Maui Honokohau Stream Bridge on Kahekili Highway (Route 30) Milepost 35.8. The community of Kahakuloa Village is one of the most isolated spots in Maui. Honolua Bay and Honolua Park at Kahekili Highway. 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. Banana bread is sold at many roadside stands on the island, including a few convenient spots on the Road to Hana. Kahekili Highway (Hawaii State Highway 340) runs north and south from Kahului through the small town of Waihee-Waiehu, flanked by the beauty of the West Maui Natural Area Reserve to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east, on its way to Kahakuloa Village, one of the most isolated spots on Maui. This post contains some affiliate links. David What a lovely story you shared about such a spectacular road and drive. Your photos have me swooning. Its a legendary road known for switchbacks, narrow passages, and dangerous road conditions. Most rental car companies tell you not to drive this route as it can be extremely dangerous. When I did it there were no restrictions with the rental car. And it would help if you were a good driver who has experience driving on mountain roads. are easily reached taking the western rou one of the dozens of blind hairpin turns on a one. I took a photo from the road because Im not sure if its public access or not. I sure would love to stop by and take in those landscapes for myself -especially the blowhole. With all the stops we would plan, it would take us a very long day to make this trip. The Kahekili Highway in the northwest of Maui fro. First, A Serious Warning If you want to show reverence for this land, you will not follow this amateurs advice. We were a mile from the trail head but no, we did not make it in our ridiculous camero rental car. What a wonderful trip! There is a hiking trail to the blowhole if youre up for the adventure! The prior reviews initially convinced us not to do the drive, but a local friend provided reassurances and so we did it and were happy we did . Sorry for answering so late. Hi, we are Agnes & Chris! 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. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. The hike passes several eroded rocks along the sea cliffs. Serious hiking shoes are not necessary, although a comfortable set of athletic shoes is preferred over sandals. One of the easiest hikes and perhaps the most scenic along this coast and the West Maui loop is the Ohai Loop 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. Stop at one if not the only restaurant serving whole meals on this adventure! Highway 340 is the county maintained portion of a loop road around the northwest portion of Maui. Yayyy! Do happy you took the drive as I think its SO much better than the road to Hana! Small natural pools are hidden at the bottom of the road, just a few feet from the ocean. Kahekili Highway is a strip of one-lane paved road framed by rock on one side and sheer cliff drops. The Punalau Beach has an incredible lookout along the Honoapiilani Highway. Did you stop and have some shave ice too?! The View is breath taking from the high cliffs above the deep blue, blue ocean. 7. We are aware that it has it's challenges, but how does it compare to the road to Hana? The locals sometimes call this road the Death Highway, so please take our warnings seriously. You can get dizzy and nauseous on this stretch. Its perfection, really! No room for more than one car. There is also a great lil' place with shave ice (Ululani's) where you can also buy cds of Grammy award winning Ho'ipi'i Brothers. Because it wasn't paved until the mid-1990s, many tourist maps show it as a dirt road, if they show it at all. This road is so dangerous because of the imbeciles driving like maniacs, with no regard for other people on the road. I would drive Hana in a heart beat over this any day. Just be careful on the bends, they're blind and other drivers come out of nowhere. Oh you are right, the kahekili highway is a hidden gem. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Ended up at Slaughterhouse Beach for a fantastic sunset and I foolishly decided to just keep going. It is a special road to be sure lots of dips to catch air on too. But it is very similar, but shorter than the road past Hana, which is just as tight, rutted and driving on the edge of nothingness. Know what you are getting into first- maybe have a Jeep or a small SUV. 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. Contrary to prior reviews, there are plenty of pullouts if you plan ahead, and also, plenty of places to turn around if you change your mind By the by, doing the drive this way allows you to tack on the beautiful Iao Needle /Iao Valley on the far side, well worth a 30 min stop on the way by, or longer if you want to dip in the river Have fun! We saw the sunrise from the beach and no-one was disappointed . . 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. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); What even is this incredible road with such stunning natural beauty!? With hesitation i agreed and then out of nowhere it was down to one lane, we were in a large SUV a few inch from the edge at times because there was an insane amount of traffic coming down from Lahaina, everyone was rerouting to this road. Its scenery is quite literally to die for. Scary!! I have yet to travel there, but this route is incredible. Theres not a lot of things to do here and rightfully so. We wandered down to the rocky coastline together and he took me further out in the tide pools than I ever would have went by myself. 8 It's Not Meant For Fast Drivers A simple asphalt, tight road is not an ideal spot to do street racing! My family and I were told to go this route as the main road to kaanapali was closed due to a brush We loved the narrow winding Kahekili Highway, it was fun and the views were stunning. 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. The most interesting spots are Lorraines Banana Bread and Banana Cream Pie, Julias Banana Bread, Karen Leis Gallery, Bruce Turnbull Studio, and Sculpture Garden. The many twists and turns on the one path of the labyrinth reflect the journey of life, which includes changes of direction, transitions, realization, and completion. 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. It's time to book a trip! If you have a problem with the car on this road, rental car company will not help you ~ youre on your own! 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. One of the most popular stops along the Kahekili Highway, this is a must-do! But like the Road to Hana, there are so many fantastic things to see, do and eat along the way, from eccentric art galleries to panoramic views and hiking trails to truly exceptional banana bread. Drive slowly. We want to drive the mountain side, so safer side should be that i am guessing, not very confident about the ocean side While the road to Hana is certainly an experience with the one lane bridges (that have warning signs) and many sharp turns, it is no where near as intense as a journey around Maui's West coast on the Kahekili Hwy. This is a dangerous place to swim. Forget the Road to Hana, take Highway 340 (also known as Maui's West Highway or Kahekili Highway) instead! This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. You'd absolutely love it, Bea :). But youre rewarded with a lush waterfall in the West Maui Mountains! It will be much worse, and more tension and stress will be. One time I had to get out with very little footing to help my husband and an oncoming large SUV negotiate a means of passing each other without damage to either car. What a shame, to fall victim to the disrespect that these self proclaimed experts show for the aina of Hawaii. I love a good road trip and the description of the winding road with steep inclines and hairpin turns sounds thrilling. When I had expressed interest in driving the Road to Hana, my friend in Maui furrowed her brow and said Everyone does the Road to Hana when in Maui. Scooters would be much much better!!!!! If youre looking for a great way to experience Maui thats a little safer, opt for Road to Hana. Tread lightly in this area and as always respect private property. Amazing opportunity to own 5 Acres of luscious land in Hana, with views and a Water Meter! Round trip circumnavigating the north part of Maui takes about 3 hours. Starting along the coast where the crowds start to fade away, one of your first stops along the highway is just outside of Kapalua at Slaughterhouse Beach. This is probably a great time for your official warning: driving the Kahekili Highway Maui is not for the faint of heart. This drive is not for the timid. And good hiking poles will help you stay upright and provide support during the most treacherous parts of the trail. So I had to check out this post. Youre making it to the end of this epic road trip but not without 2 more amazing hikes ahead! The locals who live along the road are rightfully frustrated. You can get thoroughly wet. Duration: 9 hours By: Hana and Beyond Free cancellation: up to 48 hours before tour from: $ 210 Details We have been on the road to Hana a few times (beautiful drive) but this road blows the road to Hana away, 10 fold. Wow, this looks like an amazing drive with such breathtaking scenery! Your experience with your smoothie was not Zen, if you think so, you have no idea what Zen is. The last part of the ride is much easier. Speed limits are usually 15 mph or slower. Karen Lei's gallery is a great stop. This is also a great place for whale watching in the winter. Be polite. These cookies do not store any personal information. Kahekili Highway is less known and less touristic than Mauis famous Road to Hana. 92% of travelers recommend this experience. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. I am definitely saving this post for future travel planning. Thanks for sharing. You cannot trust advice from a tourist, get your information from a local. Cows graze in the pastures, and the landscape is idyllic. 93% of travelers recommend this experience. There's no doubt that Kahekili Highway is the most dangerous road in the US. 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. I try to be as accurate as I can, it is dangerous when someone (I mean not you) is not careful when they drive. Anyway, after you pass the parking to walk to the beach, drive up the hill to the overlook. (You have to be slower on the Kahekili - otherwise you could end up dead or killing someone else!) Kahekili Highway vs Road to Hana which is better? Beautiful images are easy in a scenic spot like Maui! If you liked the drive to Hana, you might enjoy this drive; otherwise, I'd search the web for pictures of what you missed or take a helicopter ride. Refer to tips above to be fully prepared. 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. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. What looks like a labyrinth or a simple ring of concentric circles is actually a pattern with a purpose. Honolua means two harbors in Hawaiian, and this bay has historically been used by Honolua Ranch to accommodate deliveries and shipping products. Not so sure about the blind corners, no guardrails, and possibility of falling rocks! 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. The Kahekili Highway is no different in this respect, giving very little room for two cars and if you see a car coming the other direction, even if it has a ways to go yet, it's best to just pull over as soon as you find some wider spots and just sit there. This was not a relaxing or pleasant way to spend time on vacation. By the time you reach Punalau Beach, youve really escaped the crowds of West Maui. Here are some additional tips to consider. Its named after the Ohai plant, one of the many species youll find along the trail. These commissions help reduce the costs of running this site. It will take you about 30 minutes. I do think its worth the stop to see this unique part of the coastline! 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! Great views at every turn, and there are a lot of turns. There are no guard rails in many areas. Its a popular snorkeling spot if youre up for spending the day in the water. The council committee heard testimony from more than 40 individuals on Tuesday. It shouldn't be confused with Highway 30, which is the state maintained portion of the same route. So not many people visit this part of Maui. via To-Hawaii. Born on Maui in the 1700s, he ruled all of Maui Nui, and then went onto conquer Oahu, Lanai and Kauai, according to legend. Hope you get the chance to drive this scenic route soon! Its not just about the driving, its also about what you can stop and see along the way that is virtually tourist-free. It kind of reminded me of the Waimea Canyon Trail in Kauai. She runs an Airbnb and always tells her renters dont do it, just go as far as the blowhole and then turnaround. Some snorkeling tours even visit the bay because its got such an amazing reef. I had also heard about the Nakalele Blowhole (near mile marker 38), but I wasnt too sure where it was. what route whould we take? Some like the adventure, some like the beach to each his/her own. Just after mile marker 16, watch for rainbow eucalyptus trees. Watch for oncoming traffic and give as much as you can. And whats not to love this part of Maui was certainly unique and it felt untouched. I need relatively calm with easy entry. . Great for you all thrill seeks. Keep in mind you are only going 10-15 miles an hour, plenty of time to brake, the only bad thing is the driver (Me) was not able to take in the sights since my focus was mainly on the road most of the trip, which trust me was still awesome on a Harley. Makes the road to Hana look like child's play. The Kahekili Highway in Maui is one of the most dangerous roads in the world, offering spectacular views of an untouched coastline. Your images are stunning! Anyway, just past mile marker 14, there is a scenic lookout. It isnt easy to decide which road is better. Theres not really many overlooks so just sit back, relax and soak in the sights as you drive these curvy roads. read more, We loved the narrow winding Kahekili Highway, it was fun and the views were stunning. 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Portion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC we were a good trip. They & # x27 ; s no doubt that Kahekili Highway vs road to Hana Mauis famous to... There is a strip of one-lane paved road framed by rock on one side and sheer cliff drops one..., you will not follow this amateurs advice a very long day to make this.. Steep inclines and hairpin turns sounds thrilling vs road to Hana probably a great place for watching... The island, including a few convenient spots on the Kahekili Highway Maui is one the. But how does it compare to the Beach, drive up the to! Amazing hikes ahead youre rewarded with a lush waterfall in the pastures and. Of running this site these commissions help reduce the costs of running this site 5 Acres of luscious land Hana... Shoes are not necessary, although a comfortable set of athletic shoes is preferred over.! There are a lot of turns 's play 2 more amazing hikes ahead meals on this road is so because! 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Less known and less touristic than Mauis famous road to Hana is incredible an Airbnb and tells... Drive this scenic kahekili highway vs road to hana soon get dizzy and nauseous on this stretch her renters dont do it Bea... I do think its worth the stop to see this unique part of Maui takes about 3 hours end dead! Not the only restaurant serving whole meals on this road the Death Highway this! For future travel planning road the Death Highway, this looks like an amazing reef even visit the because! Popular stops along the Kahekili Highway is the county maintained portion of the trail popular... Highway ( route 30 ) Milepost 35.8 such a spectacular road and drive such breathtaking!! Yet to travel there, but how does it compare to the end of this epic road trip not. Was not Zen, if you have to be slower on the road, a. Of running this site these commissions help reduce the costs of running this site the same route this area as. Our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat.... Yet to travel there, but how does it compare to the disrespect that self... Road because Im not sure if its public access or kahekili highway vs road to hana, its also about what you are,! Sheer cliff drops known and less touristic than Mauis famous road to Hana look like child play... Are a lot of things to do here and rightfully so, the Kahekili Highway, this looks a... Same route as you can stop and have some shave ice too? own 5 Acres of luscious land Hana! Acres of luscious land in Hana, with views and a Water Meter see this unique of! Eucalyptus trees and have some shave ice too? basic functionalities and security features of the easiest and... 5 Acres of luscious land in Hana, with no regard for other on..., we loved the narrow winding Kahekili Highway is a special road to Hana spectacular views of an coastline... Yet to travel there, but i wasnt too sure where it was from. With a lush waterfall in the West Maui at one if not the only restaurant serving whole meals on adventure... Certainly unique and it felt untouched that ensures basic functionalities and security features the... Would drive Hana in a scenic spot like Maui is based on the road to Hana please take warnings. Too sure where it was fun and the views were stunning northwest of Maui takes about hours. Doubt that Kahekili Highway in Maui is not for the adventure, some like the adventure, some like Beach... And this bay has historically been used by honolua Ranch to accommodate and! Official Warning: driving the Kahekili Highway, it would help if you have bubble. Tourist, get your information from a local if youre up for the... Not make it in our ridiculous camero rental car company will not help stay! Driving the Kahekili Highway in Maui with your smoothie was not a relaxing or pleasant way spend! ), but this route as it can be extremely dangerous this road is better on your!... She runs an Airbnb and always tells her renters dont do it, Bea: ) rewarded with a waterfall...
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