The water level fluctuates depending on the weather of the previous days, with waves filling the small cavities more or less. A: The scenic drive is located on the northeast coastline of Maui. Not for the faint of heart. As the nickname suggests, the lava rocks resemble the mouth of a dragon. Also, I mainly think about luaus and the ocean with Hawaii. Answer 11 of 55: We are leaving soon on our 2nd visit to Maui & we are interested in trying to take the Kahekili Hwy across the northshore of Maui. The 636-foot (194 m) hill is a picturesque landmark. Piilani Haighway (also known as Hawaii State Route 31), is the road south of Mount Haleakala approximately between Ulupalakua and Kipahulu. Highway 340 represents exactly what I love most about Hawaii its not hard to find peace and solitude on the islands which are one of the most popular tourist destinations around. But dont miss out on the famous banana bread yum! This should only be open to locals and there should be clear signage of that. Highway 1, California View of Pacific Coast Highway in Fort Bragg Spanning over 655 miles, this coastal drive starts up in the northern parts of Mendocino County and snakes down to Orange County, running concurrently with U.S. 101 along the way including in a stretch across San Francisco's Golden Gate Bridge. I still recommend it because it IS that gorgeous but be careful! But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience. Don't get me wrong - DO NOT DO IT IF you are a timid or nervous driver. Small natural pools are hidden at the bottom of the road, just a few feet from the ocean. The road hugs the sea cliffs and is very narrow (often just one lane), with many blind curves and no guard rails. From here, youll start to approach the narrowest and most dangerous part of the Kahekili Highway. Theres a very small parking area, but you know it will be secluded! I am taking notes about all of the great stops along the way. Drive very carefully, obeying all rules and road signs. Theres a lot of privately owned land and undeveloped coastline. The Kahekili Highway (County Route 340) could be West Maui's answer to the Hana Highway. Theres no shade on this trail. I have had the opportunity to drive this road and meet another car on a stretch of road where the last pull out was behind us. This scenic drive is really around the entire side of west Maui. Someone posted that an unwritten rule says that drivers on the makai/cliff side have that right of way. Imagine a winding road with steep inclines and declines. I travel to off-the-beaten-path destinations to bring you unique travel experiences and photography. Seriously though, Kahekili Hwy should not be confused with "The Road to Hana," a popular tourist activity on the island of Maui. King Kahekili was king on Maui in the mid-1700s. There is also a very nice art gallery or two along the way. Also, you can look farther ahead to see oncoming traffic. Wow, Maui is a stunning place. Its early in your trip, but every great road trip includes awesome food. I enjoy road trips and with its hair pin bends and turns, it does sound like an exciting one. BeachSearcher!Victoria beach 23 You can see them for miles along the coast, but as you drive the Kahekili Highway, youll get closer and eventually pass them. The blowhole occurs in the lava shelf which can reach over 100 feet when air and water are forced upwards through the hole causing a geyser-like effect. On your way south from Kahului, be sure to check out the ao Valley State Monument or the Maui Ocean Center, one of the top things to do with kids in Maui. Honolua Bay is part of the Marine Life Conservation District, meaning it is illegal to fish and take natural resources including marine life and even rock. I am sure enjoying your travels around Maui. Just be careful on the bends, they're blind and other drivers come out of nowhere. If you decide to take this road trip, remember to be extremely safe and leave it just as you see it untouched! What are some good. People were not yielding properly, i was a nervous wreck, route went from 2 hrs for 22 miles to 3 hrs and we were only a third of the way through, we ended up turning around and going back to the RT 30 and were back to the resort before the last updated time for route 340. Note: Bridges in italics belong to the County of Maui. But did you get to stop by and view the views? Be careful because the water hits full force if you want to get closer.The rocks are very slippery. Ive worn them hiking the Mahaulepu Heritage Trail in Kauai and many other spots around the islands. You can drive the road to Hana yourself, or take a tour in a van . So if youre not up for driving the entire West Maui road trip loop, this should make your list before turning back. Majority of the traffic on the road is locals, so they are experts, you will not have any problems, I dont think we encountered more than 5 vehicles, one being a pickup truck the whole trip so dont listen to the trolls on this blog, who have not even been on the road. Sadly, there have been numerous deaths over the years on the road to Hana because of this sort of recklessness. I have a better suggestion.. Answer 1 of 9: Anyone knows if any rental car in Maui accepts that we drive the Kahekili highway ? 93% of travelers recommend this experience. Located at mile marker 38.5 on the Honoapiilani Highway (Highway 30), this is one of the last things you can see on the road before it drops down to one lane. Yayyy! Zoom in or tap the icons within the map for more details. This is one of the most exciting attractions of the Kahekili Highway. Makaluapuna Point is also known as Dragons Teeth. You will not see any change on the road which is for the moment beautiful, wide, not very winding and lined with a few shrubs. Coming in at just 2.0 miles up-and-back, its actually a moderately difficult hike because youre walking over slick rocks during much of the hike. However, this banana bread from MamaLeis is so famous, it deserves its own spot on this list of things to do along the Kahekili Highway! I can say I was freaking out a bit when we had to BACK down the road to get to turn out so they could pass us. Once youre going clockwise the ride is just fine even w only one lane. I love the idea of going west to east so that you dont have to be on the outside of the road. Be sure to stop and give the community some love. Answer 1 of 55: We are leaving soon on our 2nd visit to Maui & we are interested in trying to take the Kahekili Hwy across the northshore of Maui. When I travel, I find the cheapest rental car rates at RentalCars.com. Great to see that it hasnt changed too much. On this route, a fairly common way of driving in some Asian countries can be helpful. The Kahekili Highway in the northwest of Maui fro. Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. I later read this warning about the blowhole so do be careful if you go visit it: While it may seen tempting to approach the blowhole for a great photo opportunity, dont do it. There are several food stands, a studio, a ranch and many hillside homes along the way. My family hiked this with hiking shoes and trekking poles, which I recommend, especially if its recently rained. This is also a great place for whale watching in the winter. And whats not to love this part of Maui was certainly unique and it felt untouched. This is not for the faint of heart or anyone with a rental car that is concerned about violating their agreement. My adrenaline was pumping from a combination of the picture perfect views and the possibility of meeting another oncoming car on the narrow cliff all the time. read more. It shouldn't be confused with Highway 30, which is the state maintained portion of the same route. This is the real deal and you must be comfortable driving on this type of narrow road with big drop offs, and no help for miles. If youre up for some swimming and surfing, this is your spot! Seriously though, Kahekili Hwy should not be confused with "The Road to Hana," a popular tourist activity on the island of Maui. Honestly, if you have to choose just one adventure, it will be difficult! This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Take your time, explore, and soak in the views and the people you meet along the way. Oh Lord, please, please, please dont let me meet another car on this road. I thought to myself as I drove like a 90 year old man. Privacy Policy. This is a prayer labyrinth (Dragons Teeth Labyrinth). Cheers! Theres your warning! However, a big wave can come at any moment, and you will find yourself underwater. To complete the full West Maui loop, take Highway 30 back. Better than the Road to Hana, minus waterfalls! Gorgeous photos! Welcome to The Van Escape! we are going to live in Wailea , and want to go to Ion Valley Needle, Waihee Ridge Trail, Honolua Bay Scenic Lookout, Olivine Pools Please take this into account. There are sheer cliffs with 100 ft + drops in some of the areas without guardrails! See options All photos (135) Top ways to experience nearby attractions Road to Hana Day Trip 151 Recommended Full-day Tours from C$301.15 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Road to Hana Tour with Lunch and Pickup 307 Recommended Bus Tours from C$376.44 per adult I don't recommend this drive as you are not able to trust the drivers coming the other way. These are my favorite dual-purpose water shoes. We have been on the road to Hana a few times (beautiful drive) but this road blows the road to Hana away, 10 fold. Its rather small and room for just a couple cars. What a trip!!! Please respect the locals and their private land. But the views are breathtaking. Hana Highway, also known as the Road to Hana, runs for more than 64 miles along state Highways 360 and 36, connecting Hana in east Maui with Kahului. The spray felt refreshing, but of course I had stupidly left my LensCoat raingear for my camera back in the car since it certainly wasnt rainy weather, but down by the blowhole it was pretty easy to get drenched. Just when I didnt think the road could get any more questionable, Highway 340 narrows considerably for about 1 mile as it descends the mountain and enters Kahakuloa Village (near mile marker 14 and 15). There are not guardrails - it is narrow, and many locals and surfers drove much faster than I remembered this time. ENJOY THIS AWESOME ROAD!!! The icons on the map are some of the recommended stops and things to do while taking a road trip along part of the Kahekili Highway. Now that sells this dangerous one to me. Undoubtedly, the Kahekili Highway is more challenging, dangerous, strenuous, wilder, and less touristy than the Road to Hana. No thanks. Hope you get the chance to drive this scenic route soon! You'd absolutely love it, Bea :). Its a popular snorkeling spot if youre up for spending the day in the water. If you choose to hike down to see the natural pools, make sure to have good water shoes as the black rock is extremely sharp in places and should not be stepped on with bare feet. The waves crash against the rocks below me in a rhythmic fashion and enjoyed my perfect moment of Maui Zen. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. So I had to check out this post. Thanks that you will be able to hear the beeps of oncoming traffic. I took a photo from the road because Im not sure if its public access or not. more. . There is an excellent viewpoint of the cliffs. We just got back from Maui and I wish I saw your review before we did it. There have been many injuries and deaths here, so enter at your own risk. Privacy Policy & DisclosuresAs an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Especially dangerous is the stretch of highway between mile markers 6.9 and 16.3, where the changeover from state to county maintenance occurs in Maui. We had to back up once when we met a car because there was not enough room for two cars to pass each other. We do not recommend the Kahekili Highway for everyone. It is what we call the road to Hana today. If you read your rental car agreements, traveling this road violates your rental car contract. Related read: 20 Things to Do in Maui on a Budget. Hobron Avenue from Hana Highway to the gate at Pier 1, Kahului Harbor (Route 32A) 10. C'est magnifique. Check out their prices for a Hawaiian road trip! Its some of Mauis most gorgeous land. I read about the road and of what I understand, il seems to be a very beautifull road to discover if we're carefull and we take our time. The water can push over the natural pools wall and when it recedes it can pull you overboard and into the ocean. So in the case of Kahekili Highway vs Road to Hana: you really cant go wrong with either decision! Highway 340 is the county maintained portion of a loop road around the northwest portion of Maui. New weight limit 15 tons. So not many people visit this part of Maui. via To-Hawaii. The last part of the ride is much easier. You can see the natural pools easily, and all along the coast. Yes, its a beautiful no, stunning stretch of road along northwest Maui. Its scenery is quite literally to die for. This looks like it will be a good option for snorkeling for us. Round trip circumnavigating the north part of Maui takes about 3 hours. We would at least like to go that far. It is believed that Kahakuloa Head was one of King Kahekilis favorite places to cliff jump. Cows graze in the pastures, and the landscape is idyllic. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. Incredibly disappointing, sickening, mi-ser-a-ble day. . In that case, you will find other exciting inspirations on what to see and how to spend an exciting time on this paradise island in our 5-day itinerary to Maui. So if another car comes from the only direction either you or the other car need to find a marginally wider place to stop so the other traffic can pass. HAWAII'S BEST ROAD TRIP: The Road to Hana (4K) TIM and FIN 237K subscribers Subscribe 2.4K 160K views 1 year ago In this video we're exploring THE TOP THING TO DO IN MAUI: The Road to. so dont run out of gas and Definitely Do Not Drink while driving on this road, youngsters :). I love the views you got along the way. So, its a good idea to stop, buy something local to support small businesses, and stretch your legs. Sometime in the early 1780's Hana was besieged by King Kahekili in a surprise attack. This post may contain affiliate links. Its a great place to snorkel. What restaurants are near Kahekili Highway? I would call me a bit of a timid snorkeler. We drive this road every time we go to Maui and its my favorite. Hale Mahaolu Ke Kahua would be built on an 11-acre site owned by the nonprofit Maui Economic Opportunity, near the intersection of Kahekili Highway and Waiehu Beach Road. Although the addresses here are technically Wailuku, this small village is a cluster of a few homes and businesses in the most picturesque valley on earth.. Makani No. On your way, you will see a sign explaining the history of the area. The internet is replete with this kind of nonsense. Some say that Maui is the most beautiful island in Hawaii. we where on our way up to see the sunrise on top of the Puu Kuni but missed the turn in the dark. Youll be glad you did! These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. From Lahaina to Wailuku via Kahekili Highway is only 36 miles. These reviews are the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. It kind of reminded me of the Waimea Canyon Trail in Kauai. Papanahoa Stream Bridge on Kahekili HIghway (Route 30) Milepost 41.25. Saw a school bus.later a chopper pilot told us we had been on the forbiden road.forbiden by rental car companies.would like to do it again. Your email address will not be published. I have drove dune buggy trails in the Utah canyon lands, mountain roads in Colorado, apachie trail in Arizona and mountain roads in North Carolina. Important to consider: Since our reopening Maui to tourists, this last summer overwhelmed the local Hana community. It's time to book a trip! Our favorite spot was Nakalele Blowhole. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet. Are you so ready to hit the road? I have not been to Hawaii yet but when I do, I am sure to do this highway driving. I love scenic drives, so I'll definitely add this to my list of places I want to visit soon. It is an ancient Hawaiian burial site known as Honokahua Burial Site. None of them compare to the intense ride (both shear fright and beauty) that this road provides. Youll understand once you do it. Kahekili highway was initially paved in the late 90s and as I started the drive, it was really pleasant driving. Youre reaching the point where the Honoapiilani Highway/Maui Highway 340 and Kahekili Highway merge. Theres a small parking area or road you can take for great pictures. The reason? However I do agree it is a dangerous road its not a Disney ride and hopefully I didnt paint that picture that it was. But if this is you - go for it, but slowly, covering the brakes around every turn, and looking ahead to pull out if a car is approaching from across the valley. This drive is absolutely gorgeous and unexpectedly thrilling! Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. We give you ready itineraries, hints, and essential tools to prepare you for your unforgettable lifetime journey. Duration: 9 hours By: Hana and Beyond Free cancellation: up to 48 hours before tour from: $ 210 Details The road was crumbling in many places, the little one lane bridges were several times chipping away at the edges so we barely had all four wheels on pavement. It is 21 miles of stress. The trail is stunning and one of my favorite things to do in Maui! Nakalele Blowhole looks fun! So cool Rachel! And given this stretch of highway has deep cliffs that dive straight into the water, the name is certainly fitting! However, at one point in the dirve, someone started directing everyone going in our direction to stop and line up as there was a bottleneck in the road coming in our direction and we were instructed that we needed to start letting everyone through. You could literally hang out here for a day, or just park at the lookout and see it briefly. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. The drive along the Kahekili Highway looks just like my kind of ride. I was on top of a rocky cliff and could see for miles as little clouds that looked like cotton balls dotted the sky. My adrenaline was pumping from a combination of the picture perfect views and the possibility of meeting another oncoming car on the narrow cliff. This is certainly the case for the road down to the Waipio Valley on the Big Island. This infamous 64.4-mile highway that stretches from Kahului to Hana is popular not for the destination Hana Town but for the incredible journey it takes to get there. The village is home to about 100 people, a couple of churches, Lorraines Banana Bread and Banana Cream Pie, Julias Banana Bread, Karen Leis Gallery, Bruce Turnbull Studio and Sculpture Garden, and a few small businesses. I was excited and scared at the same time. So for those who like to live on the edge and are willing to risk everything, this is probably one of those places you will just have to try and most of you will probably think it was no big deal.But for me it was a big deal and I just can't recommend it for normal people!! In 2005, the white coral labyrinth was built as a peace project, a true act of love by an anonymous builder. Its a great way to end or start your road trip on the Kahekili Highway! It's not for the faint of heart but I was lucky to have good weather and that makes all the difference. Its available to everyone, although only to be used with extreme caution. Kahekili Highway, Maui: Address, Phone Number, Kahekili Highway Reviews: 3.5/5. Stop at one if not the only restaurant serving whole meals on this adventure! Amazing opportunity to own 5 Acres of luscious land in Hana, with views and a Water Meter! We are headed to Maui soon. We drove Kahekili Highway with our kids years ago. One of the easiest hikes and perhaps the most scenic along this coast and the West Maui loop is the Ohai Loop Trail! Sounds like a good quest for your next trip. And after you have the pleasure of almost diving into the Pacific, enjoy the endless trek through what I can only describe as the hilliest desert on planet Earth. You are a timid or nervous driver luaus and the ocean Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases taking about. Traveling this road trip and see it briefly opportunity to own 5 Acres of luscious land Hana... For great pictures, Kahekili Highway reviews: 3.5/5 people visit this part of Maui Definitely this! This sort of recklessness of luscious land in Hana, with waves filling the small more! Was lucky to have good weather and that makes all the difference or take a tour in van. Are very slippery but be careful because the water can push over years... Was certainly unique and it felt untouched, bounce rate, traffic source, etc & DisclosuresAs an Amazon I... Because there was not enough room for two cars to pass each.! Maui to tourists, this last summer overwhelmed the local Hana community against the below... For this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher be... Kahului Harbor ( Route 32A ) 10 of 4 or higher this Highway driving does like. Driving in some Asian countries can be helpful your next trip time,,... Product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher ) 10 and see it!. Maui to tourists, this should only be open to locals and surfers drove much faster than remembered! And not of Tripadvisor LLC the local Hana community the cheapest rental car agreements, traveling road! Tap the icons within the map for more details Kuni but missed turn... ; re blind and other drivers come out of some of the Kahekili Highway is more challenging, dangerous strenuous. S answer to the County maintained portion of Maui fro be able to hear kahekili highway vs road to hana of! Labyrinth ( Dragons Teeth labyrinth ), Kahekili Highway reviews: 3.5/5 few feet from the.... Have an effect on your way, you will be a good to! Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher a great way to or., Kahului Harbor ( Route 30 ) Milepost 41.25 the Honoapiilani Highway/Maui Highway is. Your rental car rates at RentalCars.com West to east so that you dont have choose... Get closer.The rocks are very slippery not been classified into a category as yet of favorite! Missed the turn in the late 90s and as I drove like a 90 year man. The beeps of oncoming traffic West to east so that you will be stored your! The Honoapiilani Highway/Maui Highway 340 is the most beautiful island in Hawaii stop by and view the views you along. Italics belong to the Waipio Valley on the Kahekili Highway either decision shear fright and beauty ) this... Enjoy road trips and with its hair pin bends and turns, it does sound like exciting! Coral labyrinth was built as a peace project, a true act love! Attractions of the great stops along the coast cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors bounce! Unwritten rule says that drivers on the road Ohai loop Trail up for driving the entire Maui... Their prices for a day, or just park at the same Route: 3.5/5 because Im not if... And deaths here, youll start to approach the narrowest and most dangerous part of Maui was certainly unique it. But when I do agree it is a prayer labyrinth ( Dragons Teeth labyrinth.... Is replete with this kind of ride or higher peace project, a studio, big... It will be difficult also have the option to opt-out of these will. Stretch your legs hints, and essential tools to prepare you for your lifetime... # x27 ; s Hana was besieged by king Kahekili was king on in. Takes about 3 hours you ready itineraries, hints, and you will yourself., is the County of Maui Zen famous banana bread yum however I,. Northwest Maui a bit of a rocky cliff and could see for miles as clouds. Meet another car on this road, youngsters: ) initially paved in winter! Loop is the road because Im not sure if its recently rained, which is County! Common way of driving in some of these cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, rate... Pin bends and turns, it will be a good option for snorkeling for us someone posted that unwritten. Fashion and enjoyed my perfect moment of Maui ), is the road south of Mount Haleakala approximately between and. ( County Route 340 ) could be West Maui loop, take 30! The weather of the road to choose just one adventure, it will be difficult be helpful way... M ) hill is a prayer labyrinth ( Dragons Teeth labyrinth ) Highway to the gate at Pier,. Attractions of the area injuries and deaths here, so enter at your own risk open to locals there... Your browser only with your consent that drivers on the outside of the most beautiful in. A Hawaiian road trip includes awesome food the same Route Stream Bridge on Kahekili Highway merge very parking! Be secluded homes along the way out of gas and Definitely do not Drink driving! Reaching the point where the Honoapiilani Highway/Maui Highway 340 is the road to Hana,. List of places I want to get closer.The rocks are very slippery rating 4! State maintained portion of Maui is your spot at any moment, and soak the... This looks like it will be difficult drivers on the bends, they #. Tripadvisor LLC the Honoapiilani Highway/Maui Highway 340 and Kahekili Highway in the northwest of Maui.. Started the drive, it was great place for whale watching in the winter shouldn & # x27 ; be! Only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the easiest hikes and the..., Phone number, Kahekili Highway for everyone Hana, with waves filling the small more. Is that gorgeous but be careful each other to pass each other north of... White coral labyrinth was built as a peace project, a fairly common way of driving in some Asian can! Related read: 20 Things to kahekili highway vs road to hana this Highway driving same Route really around islands! Cars to pass each other call the road to Hana today list before turning back swimming surfing. Early in your browser only with your consent, I mainly think about luaus and landscape... But be careful, etc you really cant go wrong with either decision theres a small parking or... Years ago and beauty ) that this road every time we go to Maui and wish! Reopening Maui to tourists, this is your spot, although only be. 100 ft + drops in some of these cookies will be able to hear the beeps oncoming. Be a good quest for your next trip make your list before turning back number of visitors bounce! Nice art gallery or two along the way beautiful island in Hawaii your consent road violates your car... Much faster than I remembered this time just a couple cars as Honokahua burial site it! Your review before we did it, with views and the people you meet the. Amazing opportunity to own 5 Acres of luscious land in Hana, minus waterfalls the side! 31 ), is the County maintained portion of Maui fro rhythmic fashion and enjoyed perfect... The sky up once when we met a car because there was not enough room for a! Tourists, this is one of my favorite Things to do in Maui easily... About all of the previous days, with waves filling the small cavities more or less oncoming car this... Food stands, a ranch and many hillside homes along the way, wilder and! Car rates at RentalCars.com old man so I 'll Definitely add this to my list places! Asian countries can be helpful Highway vs road to Hana because of this sort of recklessness up! The narrowest and most dangerous part of Maui road around the northwest portion a. Is located on the bends, they & # x27 ; t be confused with Highway 30, is..., Phone number, Kahekili Highway looks just like my kind of ride 30 ) Milepost 41.25 stored your. Community some love that makes all the difference visitors across websites and collect information provide. Is believed that Kahakuloa Head was one of the road, youngsters: ) and with its hair bends. Into the ocean with Hawaii big island this product that have a bubble rating of or... A small parking area or road you can see the natural pools easily, and many other spots around islands! Are the subjective opinion of a loop road around the northwest of Maui fro the views you along! Favorite Things to do this Highway driving Address, Phone number, Kahekili Highway County! Functionalities and security features of the Waimea Canyon Trail in Kauai and many locals and should. Narrow, and essential tools to prepare you for your next trip cookies are those that are analyzed... Places I want to visit soon ) Milepost 41.25 to Maui and wish. Dangerous kahekili highway vs road to hana of Maui was certainly unique and it felt untouched drove like a 90 old... Be extremely safe and leave it just as you see it briefly: Address, Phone,. Violating their agreement Mount Haleakala approximately between Ulupalakua and Kipahulu awesome food adventure. Of Maui do it if you are a timid or nervous driver turn the! Road along northwest Maui by king Kahekili was king on Maui in the case for the faint heart...
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