Hoapili Trail was a surprise with its stunning coastline, featuring dark volcanic rock and white coral. We enjoyed hiking along the trail and exploring this unique area. read more

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This is a walk from the only parking area. There is a map and you follow the coast. Today , just to the lighthouse and back. You need good shoes and water. No services. read more

Hoapili Trail - Hiking Near Me - Wailea, Hawaii

Mostly level 1.8 mile to, 1.8 mile back, trail but a slight chore at times due to the volcanic rocky terrain. You will be rewarded with secluded beaches along the way. When we went it was overcast and almost no one around, which was nice. read more

Hoapili Trail - Beach at end of trail - Hiking Near Me - Wailea, Hawaii

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Beautiful empty trail generally flat but with rocky terrain Encounter goats and mini beaches with pinnacle read more

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Rocks, Rocks, and... Did I Mention Rocks? I came here specifically because I have a hip issue and needed a "mostly flat, easy hike" -- the description sounded perfect: gentle elevation, beautiful scenery, and access to secluded beaches. What's not to love? I wasn't expecting: ROCKS. Rocks everywhere. Rocks of every size. Sure, some pleasant stretches had smallish 3"-6" stones -- doable, annoying but fine. But then there were sections with 6"-12" ankle-twisting stones that stretched on and on. Instead of enjoying the ocean views and coastal beauty , I spent the entire time staring straight down, hyper-focused on each and every step so I didn't end up slipping or twisting an ankle. The scenery? I'm sure it was lovely! Too bad I had to choose between seeing it and staying upright. If your idea of fun is tiptoeing across uneven rocks for miles while clenching every stabilizer muscle you have -- this trail's for you. If you have any kind of hip/knee/ankle concern... maybe choose another trail. read more

We came here to walk Hoapli trail hoping to see more tropical vegetation and wild goats but it was already roasting hot at 9 am. Though we had decent shoes, hats, and plenty of sunblock we wanted something more relaxing and turned around after 30 minutes and went back to the beach. The big reason for this was total exposure to the sun with no shade in the first part of this trail. The road leading here will pass lava fields and get to an unpaved rocky area with bumpy roads. The parking lot near the large stone Perouse memorial is small but we saw people drive down the rocky road and park right at the beach. White coral mixes with black lava on yellow sand creating a unique landscape. We loved searching the tidepools and finding all the different shapes and styles of the washed up white coral. Like most areas of Maui, the view looking backwards from the beach is just as good as the beach itself with large green mountains and cloud filled blue skies. read more

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An out-of-the-way trail near the Lava Fields, Hoapili is a fairly easy hike with stunning coastline views of La Perouse Bay. While it's mostly level without many inclined or declines, it's a bit rocky, so hiking shoes are recommended. There isn't much to see other than the water (unless you're lucky enough to see wildlife like a sea turtle, seal, spinner dolphin or whale), but it's not strenuous at all, and being so out of the way, it's a pretty quiet hike. As with camping, don't take nor leave anything, and don't approach any wildlife. There's a decent amount of parking, but the roads are rocky and bumpy as well. read more

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Pretty trail, all along the seashore - bring proper footwear! This trail is outside of the reserve so don't be confused by the signs telling you which areas are closed and which are open. Just head towards the point where you can see several islands, sealife, and get a sense of peace and tranquility. Note that most of this trail is on volcanic rock and would best be traversed in hiking shoes. There were some folks out here in flip flops and other sandals but it is not advised. They all admitted regret over their decision of footwear. Bring water and a towel so you can hydrate and take a dip when it gets hot! read more

Tips for going to the end of the train: 1. shoes with great underfoot protection 2. water shoes for the little beach at the end if you plan to go in AND get there EARLY. this area of Maui gets un-snorkel-able by maybe 10 or 11 a.m. 3. great sunblock and lots of water 4. a leash (because they just started putting the goats up for adoption). read more

Loved the views! History has it that this trail was once reserved for royalty. Now, hikers, surfers and fisherman can be found along the trail and in the water. Here it is in a nutshell... -it's somewhat hidden and located at the end of Makena Alanui Road. -there is a small parking lot and it's free. -a sign at the head gives you details of the trail and rules to follow- clean up after yourself, don't take or move anything, be prepared for self-rescue. etc. (See my photo of the sign for more.) -the trail is relatively easy and somewhat flat trail. -trail is largely a path of rocks so wear good shoes -there is not much shade so wear a hat, go early, and wear sunscreen -when the trail splits, stay to the right to enjoy the coastal view -enjoy and respect the many wild goats on the trail and they shouldn't bother you -there are plenty of areas to stop and hop in the water - it's an out and back trail that runs about 5.5 miles round-trip. You can obviously turn around at any point. It's a side of Maui that most never see. I included several photos but you really need to see yourself to appreciate it. read more

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I didn't expect to love this trail but I did!! The secret is to take the coastal route and then veer off to the far right to the narrow trail that takes you (safely) along the edge of the cliffs. If you are afraid of heights, you may want to stay on the main trail, but you will miss seeing the caves, blowholes and the crashing of the waves spraying into the sky as they crash against the rocks. There are wild goats wandering around the trails. We saw a lot of them! The beaches along this hike are some of the most beautiful secluded beaches I've seen on Maui! The waves are huge and there were a lot of surfers out. Wear solid hiking shoes. My tennis shoes were sufficient, but I had to be careful. When you reach the end of the trail (the trail to the right when the trail forks) look for the small narrow trail to the right to go down to the giant beach and tide pools. This isn't a steep or difficult trail but you need to be careful where you step. The most enjoyable part of the trail was following the smaller trails to explore the scenery from the cliffs. We spent about about 2.5 hrs on this trail. You can get through it a lot faster but we loved exploring the beaches and cliffs. read more

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Great hike through the trees and on lava rocks with lots of cool beaches and views along the way.

Like so many other Yelpers below I loved this hike, the beauty of the sea, lava fields and bush was amazing. We did it on a Friday and only passed a few other couples and a solitary hiker so it was easy to social distance and feel like we had the entire walk and beaches to ourselves. Crashing waves, shy mountain goats, gnarled trees overhanging the sea, sandy swimmable beaches, walking the plank, rock climbing, and coral dugouts to hide from the wind while you stare at another island looming up close. Soooo many photo opportunities it is bewildering, but, and a biggie, don't take your expensive camera unless you are sure footed like aforementioned goats. Use your phone camera and keep it in your pocket just in case you fall, because you will! We did and everyone we saw on the walk did too as the rocky surfaces you are walking on move and are sharp lava most of the way. We wore memory foam sneakers and our feet were aching after so we are going to wear our thick soled hiking shoes with ankle support next time. We saw a brave young couple trying it in flip flops but their feet were cut up and they did not look happy! We also found that you have to watch where you are putting your feet to avoid tripping on the lava stretches so we tended to walk a short distance then stop and drink in the views and snap a few photos before walking another short distance watching our feet. We avoided any further trips or falls that way. The bush and beach are plain sailing, easy ground to cover and they intersperse with the lava so your feet get a rest ;) There is a car park, and the last little bit is not tarmac, but you definitely don't need 4x4. Take everything with you as there is no water or restrooms, and even though the hike is not long it takes time, especially if you want to get full value and explore all the little paths to the beaches and rocky bays. As usual, don't leave valuables in your car, the broken glass in the car park attests to the break ins. Sad to have to warn about it, but don't let it put you off. We have been on some great hikes in Maui but this definitely is our favourite, hands down! Being on the end of the island in stunning scenery and a wilderness is so breath takingly zen. read more

Because of some nay sayers, I almost didn't attempt this trail, but I'm glad I did. Providing you have sturdy shoes, the lava rock shouldn't be a problem.....and the views! On one side you have the mountains and on the other the coast with its crashing waves. At the end of the trail, there is a beach where you can find a big smooth stone to sit on and just be. According to prideofmaui.com, she says the end of the trail has a pristine bay where intermediate and advanced snorklers can explore. However, on the day I visited, that wasn't the case unless you're into crashing waves into VERY sharp lava rocks. In fact, the day I visited, the weather was overcast and somewhat drizzly which was a blessing in that we didn't experience the intense heat that others have described. read more

Just did this entire trail yesterday and I am so sore I can't even move. The majority of the hike is through intense, sharp, loose lava rocks. Most of the time you are looking down so you don't break your ankle so you cannot enjoy any kind of view unless you stop. It was very hot. You must bring water and protective clothing. We kept hiking this God forsaken trail hoping that the pristine beach would appear; it never did. All we came upon was a beach filled with lava rocks and waves that were very strong. Scary to even get in the water. A big, hot, treacherous, disappointment. O read more

I'm certainly a fan of the beautiful vistas and beach towards the end of this trail. But I did not enjoy the lava rock part of the journey. It is certainly as described in other reviews. We read reviews before setting out. We live in Kihei and wanted to go on a trail on this part of the island. So we set off on a Sunday afternoon around 1:30pm. It was hot, but not miserable - only because it got very cloudy. The bummer about the clouds is the lack of light dulls out the ocean so it wasn't as pretty as when we started. I agree with the others to wear sturdy shoes. Hiking boots would actually be great because of the unstable footing on the lava portion. You certainly don't want your toes exposed. I do agree to take a snack and water, especially if you plan to go to the beach at the end. We each took a liter bottle then left two more liters in our car to have when we returned. Just remember whatever you take, you'll have to carry a good long ways. Please remember to pack your trash out as there are no facilities. If you're only on Maui for a week to 10 days, this would not be at the top of my suggestions. This is pretty, but I feel like there are other hikes far more rewarding. And not nearly as rough on your knees/ankles. Now if you're out here for 3-4 weeks then go check it out. read more

Hoapili Trail - Trail to the right, beautiful vistas to the left. Don't get too close to the edge! - Hiking Near Me - Wailea, Hawaii

Not my favorite hike, but still a gorgeous place to visit. Located literally at the end of S. Kihei Road. It's a pretty drive down but beware of people as the road gets really narrow through Makena. This hike is HOT. And I need to start off this review stating that this is NOT a hike for dogs. The lava gets way too hot and sharp for their poor little paws. There is basically no shade so it's wise to get up early and do this hike. There are a few little coves to dip your feet in and depending on the time of year, perhaps soak in. But the water can be extremely rough so be careful. Close-toed shoes, a hat, sunscreen and water are HIGHLY recommended for this hike. Also a first aid kit in case a piece of lava gets in your way and you get scraped/cut (it's happened to me more than once). TIP: The best time to do this hike is when it's overcast in Makena. It's also not really all that fun for kids. And again, please don't bring the dogs. They'll be much happier where it's grassy or sandy. This one is just too much for them. read more

This is my favorite place in Maui. There's a beautiful surprise at every turn. Be sure to wear good shoes (flip flops would be insane; the lava rock trail is uneven throughout, and you need to watch your step constantly). It's easy to get here. Just keep driving to the end of Makena Alanui. If you're driving through lava fields, keep going. You're on the right track. Each time we go a little further based on the time. Even if you only have as little as 30 minutes, it's worth the trek, but give yourself a couple of hours. read more

Hoapili is a long, hot trek through lava fields by the ocean. Please bring plenty of water and food. Wear sturdy shoes (hiking ones preferably). Pay attention to signage to make sure you stay on the trail. I loved the expansive vistas of wide-open sky above the lava fields. Beautiful rugged coastline. There are some very nice little overlooks and secluded beaches that you will encounter along the way. The path can be very difficult to walk on at parts, and there are some inclines and declines, climbing over uneven rock, so be very careful. Would not recommend to bring the kids. All in all, I loved the hike and would recommend for anyone who is in good physical condition. read more

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This two mile hike across open lava fields is best suited for adventure loving, physically fit, tenacious, nature aficionados. The views of the rugged and often windy shore line will take your breath away and leave you with a view of Maui's 'younger' wild and wooly side. Be advised to wear a hat, sunscreen, good hiking shoes, and carry lots of water. Highly recommended. read more

So this is definitely a hike. Like not just your average run-of-the-mill hike. This is, for all intents and purposes, the hike into hell. So get ready to sweat. Now granted, once you pass through the endless lava fields, the scorching sun drenched rocky paths, the treacherous coastlines and kiawe tree-lined stretches of haunted beach forest... well, then the fun begins. Because then, provided you've already passed the goat bone ritual sacrifices (I'm not kidding) and the broken down fence that begins your journey onto the King's Highway, you've got three miles of unending lava fields to contend with -- complete with a 360 degree vista view of, well, nothing but lunar landscape. I joked with my dad that this was my version of hell. The whole thing is rather disturbing, in a beautiful awful sort of way. Of course, once you're able to finish the 3 mile hike to Kanaoi Beach, then you've found a real hidden treasure. Only three other brave folks were there, sitting on an old wooden swing, smoking a joint, enjoying a magnificent pebble beach complete with an obstructed view of the pacific ocean. If you, like I did, walk a bit further down the coastline, past the ancient Hawaiian settlements and the century plants, you'll find yourself an actual rubbish beach -- complete with washed up coral, massive and intact conch shells, two dead and bloated pufferfish, huge cowries and plenty of shipwrecked beach trash. All in all, if shells or interesting beach trash is your game, the hike through hell is worth it. A word of advice -- bring at last 4 bottles of water per person. Perhaps food. A flare gun. And, at the very least, hiking boots (or strong Tevas with socks). And lastly, make sure people know where you've gone off to. Once you've ventured several miles into the lava fields, there's no cell service, no roads and frankly, no turning back. read more

Loved this. Not hard just a lot of little lava rocks you are walking on the entire time which is tiring. But you could literally do this with a kid it's pretty flat and the coolest scenes read more

Perfect hike on a bright day, the water looks incredible in contrast with the black and rust lava rocks! The first mile is easy walking along packed rock and the sandy beach. After that the lava rocks become uneven and difficult to walk across. This hike would not be safe in flip flops and bring lots of water! read more

Awesome trail. We went early in the morning, wasn't hot. We got a great workout. Saw some cool wildlife and around every corner was a crystal blue cove. The trail has copious amounts of loose lava rock which was tiring but more than doable. I did it with my one year old in a back pack, with regular running shoes and had no problems. Glad we got out and did this trail the end view is more than worth it! Enjoy! read more

Absolutely amazing. Having the white shell beach to yourself makes the four mile (round trip) hike over the lava rock well worth it. Enjoy the wild goats--we saw two dozen of them. read more

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The Hoapili Trail traverses the hot, dry, and barren southwest coast of Maui over a 200 year old lava flow, one of the last from Haleakala. The trail is part of an old Hawaiian trail system that once encircled Maui and allowed the royalty to travel from village to village. Because of the unrelenting sun and the difficult terrain, we recommend that you NOT attempt this hike if you have small children. Even older children may find it challenging. This is best done as a parents only hike. If you must bring your children, we recommend only hiking the first part of the trial that follows the coastline along the bay. There is still plenty to see! Stop when the trail turns inland towards the lava field and head back the way you came. If you do choose to hike the trail, hiking shoes are a must. You will also need to bring lots of water and snacks. There is no shade on the trail once you get into the lava field and the lava rocks seem to intensify the heat! The first part of the trail follows the coast to the east along La Perouse Bay. Be sure to watch for wild goats along this portion of the trial! Kiawe trees provide intermittent shade. Shortly after exiting the trees, the trail turns inland and the lava field looms ahead. The difficult part of crossing the lava field is not the distance or the elevation but the heat and the constantly unstable footing created by the lava rocks. After traversing the lava field, the trail quickly descends to a beautiful white and black pebble beach, called Kanaio Beach, with a very large kiawe tree providing blessed shade! Someone even thought to create a log swing which makes a great place to sit and enjoy the beach. The beach itself is usually deserted, however, there are some hearty locals who venture here from time to time to camp, so don't be too disappointed if after all that work you find yourself sharing the beach. After checking out the beach and resting up a bit, head farther to the east along the coast a few hundred yards and check out the shore line and tide pools before heading back. There are no facilities along the trail. We recommend bringing a first aid kit with you, the lava rocks can be quite sharp and the terrain can cause blisters even if you are wearing the best of shoes! In addition to lots of water, bring a hat and sunscreen and don't forget the camera! read more

Very hot I should of chosen a different hiking trail but it was close to my hotel never again