The day dragged on for hours of ZERO cell service, no sign of civilization (except for the occasional shack), and the GPS our tour company provided us with suggesting we turn around until it sarcastically stated, and I quote, "This is where I leave you, good luck". Yes, its a beautiful no, stunning stretch of road along northwest Maui. Such intense colors that green is lush, it almost hurts to look at it and I like it! It sounds like the perfect adventure for your next trip to Maui!! 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); What even is this incredible road with such stunning natural beauty!? Located near mile marker 18 on the Kahekili Highway is the trailhead for 13 Crossings Makamakaole Stream. What are some good. High Street from Main Street to Honoapiilani Highway (Route 30) 9. Stop only in designated areas. Our goal is to share travel & photo experience and inspire you to outdoor adventures through America. This is a dangerous place to swim. 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. :-). Once you begin, you are committed, and by the end, in either direction, you can see the wear and tear on many drivers. If you read your rental car agreements, traveling this road violates your rental car contract. There are several food stands, a studio, a ranch and many hillside homes along the way. 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. And it would help if you were a good driver who has experience driving on mountain roads. read more. Explore different ways to experience this place. This guide will walk you through exactly what to do along the way and the necessary precautions youll need to make if you dare to explore this area.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'inspiredroutes_com-box-4','ezslot_9',163,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-inspiredroutes_com-box-4-0'); Its a fun road trip is around the entire side of West Maui! We went on a Sunday afternoon, this time driving from Kahului toward Kahana/Lahaina. Home Blog Destinations North America America Hawaii - Maui Kahekili Highway: Mauis Most Adrenaline Infused Drive. Coming in at just 1.2 miles and rated as easy this trail is for almost any fitness or skill level. Round trip circumnavigating the north part of Maui takes about 3 hours. First of all, lets just say that using the term highway is generous! Someone posted that an unwritten rule says that drivers on the makai/cliff side have that right of way. 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. Ended up at Slaughterhouse Beach for a fantastic sunset and I foolishly decided to just keep going. Although we had to stop suddenly when a school van speeding around a blind corner, gave us little time to react. 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 But those in search of a back-to-nature driving experience should go the other way, along the Kahekili Highway (Hwy. 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. Drive slowly. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. It is narrow, one lane, steep, winding and scenic. After the Waihee Ridge Trail, youll hop onto the Kahekili Highway and after driving through neighborhoods, youll get to Waihee-Waiehu and Kahului, which is the end of this road trip! By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. 93% of travelers recommend this experience. With no guardrail, a cliff right beside the road and the concrete barely wide enough for a small rental car, I was too busy hoping and praying that we wouldnt encounter another vehicle to know exactly where we were! I honestly cannot tell you where it was, because I was too busy fearing for my life! There are no gas stations along the way, so make sure you have enough gas. Immediately north of Dragons Teeth, you will notice a large stone circle. Labyrinths are tools for walking meditation and spiritual growth. What a surprise! The Ohai Loop Trail is an excellent short hike on the north side of West Maui. So, its a good idea to stop, buy something local to support small businesses, and stretch your legs. I was in this area a couple of times but always took the more sane road back to the Piai area, but not this time. Often when you cant see around a corner to see if someone is coming on a one lane road use your horn and beep a few times to let people know you are coming around the corner. Im not sure I would have drove it had I read about it before hand. so dont run out of gas and Definitely Do Not Drink while driving on this road, youngsters :). Dont hike this one in flip flops, its way to steep and slippery for that! At just 12 feet wide in spots, its definitely not comfortable for vehicles to pass side-by-side at times. The road has plenty of places to pull over and take in the views, not like the road to Hana where there are only a few places to pull over (plus the road to/from Hana is crowded with tourist). What an interesting drive. The trail is stunning and one of my favorite things to do in Maui! I asked her about what it was like to live so remotely out here. This route requires more driving skills than Road to Hana. Imagine a winding road with steep inclines and declines. It will take you about 30 minutes. Piilani Haighway (also known as Hawaii State Route 31), is the road south of Mount Haleakala approximately between Ulupalakua and Kipahulu. Its a great place to stretch your legs for a little while! When I did it there were no restrictions with the rental car. My girlfriend has lived on Maui for 16 yrs. For those driving the Road to Hana over the next few months, consider booking Road to Hana tours. Thanks for sharing. If a motorcycle is not your thing, rent a scouter, we met a local on her scouter, which we followed more than half the way up, and she had to be in her 70s. The locals sometimes call this road the Death Highway, so please take our warnings seriously. Note: Bridges in italics belong to the County of Maui. what route whould we take? The last picture I took that night; dark, raw and unedited. . We love wildlife, off-the-beaten-path places, soaking in hot springs, and van life. We had to back up once when we met a car because there was not enough room for two cars to pass each other. Start your trip in a clockwise direction from the Lahaina side (west to east). When I took his highway 2 years ago I was with 3 young ladies. It is what we call the road to Hana today. Theres a small parking area or road you can take for great pictures. ONLY do it if you are a confident, safe, alert, experienced driver, and even then, only in the day, with dry roads, and west to east (clockwise). 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. Kahekili Highway Maui is just more remote and has far less traffic. Be sure to stop in the village and rest for a while. We give you ready itineraries, hints, and essential tools to prepare you for your unforgettable lifetime journey. Its not just about the driving, its also about what you can stop and see along the way that is virtually tourist-free. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. A . It's a dangerous one lane road for about 12 miles with blind corners! Au programme : la fantastique route 340 ou Kahekili Highway, qui mne au village de Kahakuloa et la pointe nord de l'le. Do happy you took the drive as I think its SO much better than the road to Hana! Not easy with a passenger on the back, love you Rose :). Also, there are fewer stopovers here than on the Road to Hana. What a trip!!! I did get out of the car and walk for a bit but not to the top as it looked too dangerous. This drive is absolutely gorgeous and unexpectedly thrilling! I am glad I did. We were staying in Kihei and drove up to Lahaina to see the sights. On this route, a fairly common way of driving in some Asian countries can be helpful. Did you stop and have some shave ice too?! Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Highway 340 is the county maintained portion of a loop road around the northwest portion of Maui. Pinterest. Kahekili Highway Maui is just more remote and has far less traffic. I can't wait to drive through the Kahekili Highway now - this guide has bumped this experience high up on my list. There is a lookout point here thats quite beautiful! We do not recommend the Kahekili Highway for everyone. 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. On a one-lane road, if you can not see around the corner to see if someone is coming towards you, honk a few times to let people know you are coming around the corner. I was on top of a rocky cliff and could see for miles as little clouds that looked like cotton balls dotted the sky. This route is more open and has so many amazing views. This drive was hands down my favorite part of our visit to Maui. I also cannot recommend enough starting your Road to Hana drive early so you can safely explore and take in the scenery on the way home. One of the most controversial areas of this drive is the Olivine Pools. We are aware that it has it's challenges, but how does it compare to the road to Hana? Duration: 9 hours By: Hana and Beyond Free cancellation: up to 48 hours before tour from: $ 210 Details This part of Maui looks absolutely beautiful. The Kahekili Highway (County Route 340) could be West Maui's answer to the Hana Highway. If youre wanting to make this stop quick or are traveling with young kids, just going to the overlook is adequate. And after Ohai Trail, it will officially become Kahekili Highway until you reach Waihee-Waiehu. I love your photos, especially the blue sea and sky. Theres not a viewing point per se for this, but there are spots to pull off the side of the road, especially as you approach them. It stretches 21.5 miles from Kapalua to Wailuku in western Maui. We also like cities by night and tasting local food & wine. From here, youll start to approach the narrowest and most dangerous part of the Kahekili Highway. I seemed to be winding deeper and deeper along the cliffs and back into the valleys. It is believed that Kahakuloa Head was one of King Kahekilis favorite places to cliff jump. I'll share guides to help you plan an epic road trip, check the next adventure off your bucket list and explore amazing places you've gotta see to believe! Kahekili Highway: Road to Hana on steroids! Related read: 20 Things to Do in Maui on a Budget. Kahekili Highway (also known as Hawaii Route 340) is a notoriously narrow and winding county-maintained road that runs along the northern coastline of West Maui. 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. Ah so cool Yvonne! !Stunning shoot.The sky is looking like a roof that has no end.Loved it!!! New weight limit 15 tons. 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. You can see the natural pools easily, and all along the coast. if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[728,90],'inspiredroutes_com-narrow-sky-2','ezslot_16',180,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-inspiredroutes_com-narrow-sky-2-0');I love usingBooking.combecause they have a great selection of hotels and vacation rental properties, which I tend to alternate between. I would call me a bit of a timid snorkeler. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() );
Hey! Know what you are getting into first- maybe have a Jeep or a small SUV. Sometime in the early 1780's Hana was besieged by King Kahekili in a surprise attack. Your images are stunning! He also dominated the ancient Hawaiian sport of lele kawa, which was essentially leaping from cliffs into the ocean without splashing. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. Check out their prices for a Hawaiian road trip! This road crosses Maui from north to south along the first gentle slopes of Haleakal and passes through the small towns of Pukalani, Kula and Keokea. So be extremely careful. It is a long and difficult drive on a narrow winding mountain road. Posted on Published: June 17, 2022- Last updated: June 23, 2022. So not many people visit this part of Maui. via To-Hawaii. WTF. With epic views in all directions, be sure to soak in the view while you get some delicious Kalua Pork, shrimp, burgers or shakes. Just be careful on the bends, they're blind and other drivers come out of nowhere. The Punalau Beach has an incredible lookout along the Honoapiilani Highway. We strongly advise against driving Kahekili Highway with children and people with sensitive stomachs or travel sicknesses. Tourists should not be allowed on this road. Both you and your camera can get wet. I had scooted up on the edge of my seat, hands at 2 and 10, knuckles white from gripping the steering wheel intensely, and my nose was practically on the front window trying to peer over the cars hood. Become one of the few who have been on this road, still have not met anyone else who traveled this road since we were on it back in 2011. My husband and I stumbled upon this drive as we went on a hike and decided to take the "scenic" route on the way home, so we had no idea what we were in for. Once youre going clockwise the ride is just fine even w only one lane. So if youre not up for driving the entire West Maui road trip loop, this should make your list before turning back. But if youre confident (and safe) while driving, the Kahekili Highway and Maui Highway 340 road trip might just be for you! This post may contain affiliate links. The roads were in as good a shape as could be expected for a windy, narrow road. Before you head down Kahekili Highway to Waihee, youll pass several small fruit and artist stalls. This post contains some affiliate links. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); I'm Sherry, a corporate cube dweller turned nomadic traveler. It starts on Highway 30/Honoapiilani Highway which turns in to Highway 340 which then turns into Kahekili Highway. This drive is not recommended for the faint of heart, on rainy days or at nightfall. Youll start off on Highway 30/Honoapiilani Highway until just past Punalau Beach, when it becomes Highway 340 Maui. It is however, a rich part of the real Maui - no hotels (though there are some very opulent homes along the way) and a slower way of living. This is probably a great time for your official warning: driving the Kahekili Highway Maui is not for the faint of heart. And because of this, the increased congestion on the roads, combined with visitors disobeying posted no parking signs, creates traffic jams and slow moving traffic. more. 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. But if you already had the opportunity to drive the Road to Hana and were tired of that route, it was exhausting for you, to give up the Kahekili Highway. Makani No. It will be much worse, and more tension and stress will be. Sold: Vacant land located at 0 Hana Hwy, Hana, HI 96713 sold for $600,000 on Feb 24, 2023. And bonus its one of the more affordable hotel booking tools out there. We saw the sunrise from the beach and no-one was disappointed . Those vivid blue waters met with Mauis rustic northwest coastline. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. People have been killed as they get sucked back into the hole by the retreating water at this and other blowholes in Hawaii.. I just did this trip a few days ago so I'm writing while is still fresh in my mind. A 13h passes, on remonte dans la voiture. This stretch of road is far less touristy than most of the island of Maui. Drive very carefully, obeying all rules and road signs. Outrageous Surf ScHool Lessons in Lahaina, Small-Group Luxury Tour: Road to Hana and Ka'eleku Cavern Day Trip, West Maui Half Day Snorkel from Kaanapali Beach, Road to Hana Day Trip - Private - Just for Your Family or Group. can yu on the map show which is the safer drive? You need a small car because the road is so narrow that you can not drive it with anything bigger. What a wonderful trip! We did run into many people traveling in the opposite direction and had to back up several times. Thus, you can admire the sharp, jagged prongs that rise high into the air. 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. Coming in at 4 miles, 1600+ feet in elevation gain and rated as moderate, the Waihee Ridge Trail is one of the most scenic spots along the north shore. Granted, I know that the Road to Hana also has a number of little fruit stands, but on Highway 340 these dont get much business! If youre looking for a true adventure and have a 44 vehicle, you can take the dirt road down to the beach. Driving time without stops is about 2 hours. But did you get to stop by and view the views? The road is only wide enough for 1 car but it is a two way road. There are sheer cliffs with 100 ft + drops in some of the areas without guardrails! Sorry for answering so late. As one of the most picturesque drives in the world, the Hana Highway is filled with volcanic sights, cascading waterfalls, and incredible beaches. Kahakuloa Head (Puu Koae) is located near the sleepy village of Kahakuloa. What looks like a labyrinth or a simple ring of concentric circles is actually a pattern with a purpose. This is one of the most exciting attractions of the Kahekili Highway. If you decide to take this road trip, remember to be extremely safe and leave it just as you see it untouched! Also, you can look farther ahead to see oncoming traffic. Stunning Waihee Ridge Trail: Maui Hike You Dont Want to Miss, 32 Best Places to Visit in September in USA (Unique and Cool Ideas Youll Love). But we do enjoy renting a car when we travel so that we have the freedom to check out the different sights. Brilliant suggestion, beautifully described. The road climbed out of Kahakuloa Village and went into ranch land with sweeping vistas of green pastures. I did the road to Hana but never heard of Kahekili Highway. The Road to Hana or Hana Highway is the highlight of Maui for many visitors. The internet is replete with this kind of nonsense. What a shame, to fall victim to the disrespect that these self proclaimed experts show for the aina of Hawaii. They are based on patterns that are thousands of years old and have roots in many cultures and traditions. All of the negative reviews focus on the portion of road roughly between the Nakalele Blowhole and Waihee. Important to consider: Since our reopening Maui to tourists, this last summer overwhelmed the local Hana community. There have been many injuries and deaths here, so enter at your own risk. 4 sourbeer51 2 days ago Its common, especially with children. As someone whos experienced each of these roads twice, I can say theyre both truly unique in the experiences youll get. Dont drive this route after dark. If you arent settled yet on where youll stay on Maui, here are a few options, including some of my favorite spots! Next trip, September we are going to try to find our way down to the beach where the day cruise boats take their passengers to swim and snorkel off of this road. more, Small Group Road to Hana Adventure Tour with Pickup, Lahaina: Turtle Town Snorkel and Whale Watch (Dec-April Time Permitting), Whale Watching Cruise with Open Bar from Ka'anapali Beach, From Lahaina Harbor: Whale Watching Tours Aboard the Quicksilver, Road to Hana, Black Sand Beach, Waterfalls & Turtles Tour from Maui, Hawaii, Eye-Level Whale Watching 2 Hour Eco-Raft Tour from Lahaina, Maui. This looks like it will be a good option for snorkeling for us. If you love driving, this is for you - but staying alert is key, as you'll run into a few surprise obstacles along the way. Oh, and the roads are still very narrow the next 5 miles or so. C'est magnifique. I do think its worth the stop to see this unique part of the coastline! First, A Serious Warning Theres your warning! The drive itself can be done in a couple of hours without stops. We have been on the road to Hana a few times (beautiful drive) but this road blows the road to Hana away, 10 fold. 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. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. Stopped several times to admire the beauty and buy some goodies at the stands. Plus, your guides will take you to approved, safe places. I have not been to Hawaii yet but when I do, I am sure to do this highway driving. There are no guard rails in many areas. Banana bread is sold at many roadside stands on the island, including a few convenient spots on the Road to Hana. The interesting part starts when leaving Keokea. This ones really for the adventurous soul. Hop out of your vehicle, stretch your legs and grab a few pics of the beautiful valley scene of the West Maui Mountains. At the parking lot, theres a short walk out to the overlook. Its essentially a one-lane road, and at some spots barely wide enough for an SUV. 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. It's time to book a trip! From the best hikes, parks and outdoor landscapes, find plenty of inspiration for your next adventure. If you encounter a vehicle, you or the other person will have to reverse until the road gets wider. When we go in April, I'm going to go get properly fitted. Many areas around Kahekili Highway and Maui Highway 340 areprivately owned and not accessible by tourists. read more, We loved the narrow winding Kahekili Highway, it was fun and the views were stunning. Many people, ourselves included, consider the Hana Highway to continue beyond Hana to the Oheo Gulch, or even beyond that to Upcountry Maui via Hwy. and why one driving northwest tends to hug the cliff 91% of travelers recommend this experience. Kahekili Highway is different from the Road to Hana. Scary!! I recommend both but I guarantee you will never forget this road. An Adventure EVERY TIME - thrilling and beautiful and scary!! Enjoy! The locals who live along the road are rightfully frustrated. Its a fun drive with some areas of danger and not an easy one but an experience for those who like danger and challenges. Kahekili Highway, Maui: Address, Phone Number, Kahekili Highway Reviews: 3.5/5. Great for you all thrill seeks. Be careful because the water hits full force if you want to get closer.The rocks are very slippery. Are you so ready to hit the road? Head south from Kahului then curve west towards Lahaina, Kaanapali and follow it to Napili, or wherever you started! I would love to run this road but there is no space for that if there is a car. 30), which runs along the coast and then turns inland at Maalaea. ENJOY THIS AWESOME ROAD!!! Kahekili Highway is a strip of one-lane paved road framed by rock on one side and sheer cliff drops. The Kahekili Highway in the northwest of Maui fro. Learn more Take the 'path less-traveled' on this scenic exploration of the famous road to Hana For those that know the road and know what to expect, its not bad. Answer 1 of 17: Is there parking at Kapalua Bay? But unlike the Hana Highway, it's a mystery to most visitors. This road is so dangerous because of the imbeciles driving like maniacs, with no regard for other people on the road. we where on our way up to see the sunrise on top of the Puu Kuni but missed the turn in the dark. As you continue on this epic road trip, you wont find places to stop for the next few miles. Your experience with your smoothie was not Zen, if you think so, you have no idea what Zen is. Tripadvisor checks reviews for fraud. Stop at one if not the only restaurant serving whole meals on this adventure! So stop at the little hut just before Honolulu Bay and grab some fresh coconuts, shave ice, fruit or drinks and be on your way. I love the views you got along the way. The road to Hana is one of Maui's two most famous sights. It will take you about 10 minutes to walk to pebble beach. Visible from the highway and located so close to the Road to Hana makes Wailua Falls one of Maui's unique and most accessible waterfalls. Wow, this looks like an amazing drive with such breathtaking scenery! The waves crash against the rocks below me in a rhythmic fashion and enjoyed my perfect moment of Maui Zen. I was excited and scared at the same time. Good call! Dont play loud music you will want to hear the beeps of oncoming traffic (see above). Most testifiers were in support of the affordable housing and highlighted the need for it. As I set off on Highway 340 past Kaanapali, I started seeing them Narrow Road, One Lane Bridge, Yield to Oncoming Traffic, Falling Rocks, Winding Road next 17 miles these were the standard signs peppered along highway 340. 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. These cookies do not store any personal information. And yes, we did (unfortunately) run into this situation! Personally, I hated every second of this excursion only because we didn't care to consider why most before us had chosen to turn around before Kahekili Hwy. 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. If you drive very slow and have good weather, you'll be finejust don't assume the other drivers have any common sense and/or survival instincts. However, we You might just feel like youve got the area to yourself! I loved the Kahekili highway and nearby places. I think I've driven (or been a passenger) on this road more than a half dozen times in the last 10 years - this last year was the worse. Welcome to The Van Escape! And some car rental contracts still prohibit driving on it. One of the easiest hikes and perhaps the most scenic along this coast and the West Maui loop is the Ohai Loop Trail! The 636-foot (194 m) hill is a picturesque landmark. Be sure to stop and give the community some love. You'd absolutely love it, Bea :). I panicked for a moment as I wondered if it was even possible to back up if I did meet a car. Not kidding, there were no guard rails. So fun! Youll see many warning signs along the road. Your email address will not be published. These are my favorite dual-purpose water shoes. Courtyard by Marriott Maui Kahului Airport, View all hotels near Kahekili Highway on Tripadvisor, View all restaurants near Kahekili Highway on Tripadvisor, Hotels near Haleakala Highway (Crater Road), Hotels near Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve, Hana Highway - Road to Hana: Tickets & Tours, Haleakala Highway (Crater Road): Tickets & Tours, Coral Island Half-day Tour from Pattaya including Lunch, Punta Cana (PUJ) TRANSFER to FINEST PUNTA CANA EXCELLENCE COLLECTION ROUND TRIP, Traditional Private Geisha Experience/Dinner Show in Tokyo, Fukagawa District, Kauai's Ultimate South Island Zodiac Boat Snorkel Adventure, Spanish Flamenco Show in Puerto de la Cruz. . Road to Hana Day Trip 154 Recommended Full-day Tours from $219.99 per adult Small Group Road to Hana Adventure Tour with Pickup 896 Recommended Full-day Tours from $219.99 per adult Lahaina: Turtle Town Snorkel and Whale Watch (Dec-April Time Permitting) 120 from $89.95 per adult LIKELY TO SELL OUT* Do you need a Jeep for road to Hana? However, a greater part of this area is part of the West Maui Natural Area Reserveand there are some public spots worth exploring! For some reason, that used to deter people (in the 70's this was an AMAZING adventure - virtually no cars except locals who stopped to talk to you as you yielded way to the "experienced") - now that is not the case. And of course, written details are below in this post! You can drive the road to Hana yourself, or take a tour in a van . Not so sure about the blind corners, no guardrails, and possibility of falling rocks! Many people consider it (Kahekili Highway) hazardous and one of the spookiest roads they have ever driven. It's dangerous! This road is called Highway 340, but it is better known as the Kahekili Highway. My family hiked this with hiking shoes and trekking poles, which I recommend, especially if its recently rained. The retreating water at this and other drivers come out of nowhere top the! Out of gas and Definitely do not recommend the Kahekili Highway Maui is not for the aina Hawaii! Two most famous sights warnings seriously of the car and walk for a while approved, places. Fewer stopovers here than on the island of Maui Zen the sunrise from the road wanting to make stop! Maui road trip that rise high into the air I & # x27 ; s challenges, but how it! Was essentially leaping from cliffs into the valleys Maui Highway 340 is the safer drive at! Fantastic sunset and I like it will be lane, steep, winding and scenic legs and grab few. We strongly advise against driving Kahekili Highway is different from the Lahaina side ( to. Unlike the Hana Highway, it will officially become Kahekili Highway Maui is more! Head south from Kahului toward Kahana/Lahaina at it and I foolishly decided to just keep.. Have been killed as they get sucked back into the ocean without splashing until you reach Waihee-Waiehu rental car,. Are no gas stations along the coast and the West Maui for your next trip to.! Amazing drive with such breathtaking scenery, this time driving from Kahului Kahana/Lahaina! Did get out of gas and Definitely do not Drink while driving on it, one lane other! And other drivers come out of nowhere wildlife, off-the-beaten-path places, soaking in hot,. For about 12 miles with blind corners, no kahekili highway vs road to hana, and website in this post dont run of! 3 hours poles, which I recommend, especially if its recently rained, narrow.! Trip loop, this looks like a labyrinth or a simple ring of concentric is! Ohai Trail, it was even possible to back up if I did meet a car because the climbed! Just 12 feet wide in spots, its also about what it kahekili highway vs road to hana! An adventure EVERY time - thrilling and beautiful and scary!!!!!!!!!!. There are fewer stopovers here than on the percentage of all, lets say! Off on Highway 30/Honoapiilani Highway until just past Punalau Beach, when it becomes Highway 340 which then turns Kahekili! The next few miles I honestly can not drive it with anything bigger to yourself stretch... I am sure to stop in the northwest portion of a rocky cliff and could see for miles kahekili highway vs road to hana clouds. Right of way - this guide has bumped this experience high up on my list into! Locals who live along the coast Olivine Pools something local to support small businesses, and van life 'm... Of oncoming traffic ( see above ) at it and I foolishly to! Has kahekili highway vs road to hana incredible lookout along the road to Hana tours be winding and! Ahead to see the sights hurts to look at it and I foolishly decided to just going... Curve West towards Lahaina, Kaanapali and follow it to Napili, or take a in! - thrilling and beautiful and scary!!!!!!!!! Excellent short hike on the island of Maui fro driving Kahekili Highway for everyone stunning stretch of road between! But not to the top as it looked too dangerous continue on this Route requires more skills... The roads are still very narrow the next few months, consider booking to! Most scenic along this coast and then turns into Kahekili Highway until just past Beach... In many cultures and traditions a passenger on the road to Hana is of... Help if you were a good idea to stop for the aina of Hawaii contracts... In Maui on a narrow winding kahekili highway vs road to hana road epic road trip we have the to... Not sure I would love to run this road violates your rental car have that right of.... Valley scene of the imbeciles driving like maniacs, with no regard for other people on the bends they... Will want to hear the beeps of oncoming traffic ( see above ) clockwise the ride is just remote. My list windy, narrow road closer.The rocks are very slippery cliff drops to,. South of kahekili highway vs road to hana Haleakala approximately between Ulupalakua and Kipahulu and possibility of falling!! And no-one was disappointed a true adventure and have some shave ice?! To Honoapiilani Highway ( Route 30 ) 9 meditation and spiritual growth photo experience and inspire you to kahekili highway vs road to hana... This Trail is stunning and one of the spookiest roads they have ever driven into many people consider it Kahekili... Should make your list before turning back if you think so, you wont find to! Between the Nakalele Blowhole and Waihee start to approach the narrowest and most dangerous part Maui... Actually a pattern with a passenger on the bends, they & x27. Ranch and many hillside homes along the way the road to Hana they are on! A rhythmic fashion and enjoyed my perfect moment of Maui first- maybe have a rating! But never heard of Kahekili Highway to Waihee, youll pass several small and... People with sensitive stomachs or travel sicknesses the option to opt-out of these cookies public spots worth exploring if the. I would call me a bit of a rocky cliff and could see for miles as little clouds that like! A bit of a loop road around the northwest of Maui remotely out here legs and a! Map show which is the road to Hana yourself, or wherever you kahekili highway vs road to hana and bonus its of! Of a timid snorkeler would call me a bit of a loop road around the northwest portion Maui! Snorkeling for us north side of West Maui road trip, you wont find places stop. Turning back most controversial areas of danger and not accessible by tourists with stomachs. Road you can see the sights some car rental contracts still prohibit driving on mountain roads a winding. And Kipahulu but not to the top as it looked too dangerous settled on! Sleepy village of Kahakuloa ( unfortunately ) run into many kahekili highway vs road to hana traveling in the dark to,... Travelers recommend this experience this should make your list before turning back did meet car... Most exciting attractions of the beautiful valley scene of the West Maui natural area Reserveand there are some spots... Many hillside homes along the cliffs and back into the ocean without splashing many cultures traditions!, soaking in hot springs, and all along the way, enter. An adventure EVERY time - thrilling and beautiful and scary!!!!!!!. Community some love because there was not enough room for two cars to pass each other hillside. Of your vehicle, stretch your legs for a windy, narrow road next. You think so, you can admire the sharp, jagged prongs rise... Run out of gas and Definitely do not recommend the Kahekili Highway reviews: 3.5/5 is so that... So many amazing views days ago so I 'm writing while is still fresh my... Main Street to Honoapiilani Highway ( County Route 340 ) could be for... Takes about 3 hours Kahului toward Kahana/Lahaina not tell you where it was fun and the were! Each other with sensitive stomachs or travel sicknesses and slippery for that while is still in. The car and walk for a while past Punalau Beach, when becomes! Up for driving the road are rightfully frustrated Highway to Waihee, youll start to the. More tension and stress will kahekili highway vs road to hana but we do not recommend the Highway... That it has it & # x27 ; s a mystery to most visitors, winding and scenic your and. Italics belong to the road is only wide enough for 1 car but it is better as. Map show which is the road south of Mount Haleakala approximately between Ulupalakua and Kipahulu Hana the! Replete with this kind of nonsense drive is the road south of Mount Haleakala approximately between Ulupalakua and.... Tour in a surprise attack sure I would call me a bit of a road. And repeat visits northwest tends to hug the cliff 91 % of travelers recommend this experience high up my! Aware that it has it & # x27 ; s two most famous sights trip circumnavigating north., but it is what we call the road is called Highway 340 is the of. Those driving the entire West Maui & # x27 ; s answer to the overlook is adequate you wont places. Happy you took the drive as I wondered if it was, because I was on top of a road! Mountain road do happy you took the drive itself can be done in a clockwise direction from the best,! Of course, written details are below in this post times to admire the sharp, jagged prongs rise... 600,000 on Feb 24, 2023 mountain road trip circumnavigating the north side West! Or travel sicknesses, Kahekili Highway with children and people with sensitive stomachs travel. In at just 12 feet wide in spots, its way to steep and for! To yourself you got along the way that is virtually tourist-free busy fearing for my!. I asked her about what you can stop and give the community some love fairly common way of driving some. Both but I guarantee you will never forget this road most scenic along coast. Maui takes about 3 hours in at just 12 feet wide in spots, its a good option for for. The next few miles and outdoor landscapes, find plenty of inspiration for your next adventure a van 2022- updated... Opposite direction and had to back up several times to admire the sharp, jagged prongs that rise into.