Feel like a nice, flat hike along a scenic coastline through one of Maui’s youngest lava flows? Well, this hike may be for you.
Hiking The Hoapili Trail (Maui, Hawaii)
In the extreme south end of Maui, you’ll find the pristine Ahini-Kina’u Natural Area Reserve. Just outside its boundaries, is the wonderful and interesting Hoapili Trail.
About The Hoapili Trail
The Hoapili Trail is an out-and-back trail taking you across a rugged lava field, along untouched beaches and sea cliffs, and past ancient Hawaiian cultural sites.
You can also choose to hike all the way to the Hanomanioa Lighthouse and Kanaio Beach. The mileage is about 2 miles each way to Kanaio beach. There is not a lot of shade here, so early morning or late afternoon hikes are probably the best bets. You’ll also need to bring plenty of water and close-toed shoes –no flip-flops!
This trail is dog-friendly, but they should [must] be kept on a leash. Dog paws can get easily cut up on the lava rocks so keep them on trail.
Location And Getting There
Located about 1 hour and 15 minutes south of the Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas, the Hoapili Trail lies at Maui’s southern most tip.
To get there, head due south along HI-30 to State Highway 31 (the Makena Highway) and then continue onto Makena Rd.
The final section of this road will lead you through a desolate but scenic stretch of road that traverses the remnants of a large lava flow. Continue until you reach the parking lot at road’s end.
The Parking Lot
There is a small (but ample) parking lot marked with a row of lava rocks.
You’ll know you made it when you see this small monument to the French Admiral Laperouse.
The original indigenous name of the bay is Keone’o’io
The Trailhead
This signage marks the trailhead; I recommend going right at the first fork (toward the ocean)
Section 1: Along The Sea To The Fork In The Road
The trail starts off immediately in the lava field.
Before long, you’ll find yourself along the rugged coastline with interesting lava formations.
Section 2: The Fork In The Road To The First Forested Area
Continue on the trail toward the tree line up ahead.
Here, you are about to enter the forest area. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife.
The remains of the trail’s first cultural site.
Section 3: The Scenic Beach Cove
As you leave the trees, you’ll come upon a beautiful little beach cove.
Take some time to explore the rocks and pools.
The Island of Kahoolawe lies just off the coast.
This is how ancient Hawaiians got their salt.
At this point you can decide to continue on to the lighthouse or reverse course back toward the parking lot (to explore the other side of the return loop).
Section 4: The Return Fork In The Road To The Parking Lot
At this fork, keep right and continue back into the lava field.
Go right at this for in the road to head toward the most impressive ruins on the Hoapili Trail
This section of the trail has the largest and most intact ancient Hawaiian sites on the Hoapili Trail.
Resist the urge! Stay on trail
It’s interesting to imagine what this site may have looked like in its prime.
The end of the line.
Final Thoughts On Hiking The Hoapili Trail (Maui, Hawaii)
The area around the Ahini-Kina’u Natural Area Reserve is stunning. Actually, the entire southwestern coast of Maui is beautiful and teeming with oceanic wildlife; here you’ll find some of the best beaches for swimming and snorkeling the island has to offer.
Its fair to say the Hoapili trail more of a nature trail than true hike. What it lacks in technical difficulty, it makes up for in its exposure to the elements and rough lava rock. You can customize this hike depending on the weather and sun by deciding how far out you want to hike.
The Hoapili Trail is a relaxing stroll along a nature trail that takes anywhere from 1 to 3 hours (depending on distance hiked and exploration of coastal pools). I should mention the journey down to Hoapili is almost as scenic as the destination itself, making the drive down to the Hoapili Trail is a “must-do” on Maui, even if you don’t do the hike.
Cheers!
