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Some twisty roads up and on your way you pass Honolua bay where there is some of the best snorkling in Hawaii. In terms of the blowhole, it costs $15 to park which feels a bit steep- plus you get zero cell reception near one of the pay signs and need to move to where you can get reception just to pay the fee. Annoying. Getting past that.....You can get a great view of the blowhole without the full hike down, however the hike itself is enjoyable and does come with an even better view of the hole. Some amazing views once you make your way down of the crashing white waves on the buttressing volcanic formations and mountainside. Beautiful and worth a short trip.
This small hike to Nakalele blowhole was well worth the effort. It's about a 30 min drive from Kaanapali and when you arrive you have to decide to pay the $20 parking ticket for all day or risk getting an expensive citation. I paid. The hike is moderately challenging down and back up and favors the young and athletic. If you're older or out of shape it may be a struggle. There's a sign that warns of mortal danger if you get too close to the blowhole. So don't be a dipshit. The payoff was definitely worth it. The blow hole spouts every couple minutes and the scenery is fantastic. There are some cool lookouts from the cliff and my heart definitely raced a bit when I got close to the edge. Definitely a must do while you're visiting Maui.
It's not an easy walk down, steep through rocky terrain. However, a mildly fit person can do it without much difficulty. Respect the area. Rogue waves can hit the cliff side and sweep over; use caution if you are at the edge like my kid was. She was with an adult and didn't spend much time there. The rogue waves are more risky than you falling into the blowhole. Keep a healthy distance from it and you will be ok. There is paid parking at the road but we had no cell reception to use the QR code. There's also a snack stand.
A fun excursion with some warnings: Somewhat treacherous hike down to the blowhole. Not for just anyone. After a rain, it is very slippery. Approximately a quarter mile hike. 100ft elevation drop with areas to be on all hands & feet to climb or descend depending which path you take ~ shorter route harder, longer route not as hard. Many will think the flat area at the blowhole is safe ~ the occasional splash has water reaching viewers easily combined with strong winds...slips & injury. Do not attempt to look over and into the blowhole. Many have died. With all that said, it is a beautiful natural site, the 'Ol Faithful of Maui ;)
Blow Code Translated as "the leaning," Nākālele Point is a gorgeous--but dangerous--land mass located at the northern tip of Maui. It is known for the "blowhole" effect that gets created when the waves hit a specific rock and shoots water high into the air, creating a whale-like spout. The Good: *Free parking *There's usually a food stand at the "parking lot" selling baked goods and other Hawaiian made goodies. *The hike up and down to the blowhole is fairly easy and probably less than a mile up and back. Just make sure you have the proper footwear--flip-flops and sandals are *not* recommended. *As mentioned above, the views are spectacular, but then again, what isn't here in Hawai'i? The Meh: *The term "parking lot" is very loosely used here, as you're literally just pulling off the shoulder of the highway into some areas that have flattened over time by cars. An SUV or Jeep® would be preferable here, but you can make-do in a car if you're careful. The Ugly: *The inevitable jackass(es) who refuse to heed the warning that the blowhole is actually very dangerous and could kill you. We had to literally watch this one old fat ass parade around the blowhole like a 16-year-old girl while his obviously embarrassed SO took photos of him in various poses. It was douche chilly to the max. TLDR: Cool place to visit while vacationing in Maui, and the whole thing should take you about an hour or so.
I am sure the blowhole is a 5-star sight and amazing to see... if only we saw it! :) My rating is more about the experience itself as I'd consider it a fairly treacherous trek down the trail. There were people of all ages (including kids) walking it, but you need to be super careful where you step. The downhill path is both rocky and sandy, so anyone could easily slip with one wrong move. Additionally, the wind was so powerful and gusty which made it difficult at times to remain balanced. Definitely wear sturdy shoes with traction. One of our friends told us about this place and didn't mention the terrain, so we were under the impression that it was just a short tame walk to the blowhole. If I had done some research upfront, I would have realized that you do need adequate time to see this. It's not something where you can just get out of the car, see and then leave. Given we were limited on time, we stopped about halfway down the hill and just enjoyed the view from there. Some other people did the same thing. Although we couldn't see the blowhole from that far up, the view of the rockery and ocean was still stunning! The drive up to the parking area was filled with lush greenery. Despite some curvy and narrow roads, it's worth it for the gorgeous scenery. Keep in mind that you'll likely lose cell phone service once you approach the parking area.
Very fun landscape, unlike any of the other areas we visited in Maui. The rocks are different as well as the foliage and while most of the photography is focused on the blowhole, the views of the water worn sandstone with clouds and mountains going back to the parking lot are just as unique and spectacular. The "blowhole" comes from waves hitting a lava tube and because of this they are much more frequent than geysers and more unpredictable in size depending on the waves. Very relaxing to watch and I loved the area because no guardrails or steps, you can be as far or as close as you want to get. There is a scary or funny warning sign depending on your perspective near the beginning of the walk down. Some people get up right next to the blowhole and risk getting sucked in. I would have liked to get closer than I was but my family could only make it so far down the rocks and I didn't want to rudely get in everyone's pictures and videos that were higher up on the mountain. The drive here is just as fun as the destination with a lot of twists and elevation changes. You will lose reception for a long time. Roughly, the last place you'll have cell service is passing the Marriott.
If you are adventurous I'd suggest seeing the blowhole. Just know the hike down to it is treacherous. One wrong move and you can hurt yourself. The terrain is steep and it is far down to get to it. The walk back up is actually easier belive it our nor and the winds the day I was there was crazy. Use the bathroom, if you can find one before you go down. You have to remember to respect the island.
A Maui thing worth seeing... The Nakalele Blowhole is located in a remote part of the island in the northern coastline of West Maui. We looked at the trailhead and there is a short rugged hike down to get closer to the geyser and experience seeing a truly unique geological rock formations but it also seemed dangerous and looked very rough and rocky with uncertain footing. We were not prepared since we were wearing only our slippahs LoL! I wouldn't get too close since it is impossible to predict the water pressure force and rogue waves breaking over the lava cliffs next to the blowhole. Yes, people have died here and other areas along this coast. There were homemade signs warning visitors. Don't get pulled in to the deadly waters. We remained up on the top of the hill which we had just as amazing views watching the ocean spray erupt from the lava bed up to fifty feet out of the blowhole. Imho, Nakalele seems to be more active than the one in Oahu because of the constant high winds here. Note: The trailhead has no water or restrooms, but does have a vendor selling snacks. Parking is on a dirt parking area. If the parking lot is full, don't try to park along the narrow highway... too dangerous. If doing the hike down wear sturdy shoes. If I told my sister about this place I just know she will go down that trail without hesitation. Review #2697
Be smart and safe, bring a telephoto lens and view this from a safe distance. If there is a swell (waves breaking against the cliff) don't go down there, a large wave could break over the cliff and pull you out to sea. The blowhole can trick you into thinking it's not doing much and then a huge explosion out of it will soak you and knock you down. Watch for a while from a distance to get a good idea of what is going on and if after 30 minutes you have an idea of the level it's going to go at and you can determine how close you can get safely. Still recommend keeping a good 50 yard distance at a minimum. read more
Nakalele Blowhole was the next destination on the list after snorkeling ar Honolua Bay! They were about 15 minutes or so apart. The path to Nakalele Blowhole was a little rough so make sure to have actual sneaker shoes and the will to step on a lot of rocks. We were crunched on time so I stopped halfway while my boyfriend went right in front of it! read more
Some twisty roads up and on your way you pass Honolua bay where there is some of the best snorkling in Hawaii. In terms of the blowhole, it costs $15 to park which feels a bit steep- plus you get zero cell reception near one of the pay signs and need to move to where you can get reception just to pay the fee. Annoying. Getting past that.....You can get a great view of the blowhole without the full hike down, however the hike itself is enjoyable and does come with an even better view of the hole. Some amazing views once you make your way down of the crashing white waves on the buttressing volcanic formations and mountainside. Beautiful and worth a short trip. read more
This small hike to Nakalele blowhole was well worth the effort. It's about a 30 min drive from Kaanapali and when you arrive you have to decide to pay the $20 parking ticket for all day or risk getting an expensive citation. I paid. The hike is moderately challenging down and back up and favors the young and athletic. If you're older or out of shape it may be a struggle. There's a sign that warns of mortal danger if you get too close to the blowhole. So don't be a dipshit. The payoff was definitely worth it. The blow hole spouts every couple minutes and the scenery is fantastic. There are some cool lookouts from the cliff and my heart definitely raced a bit when I got close to the edge. Definitely a must do while you're visiting Maui. read more
10 months ago
It's not an easy walk down, steep through rocky terrain. However, a mildly fit person can do it without much difficulty. Respect the area. Rogue waves can hit the cliff side and sweep over; use caution if you are at the edge like my kid was. She was with an adult and didn't spend much time there. The rogue waves are more risky than you falling into the blowhole. Keep a healthy distance from it and you will be ok. There is paid parking at the road but we had no cell reception to use the QR code. There's also a snack stand. read more
Cool pit stop on the way to Napili beach. I wouldn't drive here just for this bit worth a stop if you're doing a beach nearby. Easy hike down, good 15 min hike back up the rock hill but easy enough. 1 Food truck at the entrance selling baked goods and soda/water. read more
A fun excursion with some warnings: Somewhat treacherous hike down to the blowhole. Not for just anyone. After a rain, it is very slippery. Approximately a quarter mile hike. 100ft elevation drop with areas to be on all hands & feet to climb or descend depending which path you take ~ shorter route harder, longer route not as hard. Many will think the flat area at the blowhole is safe ~ the occasional splash has water reaching viewers easily combined with strong winds...slips & injury. Do not attempt to look over and into the blowhole. Many have died. With all that said, it is a beautiful natural site, the 'Ol Faithful of Maui ;) read more
We didn't make the jaunt down to the blowhole and tide pools, as I have a toddler and a pregnant wife, but it was beautiful as it was and could see it all the from the hilltop. It was a "in the moment" drive, and it was well worth it. read more
Blow Code Translated as "the leaning," Nākālele Point is a gorgeous--but dangerous--land mass located at the northern tip of Maui. It is known for the "blowhole" effect that gets created when the waves hit a specific rock and shoots water high into the air, creating a whale-like spout. The Good: *Free parking *There's usually a food stand at the "parking lot" selling baked goods and other Hawaiian made goodies. *The hike up and down to the blowhole is fairly easy and probably less than a mile up and back. Just make sure you have the proper footwear--flip-flops and sandals are *not* recommended. *As mentioned above, the views are spectacular, but then again, what isn't here in Hawai'i? The Meh: *The term "parking lot" is very loosely used here, as you're literally just pulling off the shoulder of the highway into some areas that have flattened over time by cars. An SUV or Jeep® would be preferable here, but you can make-do in a car if you're careful. The Ugly: *The inevitable jackass(es) who refuse to heed the warning that the blowhole is actually very dangerous and could kill you. We had to literally watch this one old fat ass parade around the blowhole like a 16-year-old girl while his obviously embarrassed SO took photos of him in various poses. It was douche chilly to the max. TLDR: Cool place to visit while vacationing in Maui, and the whole thing should take you about an hour or so. read more
1 year ago
Such an amazing view, very windy make sure you take your hat off and have glasses on because the sand will hit you in the face. read more
3 years ago
I am sure the blowhole is a 5-star sight and amazing to see... if only we saw it! :) My rating is more about the experience itself as I'd consider it a fairly treacherous trek down the trail. There were people of all ages (including kids) walking it, but you need to be super careful where you step. The downhill path is both rocky and sandy, so anyone could easily slip with one wrong move. Additionally, the wind was so powerful and gusty which made it difficult at times to remain balanced. Definitely wear sturdy shoes with traction. One of our friends told us about this place and didn't mention the terrain, so we were under the impression that it was just a short tame walk to the blowhole. If I had done some research upfront, I would have realized that you do need adequate time to see this. It's not something where you can just get out of the car, see and then leave. Given we were limited on time, we stopped about halfway down the hill and just enjoyed the view from there. Some other people did the same thing. Although we couldn't see the blowhole from that far up, the view of the rockery and ocean was still stunning! The drive up to the parking area was filled with lush greenery. Despite some curvy and narrow roads, it's worth it for the gorgeous scenery. Keep in mind that you'll likely lose cell phone service once you approach the parking area. read more
10 months ago
Very fun landscape, unlike any of the other areas we visited in Maui. The rocks are different as well as the foliage and while most of the photography is focused on the blowhole, the views of the water worn sandstone with clouds and mountains going back to the parking lot are just as unique and spectacular. The "blowhole" comes from waves hitting a lava tube and because of this they are much more frequent than geysers and more unpredictable in size depending on the waves. Very relaxing to watch and I loved the area because no guardrails or steps, you can be as far or as close as you want to get. There is a scary or funny warning sign depending on your perspective near the beginning of the walk down. Some people get up right next to the blowhole and risk getting sucked in. I would have liked to get closer than I was but my family could only make it so far down the rocks and I didn't want to rudely get in everyone's pictures and videos that were higher up on the mountain. The drive here is just as fun as the destination with a lot of twists and elevation changes. You will lose reception for a long time. Roughly, the last place you'll have cell service is passing the Marriott. read more
If you are adventurous I'd suggest seeing the blowhole. Just know the hike down to it is treacherous. One wrong move and you can hurt yourself. The terrain is steep and it is far down to get to it. The walk back up is actually easier belive it our nor and the winds the day I was there was crazy. Use the bathroom, if you can find one before you go down. You have to remember to respect the island. read more
4 months ago
A Maui thing worth seeing... The Nakalele Blowhole is located in a remote part of the island in the northern coastline of West Maui. We looked at the trailhead and there is a short rugged hike down to get closer to the geyser and experience seeing a truly unique geological rock formations but it also seemed dangerous and looked very rough and rocky with uncertain footing. We were not prepared since we were wearing only our slippahs LoL! I wouldn't get too close since it is impossible to predict the water pressure force and rogue waves breaking over the lava cliffs next to the blowhole. Yes, people have died here and other areas along this coast. There were homemade signs warning visitors. Don't get pulled in to the deadly waters. We remained up on the top of the hill which we had just as amazing views watching the ocean spray erupt from the lava bed up to fifty feet out of the blowhole. Imho, Nakalele seems to be more active than the one in Oahu because of the constant high winds here. Note: The trailhead has no water or restrooms, but does have a vendor selling snacks. Parking is on a dirt parking area. If the parking lot is full, don't try to park along the narrow highway... too dangerous. If doing the hike down wear sturdy shoes. If I told my sister about this place I just know she will go down that trail without hesitation. Review #2697 read more
1 year ago
Interesting but nothing impressive. It's also a bit far out, so if you don't live nearby, I wouldn't bother and drive all the way here to just see the blowhole. You can hike down the rocky area to get closer to the blowhole, but watching it from the top is also just fine. This place is worth a quick 5-minute stop if you happen to be in the area. read more
Nakalele is a land mass on the eastern edge of the northern tip of the island of Maui. It is known for its blowhole and has become notable for its dangerous conditions when waves crash in. There is no established hiking trail and you go at your own risk, and it's very windy on the top near the cliff, where you can observe the blowhole without going down to the bottom. Be very careful with the parking condition, do not leave visible luggage and stuff inside your car, unfortunately, some visitors got their car window smashed. read more
One of the highlights of the trip. If you're able to, I recommend you climb down there close to the blowhole. I was able to stand next to it and take pictures. Just be careful if you do decide to climb down and back up. It's a cool experience plus you can look down over the ocean. I took the "Highway of death" to get there. Beautiful drive but dangerous due to the one way, especially if you have to back up to let the cars in front of you pass. read more
2 years ago
On the day we went to the Nakalele Blowhole, the tide wasn't as rough as it was a few days later, so at least on this trip, we weren't able to see the blowhole "go off". I've been there at other times when the blowhole is going really good. Regardless, it's still a sight to see. We didn't walk all the way to the Blowhole, since I have knee issues. Nonetheless, we were still able to see a few good spurts. I have witnessed the Blowhole many times when the wave enters at the right angle. On previous trips to Maui, we've seen Julia's Best Banana Bread open with her canopy. However, on this visit, Mama Lei's Homemade Goodness had a canopy set-up. We stopped and bought a loaf of her plain Banana Bread and a loaf of her Banana Bread with Chocolate Chips. The Banana Breads were moist and flavorful. However, they were much smaller than what you get from Julia's. read more
We visited mid June and there wasn't a lot of action from the hole but it was beautiful nonetheless. The wind is wicked up there though. I got a a painful stye from it so be aware. It reminded me of the California coast. Quite stunning. There is plenty of parking but our GPS had us park way too early. We drove a minute longer and saw all the cars parked on the left. If you want to hike clear down to the hole, wear sturdy shoes. Be sure to use the bathroom before. It's a long way down and could be slip after a rain. read more
It's about an hour and 35 minutes from Kihei. Not comforting to hear that our hike and walk closer to the blow hole is at our own risk. Glad I brought my sneakers and will tread lightly down to it. The Yelp directions to the parking was all wrong. Stopped off where a bunch of cars were parked and ended up finding the blow hole after all. It's by mile marker 38 or so, from Lahaina and just past the bend at Mile marker 38. It's a winding and fun road to the parking spot for the blow hole. There's 4 big boulders by the parking area. It's one of the bigger parking areas too. Head down at your own risk. Where proper shoes too and traverse slowly. It's a fun and cool show. read more
2 years ago
Beautiful place to be near the ocean. You obviously can't go in but it's beautiful to look at. It's a trek down and up from the blowhole so I would recommend shoes, but someone in our group did it was sandals. read more
It's a bit of a long and winding road to the Nakalele Blowhole, but it is so worth the trip, especially if you take the walk down to a closer (but safe) distance. Gayle, Erin, Jim, and I were here recently and were very intrigued and impressed with the powerful geyser-like water spouts that varied with the waves and tides. This place is one of those Beauty vs. Danger balances that make great and thoughtful viewing. We also received the safety briefing (via a tourist driving app) before we arrived. That means staying a safe distance from the blowhole, which are marked by signs and a rule-of-thumb to stay on dry land. And all I had to do is imagine someone getting sucked into the blowhole or taken out to sea by a sneaker wave to help me moderate my behavior accordingly. read more
Why would someone give a free nature spot less than five stars. Did a waitress forget your extra butter? When I went to the blowhole as part of a three-site visit (Olivine Pools and Dragon's Teeth are nearby), the only other people I saw at these locations were locals or tourists holding the same blue travel book. It's no double rainbow or anything, but it's cool. And free. And a great photo op. How close do you dare yourself to get? I foolishly looked down the hole and didn't end up on America's Stupidest Tourists 4 on Fox so that's good. read more
2 years ago
It was really worth the trip, the one thing it's a little hard to find the right path down the hill. It took us a few tries. read more
One of the best and free thing to do in Maui. The place is magical but a little difficult to navigate down to the blow hole. Make sure to wear appropriate shoes and warm clothing. Lots of careless people slip and cut their hands and body because they go down with just flip flops. It can get very windy and cold sometimes. read more
Cool place to explore and see a natural blowhole. The water does truly look like a whale's blowhole when the waves come in. You can get close to the blowhole or stay a little far away but it's beautiful up close. I would recommend sneakers if you want to get close up. read more
It's a great spot just 10 miles ahead of Kaanapali beach when you drive towards Lao valley. Hike down from highway takes 10-15 mins between the rocks. Not so hard but little tricky. Try not to slip. Great ocean view on the way while hiking and also when you reach down next to the blowhole. Danger signs are everywhere. So don't try to stand just next to the hole as people have died too. Within 30 mins you can enjoy to fullest and continue the journey ahead. read more
6 years ago
This is a quick stop off the side of the road in West Maui. After a lot of very windy and narrow roads, we were happy for a break. While the blowhole and coast are close to the side of the road, you do have to walk/climb down a rocky area for 5-10 minutes to get there, so wear appropriate shoes. The Blowhole was a cool view. Be careful if you get close. If it's a windy day, you'll get sprayed with ocean water. It was pretty crowded when we were there but we still got a parking spot. In theory there's a heart shaped rock formation nearby, but we searched for it and gave up unable to find it. If you're driving along the coast, this is a good place to stop. read more
4 years ago
WARNING!! This is a hard hike! Make sure you wear good water shoes or hiking shoes. Do not wear sandals. With that said... the hike is more than worth it. Try and go during high tide when this thing shoots way the heck in the air. You can go next to it but stay clear of the hole itself! It will suck you in and kill you. That is no joke. There is a spot above the blow hole where you can take photo's and get a rainbow in the mist. It is pretty cool. If you feel adventurous, walk to the left of the blowhole about 1/8-1/4 mile. Stay alert and look to your right. There is another blow hole that you may het all to your self! read more
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Ask the Community - Nakalele Blowhole
Can small kids (3yo) make the hike down by themselves with supervision or do parents have to carry them?
Some of the rocks are steep and if wet, it's slippery. Yes, you'll have to carry.
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Nakalele Blowhole - hiking - Updated May 2026
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