Maui Hiking Suggestions
I will be traveling to Maui on November 23rd and will be there for 10 days with the main focus being hiking and photography. I would love some suggestions from any of my followers who live there for photo locations and hikes. What are the most famous locations and are there any that are off the beaten path that may not be so easy access? I will have a rental car but will a 4wd vehicle be needed for some locations? Thanks in advance! 
I have never been to Hawaii, but the author of the blog
http://oahuhiking.wordpress.com/
may know more about this.
Patrick – I’ve never been to Maui, so I’m no help, but I hope you have a blast and I can’t wait to see the shots you capture when you return!!
I will be eagerly waiting for these photos… I one day hope to return to Maui – I went when I was 15 with My mother it was the only vacation we ever took together… (I think returning there will be bitter-sweet)
Definitely hike to the top of the volcano and pick up a couple of “a a” rocks for me! They are spiky….
Maui doesn’t have a volcano, unless you’re referring to Haleakala, which is the house of the sun.
Enjoy the hike and the photo shoot.
It’s beautiful there, but I’ve only been twice and really can’t help…
Can’t wait to see your photos though
alison
have fun on your trip! can’t wait to see the photos you will post upon return.
Everything!!! No matter where you are, you find beauty. And I am the humble recipient of your artistry.
I have heard the Road to Hana is a must see. http://www.frommers.com/destinations/maui/0015020319.html
If you have the opportunity to “island hop,” go to the Big Island (Hawai’i) and go to Mt. Kilauea. There aren’t really any strenuous hiking trails that I’m aware of, because it’s an active volcano and therefor dangerous, but it is well worth it for the photography.
The silence near the top of the crater is nearly perfect, and the hardened lava floes that have “washed out” parts of roads are eerie to see. In addition, there are several different climates as you climb the mountain, and you can walk through old lava tubes.
I’m not sure if you can, but I’d look into whether or not there is an open observation point for the public so you can photograph a live lava floe.
Drive up past Kapalua as far as you can, there is actually a semi treacherous one way road, heh, but just beyond that is a quaint little village. Its beautiful. More famous is Hana and the Seven Sacred Pools, beautiful water falls along the way. There is a beautiful lava section of road after the pools that to get to they say you can’t take a rental car because its partially unpaved….but we did.
And no damage to the vehicle any times we’ve done it.
Oh boy, oh boy, oh boy. I can’t WAIT to see your Hawaii shots! Enjoy yourself.
May I make some requests? Flowers, valleys and that incredibly beautiful blue water?
Whatever shots you take, I’m sure they’ll be fantastic. Wish I could go too.
If you make it over to the Big Island Waipio Valley to Waimuno Valley is a must.
I live on the island of Oahu and I’ve only been to Maui once. I did not do any hiking trails, but Maui has a lot of black sand beaches. The only way to find out is ask some of the locals and they will point you in the right direction. Mahalo!
Wish I could help you there but last time I was there I stopped by the hotel pool and this waitress started bringing me mai tais and I never made it past the water slide.
Bamboo Forest, Makawao Forest is nice as is Waihee Ridge Trail and of course the crater, lots to explore in there, and nothing is going to require anything technical compared to what you do at home. Just be cautious to not leave things in your car where you park at the trail heads, lots of break ins even during the day. A stop at Mana Foods in Paia is a great way to get some goodies for lunch, its a wonderful grocery! Have fun, and will look forward to your photos.
That will be a super time! I want to go!
I’ve loved shooting Maui, and there are many photos with locations described In the Hawaii section of my blog, http://mowryjournal.com/category/hawaii/. Don’t miss sunrise on Haleakala. Don’t miss the Seven Pools. And don’t miss a single sunset!
well, darn. I should’ve stopped reading after ‘Maui hiking suggestions.’ My 1st one was going to be…take me with you! ha! Enjoy!
Cant help you in Maui but you can find all the hikes and waterfalls http://www.mauimapp.com/information/hiking.htm. You could probably google more hidden trails or just find some locals to help you. If you ever come to Oahu i can help you out for sure.
Patrick, “Photograph catching the waves” and…If you are not familiar with Dewitt Jones, one of America’s top professional photographers, you might want to try to contact him before leaving for Maui. Note: According to his Facebook page, he’s back home in Molokai, Hawaii right now (that’s one island over from Maui). He would be a good person to ask where all the best places are to photograph. http://www.dewittjones.com/
I love Maui and have been there more than a dozen times. Check out the lavender farm. I have stunning photos from there (and am not a professional photographer). The area around there is also very beautiful.
I just posted write-ups from several hikes/adventures I took in Maui in October on my blog. I recommend any hike in Haleakala. Even though the destination is well-traveled, its trails are frequently light on visitors, especially once you get a couple miles in.
You can get some spectacular shots at the Nakalele blowhole, plus there’s a tidepool nearby that you can swim in.
I also recommend hiking through the La Perouse lava flow. There are a few infinity pools, if the swell has been high enough recently, off the path.
Definitely looking forward to your photos!
I wish you a fantastic trip and I except many fantastic photos when you are back. Have never been to Maui – but I’m sure with your eyes and your camera you will find object and places to bring back home and that you will share with us. Can hard wait … enjoy your self.
Haleakala – that’s the place to hike. Drive to the summit, get your maps and permit and walk the trails into the crater. Don’t worry, it’s dormant. There are several cabins down in the crater – I think reservations are required on that. Walking the whole trail system in the crater is a 3-day hike.
If you opt to hike in the rainforest, you’ll need to be careful. The local MJ growers aggressively guard their grow operations, especially if you get off trail.
Enjoy your trip. (Send me an email if you need more info/detail.)
Ah, finally something I know about!
I would recommend you hike into the Haleakala Canyon, which is the house of the sun. It looks like the surface of Mars.
I`ao Valley is great and green, but not much of a hike.
The road to Hana is a great drive with the Pools of Oheo as your reward at the end.
Hope that helps!
No suggestions but I know for sure any places you go you will do remarkable photographs! I look forward to seeing them…take care.
I posted on your Facebook page, but also want to add that we were able to do the drives to Hana and the volcano in the minivan rental, but given your proclivities for going off the beaten trail, I’m sure 4WD would be better for you. Just make sure you’re not accidentally driving through a nature preserve, or something like that.
I have never been to Hawaii, but I do have a picture request. I love your black and whites and need a couple to go with the big one with the fence that I bought. So don’t forget to take a couple cool bw shots. Maybe a BW waterfall or something. I don’t know. The fact that you found beauty in a fence was amazing. I am really looking forward to your pictures!
Kauai, Hawaii. Don’t know where that is in relation to Maui, but that’s where Jurassic Park was filmed
I’ve heard Waihee Ridge Trail is good. I’ve never been but heard it’s scenic and has ridge line hiking. Bad thing is the trails can be a little muddy but has waterfalls
Enjoy your trip and can’t wait to see the pictures!
My friend went to Maui once. Came back with pix of beautiful purple sunsets–and she’s not a photographer. I can only imagine the sunset shots YOU will be able to achieve!
Iao Point at the top in the State Park is lovely but you cant beat the volcano, the colours are spectacular and the textures, clouds at times are amazing… its cold though, I mean really cold and often windy so have good warm clothes. The area has beautiful silvery plants worth capturing as well.. gorgeous against the red earth. Do you do underwater? We went swimming with the endangered turtles and that was great and there were some beautiful huge purple starfish but the rest of the underwater life was very disappointing … certainly compared to say Karachi in Thailand and the Great Barrier Reef.
We traveled there in November, as well (in fact I have been mulling over my photos from that trip recently and kicking around ideas for a couple of Maui posts to post sometime this month). It is a popular trail, but highly recommended (particularly the bamboo forest section of it) — the Pipiwai Trail leading to Waimoku Falls. Be sure to plan on a dip in the Seven Sacred Pools (Oheo Pools) — refreshing if you hike the trail on a warm day. ~ Kat
“We are affected and defined by light. Light is the most important tool we have to work with, not only as cinematographers, but as people.” — Laszlo Kovacs, Cinematographer. Bring us back your version of the light in Hawaii Patrick. Have a wonderful trip.
I’m going to Maui in March for the first time…I cannot WAIT to see your photos and hear about the best spots!
Hi Patrick, We would recommend two spectacular trips that we did. Here are links to both. You could hike these as well and there are spectacular picture opportunities.
http://pauperswithouttravel.com/2012/04/16/30-mile-bike-ride-down-haleakala-volcano-the-seeds-of-an-adrenaline-junkie/
http://pauperswithouttravel.com/2012/04/28/dare-devil-drive-the-day-maui-tried-to-kill-us/
On the Road to Hana you’ll find lots of interesting places (more typical of what we think of Hawaii). Also, a trip to see the sunrise at the volcanic crater would give you some interesting photographhs, a moonscape look. Good luck!
Have a great trip. I’m looking forward to your images.
I am sure you have already been heavy into the research but there are numerous hiking and road trails along the road to Hana. Its a must with numerous photo ops especially on foot…
Hi Patrick,
Of course, this also depends on the weather because it did look like one part of the road went through a flood plain (just check with the National Park). If you like challenging drives, drive the Kahekili hwy. This is the terrifying one where one part has one lane with sheer cliffs on one side, sheer rock face on the other and 2 way traffic (You have to drive with lots of aloha and be willing to cooperate with other drivers… a small car helps.)
Thanks for stopping by my blog. I thought I’d visit you and noticed this post. I was in Maui about a year ago. Here are my suggestions: Go to the top of Haleakala for the sunrise and then hike down into the crater (we only did this as a day hike but if you have the gear you can go for longer. If you are into rare birds, stop by Hosmer Grove (also in Haleakala). ‘Iao Valley is beautiful. We hiked a bit up a path that went farther into the valley, but I’m not sure if it is actually an official trail. It might be worth finding a good map and seeing where the other end is. The Waihe’e ridge trail has beautiful views into a valley (I guess the Waihe’e valley?) with waterfalls. There are several trails along the road to Hana. (Go early, it gets crowded). Once you get to Hana, you can continue taking the Pi’ilani hwy around the island instead of going back the way you came. When we were there last year there was only a small portion that was in bad condition and a lot of it had been newly repaved. Many guidebooks say you can’t go in a rental vehicle which isn’t true… however…it does keep a lot of people from going there.
I’ve got nothing for ya, Patrick.
So…
Bon voyage! Take lots of pix!
We did a snorkeling excursion on a catamaran that was great, but did not have a waterproof case for my camera. Something you might want to think about. We also took some of the side trails on the road to Hana and The Seven Sacred Pools. We also took a helicopter ride that was out of this world for photo opportunities. Like everyone else, we’ll be anxiously waiting to see your shots when you return.Have fun! bill
Definitely second the Road to Hana. A good spot with less tourists was Keanae Park (between markers 16 and 17) for some very unique lava rock formations and waves. Don’t go into the water as it’s treacherous. Be sure to go all the way down the road past Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread stand until you reach the rest area and church. http://www.lahaina-family-vacation.com/road-to-hana-best-stops.html
Kapalua also has some amazing coastal scenes and hikes: http://kapalua.com/public/kapalua/files/documents/activities/hiking/Kapalua_trail_booklet.pdf
I’ll look forward to some beautiful photos of your time there.
I’m so jealous you are going there! Have fun and as for suggestions, I always love seeing photos of flowers — I don’t really know much on locations.
There is a Maui Guide called Maui Revealed. It has everything in it you need to know. Places to go, Food to eat, etc..
Have a great time and make sure you take the road to Hana! It is the absolute best place for pictures. And The Olivine Pools on the North Shore.
looking forward to seeing the pics – I’ll be heading there in December so any suggestions would be much appreciated!
Patrick, we’re not quite local but we visit Hawaii almost every year. You can do the typical Haleakala National Park trails- just watch out for the downhill helmeted bike riding groups and tour buses on the road to there. But one of our favorite hikes in Maui is the Waihee Ridge Trail (http://www.everytrail.com/guide/waihee-ridge-trail-maui/map). You will find lush landscapes filled with tropical flora and fauna, a few waterfalls here and there and fantastic ocean views. We drove up 30 to 340 all the way up from Lahaina to get there in a convertible Mustang. It’s is a very interesting drive with lots of photo ops. The very windy road narrows to a single lane in many spots, but car and school bus drivers are gracious and pull over as needed. We never found the need for a 4 wheel drive (note rental Jeeps on the islands are the #1 theft target). It’s a shorter 4.5-5 mile hike but well worth it. Aloha!
Sounds amazing, I cannot wait to see the photos!
Hurry up and get back already!
So nice and lovely.
After hiking, highly recommend the best sushi, imported from Japan: Koiso Sushi Bar in Kihei. We have flown here just for the chef’s sushi. Order “omakase”, roughly translated into “trust the chef.” You must be accepted for reservations in their ~16 spots. Don’t be fooled by the restaurant’s hole-in-the-wall appearance in Dolphin Plaza. Have fun. Aloha!
I’ve never been there, but I will be gload to see you photos! You make amazing ones!
never been to Maui, but I’m excited to see the photos you take there!
I haven’t ‘hiked’ in Mauii but make sure you explore the road to Hana http://kaz747.wordpress.com/2012/10/19/hawaii-five-o/
If you’re going to visit the Big Island, please let me know. I spent a bit of time there in September and have several suggestions for you. Unfortunately Maui is the only island I haven’t been to so I don’t have any recos; sorry
The whole island smells like pineapple. Take a tour and photos of that wonderful fruit!
beaches and wildlife. enjoy
Pretty much all my suggestions have already been mentioned. I’d say I agree any slightly active volcano/ lava flow near sunrise or sunset would most likely make for interesting pictures…
look forward to pics
Patrick, good luck. I would enjoy the Haleakala – Sliding Sands trail ~ great views!
Aloha Patrick, I live on Maui, and know of some great places. Call me when you get here, and I will show you some places not many people know about. I’m getting a new camera today so excited to take some shots. MeleWillow, 808-870-1959.
My sister has lived in Maui for 4 years and, in general, prefers the Haiku area because it’s the “mountains” of the island. This is near Haleakala and a less touristy part of the island. There are a few hikes to secret waterfalls and the black sand beach which is very cool. If you’d like more specifics let me know and I can help ya out!
she says 13 crossings in the West Maui Mountains (near Waihe’e) is the one of the best hikes. There’s a double waterfall and a little bamboo forest. Have fun
It’s sad about the trunk break-ins, and I have to second that – it happened to me many years ago on an Oahu beach. I guess that has not changed. I don’t remember how, but I was able to find out about an obscure site where native islanders left small piles of volcanic rocks, with a particular leaf that’s sacred, on the top of an old partial rock wall, on a hill. It had been a place of worship since way before whites. There was a wonderfully silent, subtle energy. Maybe there’s a similar place on Maui.Google heiau. A word always come to me when I think of the Hawaiin landscape and its steep hills – crenulated. Very sculptural – I bet with late or early day light, those wavy green hillsides can make great photo ops. And if you can, tune in to a Hawaiian language radio station in the car – it’s an amazing sound to listen to as you drive along. Who cares if you don’t understand a word. Looking forward to your pictures – ah, no pressure!!
The seven pools and their falls are worth it, though it’s not a strenuous hike (which I only know because I think I was 9 when we did it).
Have a wonderful trip! Looking forward to seeing the masterpieces upon your return!
try travelling to some tropical countries like Philippines….My country has a lot to offer especially bodies of water. I have seen your photos, that you’re a great catcher of magnificent landscapes, you have an eye of what nature’s beauty it is.
The Pipiwai trail near the Seven Sacred Pools (there aren’t seven, but that’s what the area is called) along the road to Hana is absolutely worth the drive. Otherwise, the previous suggestions are ok. There isn’t that much hiking. Haleakala at sunrise is incredible. And cold. Skip the bike ride down and just drive up really early and enjoy the sunrise, then hike down into the crater. If you have a waterproof camera, you’ll get amazing images snorkling. I love Maui. I can’t wait to see your pictures!
Have fun! Bring some cool photos to share!!:-)
Please go to HANA! I have a aunt who lives on the island and every time I get to go over there. I never get to see the beautiful Hana. Also known as the seven sacred pools. Enjoy the best island. aloha
Hana, the 7 sacred pools, and the market will offer many photo ops!
Hello there
I come to let you know as you have been following my Blog Far Away, but it has been moved and it seems you haven’t read it yet?
Far Away is moved to another server on http://www.starhouse.nl/star4/ . I welcome you back on the new place and hope to be in contact with you.
Thanks in advanced
Kind regards
Mariane Cordes
(sorry to let you know this way – but I couldn’t find another place to write to you)
My favorite spots have been mentioned: lavender farm, the road to Hana and all the stops along the way-black sand beach was my fav spot on the road, Haleakala sunrise is fabulous but the stars before light breaks are just as stunning. There are a couple of shots on my relaxation page from Maui. It will be great to see what your eye captures!
Reblogged this on AmerIcanValuesRestored and commented:
you MUST go to the Kiahua Bird Sanctuary close by the river on the eastern shore of Kauai. It is sheer heave. i spent an entire day there years ago, jumping from old oak trees into the watering hole below. all day long my partner and i walked around there nude. Not one person came by all day long. You will not regret the investment!
Definitely make sure you go to the Poli Poli Forest–it’s a redwood tree forest that was planted about 50 years ago by a Californian. It’s absolutely gorgeous! Also, the bamboo forest over on the north shore. Not sure on the actual name. There is also the tried and true Haleakala crater, which is not to be missed. Enjoy! It’s one of my favorite places on earth.
pick up the maui revealed guide book. one of the best i have found! most recs are good!
Can you island hop? There is an AMAZING hike on the big island around the Waipu Valley. The locals told us about it. Shoot me an email if you want more info, because I’ll need to look at a map again to see exactly where it was.
What a wonderful thing the internet is – and all the suggestions made for enjoyable reading. Have a great time Patrick. I know we are in for a treat.
It’s not a hike, but there’s a tiny island offshore from Maui called Molokini. It’s the blasted-out caldera of an old volcano, and has created a habitat in which tropical fish thrive. If you have a waterproof housing for one of your cameras, that would be an opportunity to get some good shots. And, unlike so many of your other projects, you won’t need to be wearing a parka while you’re shooting! If you take the boat out, there’s also a possibility that you’ll encounter some humpback whales, which like to leap and flip and splash in those waters. Enjoy!
I’m certain you’ll be going through the little town of Lahaina, Maui. I haven’t been there in over 20 yrs. When I arrived to Maui it was growing as a traveller’s destination. Of course reading guides help, but I find it best to speak
with the locals once you’ve arrived. Wonderful waterfalls and off road sites. Though I didn’t have time to go to Hana.
Take a helicopter tour if possible! Look forward to hearing about and seeing your experience.
Most curious – I am traveling to Oahu on December 5 for a week, so I’ll be one island over with the same idea in mind! Haven’t been to Maui, but I’ve heard the lava in the crater is the highest it’s been, and there’s a lot of activity. Looking forward to your pics!
I knew Maui well, 20 years ago. Now I can barely recognize what used to charm me. Nature has been dozed over to accommodate more, more, more people. Used to be upcountry was amazing. Lahaina, charming (now just like Key West, FL!). There were bamboo forests and wine country – don’t know how tromped over they now are by the hoardes of visitors combing through that island. Hana was extraordinary. Probably still is, esp if you continue along the south shore and back to the west. Next time if you come to the islands, try Big Island or Kauai, both resplendent in natural beauty and largely untouched.
All that being said, enjoy your trip! With your eye for beauty, I’ll bet you will discover it in places I never even dreamed of. Can’t wait to see what you discover and share. Blessings.
What a beautiful reminder of all the beauty there is in nature. A window from a smoggy city into somewhere else.
Much to be thankful for; keep posting
Hike Maui has great tour guides…check them out.
Ask for Jeremy.
Can you photograph some people, maybe? People who are native to the region…I mean, if the mood strikes you.
P.S. THANKS for stopping by my blog!
I suggest the grand wailea
While it is more of a ride than a hike, it is a treat to wake up at the crack of dawn and do the Maui Downhill bike ride from the top of Haleakala. You get to see the sun rise over the top of the volcano, then ride downhill to a nice breakfast. It is awesome!! And I think you’d get some great pictures. I will be looking forward to your work upon your return. Have a great time!!
It has been a number of years since we were on Maui, but …
My suggestions are as follow: Along the road to Hana and Hana itself; Haleakala National Park – at sunrise or sunset – on a clear day you may be able to see the Big Island – many people ride bikes on the road and/or camp in the park to be at the top of the volcano at sunrise; Kihei and South Kihei; there is suppose to be a “road” between Hana and Kihei which is only accessible with a 4wheel drive vehicle … I believe that Charles Lindberg is buried along this route somewhere near Kipahulu????; Iao Valley State Park;
Maui is truly beautiful! You’ll love it and the people. I can’t wait to see the photos you take …
Maui is a lovely place. Great hiking is everywhere on the island– there is always a cool waterfall to discover, or a jungle to get lost in. Haleakala has great views– the Sliding Sands trail, yes, but also Halema’u is a great one for views on a clear day. If you have time, do the Sliding Sands to Halema’u loop– long but lovely. And the Hosmer Grove hike, while short, has some lovely trees and great bird watching. If the park is doing a guided hike, take it. They are really fun. The drive to Hana is great, and if you have an AWD vehicle, you can circumnavigate the island which is really fun. Pipiwai on the Hana side if it’s open. Make friends with some people that have lived there a while and ask them the best hikes. Avoid Twin Falls– it’s not that great of a hike, the falls are only okay, and there are a million people. Also, do your best to be respectful where ever you do go. The Hawaiian people take very good care of the ‘aina, and they are very protective of it with good reason. Take care to love it as much as they do. Have a great trip!
I have been lucky to visit Maui in my first marriage anniversary,that was 4 years ago!.. Every where in Maui is a good place for photography! , I would say Hana road is a good start.
We always stay at Kapalua and there is plenty to photograph there and also take the road less traveled beyond there and you’ll see spectacular views and I’m sure there is plenty of hiking in the area. The humpbacks will just be coming in for their winter migration. Enjoy your trip and can’t wait to see your photos…..I’m jealous
On Hana highway stop by Mama’s Fish House and ask some locals to show you the direction of Hookipa park, you’ll find some great wild beaches only reserved for locals (4wd needed). Koolau forest have some incredible treks to do. Kaanapali reserve have some of the best snorkel and diving site I ever visited.
Rent a jeep and make sure your tank is loaded before going to these locations.
Enjoy your trip!
great sites
Your work is amazing!! I know you’ll find countless great photo ops on Maui, but if you’re up by Lahaina, you HAVE to try my favorite restaurant, MaLa, at sunset!!! It’s a very “local” type place, food is amazing, and it’s right on the water. Enjoy and Aloha!!
Haleakala is amazing! That was by far my favorite point on Maui
I’m definitely no expert but Maui is a wonderful place to visit! Must get ‘Maui Revealed’ Guide Book. The road to Hana has amazing scenery, and I recommend staying in Hana so you have more time to explore. We like the waterfall at Pua’a Ka’a State Park (on the road to Hana), but sometimes more water than others. Many places around Hana, like Black Sand Beach at Wai’anapanapa State Park, Kailua Falls on the way to Seven Sacred Pools. Seven Pools are beautiful. Sorry hiking-wise I don’t know a lot but the guide book should have good suggestions. West Maui is great place to see sunset.
Mama’s Fish House is a great special occasion restaurant…a little pricey but great food, beautiful setting. Sansei nice place for great sushi. Good inexpensive breakfast food at Kihei Caffe although tables are right by the street
Have fun! Maui is a beautiful place. By the way, thanks for the inspiration! Your post got me thinking about Maui photos and that inspired a couple of posts on my blog: http://icanseealight.wordpress.com/2012/11/19/refreshed/ and http://icanseealight.wordpress.com/2012/11/20/weekly-photo-challenge-green/
Will be interested to hear of you adventures in Mauii, we hope to hike there end of January. Amazing photography. Thanks for stopping by my blog as well.
Welcome to Hawaii
Haleakala at sunrise is AMAZING!
never been to Maui but looking forward for your photo’s, have a safe and enjoyable travel…