunrise and sunset times

Is it cold at the top of Haleakala?

Before sunrise, everything is chilly up there! Year-round summit temperatures range between below freezing to highs of 50°-65°F (10-18°C).

It feels much colder when you are sitting at altitude, waiting for the sun to come up and burn away the fog. Plus the outside temperatures at 10000 feet can feel much colder because of wind chill and damp, overcast conditions. Bring your hat and mitts and a cuddly friend.

How much time do you need at Haleakala?

If you are going for the sunrise and that is all, then you can head directly for your next adventure as soon as the sun comes up. However, why not take the opportunity to explore some of the trails? You can spend a morning here at the summit walking into the crater, or spend a good part of the day doing the Sliding Sands trail (more about that below).

3. What To Do After Viewing the Sunrise?

Go for a hike on some of the trails in the park. You don’t have to do the whole trail, just saunter down into the valley and experience the quiet for yourself.

There are many trails to hike in the Haleakala National Park, especially once you’re at the summit after taking in the morning sunrise. A great start to the day, so keep it going!

After walking around the summit for a while, maybe you feel like having a lunch break. Drive down to the 7000 ft elevation level near the Park Headquarters for the shortest possible hike – a nice little half-mile loop around Hosmer Grove. Take in the fresh air, the bird songs, the varied tree species, and just enjoy being outside on a small Island in the middle of the Pacific. Puts things in perspective.

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Hosmer Grove is a picnic area and easy walk for those wanting to take it easy after an early morning summit sunrise.

If you are feeling more adventurous after the sunrise, start down the Sliding Sands Trail. Do a portion of it or do the whole 12 miles. If you walk just 15 or 20 minutes into the trail, you will be down into the crater for a spectacular experience. If you walk a few more miles you will be at the crater floor, but keep in mind that you are walking at serious elevation (10,000 ft) and will be breathing thinner air with less oxygen. You might not notice this walking downhill into the crater, but you will the moment you turn around to walk back up. So plan to take longer to walk back out.

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You can start the Sliding Sands Trail from the summit. Come prepared to begin the hike after the sunrise viewing.

Bring water, whatever you decide to do. Do not attempt the 12-mile Sliding Sands Trail without preparing — clothes for wind and rain and sun, snacks, water. And a camera. This trail extends to the crater floor and veers left across the north side of the crater to another trail called Halema’uma’u, aka Switchback. Take Switchback up to the 8000 ft level, and hitch a ride on Crater Road to reach your car at the summit. Very cool (in the figurative sense) trail that takes a few hours and is quite challenging.

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Sliding Sands Trail view. Do it.

The massive Haleakala crater has been called “the quietest place on Earth,” a place so quiet, the ambient sound is right near the threshold of human hearing. Visitors to the crater say they can hear their own heartbeats (source).

Should you do Haleakala sunrise and Road to Hana in the same day?

Maui: Best Hiking of all the Hawaii Islands

Maui no ka oi (is the best) for waterfall hikes, challenging desert walks at Haleakala crater, lush jungle hikes at Hana, or strolls through uneven and dry lava flows along Makena’s La Perouse Bay coastline.

Maui is also easily accessible from the other Hawaiian Islands (via a local airport) and small enough to explore in a few days.

Here’s a rundown of all the hiking areas on Maui, waiting for you to explore.

HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK

Hiking trail: Difficult

Undoubtedly the best hiking on Maui is at Haleakala Crater. If you’re in shape, do a day hike descending from the summit along Keoneheehee Trail (aka Sliding Sands Trail) to the crater floor. Try to pick a cloudy day, it gets hot walking across the moonlike landscape for hours under the midday sun. And bring lots of water!

You might also consider spending several days here amid the cinder cones, lava flows, and all that loud silence. Entering the crater is like landing on a different planet. In the early 1960s, NASA actually brought moon-suited astronauts here to practice what it would be like to walk on the moon. Tent camping and cabins are available with permits. On the 30 miles of trails you can traverse black sand and wild lava formations, follow the trail of blooming ahinahina (silverswords), and take in tremendous views of big sky and burned-red cliffs.

The best time to go into the crater is in the summer months, when the conditions are generally more predictable. Be sure to bring layered clothing—and plenty of warm clothes if you’re staying overnight. It may be scorching hot during the day, but it gets mighty chilly after dark. Bring your own drinking water, as potable water is available only at the two visitor centers. Overnight visitors must get a permit at park headquarters before entering the crater.

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Haleakala National Park

Trails in Haleakala, from shortest to longest:

Pa Ka’Oao

If you don’t feel like sharing the visitor center lookout with 400 other people at sunrise, take this five-minute trail to the top of White Hill for a little more breathing room (although you’ll be huffing on the walk up there). This 0.4-mile trail departs from the parking lot at the summit visitor center and offers views down into the crater floor below.

Leleiwi Overlook

This is the “secret” sunrise spot favored by locals and return visitors. Many assume that the best views will be from the top, but in some cases this just isn’t true. From Leleiwi Overlook, the view down into the crater is the same as from the summit—but it isn’t as far, and it isn’t as cold. Halfway between the park headquarters and the summit, pull off into the parking lot at mile marker 17.5 (about 8,800 feet in elevation) and follow a 0.5-mile trail through the subalpine brush. At first it won’t look like you’re going anywhere exciting, but after a few minutes you reach the rim of the crater and are awarded with colors which spring from the earth. This is a nice option if you are running late for the sunrise, and as an added bonus there are rarely more than a handful of people watching the spectacle with you. Since this lookout faces east, however, sunset isn’t as nice.

Hosmer’s Grove Nature Trail

Unlike other trails in the park, the Hosmer’s Grove Nature Trail is at the lower park boundary just after you enter the park. This easy, 0.5-mile trail leads you through a stand of trees introduced in 1910 to see if any would be good for commercial lumber. There are more than 20 different species here. Here you’ll see Jeffrey pine, ponderosa pine, incense cedar, eucalyptus, Norway spruce, Douglas fir, and Japanese sugi. Several signs are posted along the trail to explain about the trees, and this is also a good spot to look for native birds.

To reach the trailhead, make a left on the road pointing toward the campground immediately after entering the park. The walk should take a half hour over mostly level ground.

Ka Lu’u O Ka O’o

If you don’t have a full day (or couple of days) to devote to a hike across the crater floor, a nice option is the 5.5-mile descent to the Ka Lu’u O Ka O’o cinder cone. This hike departs from the Sliding Sands trailhead and drops two miles down into the crater, or about halfway down Sliding Sands trail.

Sliding Sands Trail (Keonehe’ehe’e Trail)

Starting at the summit visitors center (at 9,800 ft. in elevation) Sliding Sands descends 2,500 vertical feet to the crater floor below. Like a lonely vein switchbacking its way across the dark side of the moon, Sliding Sands is a barren, windswept, shadeless, and stunning conduit from the craggy summit to
the cinder cone desert before you. If you just hike down to the crater floor and back, it’s an eight-mile round-trip, although continuing to Kapalaoa Cabin tacks an additional 3.5 miles on to the hike. Due to the elevation, coming back up Sliding Sands can be challenging even for the fittest of hikers.

Switchback Trail (Halemau‘u Trail)

Beginning from an altitude of only 7,990 feet, the first 1.1 miles of this trail meander through subalpine scrub brush before eventually bringing you to the edge of a 1,000-foot cliff. The view down into the Ko‘olau Gap is better here than from the summit area. Although the trail is well-defined, the drop-offs can be disconcerting for those with a fear of heights. After losing over 1,000 feet in elevation, the trail passes Holua Cabin after 3.7 miles and continues on to silversword Loop, a section of the crater floor known for its dense concentration of ahinahina, or endangered silversword plants. While it’s possible to connect with the greater network of trails from this point, Silversword Loop usually marks the turnaround point for this 9.2-mile round-trip hike.

Sliding Sands Switchback Loop

If you’re in good hiking shape, have an entire day to commit, and want to experience the best of Haleakala Crater, then this is hands-down the best day hike in the summit area of the park. This is a point-to-point trail, so you will end up six miles from where you started — this means you need to drive two cars up the mountain or catch a lift back up to the parking lot.

While the loop can be hiked in either direction, the most popular—and far less strenuous—route begins at Sliding Sands trailhead and exits via ascending the Switchback Trail. Along the path of this 12.2 mile-journey you experience the full spectrum of Haleakala wonders, from the frosty, mystical summit, to the otherworldly solitude of the crater floor.

If you’re looking for an cool adventure and otherworldly experience, hike this trail at night under a full moon.

At this altitude you’re frequently above the clouds, and the moonlight reflecting off the cinder is so bright that you can walk without the use of a flashlight (bring one anyway). If the moon rises early, depart the summit at sunset, and if the moon rises later in the evening, begin at about midnight and finish your hike at sunrise. There are few more surreal feelings than walking completely alone, bundled against the chill of the night air, hearing the crunch of volcanic cinder beneath your feet, bathed in moonlight amid a panorama of geological wonder, only to cap off the experience by watching the
sun gradually set the colors of the mountain ablaze. Should you attempt to hike the crater by moonlight, it’s best to be overly prepared. Bring a backpack full of extra clothing, carry extra water, pack an extra flashlight. You’ll be exposed to windchills that can dip below freezing at any time of the year.

Kaupo Gap

“Shooting the gap” is the most extreme hike on the island. It takes two days, covers 17.5 miles, and has an elevation drop of 9,500 feet. In order to complete the hike you need to be in prime physical condition and comfortable in the backcountry.

The majority of hikers spend the night at Paliku Cabin, which at a distance of 9.2 miles from Sliding Sands trailhead is the remotest—and lushest—of the crater’s three backcountry cabins. For those without a cabin reservation there is a primitive campsite at Paliku; free permits can be arranged at the park headquarters.

On the second day of the hike you’ll make a steep descent from Paliku, pass through a gate that marks the park boundary, and continue across private land (which is allowed) from here until Kaupo Store. Once outside of the park boundary, keep a lookout for axis deer and feral goats, as they will occasionally leap across the trail.

You finish the hike in the semi-deserted outpost of Kaupo at a distance of 53 road miles from where you started, so if you ever want to make it back to civilization, you either have to arrange a ride or convince the rare passerby to shuttle your sweaty, backcountry body all the way to the other side of the island. If you’re up for the challenge, however, pack accordingly, be prepared, let someone know where you’re going, and take lots of pictures. There aren’t many places in America as pristine as what you’ll find out here.

Haleakala Crater Rd., Makawao
www.nps.gov/hale
$30 park entrance fee per vehicle (good for 3 days).

OHEO GULCH

Easy

A branch of Haleakala National Park and accessible on the southeast side of Maui, Oheo Gulch is was a tourist trap started by a former owner of the Travaasa Hotel Hana. He started calling the area Seven Sacred Pools to attract tourists to the Hana region — and it worked. There are more than seven pools and none have any historically sacred status — other than that this is Maui and everything is sacred and wonderful, of course.

When to Visit Seven Sacred Pools

Beat the crowds and rush of buses that visit the pools, and aim to be at Oheo Gulch early-ish in the morning. A popular hike nearby is a vigorous start to the day, and rewards you with a view of a tall waterfall — so plan to do the more challenging Pipiwai Trail first. The trailhead is a short walk to the east from the parking lot and across the road. The trail can get muddy to aim to do it in dry season or at least wait a few days after a rain.

After earning your meal for the day, relax by the pools with a bunch of other tourists, or cool off in the freshwater reserves. (Be aware, however, that the park periodically closes the pools to swimming when the potential for flash flooding exists.)

Getting to the Gulch

You can find Oheo Gulch on Route 31, 10 miles past Hana town. To visit, you must pay the $25-per-car National Park fee, which is valid for three days and can be used at Haleakala’s summit as well. Remember to bring your own water.

Trails at Oheo Gulch

Kahakai Trail

There are short, easy walks at the Gulch for you to explore. One quarter-mile walk stretches between Kuloa Point and the Kipahulu campground. Walk it for the rugged shoreline views and an easier hike than Pipiwai.

Kuloa Point Trail

Another easy half-mile walk, this trail goes from the Kipahulu Visitor Center down to the pools of Oheo at Kuloa Point. On the trail you pass native trees and precontact Hawaiian sites. Bring your swimsuit and a towel if you’re planning a dip in the pools—but exercise extreme caution, as no lifeguards are on duty. Stick to the pools; don’t even think about swimming in the ocean. The park periodically closes the pools when the potential for flash flooding exists, so try to plan your visit outside of rainy season.

Pipiwai Trail (The Hana Highway Bamboo Trail)

This moderate 2-mile trek (4-mile roundtrip) upstream can be slippery but is worth it; it leads to the base of the 400-foot Waimoku Falls. Wear hiking sandals if you want to walk through water closer to the base of the falls (provided it is safe and not raining).

Following signs from the parking lot, head across the road and uphill into the forest. The trail borders a deep gorge and passes onto a boardwalk through a thick forest of giant bamboo. This 4-mile roundtrip trail through muddy and rocky (and often slippery) terrain takes around one and a half to three hours to fully enjoy.

Although this trail is never overly crowded, it is best done early in the morning before the tour buses arrive and before the air gets too hot. Be sure to bring your favorite herbal mosquito repellent.

More about hiking the Pipiwai Trail.

Hana Hwy., Hana. Near mile marker 42. $30 park entrance fee per vehicle (good for 3 days).

UPCOUNTRY MAUI HIKES

POLIPOLI SPRING STATE RECREATION AREA

For a hiking experience suitable for hikers of all experience levels, head to Upcountry Maui to the Kula Forest Reserve at Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area.

During the Great Depression the government began a program to reforest the mountain, and soon cedar, pine, cypress, and even redwood took hold. The area, at an elevation of 6,200 feet, feels more like Vermont than Hawaii. It’s cold and foggy, and often wet, but there’s something about the enormity of the trees, quiet mist, and mysterious caves that makes you feel you’ve discovered an unspoken secret.

To reach the forest, take Route 37 all the way out to the far end of Kula, then turn left at Route 377. After about a half mile, turn right at Waipoli Road. You’ll drive up switchbacks until the road worsens but is passable. Four-wheel-drive vehicles are strongly recommended, although standard cars have been known to make it. Exercise your best judgment according to weather conditions.

Note: Stay on the trails and wear brightly colored clothing, as hunters may be in the area. 😐

Again: Polipoli Spring is often closed following heavy storms due to fallen trees and other
damage. Before attempting any trail in the park, Check the Hawaii State Parks website prior to making the drive up there.

Boundary Trail

This 4-mile trail begins just past the Kula Forest Reserve boundary cattle guard on Polipoli Road and descends into the lower boundary southward, all the way to the ranger’s cabin at the interception of the Redwood and Plum trails. Combine them and you’ve got a decent 5-mile day hike. The trail crosses many scenic gulches, with an overhead of tall eucalyptus, pine, cedar, and plum trees. Catch a glimpse through the trees of wide views of Kula and Central Maui.

Trailhead: Polipoli Campground, Polipoli Rd., Kula

Redwood Trail

This colorful 1.7-mile hike winds through redwoods and conifers past the short Tie Trail down to the old ranger’s cabin. Although the views are limited, groves of trees and flowering bushes provide feast enough for the eyes. At the end of the trail is an old cabin site and three-way junction with the Plum Trail and the Boundary Trail. Wear bright clothing, stay on the trail, and be aware you may encounter hunters who are hunting off the trail.

Moderate difficulty.

Trailhead: Near Polipoli Campground, Polipoli Rd., Kula
www.dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/hiking/maui/redwood-trail

Upper Waiakoa Trail

Start this scenic albeit challenging and rugged trail at the Polipoli Access Road (look for trailhead signs) and proceed up Haleakala through mixed pine and past caves and thick shrubs. The path crosses the land of Kaonoulu to the land of Waiakoa, where it reaches its highest point (7,800 feet). Here you’ll find yourself in barren raw terrain with fantastic views. At this point, you can either turn around, or continue on to the 3-mile Waiakoa Loop for a 14-mile journey.

Other than a cave shelter, there’s no water or other facilities on these trails, so come prepared. Wear bright clothing, stay on the trail, and be aware you may encounter hunters who are hunting off the trail. Difficult trail.

Trailhead: Polipoli Access Rd., Kula
www.dlnr.hawaii.gov/recreation/nah/maui-trail-and-access-maps

IAO VALLEY STATE MONUMENT

In Hawaiian, Iao means “supreme cloud.” Piercing the clouds, the Iao Needle, a tall chunk of volcanic rock, stands as a monument to the long-ago lookout for Maui warriors. Today, there’s nothing warlike about the area: the valley is a peaceful land of lush tropical plants, clear pools and a running stream, and easy jungle strolls.

The valley is one of Maui’s great wonders. Access this mystical valley in the middle of an unexpected rain forest near Wailuku in West Maui. At 750 feet above sea level, the 10-mile valley holds the clouds as though to cover its history as the site of a famous battle to unite the Hawaiian Islands.

To get to Iao Valley State Monument, head to the western end of Route 32. The road dead-ends into the parking lot ($5 per car). The park is open daily 7 am–6 pm. Facilities are available, but there is no drinking water.

Iao Needle Lookout Trail & Ethnobotanical Loop

Easy trail. Anyone (including grandparents) can handle this short walk from the parking lot at Iao Valley State Monument. On your choice of two paved walkways, you can cross the Iao Stream and explore the jungle-like area. Ascend the stairs up to the Iao Needle for spectacular views of Central Maui. Be sure to stop at the lovely Kepaniwai Heritage Gardens, which commemorate the cultural contributions of various immigrant groups.

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Iao Valley State Monument sites map

Trailhead: Iao Valley State Monument parking lot, Rte. 32, Wailuku
www.dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/maui/iao-valley-state-monument

There is no fee to enter the valley but there is a $5 parking fee per car.

THE SOUTH SHORE AND WEST MAUI

In addition to the trails listed below, the Kapalua Resort offers free access to 100 miles of self-guided hikes. Trail information and maps are available at the Kapalua Adventure Center.

Hoapili Trail (King’s Trail)

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Hoapili Trail map

Difficult hiking trail. A challenging hike through eye-popping scenery in southwestern Maui is this 5 1⁄2-mile coastal trail beyond the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve. Named after a bygone king, it follows the shoreline, threading through the remains of ancient villages. King Hoapili created an island-wide road, and this wide path of stacked lava rocks is a marvel to look at and walk on. (It’s not the easiest surface for the ankles and feet, so wear sturdy shoes.) This is brutal territory with little shade and no facilities, and extra water is a must. To get here, follow Makena Road to La Perouse Bay. The trail can be a challenge to find—walk south along the ocean through the kiawe trees, where you’ll encounter numerous wild goats (don’t worry—they’re gentle), and past a scenic little bay. The trail begins just around the corner to the left.

Trailhead: La Perouse Bay, Makena Rd., Makena

Kapalua Resort

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Kapalua Coastal Trail

The Village Walking Trails offer a network of exercise opportunities on former golf cart paths, including the 3.6-mile Lake Loop, which features sweeping views and a secluded lake populated with quacking ducks.

The Coastal Trail provides views of the ocean and wildlife as it crosses the golden sand dunes of Oneloa Bay and past Ironwood Beach and the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, to its terminus at D.T. Fleming Beach Park. Sightings of green sea turtles, dolphins, and humpback whales (in season) are likely, along with nesting seabirds called uaua kani.

If you want the guided experience, guided 1 1⁄2 mile hikes on the coastal trail that include tide pool exploration are available for $99 through the Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment program at the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua.

Makaluapuna Point (Dragon’s Teeth)

The fascinating series of lava formations at Makaluapuna Point in Kapalua is nicknamed Dragon’s Teeth. The forceful winds that sweep over the point caused the lava to harden upward into jagged
points resembling giant teeth. To get there, park in the small paved lot to the right at the end of Office Road, and follow the path at the edge of the Bay Golf Course (watch for errant golf balls, and be respectful of the golfers). Along the way, there’s a labyrinth where you can experience a meditative walk.

Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as there are no facilities here.

Waihee Ridge

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Waihee Ridge Trail at West Maui Forest Reserve

Moderate difficulty. This 4 3⁄4-mile hike in West Maui offers a generous reward at the top: breathtaking panoramic views of the windward coast and the ridges that rise inland, as well as Mt. Lanilili, Puu Kukui, Eke Crater, and the remote village of Kahakuloa. Enjoy a comfortable lunch at the picnic table. In rainy conditions the trail can quickly turn into a muddy slippery affair.

Getting there: from Highway 340, turn left across the highway from Mendes Ranch and drive three-quarters of a mile up a partially paved road to the signed trailhead.

Lahaina Pali Trail

The trail heads on either end are very rocky and steep on the first mile, but the view from the top is amazing. It may take about an hour to reach the windmill area (approx. 2 miles). This trail is recommended for people who hike regularly.

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Lahaina Pali Trail from the east side at Hanoapiilani Highway parking lot

If you start from the east at Hanoapiilani Highway, I recommend turning back after the windmills. Be vigilant and remove items from view in your car; many people get their car broken into from the parking lot on the west side. Watch your footing on the trail, it’s pretty rough with small rocks.

Very good if you love a challenge. Start early in the day to take advantage of cooler weather. Sun protection and hats are a a must if you go after 10 a.m. Start early and bring lots of water, because there is no shade and it will get hot fast.

Hiking shoes or boots will keep you from hurting your feet and ankles while navigating through the loose lava rock.

MOLOKAI DAY TRIP HIKING

Kalaupapa Trail

You can take an overnight trip to the island of Molokai for a day of hiking down to Kalaupapa
Peninsula and back, by means of a 3-mile, 26-switchback trail. The trail is nearly vertical, criss-crossing the face of some of the highest sea cliffs in the world.

TIPS FOR DAY HIKES IN MAUI

Hiking is a perfect way to see Maui; just wear sturdy shoes to spare your ankles from a crash course in loose lava rock. At upper elevations the weather is guaranteed to be extreme—alternately chilly or blazing—so layers are good.

When hiking near streams or waterfalls, be cautious: flash floods can occur at any time. Don’t drink stream water or swim in streams if you have open cuts; bacteria and parasites are not the souvenir you want to take home with you.

If you’re new to hiking, here is a checklist for the basics to bring with you on a hike:

  • Water (at least 2 quarts per person)
  • Food—fruit, trail mix, and lunch
  • Sturdy hiking shoes
  • Layered clothing
  • Rain gear or light poncho
  • Sun protection: wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses and wool buff
  • Natural mosquito repellent (near waterfalls and pools)

The Costco in Maui: Cheap Eats

Maui isn’t known for great deals on food, unless you’re a local and can grow an avocado tree on your property.

So where does a tourist go to stretch their dollar? Where the locals shop!

The easiest (and closest to the airport) option is the one and only Costco on Maui.

It is only about half a mile from the Kahului Airport (540 Haleakala Hwy, Kahului, HI 96732).

Maui Costco Must-Haves

We always go to Costco, even on short trips.

We pick up all our food, supplies and obligatory gifts at the neighbourhood Costco. And yes, they have that essential Adoboloco Pineapple Hot Sauce. Look for poke in the deli section.

And the Maui Costco also sells premium liquor and alcohol for a better price than at your mainland liquor store.

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Beautiful setting for a Costco and cheaper eats galore.

Stocking Up at Costco for the Week (Or Your Length-of-Stay)

Yes, Costco is known for bulk buys and massive amounts of food. But there are smaller, ready-made portions for your evening’s dinner, or you can assess the amenities at your rental to figure out what you might want to buy. Before you go on a mass buying spree at Costco, ask yourself some questions:

  • Are you staying in a hotel room that has a fridge and hot plate?
  • Are you renting an AirBNB with a full kitchen?
  • For how long is your stay on Maui?
  • Will you eat most of your meals at your place, or go out to eat every day? Perhaps you would prefer to eat breakfast at your residence, then go out and explore, grabbing food later (or packing a lunch)

These are logistical things you need to know before you go on a grocery shopping spree. Once you know your constraints, stocking up appropriately is easy.

Maui Costco Groceries: Is it Worth the Trip for Two People?

If you plan your trip right, you can safely load up at Costco on the way from the airport and not have to worry about wasting time on your vacation to go out and run errands later, especially if your accommodations are a distance away from grocery stores (not that Maui is that huge).

But I get it. Some people are worried about wasting food (or eating the same thing too many days in a row) if they stop to stock up at Costco.

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There are a few special items available only at Maui Costco

Example: Costco Strategy for Two People for Two Weeks

Consider your normal routine. Do you usually make the majority of your breakfasts and lunches at home, and occasionally go out to eat for supper?

Maybe on your vacation you want to keep a similar routine, except eat out one meal a day. Sometimes it is nice to go for a walk and pick up a smoothie, or get a little fancy for dinner. Whatever you choose, you can make Costco work for you.

Some smart items to buy at Costco, without overbuying:

If you make your own lunches and breakfasts, buy your usual items. Suggestions:

  • eggs
  • Toms english muffins
  • milk
  • fruit
  • lettuce
  • tortilla chips
  • locally made salsa
  • poke and sashimi
  • fish
  • beef
  • nuts
  • granola
  • bread
  • wraps
  • ready-made salads
  • pre-made dinners
  • chicken
  • steaks
  • cheese
  • water
  • coffee
  • chocolate
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Fresh poke in the deli section at Costco in Maui.

Meal Ideas

  • If you have a freezer: freeze some meat, veggies, bread or bakery goods.
  • A large frozen lasagna can be made into two meals.
  • A Costco-famous cheap roasted chicken can serve two or three meals.
  • Costco’s ready-made large salads or other dishes are excellent meals when you don’t want to spend a lot of time prepping food while on vacation.

For items that are in bulk or not at Costco, make a list after shopping at Costco and pick up those items at a local grocery store or farmers market.

When to Skip Costco on Maui

Of course, if you want to keep it simple (since Costco can take up time due to the size of the store and not being familiar with where things are), then just use the other grocery stores, especially if there are some near your accommodations. The costs won’t be that much different and maybe you want to pick things up as your vacation progresses.

Foodland, Star Market, Safeway Options

Things like lunch meat, mayo, veggies for grilling, and coffee creamer you might as well pick up at Star Market or Safeway, along with shampoo and conditioner or other personal items you didn’t want to pack.

Foodland is notable for their awesome poke selection and the fresh bread. Foodland also sometimes has the best prices on trinkets like kukui necklaces and magnets. Their musubi shopping bags double as unique gifts for your weird friends.

Make a point of going to Yee’s Orchard & Fruit Stand (in Kihei), other farmers markets, and the swap meet for other veggies and fruits.

If you’re exhausted from the journey to Maui and don’t feel like going to Costco the first day, just head to a local grocery store or restaurant (keep your luggage in the trunk)… or get a take-out snack from Costco’s outside food court!

The Costco foodcourt is just as easy and only a fraction of the cost of any other restaurant. Not fancy, but the serving size hits the spot.

And you do not need a Costco membership to use the food court.

Just head to the east side of Costco and you’ll find the food court. (Follow the wild chicken.)

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Chicks dig Costco.

Take-Out Costco Food Options

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Costco Foodcourt on Maui has a bunch of favourites, accepts cash or card (VISA), and is located to the right side of the main entrances.

If you time your flight arrival right, you can go straight from the plane to your car to Costco.

  • Grab a hot dog combo or pizza or salad and smoothie for the world’s cheapest post-flight lunch, and then after feeling satiated and getting excited for your trip, you might feel inspired to pick up the things mentioned above:
  • The usual staples plus some snacking delights:
    • eggs
    • coffee
    • choice snack foods
    • bread for sandwiches
    • pineapple
    • bagged salads
    • mango salsa
    • tortilla chips
    • chicken, still just $4.99! Have the chicken the next day as well, in sandwiches, or tossed on a salad (Costco’s salads are great!)
    • poke
    • duty-free alcohol
    • frozen meals or microwave dinners, if that’s your style.
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Maui pineapples, mmmmm

While Costco is a great place for convenience and inexpensive staples for meal options, be sure to partake of the local fare while in Maui.

When to Go to the Costco in Kahului

If you need gas, Costco gas is usually a much better deal than other offerings (but you need a Costco membership, remember).

Again, running into Costco for a pre-made dinner or salads is easy, as long as you’re there when the lineups to check-out aren’t crazy… which on Maui, they never really are (despite how packed the parking lot may look).

Even the weekend crowds are not as bad as you might expect. For the quietest shopping experience, head to Costco after 7pm.

If you are landing late at night and are staying on the west part of Maui, combine a trip to Costco with a trip to Iao Valley, or even a trip Upcountry.

Do You Have to Be a Member to Shop at the Costco in Maui?

Except for prescriptions and alcohol and the food court, you have to be a member to shop or buy gas at Costco. If a member buys a gift card for you, you can use that Costco USD cash card without a membership.

And note: Costco in the USA takes VISA as their credit card, not Mastercard like in Canada.

Which Airport in Maui Do You Need? (& What to Do When You Land)

Before we booked our trip, we wanted to know exactly what we would need once we landed and how far we had to go to get it. For us, coming from the mainland USA, the default airport is the international airport on Maui, OGG at Kahului.

If you are arriving on an international flight and are landing on Maui, OGG is your arrival airport code.

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What Airports are on Maui?

There are three airports on Maui, but you will probably only need to know about Kahului Airport (OGG), three miles east of the town of Kahului. There are three smaller airports for small commuter planes that fly locally.

Maui Airport at Kahului (OGG)

Kahului – most visitors from the mainland will land at this airport

OGG is likely where you will land if you are coming from anywhere other than the Hawaii region. Many airlines serve Kahului airport, including large commercial airlines and smaller taxis.

The airport has two intersecting runways and full air carrier facilities for domestic overseas and interisland commercial service. Kahului Airport provides commuter/air taxi and general aviation operations, including helicopter operations in separate locations.

https://airports.hawaii.gov/ogg/airport-info/

The larger commercial planes all land at Kahului airport, which is next to the car rental companies and the city of Kahului. Most travelers use this airport and travel to the major resort areas is easy from here.

If you are flying in a small plane or commuting from another Hawaiian Island, you have some more choices:

Small Regional Airports on Maui

Kapalua Airport – for commuters and visitors from the Hawaiian islands

The small airport near Kapalua on the west side of Maui is served by Pacific Wings and other commuter-type airlines — only smaller propeller commuter planes. Kapalua Airport (JHM) is a short distance from the resort destinations of Kaanapali and Lahaina.

Hana Airport – also for commuters and visitors from the Hawaiian islands

Hana Airport (HNM) is served by Pacific Wings commuter planes mostly originating from other Hawaiian islands. Since there is only one winding road leading to and from Hana, sometimes flying is a faster choice for visitors and locals alike.

For example, if you are coming from the Big Island and want to explore Hana on the east side of Maui but are short for time, you can charter a small plane to the Hana Airport (HNM).

Hana Airport supports commuter, unscheduled air taxi and general aviation activities on a 119-acre site on the east shore of Maui, about three miles northwest of the town of Hana.  The single runway serves the passenger terminal and general aviation and airport support facilities south of the runways.  Vehicular access to the airport from Hana Highway is provided by Alalele Place.

https://airports.hawaii.gov/hnm/airport-info/

Landing on Maui

The winds are strong, and landing on Maui is often the most terrifying landing I’ve had. But we make it!

Being thankful you’re alive is one way to start a vacation, and why stop the gratitude there? Enjoy the beauty of Maui and be grateful for each day you’re there, too. Aloha.

Baggage Claim

After you kiss the ground for landing safely, head to the baggage claim facilities located on the ground level. (As you exit the gate area to the ground level, via the escalator or elevator, turn right.)

After collecting any luggage you may have, now to can either take the bus or a shuttle or a rental car to your destination.

If you are renting a car, you can either wait for a bus to take you to the car rental area, or walk there. Might as well walk.

Yes, I prefer to walk the 15 minutes (or less, depending on which car rental company you choose) and beat the herd. Yet another reason to travel with carry-on only. The walk will likely be hot and you will probably not feel like doing it after getting off a long flight, but why not live a little? You’re in Maui!

If you opt for the public transportation route, follow the signs and the mass of people waiting outside in the scorching hot parking lot across from the airport arrivals wing.

Is it Necessary to Rent a Car on Maui?

While renting a car isn’t necessary, it is recommended if you want to explore the whole Island. If you are staying in Kihei (south Maui beach town popular with tourists) in one place close to amenities for the entire short trip, then you can get away with not having a car. Maui County operates a public bus service, and taxis and shuttles are also available.

But if you want to do fun things on your own like experience the Haleakala sunrise or road to Hana, a car is the way to go.

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Maui Kahului Airport Maps

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From the OGG airport, car rental locations are a short walk away. Exit the airport, cross the road, and start walking left. You can see Costco is pretty close, southwest of the airport.

Maui Airport Arrival and Departure Times

For up-to-date flight info, including flight tracker and air traffic map of flights to Maui, see https://airports.hawaii.gov/ogg/flights/.

Maui Airport Bus

Kahului Airport transportation services include shuttles to hotels and local bus services to and from the airport:

Maui Airport Routes

  • Route 40 (Upcountry Islander) — Operates every 90 minutes from 6:00 a.m. to 10:11 p.m.
  • Route 35 (Haiku Islander) — Operates every 90 minutes from 5:30 a.m. to 9:40 p.m.

For Maui bus routes and information, click here.

What is the Distance from Kahului Airport to Resort Areas?

Lahaina is approximately 25 miles west.
Kihei is approximately 10 miles south.
Kaanapali is approximately 29 miles west.

9 Things For Mature Couples To Do in Maui

  1. Go on a whale-watching tour.
  2. Enjoy a couples massage at a local spa.
  3. Have a romantic dinner together at Lahaina Grill.
  4. Find inner peace at the Sacred Garden of Maliko.
  5. Experience an unforgettable luau.
  6. Explore the local vineyards at MauiWine.
  7. Tour the historic Baldwin Home Museum.
  8. Share a refreshing bite of gelato.
  9. Hop aboard a sunset cruise.

1. Go on a Whale-Watching Tour

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There are only a handful of places around the world where it’s possible to see whales in their natural habitat, and Maui is one of them. So if you’re looking to share a unique experience with your partner, you might want to book a whale-watching tour before you arrive in Maui.

Naturally, whales aren’t always present along the Maui shorelines. For that reason, this activity is best-suited to those planning on visiting Maui between December and April.

Makai Adventures is one of the top-rated tour providers, and they offer discounted tours for those willing to wake up early (between 5 am and 6 am). These early-morning tours (scheduled at 6:45 am) cost approximately $60 per adult, making them exceptionally affordable.

You’ll only need to book your tour and arrive at Lahaina Harbor to begin your two-hour whale-watching adventure, and the sights you’ll see along the way are bound to make your Maui vacation far more memorable and romantic.

2. Enjoy a Couples Massage at a Local Spa

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Wailea Massage Therapy with views you can feel.

You can leave your troubles behind and embrace the ambiance of the Hawaiian Islands by enjoying a soothing Maui massage. Besides, a romantic couple’s massage is an excellent way to kick off an enchanting holiday in Hawaii.

Serenity Spa Maui, located in Lahaina, offers therapeutic massages for deep muscle penetration, as well as lighter massages designed to put you in a state of complete relaxation.

You can also choose between 60-minute and 90-minute sessions, ensuring that you have plenty of time for the rest of the day’s activities. The Maui Moon massage is one of the most popular among visitors, as it includes a refreshing peppermint scalp treatment and the soothing tones of a singing bowl.

3. Have a Romantic Dinner Together at Lahaina Grill

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Before you arrive in Maui, you might want to make a reservation at the Lahaina Grill.

This fine-dining restaurant offers some of the most elevated and refined Hawaiian dishes in all of Maui. It’s also situated in a historic building that dates back to the 1930s, adding to its charming ambiance.

The Lahaina Grill menu changes with the seasons, ensuring that each meal consists of locally-sourced fresh ingredients. With appetizers like Wagyu beef ravioli and entrees like seared mahi-mahi, you’ll be able to enjoy all of the mouthwatering tastes of Maui at the Lahaina Grill.

4. Find Inner Peace at the Sacred Garden of Maliko

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You don’t need to hike up the side of the Haleakala Crater or withstand large beach side crowds to explore the natural beauty of Maui. The Sacred Garden of Maliko is a fantastic alternative to those popular activities, and it’s far easier to access than remote shores or lofty peaks.

This collection of gardens is ideal for sitting, breathing, and meditating.

Wherever you look, you’ll see gorgeous native plants, volcano-stone walking labyrinths, and comfortable benches. There’s almost no better destination to enjoy being with your partner.

The nursery is also open to the public, allowing you and your loved one to find the perfect plant to take back home with you. Just as your love grows, so do the gorgeous native flowers and shrubs available at the Sacred Garden of Maliko.

Even better, this attraction is entirely free! So, if you’re trying to keep costs low while exploring Maui, you’ll love spending an afternoon (or several) at these gardens.

5. Experience an Unforgettable Luau

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No vacation in Maui would be complete without at least one luau. Fortunately, there are dozens of luau shows available on this island, and each offers something unique for visitors. So, if you and your special someone haven’t attended a genuine Hawaiian luau before, now is the time!

The Old Lahaina Luau is one of the top-rated shows featuring authentic Hawaiian music, storytelling, dancing, and a small feast.

As such, it offers a little bit of everything that you might want from a Maui luau.

When reserving your spot at this luau, you’ll have the option to sit at a traditional table or take a seat on a small floor cushion. As such, older couples can opt for more comfortable seating that’s not often offered by other luau shows.

6. Explore the Local Vineyards at MauiWine

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Ulupalakua Ranch is a sprawling acreage full of grazing cattle and sun-drenched grapes. It’s a beautiful place to sit back, sip some local wines, and enjoy the stunning views of Maui’s lush landscape.

If you and your partner have been looking for a way to explore the local Maui vineyards, you’ll want to reserve a table at MauiWine, located at Ulupalakua Ranch. From sparkling pineapple wines to more traditional red wines, MauiWine has selections to please every palate.

7. Tour the Historic Baldwin Home Museum

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Do you and your partner enjoy exploring historical sites together? If so, you won’t want to miss the opportunity to take in the historic Baldwin Home Museum in Lahaina, Maui.

Built during the 1830s, this home is the oldest still-standing residence on the island.

In the 1960s, the Baldwin Home was fully restored to its original style, replete with furniture dating back to the 1850s. You can enjoy self-guided tours between 10 am and 4 pm, or you can opt for guided candle-lit tours between 5 pm and 8 pm.

No matter which option you choose, a trip to the Baldwin Home Museum is an excellent way to step back into a different and simpler time.

8. Share a Refreshing Bite of Gelato

The average temperature in Maui is between 70 and 80°F (21.11 and 26.67°C), which may be on the warmer side for some visitors. So, if you’ve spent a relaxing sunny afternoon walking along the beach, you might want to take a moment to cool down with that special someone.

Though you might be tempted to grab a few scoops of ice cream, you may want to opt for a creamy dollop of gelato and a fresh-pressed Belgian waffle instead. Maui Gelato serves a variety of cool, sweet treats, including shakes, floats, pretzels, and waffles.

You can enjoy bites of fresh local fruits, refreshing shaved ice, and much more while visiting this unique gelato shop.

Overall, it’s one of the tastiest spots to stop after a long afternoon out in the sun.

9. Hop Aboard a Sunset Cruise

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Before it’s time to pack your bags and board your flight back home, you’ll want to end your Maui holiday on a high note. A sunset cruise could be the ideal way to take in the natural beauty around you while also sharing a romantic evening with your partner.

Sea Maui, located on the northwest side of the island, offers a variety of sunset cruises, including dinner, cocktail, and live music cruises. So, whether you’re looking to enjoy a lovely sunset dinner, share a few drinks, or boogie down on the dance floor, there’s an option designed to meet your needs.

The Maui sunset dinner cruise includes whale-watching if you’re visiting between December and early April, a gourmet meal, and an open bar. It’s the best option for couples looking to enjoy a romantic sunset together while cruising along the Maui coastline.

Sources

Best Snorkeling Spots in Maui (Turtle Town, South Maui, West Maui)

Maui has some of the best snorkeling beaches for beginners, families with kids, and underwater explorers of all experience levels. When you’ve tired of suntanning on Maui’s beautiful beaches and want to see another side of paradise just steps away, check out the rockier areas and go snorkeling!

Let’s explore the best (and less busy) snorkeling spots in Maui:

Definitely go snorkeling in South Maui. Surprisingly, there are many great snorkeling beaches not the least bit crowded. Some favorite spots are at Po’olenalena Beach, Chang’s Beach, Maluaka Beach, and Ahihi Cove, all in the vicinity of ‘Turtle Town,’ an area known for its healthy Honu (Hawaiian green sea turtle) population.

green sea turtle

Read on for info on the best places to snorkel all over Maui, where to park, directions for the best points of entry, when to go snorkeling, and which side of the beach has the best scenery, variety, and reef providing cover for sea turtles and sea life.

Best Snorkeling Beaches in West Maui

If you’re staying on the West side — or even if you aren’t, but you want some awesome snorkeling beaches — drive up to Honolua Bay. It’s a Must Snorkel.

Honolua Bay in West Maui

Honolua Bay is great for snorkeling in the summer. A gem among the beautiful sights in Maui, Honolua Bay and its Marine Nature Preserve is a consistently excellent snorkel spot. Honolua Bay is a great location to see coral reefs. Some say this is the best place to snorkel in Maui, except for maybe Molokini (except Molokini is generally more crowded).

Directions to Honolua Bay Snorkeling Spot

It requires a little bit of a walk from where you park along the main road up through West Maui. Look for a few parking spaces at the beginning of the trail, on the side of the road. Walk down the path. The short hike through the lush forest floor takes you briefly away from the resort experience, with a glimpse of the island’s natural beauty. The shore is covered with slippery round rocks, so please watch your step.

You may have to wade through a little trickle of a stream or deeper stream — if the stream is too deep, for example after a rain, that’s a solid indicator of poor water visibility anyway. If on the drive here you notice some huge waves, don’t worry about that because this calm cove is protected from the surf… but, if you see surfers in the bay, you don’t want to be snorkeling there. When you reach the rocky beach, wade into the water from the middle where there’s a little bit of sand, then head over to the right side to snorkel.

Great Nature Sight-Seeing: See Eels, Sea Turtles, Squids, Tangs, and More

Once you pass the shoreline and rocky entrance, the bay comes to life with sea urchins, eels, turtles, squids, tangs, and other species of fish. The coral is vast and the best-preserved in the island.

You can spend the whole day exploring here. Bring binoculars for bird watching, if you’re into that.

Even on perfect snorkeling days when everyone wants to explore this bay, it’s a huge bay and easy to find your own spot away from the other people there.

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Honolua Bay directions, location and access trail (thanks, google maps)

You’ll have the opportunity to see lots of beautiful fish, including Uhu Parrot fish, the Kihi Kihi Moorish Idol, Tangs, and the Honu Green Sea Turtles. If you’re lucky, you may find the sunken truck axle!

while snorkeling at Honolua Bay, West Maui

If you’d like to create a day of exploring West Maui, stop here on a West Mountain Driving Loop that includes: The Olivine Pools, Nakalele Blowhole, snorkeling at Honolua Bay and dinner in Lahaina.

Honolua Bay Summary

  • Park on the cliff and walk down.
  • Definitely a favorite snorkeling spot, but not crowded at all.
  • Mild waves and this Bay is very sheltered compared to other spots.
  • Easy for beginners snorkeling in Maui with kids.

Kapalua Beach Snorkeling

Kapalua Beach is very nice, too: it is a short, steeper beach, but has a very easy sandy entry. Kapalua Beach is darn near perfect, if you get there early. It’s a bay with a reef so the water is very calm. The beach is a gentle curve of golden sand with a grassy slope beyond it. Because it’s so nice, the crowds can be pretty big.

Nice rocks provide necessary structure along the left side for exploring. As you are looking out, the best snorkeling is on the right side of the bay.

Directions to Best Snorkeling in Kapalua Bay

Because of this beach’s popularity, parking can be a challenge. I suggest driving past Merriman’s and parking in the Kapalua Tennis Club: $10 for All Day parking, and there are plenty of spots.

If the public parking is full at the south end of Kapalua Beach, there are nine public parking spots (plus one ADA spot) on Bay Dr. in the Kapalua Bay Villas complex. From there, take the public walk past the side of the Montage to a fork… turn left to get to Kapalua Beach and turn right to get to the walk and steps / cliff jump into Namalu Bay.

If you turn left, before you get to Kapalua Beach, you pass a beautiful grassy spot with a bench to sit or let the kids run around away from the sand.

The best snorkeling close to the Kapalua Beach shore is on the north side swimming northwest all the way to (and past if you want) the point separating Kapalua and Namalu. This area is all coral right below the surface of the water. If you’re not a beginner, you can swim around the point (watch the current) into Namalu Bay. Or, if you’re brave and the waters are calm, you can swim south all the way down to the other point (where Merriman’s is located) on the south end of the beach.

The waters in the winter may be choppy with the northern swell, but in the summer, the swell is usually coming from the south, so this area should be protected.

There is a public bathroom and outdoor shower on the south end of the beach, and another shower at the north end in front of the Montage.

Namalu is where the snorkel tours take folks, so you can save yourself some money by taking your gear (or renting from the stand at the north end of Kapalua Beach) to the cove yourself.

Kapalua beach Snorkel Tip

Kapalua Beach Summary

  • Best close-to-shore snorkeling in Maui, hands down!
  • Lots of people see turtles here, half a dozen turtles in the reefs is the norm (don’t touch, though)
  • Go early, this is a busy beach; 8:30am should be fine.
  • If staying in Kapalua, take the shuttle from your hotel.
  • Politely remind people how they should treat the ocean. The marine life has clearly suffered so if you see someone doing something they shouldn’t (e.g., wearing sunscreen that isn’t reef-safe), just inform them.

Kahekili Beach Snorkeling

Kahekili Beach is a nice snorkeling spot, also easily accessible with plenty of parking. It has a nice beach and grassy area for picnics. The reef starts fairly close to shore so you don’t have far to swim at all. It’s pretty shallow in places and you can see some interesting fish, and perhaps a turtle or two.

We went snorkeling right off the shore and the reef there is vibrant and had plenty to see, probably more impressed with it than Black Rock, and with a lot fewer people.

tripadvisor on KaheKIli Beach

Kahekili provides a great parking lot, which is relatively rare in Maui, and a wonderful beach with easy ocean access. The sandy entry to the ocean is easy to find.

Also easy to find are the beautiful coral and fish all along this stretch. From here you can walk all the way down to Black Rock if you choose, but the snorkeling at Kahekili is better.

Kahekili Beach Summary

  • Lots of sand and space, plus a big grassy area for picnics.
  • Good for beginners and kids; sandy entry.
  • The beach doesn’t feel crowded.
  • Restrooms and outdoor showers.
  • Has a covered gazebo with charcoal grills. Perfect to pack a picnic and enjoy the day.

Swim with Hawaiian Sea Turtles in South Maui’s Famous Turtle Town

‘Turtle Town’ Maui is the long stretch of coastline stretching between Nahuna Point and Black Sand Beach in the southern district of Makena.

As mentioned, Po’olenalena Beach, Chang’s Beach, Maluaka Beach — many of the beaches south of Wailea — are very good for spotting turtles.

Maluaka Tops Them All

Although Turtle Town includes a large swath of prime snorkeling areas, most people who say Turtle Town are specifically referring to Maluaka Beach.

Arguably, Maluaka is the best snorkeling beach in the Turtle Town Maui area, and a favorite place to snorkel on the south shore of Maui. 

Directions to Maluaka Beach

Maluaka Beach is just south of Wailea at the end of Makena Road.  The entrance is off of the main street so most visitors drive past without even knowing it’s there. While this beach is not top secret, it is definitely one of Maui’s lesser known beaches, despite its high population of Hawaiian green sea turtles.

And yes, you’re highly likely to see many turtles while snorkeling at Maluaka! And please, don’t touch them.

Best Time to Go Snorkeling at Maluaka

Plan to go snorkeling early in the day, to beat the noontime-1pm winds that blow into South Maui. Everybody knows the beaches in and around Wailea and Makena area the best, so get there before everybody else. 🙂

turtletownmaui

The tour boats choose different locations all around this area, for good reason. The best of the best snorkeling is at Maluaka: this beach boasts sublime views, a nice sandy entry, decent reef along the left side (where Maui Prince is. Excellent parking, too).

Snorkeling the Island of Lanai

The Island of Lanai is a little island about an 8 mile boat ride away from Lahaina (West Maui), and is a part of Maui County. Some of the best places to snorkel in Maui are along the quiet coastal shores of nearby islands. If you have to choose just one boat tour, opt for the snorkeling tour in Lanai instead of Molokini.

If you are not yet familiar with the underwater world off Lanai you have been missing out on some of the best snorkeling in Maui — I mean, it’s all amazing, but each underwater area offers something different and unlike anything you’ve seen before.

How to Get to Lanai

Lanai trips are definitely more convenient for people staying in the West Maui area (Kapalua, Kahana, Honokowai, Kaanapali, and Lahaina).

Lanai trips leave from Lahaina, so much less driving is involved than for most of the Molokini boats. Spend the day watching dolphins and whales along the south coast of Lanai (December – May), or go swimming with schools of fish and Hawaiian green sea turtles that call the reefs home.

Lanai has the longest stretch of coral reef in Hawaii and is a prime snorkeling destination. Because it takes a little effort to reach Lanai, the beaches on this island are practically deserted. The area around the Manele Bay hotel is particularly beautiful, with uncrowded beaches, fascinating tide pools, great snorkeling, red sea cliffs, and lots of sun.

Best Snorkeling Spots on Maui (Map)

As we’ve discussed, South Maui offers the most accessible and protected waters for snorkelers of all experience levels. If you’d like to hit all the hot spots, here’s a handy map that plots other crowd-voted ‘best snorkeling spots on Maui.’

Best Time of Day to Snorkel in Maui

Early to Snorkel

In general, you’ll want to get out to the beach nice and early. This strategy takes care of two things: you beat the crowds, and beat the wind.

Even if you choose a busy beach, you’ll notice that most people aren’t there to snorkel. Ignore the potential masses of beach bums, and focus on applying your reef-safe sunscreen.

Once you’re out at a recommended beach or bay, get in the water. Simple!

Beginner tips: Avoid the nothing-but-sand areas. Instead, find a nice rocky mass or some underwater structure that offers sea life some protection and maybe some food. This is why the reefs are fantastic snorkeling spots: structure equals protection for fish equals snorkeling paradise.

Here’s another equation: sandy sea bottom + wind = poor visibility. As wind blows across the ocean’s surface it creates a current; sand and other particles on the bottom are caught in the movement of the water, tossed about, and make the water cloudy.  When it comes to underwater visibility, the less wind the better. Snorkeling in the mornings and over the reef will help make this equation work in your favor.

Swimming with Sea Turtles in Hawaii: Etiquette

Maui’s protected bays offer you the incredible opportunity to swim with all varieties of fish, sea creatures, and green sea turtles — don’t get too close, though: sea turtles on Maui, and all of Hawaii, are protected by the Federal Endangered Species Act as well as Hawaii State law. Touching a sea turtle or acting in a manner that alters their behavior is considered harassment.

Remain at least 15 feet away from the sea turtles and keep your arms by your side when sea turtles are in the vicinity. Not only is it polite to keep your hands to yourself, but violators can be fined up to $100,000.

Where are the Sea Turtles?

At south Makena beaches, to find the green sea turtles (they are actually brown and are often mistaken for rocks on the sea floor), walk down the beach until you get to the rocks at the end of the sand. You won’t find many sea creatures in the desert that is a sandy beach. The turtles and fish like to be where the food is — around the algae-covered rocky areas, and protective coral reefs.

Summary: Get Out There and Go Snorkeling Already

It amazes me that so many people at hotels fight over pool cabanas or spots on the beach, when you have the clearest waters of the world teaming with beautiful fish and other creatures of the sea at your doorstep, which you can explore for free.

Snorkeling is a very inexpensive sport, especially when all the beaches and waterfront in Hawaiian islands are open to public. Some of the best snorkel spots are in front of the high class hotels, yet any member of the public can access these beaches and enjoy the natural beauty.

What is the Best Part of Maui to Stay?

In 2019, over 3 million people visited Maui (1). Most cited vacation as the reason, while another significant contingent chose this magical Island in which to either tie the knot, or bask in newly married bliss on their honeymoon. So, the short answer to the question of where to stay in Maui depends, of course, on what you’re doing in Maui.

And there is lots to do on this island! Whether you’re here for beach time, snorkeling, surfing, hiking, shopping, nature adventuring (and the list goes on), read on to discover the best places to stay in Maui for each type of vacation you’re after.

If You Want the Best Family Beach Experience: South Maui

sandy kihei beach
south maui

For the sandiest most protected beaches, head to South Maui and make your home base in the Kihei area.

Geographically, South Maui is more like south-central Maui, but let’s just go with it.

This area was a hot ‘n’ heavy resort town in the 70s and 80s, and now has something for everyone: 6 miles of beach, bars and nightlife, the Maui Brewery Company (one of two locations – the other is in Lahaina), hotels, restaurants, snorkeling (there are a few great spots in the southern beaches toward the lava park, away from people), and a great central location for exploring the rest of the island.

Leeward side bliss! Kihei is known to be one of the hottest places to stay on Maui. Hottest literally and figuratively, as it doesn’t get the breezes that other parts of the island get (perfect for that winter getaway), and many Maui locals come from other areas on the island to Kihei to party.

kiheibeaches

Kihei has everything you need, all in one place. And if you decide you need a big screen TV or a $2 slice of pizza, the Costco in Kahului is only a short 20-minute drive away.

South of Kihei is the immaculately landscaped grounds of Wailea, a golfer’s dream come true. Driving through Wailea feels a bit like being in California or Florida — beautifully landscaped with massive hotel resorts lining the beaches, but no real personality.

Want sand and sun and hiking fun? You’ve got it. And we’ll throw in some snorkeling with sea turtles.

If you continue south, you’ll pass many beaches. There is a road and a trail passing through a lava flow at the southern tip beyond Makena beach, at LaPerouse Bay. The trail around LaPerouse Bay begins at the southwest corner of the parking area. The Hoapili Trail—also called the King’s Highway—is believed to be an old cattle road that Hawaiians would walk barefoot. At a signpost, the Hoapili Trail continues another 2 miles to the secluded Keawanaku Beach, another good snorkeling spot.

Hike the shoreline trail, or take a short detour around some ancient Hawaiian ruins. The ragged lava shoreline hosts numerous small coves, lava arches, and tidepools. When we walked this trail, it was hella windy. About a half-mile from the trailhead, a gorgeous little white sand beach awaits the first group to stake a claim to it. Enter a shaded grove of ragged trees, littered with the remains of rock walls, and watch for wild goats and pygmy deer.

Just west of Kihie, you will find an underappreciated area of Maui that has better weather than other parts during the winter months.

Maalaea

maalaeabeach1
Length of beach near Maalaea. Quiet and less crowded than other beaches in Maui.

Maalaea is a small community situated on the southern coast of the island, home to about 500 people. South of Maalaea is the busy town of Kihei, north is Kahului and to the west is Lahaina. There are no hotels in Maalaea, but there are private condos.

People who like calm vacations away from the hustle and bustle of touristy Kihei prefer Maalaea.

There are several reasons why you might choose to stay in Maalaea:

  • Proximity to popular attractions: Maalaea is located centrally and is a short drive to everywhere.
  • Scenic location: Maalaea is situated on the coast but not on a beach. There are beautiful ocean views and easy access (a walk) to the beach. It is also located near several natural areas, including the Maalaea Bay Beach Park and the Maalaea Triangle Wetlands. If you are looking to walk out immediately onto a beach, this is not the place.
  • Variety of activities: There are many activities to enjoy in and around Maalaea. Snorkeling is exceptional.
  • Overall, Maalaea is a great place to stay for those looking for a scenic, quiet location with easy access to a variety of activities and attractions, and good weather.
  • Not so commercialized. You feel like you are in a quaint Hawaiian village.
  • Great for adults, not so much for small kids, as there is a walk to the beach.
  • The condos are right on the ocean which is bordered by a rock wall. Views are amazing!
  • Windy but often the wind is a welcomed break from the humid Hawaiian air.
  • Recommend staying if you are looking for a quiet, less touristy place in Maui.

West Maui: For a Bit of Everything

Also on the leeward side, protected from strong winds, West Maui has a few cool places to visit. From south to north along the Honoapiilani Highway, you’ll reach: Lahaina, Ka’anapali, Napili, and Kapalua.

Lahaina: Character and Tourists and Fun

Lahaina, a town with lots going on. I like it here. Lots of locals, visitors, stuff to do, all in one spot. Though there isn’t much of a beach around Lahaina — there are a few sandy beach areas, but nothing like the beaches in South Maui — you can still duck out to catch a few waves.

Lahaina has a brewery a short walk from the main strip, a bunch of good places to eat and shop, an expansive Banyan tree by the modest Maui-Lanai passenger ferry ship terminal, and a lot of character despite being a bit of a tourist trap.

For a nice walk and morning acai breakfast bowl, check out the Baya Bowls Acai food truck, located in a parking lot on Wainee Street (address is 741 Wainee Street, Lahaina, HI 96761).

kaanapali beach resort
Ka’anapali Beach, west side livin’ it up

For a Swanky, More Private Beach Experience You Never Need to Leave: Ka’anapali

A little farther north along the coastal highway, you’ll reach Ka’anapali. This area is a popular go-to tourist hub featuring resorts, eateries, shopping, plus a scenic beachwalk between resorts, not to mention the sandy beaches for swimming & snorkeling. It reminds me of a northwestern Wailea with its golf courses and fancy resorts.

While all visitors should get out and explore all that Maui has to offer, there is enough to do in Ka’anapali to keep you occupied for the entirety of your stay.

With convenient resorts located just steps from Ka’anapali Beach, you can comfortably lounge or play in the water all day. Some of the island’s best snorkel spots are located near Ka’anapali, as well as the famous “Black Rock,” a favorite cliff jumping site that’s popular with everybody. Ka’anapali Beach is also a launch point for several catamaran tours.

Whale-Watching, Anyone?

From November to April, hundreds of humpback whales flock to the shallow waters around Ka’anapali, making the area one of the best places on the island to whale watch. So definitely book an ocean view room if you’re in the area during these months; you are guaranteed dozens of whale sightings from your patio during this time of year.

kaanapali beach: swanky and private

Central Maui: Everybody Comes but Nobody Stays

Kahului is a busy city, home to the (OGG) airport, heliport, sea port, Queen Ka’ahumanu Mall, Target, Walmart, warehouses and schools. Most of the island’s car rental facilities are here, too. And of course, Costco.

Iao Valley Needle
Iao Valley Needle, an easy visit west of Kahului

It is also a short hop to the Iao Valley, a site of historical significance, and the rainiest spot on the island. So check it out. The path to the stop viewpoint is disappointingly short (or not, depending on your fitness level) though there are some paths along the river to compensate if you seek a nature walk.

East Maui: The Road to Hana and Beyond

East Maui is my favorite part of Maui. It just feels right. Jungle, bugs, slower pace of life — all the qualities and non-poisonous critters that are the point of visiting Maui in the first place. There aren’t many tourists who stay overnight in Hana, and that’s a shame. There IS one resort in Hana, and it is pricey. And it doesn’t feel like traditional Hana town. So if you can find a reasonable airbnb, do it. If you prefer to camp, there are limited spots at nearby (and MUST SEE) Waiʻānapanapa State Park.

So. If it is adventure and outdoor immersion you’re after, then East Maui is your soulmate. There are even a few sandy coves here so you can greet the morning sun with a sunrise swim – check out Koki and Hamoa Beaches off the same islet.

Do the Pipiwai Trail, walk the trails at Waiʻānapanapa State Park, and feel your stress transmute into gratitude and Aloha.

Summary of Main Maui Places

Maui is a popular vacation destination with a variety of areas to stay in, each with its own unique charm and attractions.

  1. Ka’anapali: Located on the western side of the island, Ka’anapali is known for its beautiful beaches, world-class resorts, and convenient access to golf courses, shopping, and dining.
  2. Wailea: Located on the southern side of the island, Wailea is known for its upscale resorts, beautiful beaches, and world-class golf courses. It’s a great choice for travelers looking for a more luxury vacation experience.
  3. Kihei: Located on the southern side of the island, Kihei is known for its laid-back vibe and affordable accommodations. It’s a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers and families.
  4. Lahaina: Located on the western side of the island, Lahaina is a historic town known for its charming old town, excellent dining, and shopping. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want to be close to the action.
  5. Hana: East side jungle living at its best. Tourists come for the day but few stay here their entire trip, so Hana offers more privacy but fewer amenities than other areas on the island.

Ultimately, the best area for you will depend on your budget, interests, and personal preferences. It’s a good idea to do some research and consider your options before making a decision.

Central Maui: Central Base

Kahului, Wailuku, etc. This is the town you’ll pass through when you land, if you reach Maui by plane and touch down in Kahului (OGG). Kahului is more of a business spot, and a bit of a visible homeless population hanging out in vehicles by the harbour. The beaches here aren’t that great and wind is mighty, as you may have noticed while landing.

East Maui: Fewer Tourists

Hana is beautiful yet remote and rainforest-y and doesn’t cater to tourists so much. My favorite place to recharge (while discharging my cell phone).

South Maui: Top Destinations

Kihei has everything you need for a smooth family vacation, and is right on the beach (or three), and fairly central.

Wailea is expensive and swanky, with manicured golf courses and huge hotels lining the beach.

Makena Beach is great for sand, people-watching, and snorkeling with the sea turtles (Turtle Town, aka adjacent Maluaka Beach).

West Maui: My Choice

Ka’anapali is a rightfully popular resort area located on the west coast of Maui, north of Lahaina. I prefer Lahaina for the stimulation, but I’m not a resort kind of person. Lahaina town is busy yet feels authentic and situated in the middle of an actual town where people live and play, despite having an obvious tourist strip full of shops. North of Ka’anapali is another small town of Napili — Napili feels like all the locals commute there; not a lot of grocery stores nearby.

Questions People Ask About Where to Stay In Maui

Need more help in deciding where to stay on the island? Maybe you want to know more about the weather or have a specific idea in mind of what kind of vacation you’d like. Ok, let’s figure it out.

Which side of Maui is less windy?

The northeastern side of Maui bears the brunt of the prevailing winds, while the southwestern parts of Maui are more sheltered. Be aware that the winds from the northeast are funneled down central Maui and through Maalaea.

Maui winds are a combination of prevailing trade winds (aka “trades”), combined with local wind effects caused by Maui’s geography. The wind on Maui will be very specific to each different area. The wind on one side of the island can be blowing in the opposite direction from the wind on the other side. Depending on the activity you have planned, you may be seeking out the windiest spot, or trying to shelter from the wind for a surf session or picnic. So check the weather and wind in your destination before setting out for the day; you might be surprised by how quickly the weather changes.

Driving in Maui (Scenic Highways, Driving Times, Safety)

Maui is the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands, with a land area of 729 square miles. It is only 48 miles long and 26 miles across at its widest point. So how long does it take to drive all the way around Maui?

Driving around Maui can take anywhere from two to four hours, depending on the route you take and how many stops you make. The most popular route is the Road to Hana, which takes approximately three hours without any stops — but that’s no fun.

If you wanted to drive around the entire island just to see how long it takes, you would be driving for approximately nine hours without any stops.

Do You Need to Rent a Car in Maui?

If you are staying in the resort area of Kihei with transit access and you have no desire to drive the scenic Maui highways, then you can get away with not renting a vehicle.

But Maui is more fun with your own car, and you can see the sights all over the Island, on your own schedule.

You could always take a tour bus or carpool with new friends if you decide to go exploring other parts of the island. But we recommend a rental, especially if it is your first (and maybe only) time visiting, to make the most of your limited time seeing and doing instead of sitting and planning your schedule.

Is it Easy to Drive in Maui?

Maui has well-maintained main highways and familiar U.S. rules of the road. Most of the driving is straightforward, though there are some island courtesies to be aware of and practice while driving in Maui.

The most common tricky part is driving the Road to Hana, and pulling over wherever there is room to let locals pass when it is safe to do so.

Flashing Headlights to Pass

While driving in the early morning darkness to catch the sunrise at Haleakala, we noticed a vehicle behind us would flash its lights. This was puzzling, as we were driving in a convoy of many cars and buses up to the summit of Haleakala. We slowed down and hugged the shoulder since there wasn’t much room, thinking that the vehicle wanted to pass. It did, but didn’t get very far anyway… Weirdo.

Watch for Cattle on the Roads

Cattle roam freely around Maui, and vehicles often hit cows that are hanging out near roads, enjoying the sun-heated asphalt. Road signs warning against cows in darkness or fog are common. [wikipedia]

Speed limits on Maui

The speed limit on Maui varies depending on the area. Generally, the speed limit is the typical 25 mph in residential areas and 35 mph in business districts.

On highways, the speed limit is usually 55 mph but there are not always signs indicating this. Just pay attention to the road signs as some roads have lower speed limits due to sharp turns or other hazards.

Haleakala Highway (Crater Road)

aerial view of crater road (haleakala highway)

Haleakala Highway, also known as Crater Road, is the two-lane road that leads to the summit of Haleakala. The road is well-maintained and well-traveled, but it’s still a good idea to drive carefully and obey the speed limit signs — police frequently monitor this road — and there are many switchbacks, blind turns and steep drop-offs without guardrails. Also be on the lookout for cattle lowing by the sides of the roads at night and early morning.

Hana Highway

road to hana jungle

Easily the most famous drive on Maui, the beloved (and loathed) Road to Hana is a 52-mile, winding journey that crawls along the coast of the East Maui rain forest. Along the course of this all-day journey there are dozens of waterfalls just minutes from the roadside, and the panoramic vistas stretching out to the horizon will do their best to drain your battery.

It can take ten hours or longer to drive the scenic Hana Highway to Hana and then loop back through central Maui via the Piilani Highway, especially if drivers take necessary rest breaks and stop to enjoy the views and Aloha of the island.

Piilani Highway

piilani highway

While the Road to Hana is a popular must if you want to experience the old Hawai’ian jungle landscape, the back-side of Maui via the Piilani highway (highway 37) is equally intriguing with its multi-coloured martian and lunar-like landscapes, isolated beaches, an isolated church or two, an antique store in the middle of nowhere, and, yes, cattle roaming the road.

Some find this stretch of road rather sketchy, especially at night — we wouldn’t recommend you drive an unfamiliar coastal road at night, anyway. The road can be pretty questionable and washboard at times, but the main concern is meeting an oncoming vehicle at the narrow turns. (Honk as you approach blind corners to alert other drivers of your presence.)

As the road curves around the volcano and heads west, it becomes Highway 31. The scenery here changes from rugged mountain to ranch-covered slopes. You’ll see cattle, goats and the occasional Maui deer. The road then passes the southern lava fields. This recently paved area has curves reminiscent of a sports car commercial, and we saw many a fancy car driving this stretch of road with the top down (not sure how far they went; likely turned around when the road turned to gravel).

Maui Veterans Highway to South Maui

Maui Veterans Highway (Highway 311) runs north-south through the isthmus of Maui from the town of Kahului to Kihei, a distance of around 7 miles one way. Most of the highway passes through sugarcane fields and a protected wetlands area, the Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge.

If you keep heading south, you’ll reach the nicest, sandiest beaches Maui has to offer, with great snorkeling opportunities at Makena and other South Maui beaches.

a Kihei beach

If you drive this road at night, you’ll notice how dark the highway is as you pass the stretch with water on either side of the road — there are no streetlights installed here, as the light would disrupt the nesting sea turtles in the area.

West Maui Driving

The car rental companies will tell you not to travel around the entire Road to Hana loop, and around West Maui’s rural northwest shore. But we did.

north maui, guide books advise against driving this section but we did and it was ok. some narrow parts and lots of blind corners

Although narrow and winding, the road is paved the entire way. We felt fine with the road but it may have been sketchy had the car broken down, plus we had great weather and the road might be dangerous in bad weather with flooding, and falling cliff rocks.

The drive itself is absolutely breathtaking, in some ways more impressive than the Hana Highway, which gets much more publicity. From Kapalua to Wailuku you pass some of the most rugged coastline in the world and some very lovely beaches and bays which are not well known or frequented.

There’s also a blowhole, known as Nakalele Blowhole, an unofficial and somewhat dangerous tourist destination.

Nakalele Blowhole

The drive itself can be done in a couple of hours without stops. In order to really appreciate the views, however, it will take you between four and five hours.

Driving Times on Maui

Driving Time on Maui from Kahului Airport (OGG) to:

Wailuku10 mins.5 miles
Kihei20-30 mins.10 miles
Wailea25-25 mins.17 miles
Kula30-45 mins.18 miles
Makena35-45 mins.19 miles
Lahaina35-45 mins.25 miles
Kaanapali45 mins.30 miles
Kapalua1 hour35 miles
Haleakala1-2 hours38 miles
Hana2-3 hours53 miles
Maui Map 1024x834 1
Map is from the Maui Revealed Guidebook (recommended, although the locals despise it)

Driving Time Around the Entire Island of Maui

If you wanted to drive all day, you can — the driving time around Maui will take about 9 hours around the periphery of the island, including a trip down Maui Veterans Highway 311, to South Maui’s beaches.

Best Price for Gas on Maui

Costco in Kahului has the best price in the Island for gas, but you must be a member to fuel up there and sometimes the lineup is long.

Second-best or sometimes just as cheap and without lineups is the gas bar at Safeway in Kahului (address is 1090 Hookele).

Check Gas Buddy for the cheapest gas prices on the Island.

All Your Questions about Driving the Road to Hana, Answered

A visit to Maui isn’t complete without a drive on the scenic Road to Hana, the windy 2-lane (one-lane at bridges) highway along the eastern coast toward the beautiful jungle of waterfalls and nature hikes of east Maui.

As the island has only a few main roads and just one main road along the coast leading around to the East side, getting to Hana town is pretty straightforward, if not straight.

Where Does the Road to Hana Start?

Spanning 52 miles (or 64 miles, depending on your end point), the Road to Hana begins at mile marker 0, a few miles east from Paia when Hwy 36 turns into Hwy 360.

(You can start the Road to Hana from Kahului on Hwy 36 and continue east on the same road which becomes Hwy 360.)

Keep in mind that the average posted speed limit is 25 mph. This stretch of road is infamously called the “Divorce Highway”, thanks to its relationship-testing 617 turns & 59 (mostly one-lane) bridges. Fun times!

It is the longest rainforest highway in the USA, and is a registered historic area.

Here is a map showing where to reach the Road to Hana, from various points on the island. If you are new to Maui, your main point of reference is likely Kahului Airport:

road to hana map with directions

There is also a small airport in Hana, used for island hopping between the Hawai’ian Islands. If you don’t want to drive the Road to Hana, you could fly to Hana in 21 minutes from Kahului!

Starting the Road to Hana From Kahului

From the airport in Kahului, take highway 36 east toward Paia. The road will turn into 360, Hana Highway, a few miles after Baldwin Rd./Paia as you go east.

Notice that the highway turns into highway 37 beyond Kaupo as the road curves west and north towards Kula, the Haleakala Crater, and back to Kahului.

The drive from Kahului Airport (OGG) is 53 miles, but most of the posted speed limits east of Paia are 25mph, so expect a drive of almost 3 hours, not including stops.

Related: Should You Do Haleakala Sunrise and Road to Hana in the Same Day?

https://youtu.be/FhmuiZD9Y_Y

[Download] PDF Map of the Best Stops on the Road to Hana

If you don’t want to use a GPS app, you can use your odometer’s mile markers to know generally where to stop, and bring along a PDF with mile markers [link to download].

Reset your odometer at Mile Marker 0 (you’ll see it as you head east a few miles from Paia), and let the good times roll.

The road to Hana is a neat journey back in time to old Hawaii with unique jungle landscapes, waterfalls, and stunning beaches.

It is possible to go to all stops in one day, but it would be a VERY long day, and rushed, and defeats the point. We suggest a trip to Ho’okipa (to watch the surfers) and Twin Falls on a separate day, if you are staying somewhere nearby.

Start the trip before 7am to give yourself enough time for everything. You do not want to be driving the road to Hana in reverse after dark.

You could also spend an entire day lounging at Koki Beach and Hamoa Beach. Wai’anapanapa State Park with its black pebble beach and lava hike is also worth an afternoon or morning (if you stay the night in Hana, you can be the only people on the beach in the evening and early morning!).

We spent an afternoon at the Haleakala National Park in Kipahulu – a brief look at the Ohe’o Gulch, and a couple hours hiking up the Pipiwai Trail.

How Long Does it Take to Do the Road to Hana?

With a few stops at the main attractions, the drive takes about 5 hours one way, and 7 to 9 hours for a rushed round-trip from Kahului (assuming a few stops). 

As written above, the road is 52 miles long and the posted speed limit averages 25 mph, so you do the math.

A few miles beyond Hana, the highway changes to Piilani highway 37, at which point the mile markers begin to descend.

To Drive to Hana and back, we suggest you schedule a full day, about 10 to 12 hours depending on stops and what you decide to do for lunch (we suggest a packed picnic, or a stop at the convenient food trucks in Hana town for a tasty and reasonably priced meal).

To actually enjoy the sights and experiences of the Road to Hana, consider making several trips (one day for hikes and waterfalls, and separate days for enjoying Hamoa or swimming and hiking at Black Sands Beach at the state park).

The drive itself isn’t as fun as the stops you decide to make along the way.

If you want to Loop the Entire Road: It’ll take about a day (dawn to dusk) to drive all the way around (make the clockwise loop from Paia to Kula and back up to Kahului) – so 10 to 12 hours, without stopping for hikes and wandering around.

What Time Should You Start the Road to Hana?

As early as possible, if you plan on stopping at the sights. Most people leave between 7am and 9am, so aim to leave either before or after that window to avoid being stuck with the convoy of cars (let’s be honest — the convoy of rented jeeps).

Where To Start the Road to Hana?

Start where you are. If you are in Kahului, head east on Hwy 36 and continue east on the same road, which then becomes Hwy 360.

Technically, the stretch of highway known as the Road to Hana begins at mile 0 where Hwy 36 transforms into Hwy 360, just east of Paia town.

How Long Does it Take to Drive the Road to Hana from Lahaina?

A conservative estimate is 3-5 hours, assuming a bit of traffic and zero stops. Assume about 45 minutes of direct driving time from Lahaina to Kahului, then another 2.5 hours (53 miles at 25mph), plus stops on the Road to Hana itself.

If you aren’t planning on stopping at any of the waterfalls, trails, scenic viewpoints, etc., the drive straight from Lahaina to Hana will take a good 2.75-4 hours, depending on time of day.

If you are planning on dedicating an entire day to the Road to Hana, then leave as early as you can (just before sunrise is an ideal goal) and take your time, enjoying the drive.

Is Road to Hana Paved?

Yes, as of 1962, the 52 miles of road leading to Hana town are paved. You’ll have no problems driving the Road to Hana with a rental car.

Should you choose to do the full “Loop” back up through Kula and Kahului, you’d encounter the sketchy length of bumpy washboard /pothole road.

This gravel road is a few miles west of Kaupo on (what turns into) the Piilani highway 37, but the gravel area is only a 15-minute (or so — seems longer) portion.

Be prepared for a couple cliff views (you’ll be on the inner lane of the road, at least). We navigated that portion easily with a tired old rental Nissan Sentra, but had the weather been rainy (or had we met with more oncoming cars), the drive would have been tricky.

It was still a white-knuckle event, approaching oncoming cars as we climbed a blind coastal corner (or several). Just go slow and honk as you reach blind corners. And there are many blind corners.

Is Driving the Road to Hana Dangerous?

The road isn’t dangerous, it simply requires attentive drivers and the knowledge of common courtesies:

  • If someone is following on your tail, pull over and slow down and wave them to pass when it makes sense to do so. Lots of locals commute everyday on this highway.
  • Wave your thanks, or give the shaka hand sign and spread the Aloha when somebody yields or waits for you to go. Never underestimate the power of appreciation.
  • Don’t stop on bridges to take photos! Don’t stop on bridges, period.
  • Honk when approaching a blind corner, to alert potential oncoming vehicles of your presence.
  • We recommend using a tour app (either the GyPSy or Shaka app) to alert you to popular areas before you get there, so you can watch for cars and people in odd places.
  • Pay attention. Be aware that people might be walking in places where they shouldn’t; not everybody is a Rhodes Scholar.

Which Car Has the “Right of Way”?

You’ll frequently meet oncoming vehicles at the worst moments on narrow passages.

So if you’re driving up a curvy coastal road, and the other car is coming down the hill, which one should yield?

The rule is that the car driving downhill yields the right of way.

Even though a vehicle coming uphill can (all things being equal) stop quicker, this rule ensures the vehicle travelling downhill, where stopping distances are longer, has to pay more attention.

blind corner uphill road to hana
Honk as you approach blind corners.

So even though you are traditionally given the go ahead as you drive uphill, don’t assume that the other car will always give you this courtesy. It takes all kinds. Proceed carefully and use your judgment.

Do You Need a Jeep for the Road to Hana?

No, you do not need a jeep, SUV, nor any kind of 3-wheel drive vehicle to successfully complete the Road to Hana.

Sure, a jeep sounds like fun in theory, but when you’re bouncing along and can’t hear your partner or friends because of the wind and then a cloud (common in east Maui) decides to open up above you and you have to scramble to get the cover up, you might regret your jeep choice.

Don’t cave in to the suggestion of the rental car company. 🙂

Are Rental Cars Allowed on the Road to Hana?

Yes, rental cars are permitted on the Road to Hana. The road is a paved, maintained highway. Do not be frightened into upgrading your rental to a jeep when all you need is a basic car.

How Should I Dress for the Road to Hana?

The easy answer is to dress in layers.

Your planned activities on the Road to Hana dictate what to wear:

  • if you plan to hike, wear a bathing suit underneath your hiking clothes, with suitable shoes with a bit of grip for muddy trails (the Eastern side of Maui receives more frequent rainfalls at night, so even though it might not rain during the day while you visit, a previous night’s watering — combined with the protective canopy of the jungle — ensure that the ground retains water for longer).
  • If you want to mainly drive the road and only venture outside to glance at a park or take in a roadside waterfall viewpoint, wear whatever is comfortable. Flip flops are fine in this case.

And check the Hana weather forecast before heading out.

Is There Cell Service on the Road to Hana?

Hana Highway 360 runs along an isolated part of east Maui that is shielded by lots of rock interference (Haleakala Volcano).

As a result, cell phone reception is often spotty or non-existent along the majority of the road. 

Hana Town and the Ke’anae Peninsula are your best bets for finding coverage, although we were often surprised to have coverage in areas that seemed like the middle of nowhere.

And anyway, we relied on the GPS in our phone and the offline GyPSy app to alert us to must-see stops, so going without cell service wasn’t a problem.

Hiking the Pipiwai Trail (Maui Bamboo Forest Trail)

Woohoo, you’re in Maui!

I’m going to guess that you’ve been mostly cooped up in a vehicle all day, cursing and stressing and divorcing along the Road to Hana, so how about escaping outside to meet nature, to breathe some of that fortifyingly (it’s a word now) pristine island air?

And feel the familiar yet unwelcome persistence of tiny mosquitoes (non-native insects, by the way)? Sold?! Great.

Go hike the Pipiwai Trail up 650 ft of elevation gain, to see Waimoku Falls.

Grab a couple walking sticks, a hiking buddy, and hit the trail.

The mosquitoes were barely noticeable, actually, but others have complained about the little buggers when the wet and humid and muddy trails provide ideal environments for the dear things to flourish.

How to Get There

Parking for the “Seven Sacred Pools” and the Pipiwai Trail is at the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park (the south-east side of the park), located 12 miles past the town of Hāna (following the road around the Island, clockwise).

You can’t miss it. Especially if you are using one of the Maui GPS apps.

Both trails are clearly marked, and clearly popular.

If you like to enjoy nature in solitude, and if you are looking for the most enjoyable bamboo forest hiking experience, get to the park early.

You want to hear the wind dancing through the tall bamboo stands, right?

To beat the rush, we stayed overnight in Hana town, then hit the road early (the curvy drive took about 45 minutes).

Trail Conditions: Often Muddy

This trail is in East Maui’s coastal jungle, so be prepared for rain and flash flooding.

The Pipiwai trail, with its cool bamboo forest portions and several waterfall views, offers a rewarding view and good hiking for people in decent shape.

We ventured out in late October, a few days after some light rain, so the trail was nice and muddy.

Yet still busy.

Many of the regulars (and a few people wearing inappropriate footwear) opted to hike in bare feet; seemed to work out for them. Definitely choose hiking boots over shoes with little tread. Things got slippery up there.

Pipiwai Trail, Oheo Gulch, Bamboo Forest in Kipahulu (sign in Haleakala NP)
Pipiwai and Ohe’o Gulch Trail Map

Short Walk to the Seven Sacred Pools

From the parking lot and visitors’ center, it is an easy, barely-a-mile-walk to see the Seven Sacred Pools (‘Ohe’o Gulch). And because it is short and easy, it is a heavily trafficked loop trail.

The trail is primarily used for walking, looking at other tourists, bird watching, and taking selfies, and is accessible year-round.

We didn’t stick around at this tourist attraction for long when we visited in November, as recent rains rendered the pools an uninviting brown colour and much of the pool area was blocked off, for safety’s sake. Still a neat place to see.

seven sacred pools at oheo gulch, a few days after a rain
‘Ohe’o Gulch and the so-called Seven Sacred Pools, a few days after a rain

Ideally, you’d want to work up a sweat by hiking 2 miles up (and 2 miles back down) the Pipiwai trail, then loop down to the “Seven Sacred Pools” (there are neither seven pools nor are they sacred) and cool off in the (hopefully) clear waters.

Restrooms: Always There For You

All restrooms are open 24 hours per day, seven days per week, except when the park is closed during severe weather events [source].

Points of Interest on The Pipiwai Trail

What can I say about a hike without spoiling every surprise? I can show you images that do a better job.

The Banyan Tree

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The majestic banyan tree on the way up to Waimoku Falls

Once you reach this spot, you know you’re about halfway up the trail to the Waimoku Falls.

Waimoku Falls info board

Key Takeaways

  • Taking the Pipiwai trail up to Waimoku Falls is a popular hike of moderate difficulty (no flip flops, people) and of decent length.
  • 4 miles round-trip.
  • Not for the weak or weak-willed.
  • Often a slippery, muddy trail.
  • Walk through a non sequitur bamboo forest.
  • Spoiler alert — amazing view of Waimoku waterfalls at the end. Expect a pterodactyl to come gliding over the top and swoop down at any moment.

Pipiwai Trail Images

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Notice the tread on the hiking shoes
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Too. Much. Pretty.

FAQs: Things People Want to Know About Pipiwai and Wailua Falls

Pipiwai Trail Deaths

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Every so often, someone chooses an unfortunate day to hike (after a heavy rain, for example), or walks off the marked path and falls, or stands beneath a waterfall and suffers a collision with a piece of falling debris.

And sometimes accidents just happen.

Still, there are many factors you control: wear proper shoes, bring water, be mindful of the weather forecast and current trail conditions, respect the warnings of rangers and heed the posted signs.

And have fun…!

Is There Another Bamboo Forest Hike?

Yes, there are likely several hikes called Bamboo Forest hike. The one to which you are referring is probably the Na’ili’ili Haele Stream & Waterfalls trail on EMI land, which is now closed (unless you secure a permit, I’ve heard).

There have been many fatalities here. Please do not go hiking after it has been raining, for risk of flash flooding.

“People have been killed and seriously injured here. The only way out if you are seriously hurt is a helicopter ride.”
“Lots of people have been rescued from here in the past week due to being uneducated on the dangers of this hike. Don’t be one of those people, and do your research.” – 2015

Can I walk to the top of the Wailua Falls?

It is not safe to walk to the top of the 400-feet high Wailua Falls, as the area is steep and slippery, and there are no established trails or viewing areas.

It’s best to enjoy the falls from a safe distance and admire their natural beauty.