The best walks and hikes around Maalaea
4.4
(33)
635
hikers
32
hikes
Hikes around Maalaea Maui feature a mix of coastal and mountain terrain. The region is characterized by the rugged, sun-exposed ridges of the West Maui Mountains, long sandy beaches, and protected coastal wetlands. This landscape provides a variety of hiking experiences, from challenging ascents with significant elevation gain to level walks along the shoreline.
Best hiking trails around Maalaea
- The most popular hiking route is Lāhainā Pali Trail — Maui County, a 4.4 mile (7.1 km) trail that takes about 2 hours 35 minutes to complete. This historic path involves a steady climb over a rocky ridge, offering ocean views.
- Another top favourite among local hiking enthusiasts is Keālia Coastal Boardwalk — Maui County, an easy 0.8 mile (1.3 km) path. The route is a level boardwalk that follows the edge of the Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge.
- Local hiking enthusiasts also love the Maʻalaea Beach Walk — Maui County, a 4.3 mile (7.0 km) trail leading through an expansive sandy shore, often completed in about 1 hour 45 minutes.
- Hiking around Maalaea is defined by challenging ridge climbs, accessible coastal boardwalks, and long beach walks. The trail network provides options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to more strenuous hikes.
- The routes in Maalaea are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.6 stars from more than 15 reviews. More than 300 hikers have used komoot to explore Maalaea's varied terrain.
Last updated: May 27, 2026
12.1km
03:05
40m
50m
Hike the Mokulele Bike Path, an easy 7.5-mile paved route through former sugar cane fields on Maui, connecting Kahului to Kihei.
3.5
(2)
48
hikers
7.12km
02:35
450m
450m
Hike the Lahaina Pali Trail for rugged terrain, panoramic ocean views, and a challenging climb with significant elevation gain.
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20
hikers
1.29km
00:19
0m
0m
Hike the easy Keālia Coastal Boardwalk, a 0.8-mile (1.3 km) route that takes about 19 minutes to complete with no elevation gain. You will walk between the vast Pacific Ocean on one side and the unique Keālia Pond on the other, offering diverse views. Look for the pond's distinctive pink coloration, which changes with the light and salinity, creating a memorable landscape. The flat, paved surface makes for a relaxing experience for all ages and abilities.
Since there is limited shade along the route, consider hiking in the morning or evening to avoid the midday sun. If you plan to visit during the day, remember to bring sun protection. The trail is a flat, paved boardwalk, making it highly accessible for strollers and young children. Several lookout points and covered pavilions provide perfect spots to pause and take in the panoramic vistas.
The boardwalk is located within the Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge, a significant natural area. As you hike, you can spot diverse bird species and learn about the refuge from interpretive signs. You will also see the majestic West Maui mountains and the Haleakalā range in the distance, along with the island of Lānaʻi, adding to the scenic backdrop.
5.0
(1)
9
hikers
6.96km
01:46
20m
20m
Embark on the easy Maʻalaea Beach Walk, a coastal hike stretching 4.3 miles (7.0 km) with a minimal elevation gain of 61 feet (19 metres). You can expect to complete this route in about 1 hour and 45 minutes, enjoying a long expanse of golden sand and expansive ocean views. Look towards the horizon to spot the West Maui Mountains, and on clear days, you might even see Kahoʻolawe and the Molokini crater.
Planning your visit to the Maʻalaea Beach Walk is straightforward, as the trail is known for its accessibility and less crowded atmosphere compared to other Maui beaches. Access points are generally easy to find along the coast, allowing you to begin your peaceful experience without concerns about permits or specific seasonal closures for the walk itself.
This route is a haven for local wildlife, especially sea turtles that often bask on the sand, particularly around sunset. During the whale season, from November to April, the bay transforms into an excellent spot for whale watching directly from the shore, offering a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures. The trail is located within the Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge, highlighting its ecological significance.
1.70km
00:26
10m
10m
Enjoy an easy 1.1-mile hike on the Kalama Park loop in Maui, offering ocean views and a family-friendly experience.
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Popular around Maalaea
Tips from the Community
The Lāhainā Pali Trail is a historic footpath that offers stunning views of the West Maui Mountains and the ocean. It is known for its rugged terrain and rocky gulches that you'll have to climb if you start from either end. If you're feeling ambitious, you can extend your run by following the trail further to the east, and it will take you all the way to Honoapiʻilani Highway. Once you reach the top, the trail levels out for a bit before starting the descent on either side. Along the way, you'll pass by the giant wind turbines that mark the middle of the trail.
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Kalama Park is a popular beachfront park located in the town of Kihei on Maui. It offers a range of recreational activities and amenities, including a sandy beach, picnic areas, sports fields, and playgrounds. It's a great place for families to take a stroll through the park, enjoy the beach, have a picnic, or simply relax in a pleasant and scenic environment.
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Maʻalaea Beach is a tranquil and less crowded beach on the south-central coast of Maui. It is known for its long stretch of golden sand and is a popular spot for sunbathing and taking in the scenic ocean views during a nice walk along the beach.
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Keālia Coastal Boardwalk is a beautiful, wooden boardwalk close to the town of Kihei. The hike is only about 0.8 miles (out-and-back) long and therefore very easy to handle. As the trail is located between the ocean and Keālia Pond, you will have great views to both sides while walking along the boardwalk.
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Lāhainā Pali Trail is a historic trail that follows an ancient Hawaiian footpath. It offers breathtaking views of the West Maui Mountains and the ocean and is known for its rugged terrain. To extend the hike, just follow the trail beyond the marked section further to the east, and it will take you all the way to Honoapiʻilani Highway.
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Short but beautifully designed tour. Probably even better in the rainy season than in August. It was very dry when I visited. Back at the beach :-)
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On stilts built route from which one can observe the bird life in the wet meadows.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear for hiking in Maalaea?
For trails like the Lahaina Pali, wear sturdy hiking shoes with good grip for the rocky and uneven terrain. Lightweight, breathable clothing is essential, as many trails are exposed with no shade. Always bring a hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. For easier walks like the beach or boardwalk, comfortable walking shoes or sandals are sufficient.
Are there any easy, family-friendly hikes around Maalaea?
Yes, the Keālia Coastal Boardwalk is perfect for families. It's a short, flat, and accessible path along the Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge, offering great birdwatching opportunities. Another gentle option is the Kalama Park loop, which is a pleasant and easy stroll.
What are the trail conditions like on the Lahaina Pali Trail?
The trail is rugged, rocky, and fully exposed to the sun with no shade. The path is well-defined but can be loose and uneven underfoot, requiring careful footing. It's a strenuous climb with significant elevation gain. It's crucial to bring more water than you think you'll need, especially on warm days.
Can I hike to the windmills I see from Maalaea?
Yes, the wind turbines are part of the Kaheawa Wind Farm, which you pass on the upper sections of the Lahaina Pali Trail. For a route that focuses on this area, consider the Kaheawa Wind Farm loop from Puu Hoha. This challenging hike takes you right up near the turbines for a unique perspective.
Where can I find hikes with the best ocean views?
For dramatic, panoramic ocean vistas, the Lahaina Pali Trail is unmatched, offering views of the central valley, Haleakalā, and the islands of Kahoʻolawe and Lānaʻi. For a more relaxed coastal view, the Maʻalaea Beach Walk provides a long, scenic stroll right along the water's edge.
How many hiking trails are available around Maalaea?
There are over 20 designated hiking routes in the Maalaea area. These range from difficult mountain ridge climbs to moderate coastal paths and easy beach walks, offering options for all fitness levels.
What do other hikers think of the trails in Maalaea?
The trails around Maalaea are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Hikers often praise the stunning panoramic views from the ridge trails and the peaceful, accessible nature of the coastal walks.
Where is the best place to park for the Lahaina Pali Trail?
There are trailheads with parking areas on both the Maalaea (eastern) side and the Lahaina (western) side. The Maalaea-side trailhead is located just off the Honoapiilani Highway. Parking can be limited, so arriving early is recommended, especially on weekends.
Are there any guided hiking tours available in the area?
Yes, several local companies offer guided hikes. A highly-regarded local operator is Epic Maui Hikes, which provides tours that explore various parts of the island, including areas near Maalaea. Guides can offer valuable insight into the local flora, fauna, and history.
What is the best hike for birdwatching near Maalaea?
The Keālia Coastal Boardwalk is the premier spot for birdwatching. It runs along the Keālia Pond National Wildlife Refuge, a crucial wetland habitat for native Hawaiian waterbirds like the aeʻo (Hawaiian stilt) and ʻalae keʻokeʻo (Hawaiian coot). You can find more information on the local birdlife at the Hawaii Birding Trails website.
Are there any particularly challenging hikes near Maalaea?
Absolutely. Besides the strenuous Lahaina Pali Trail, the Waihee Ridge Trail is a popular and challenging option nearby. It's known for its steep inclines and rewarding, picturesque views of mountains and gorges, but be prepared for a tough climb.
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