The West Maui Mountains also called Mauna Kahalawai, or West Maui Volcano offers some of the islandโs best scenery and outdoor adventure. This is also a part of the West Maui Forest Reserve.
A drive through this region is considered to be one of few that rivals the iconicย Road to Hana, offering many points to stop and enjoy the views. The West Maui Mountains feature scenic vistas of beautiful farmland, rugged mountain sides, lush rainforest, sprawling valleys, and picture-perfect coastline.ย Want to explore in a different way? The West Maui Mountains are also ideally viewed from the sky on a helicopter tour.ย
Here are a few of our favorite stops in and around the West Maui Mountains.
Olivine Pools
The Olivine Pools are stunning tide pools along the west Maui coastline amid lava rock terrain. Alongside sandy beaches, the Olivine Pools have gotten popular in the last decade or so drawing many to the area. However, this area is known to have dangerous conditions. Be mindful of the slippery lava rock and only visit when the ocean is calm. Once you arrive, watch the ocean for 10 โ 15 minutes to gauge the surf conditions and only proceed to the pools if itโs low.
Nakalele Point Blowhole
Just like the Olivine Pools, and much of Maui really, watch the conditions at the Nakalele Point Blowhole for high surf that can cause dangerous conditions. Located on the eastern edge of the northern point of Maui, the Nakalele Point Blowhole is a unique site where water shoots 100 feet into the air. Be sure to stay a safe distance from the blowhole and take the warning signs around the site seriously. The unique geyser-like phenomenon was created over time as waves crash and air builds up.
Kahakuloa Head
Located on the north side of West Maui, Kahakuloa Head is a 646-foot high peak along the coastline. There is a short trail to the top but no real designated route, so youโll be left to scramble, bushwack, and crawl a bit to make it to the top marker. The road to this site is quite rough and narrow in parts.
Lao Valley
Theย Iao Valley State Parkย is home to 4,000 acres of lush tropical landscape and accessible trails for all levels. The Iao Needle is the most iconic site in the area, both a natural and historic landmark. Known as the site of one of Hawaiiโs most brutal battles in history, the Iao Needle is a registered National Natural Landmark.
Plan Your West Maui Vacation
If a trek through the West Maui Mountains is on your to-do list, book one of ourย Maui condo rentalsย for easy access. There are plenty ofย things to do in West Maui, whether youโreย chasing waterfalls, planning aย family vacation, or diving deep into theย history of Maui. Let us help you plan the trip of a lifetime to Maui.ย
