The 10 Best Hikes in Maui, Hawaii: Complete Guide

Maui has many options for outdoor adventure. Let’s narrow it down to some of the best. Here are some of the island’s most amazing hikes.

These hikes showcase the best of Maui’s natural beauty, from waterfalls and bamboo forests to volcanic landscapes and ocean views.

Located in the Kīpahulu section of Haleakalā National Park, this 4-mile loop is one of Maui’s most popular. The trailhead parking lot is near Mile Marker 42 on Highway 31, just across the road from the Haleakalā Ranger Station.

The trail goes through a bamboo forest, past waterfalls, and ends at the 400-foot Waimoku Falls, the highest on the island.

Makahiku Falls is also on the Pipiwai Trail. It takes about 4 hours to do but you can linger and enjoy the area as long as you want – there’s so much to see. Note that it’s part of a national park and, therefore, you’ll have to pay a $30 entrance fee.

If you’re looking for the best waterfall hikes in Maui, this is certainly one to consider, despite the entrance fee.

Last but not least, note that the best way to see the trail is on a scenic helicopter tour of Haleakala, and you’ll have incredible views from above while you’re at it!

‘Iao Valley State Monument is a short drive from Wailuku and it’s one of the most beautiful national parks in Hawaii.

It’s got great scenery and the famous Iao Needle Lookout Trail. The valley has green cliffs and a gentle stream and is very peaceful. Reservations are required to get into the park, so make sure you book before coming!

However, you can make them up to 30 days in advance so plan ahead. As a tourist, you will pay $10 for parking and a $5 entrance fee.

Paved 0.6-mile trail to the lookout with great valley views – Be prepared for rain as this is one of the wettest areas in Hawaii.

For a tough but rewarding hike, hike to the summit of Haleakalā Volcano and do the Sliding Sands Trail. As the name suggests, this trail goes down into a volcanic crater in a surreal landscape. Make sure you’re prepared for changing weather conditions as you’re in a national park.

This 11.5-mile hike is tough, starts at 10,023 feet at the Haleakalā Visitors Center and goes to the south base of the crater.

The trail is loose until you get to the Kapalaoa Cabin at about 7,400 feet, and you’ll gain elevation on this trail. If you’re an early bird, we recommend you come for sunrise for the ultimate experience!

Waihe’e Ridge Trail on Maui’s north shore has ocean and valley views, and that’s an excellent feature that most climbers come for.

This 5-mile out-and-back trail goes up along a ridgeline and has great views. You’ll climb about 1,500 feet to Lanilili Peak.

Do this trail with a buddy and bring water and snacks as there are no amenities in this area. To sum up, Waihe’e Ridge Trail is one of the best Maui hikes, and you’ll have an amazing time, despite taking around 2 hours to complete.

Kapalua Coastal Trail on the northwest coast of the island is an easy hike in Maui, and it’s really worth considering. You can park for free at the trailhead and check out the signs and postings along the way that tell you about native plants and sea birds.

This paved path follows the coastline and has great ocean views and marine life. Take your time and enjoy the fresh air and sound of the waves.

And lastly, if you come from November to May, look for whales during their migration season. You can’t go wrong coming to West Maui!

Seven Sacred Pools, also known as ‘Ohe’o Gulch, is a must-see. The area is on the Road to Hana and has over a dozen tiered waterfalls.

While you’re here, take the 3.6-mile stream trail and you’ll see a bamboo forest, a giant banyan tree, and 400-foot Waimoku Falls, one of the best hikes on Maui. To see these natural wonders, buy a $10 pass to Haleakalā National Park.

Note that swimming isn’t allowed, so come to this Maui hike only if you plan to climb!

Many people rent a car in Maui and drive on their own, however, Maui’s Road to Hana tour is an excellent way to discover the area and stop at the Seven Sacred Pools safely with a local guide.

Short but slightly tough hike to Kopiliula Falls, also known as Wailua Iki Falls. Located past mile marker 21 on the Road to Hāna. You’ll have to navigate a rocky and often muddy stream bed, but it’s all worth it for the setting you get in return.

It’s not really a beginner trail simply because it’s muddy but it’s worth it for the peace and quiet.

This trail in Maui is about 0.8 miles roundtrip to get to a spot to sit beside the falls surrounded by jungle. Lastly, it’s less crowded than some of the other waterfall hikes on the island, which is surely a big plus.

Volcanic coastline and black sand beach at Wai’anapanapa State Park on the Road to Hana. The beach was carved out by centuries of waves crashing against lava flows. The contrast of the black sand and turquoise water is amazing.

Reservations are required to visit Waiʻānapanapa State Park and Honokalani Beach with its iconic black sand, and the cost is $10 for parking and $5 per person for entrance.

Four-and-a-half-mile loop trail that takes you through a lava tube, freshwater caves, heiau (ancient Hawaiian temples), and blowholes. Last but not least, we recommend you take your time to enjoy this unique coastal park.

Located on Maui’s northwestern coast, see nature’s power at the Nakalele Blowhole. As waves crash against the rocky cliffs, water shoots up through a hole in the lava rock.

Moderate hike about a mile down a cliffside path to the blowhole. Great views but be safe and always keep a safe distance from the edge of the cliffs and the blowhole.

Watch your step on this trail as you’ll be navigating rough terrain and uneven surfaces.

Ready for an adventure? Waimoku Falls via Pipiwai Trail is a must-do hike near Hana, Maui. 5.5km out and back, a moderate hike takes about 2 hours.

The journey is as beautiful as the destination, with bamboo forests, banyan trees, and streams along the way. One of Maui’s most popular hikes, you’ll likely run into other hikers along the way.

Open year-round, the trail is beautiful in every season, and the diversity of flora and landscape is amazing. Just remember to leave your fur babies at home, as dogs are not allowed on this trail.

Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for a day in nature, Waimoku Falls via Pipiwai Trail is one of the best hikes in Maui so don’t miss out.