Hiking to the Nakalele Blowhole: Maui’s Most Explosive Trail

There are hikes that take your breath away. Then there’s the one that gives it back—in the form of a 50-foot geyser of ocean spray.

What Is the Nakalele Blowhole?

Tucked along Maui’s wild northwest coastline, the Nakalele Blowhole delivers one of the island’s most thrilling natural spectacles. Here, powerful waves slam into the lava rock shore, forcing seawater through a volcanic tube and erupting into the air in dramatic bursts of mist and spray. It’s like Old Faithful’s tropical cousin—unpredictable, untamed, and just a little more feisty.

The name Nā-Kālele, meaning “the leaning” in Hawaiian, refers to the windswept point where this spectacle unfolds. Nākālele Point is notorious for its fierce, unrelenting winds that appear to tilt both trees and terrain. Over time, the name has become inseparable from the blowhole itself—a raw, elemental feature that embodies the island’s volcanic spirit and coastal power.

This natural wonder lies near mile marker 38.5 on Kahekili Highway (Hwy 340), just north of Kapalua and beyond most typical tourist routes. The hike to the blowhole isn’t for the faint of heart, but for those who make the trek, it rewards with jaw-dropping coastal views, surreal lava formations, and an up-close encounter with Maui’s raw volcanic energy.

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Parking

Visitors to the Nakalele Blowhole area are now required to pay a $10 parking fee, which can conveniently be reserved in advance. Just scan the QR code in the image below to secure your spot before arrival (you’ll need your license plate number for the day of your visit). While QR code and text-to-pay options are available on-site, keep in mind that cell service is limited—another reason why booking ahead is a smart move. A portion of the parking revenue supports Mauka (mountain) to Makai (ocean) stewardship efforts—protecting ecosystems from the mountains to the sea—as well as local nonprofit organizations dedicated to preserving Maui’s natural and cultural heritage.

Quick Trail Facts

• Trail Name: Nakalele Blowhole Trail (aka Acid War Zone Trail)
• Distance: ~1.25 miles round trip
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult (depending on route)
• Elevation Change: ~200 feet descent to the blowhole
• Trail Type: Out and back
• Best Time to Visit: Morning to early afternoon (avoid high surf or stormy conditions)
• Parking: Paved turnout near mile marker 38.5
• Restrooms: Two portable toilets in the parking lot.

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The Hike: What to Expect

From the roadside turnout, the trail descends across sharp, uneven lava rock. There’s no single defined path—just a network of worn foot trails etched into the rock by previous hikers. Be prepared for loose gravel, jagged terrain, and lots of direct sun exposure. Proper footwear (no slippahs here) and plenty of water are essential.

As you descend, the coastline reveals itself in layers—black lava cliffs meeting the deep blue Pacific, tidepools dotting the shoreline, and the blowhole puffing away in the distance like a steam engine warming up. When the surf is strong, the geyser can reach heights of 50 feet or more.

But respect is non-negotiable here. Signs warn visitors to stay at a safe distance. Getting too close can be deadly—yes, really. The area around the blowhole is slippery, and rogue waves can surge suddenly. This is one of those spots where nature demands your attention, not your selfies.

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Natural History of the Area

The Nakalele Point region was shaped by ancient lava flows from the West Maui Mountains, gradually sculpted over time by relentless wind and surf. The blowhole itself may have formed through wave erosion, a collapsed lava tube, or a combination of both.

Nearby, hardy coastal plants like naupaka kahakai (Scaevola taccada) cling to the cliffs, and you may spot seabirds like the wedge-tailed shearwater gliding overhead. This stark, windswept corner of Maui is as biologically sparse as it is visually dramatic.

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Is This a Hike for Everyone?

This isn’t a casual flip-flop stroll. Families with young children, older hikers, or anyone unsure on their feet should consider viewing from the upper lookout instead of descending to the blowhole itself.

If you’re seeking easy hikes on Maui, there are better options. But if you’re craving epic coastal views, a dash of danger, and a brush with Maui’s wild side, Nakalele delivers.

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Responsible Hiking Tips

• Respect ocean power – Never turn your back on the sea.
• Stay behind warning signs – They’re there for a reason.
• Leave no trace – Pack out all trash and tread lightly.
• Wear closed-toe shoes – Lava rock can shred sandals.

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Extend Your Adventure

Consider pairing your visit with nearby stops:

• Olivine Pools (also treacherous—hike with caution)
• Honolua Bay (excellent snorkeling, in season)
• Kahakuloa Village (scenic and culturally rich)

Or let an expert guide show you Maui’s wilder side with context, care, and safety. At Hike Maui, our naturalist-led tours explore Maui’s rich ecosystems—from waterfall adventures in the rainforest to crater hikes in Haleakalā. While we don’t currently lead hikes to Nakalele Blowhole due to its isolation, we’d love to take you on your next unforgettable journey elsewhere on the island.

The Nakalele Blowhole is proof that some of Maui’s best hikes don’t lead to sandy beaches—they lead to windblown cliffs, surging seas, and unforgettable moments of awe. It’s not for everyone—but that’s what makes it special.

So lace up, look sharp, and let the island show you something explosive.