You don't have to drive to Haleakalā to hike on Maui. Some of the island's best ridge and coastal trails start within a short drive of Mahana 418 — here's where to go, how hard it is, and when to arrive.
West Maui's mountains rise straight up behind Kāʻanapali, and the coastline north of the resort is laced with easy walking paths. Whether you want a lung-burning ridge climb with Haleakalā on the horizon or a flat sunset stroll, start early — trailhead lots fill fast, the sun is strong, and afternoons cloud over. Carry more water than you think, wear real shoes for the ridge trails, and check conditions after rain.
The best ridge hike in the West Maui Mountains, and a local favorite. The well-groomed trail climbs roughly 1,400 feet over 2.2 miles to the summit of Puʻu Lanilili, opening dramatic views of Waiheʻe Valley, ʻEke Crater, the coastline, and Haleakalā across the isthmus. A real workout, but the grade is steady and the payoff is huge. The trailhead is off Kahekili Highway — watch for the red Camp Maluhia sign, which can be easy to miss.
A gentle, mostly paved path along the Kapalua shoreline north of Kāʻanapali, winding past coves, lava points, and resort beaches. Flat, family-friendly, and gorgeous at sunset — you'll often see turtles just offshore. Pair it with a swim at Kapalua Bay or Napili.
At the northern point of West Maui, about 8 miles past Kapalua, a short but rugged cliff trail drops to one of Hawaiʻi's natural blowholes, where the surf shoots a geyser of seawater through the lava. The path is under a fifth of a mile but steep, rocky, and poorly marked, with sweeping Pacific views the whole way. A great add-on to a scenic drive up the wild north coast.
The simplest walk of all starts at Mahana's doorstep: the paved beachfront boardwalk runs the length of Kāʻanapali Beach past the resorts to Whalers Village and Black Rock. The perfect pre-breakfast stroll or sunset walk to dinner — and in winter, you'll often spot humpback whales offshore.
Waiheʻe Ridge Trail — a 2.2-mile climb of about 1,400 feet to a summit with views of Haleakalā and the West Maui valleys. For an easy option, the Kapalua Coastal Trail and the Kāʻanapali boardwalk are flat and scenic.
Be parked by 7 a.m. The lot is small and fills quickly, the morning light is best, and clouds roll in by midday. Carry 2 to 3 liters of water per person.
The short access trail is steep and rocky, and the blowhole is dangerous up close due to slippery rock and a powerful surge. Keep well back and never stand between the blowhole and the ocean.