Are you heading to Maui soon? Did you just move here and need some guidance on which hikes are the best?! Whether it’s mountains, volcanoes, waterfalls, or ocean views, this island has it all! We are definitely lucky to live in Hawaii. It is important to appreciate the diversity that this small island has to offer. In the morning you could be surfing, then in the afternoon hiking in the crater of a volcano! Although it’s an island, it never gets old. Now, it really depends what type of hike you are looking for, but I am going to list the best Maui hikes with beautiful scenery and a little bit of everything.

Waihee Ridge Trail

This is a perfect hike for all levels, and considered to be one of the best hikes in the West Maui Mountains! Not only this, but some would say it’s the best hike on Maui. There are amazing ocean and mountain / valley views, that make the incline totally worth it! The reason it is called a “ridge trail” is because you are walking along the ridge of a mountain. You incline up the mountain, and it is considered difficult. However, I have seen kids, young adults, parents, and grandparents hiking here! You can pick your own pace, and you can choose when it’s time to turn around. The entire hike is beautiful, so there’s no need to push yourself too hard.

This trail is a part of the Hawaii Na Ala Hele Trail and Access Program. The Waihee Ridge Trail is listed as a 5 mile round trip hike, with 1563 ft elevation change.

There is an area at the head of the trail to brush off your shoes before and after the hike. This is respectful to do toward the land so that we do not transfer diseases or invasive plants. You will need a car to get to the head of the trail as the bus does not go here.

Sliding Sands Trail

Haleakala National Park is the only national park on Maui. There are many different hiking trails, but if you are going to choose one, this is our favorite! This 12.2 mile hike is great if you’re in good shape and have a full day to devote to exploring the crater. You can park at the Halemau‘u trailhead, then hitch a ride to the top, where you’ll hike down to the crater floor on the Sliding Sands Trail. Follow the signs toward Holua Cabin and the Halemau‘u Trail, where a leg-burning, switchbacking, 1,000-foot climb leads back to the car.

If you really want an island adventure that you’ll never forget, consider hiking the trail at night in the light of a full moon. For this night hike, bring a backpack of extra clothing, carry extra water and a flashlight, and dress for windchill that can drop below freezing any time of year.

There are many other hikes in Haleakala National Park that cater to all ages and levels!

Let’s talk more about the best Maui hikes with beautiful scenery!

Pipiwai Trail & Waimoku Falls

The Pipiwai Trail is located in Hana, Maui. This is the rainforest of Maui. You will want to start the day early as the roads are thin and wrap around steep cliffs. If you are really looking to experience all that Hana has to offer, I would recommend camping at one of the campgrounds, or booking a stay in Hana Town for a couple of nights. The drive takes a few hours each way, and can be exhausting to do in 1 full day.

This 3.4 mile moderate trail is absolutely breathtaking! You will hike through a forest of bamboo, pass multiple waterfalls, and at the end you will reach Waimoku Falls, a towering 400 foot waterfall! All levels of hikers can do this trail. It is hot, humid, wet, and muddy so be prepared! You will definitely want bug spray for those mosquitoes!

*Flash flooding is a serious occurrence that many visitors are not aware of. Please be very cautious of exploring waterfalls and streams, especially during the winter months. If it looks rainy and stormy, we recommend not taking the risk. Do not just base your plans off of this message. Sometimes it looks sunny, but the weather changes very quickly! Do your research, and speak to park rangers that can help you make the decision to whether or not it’s safe to be hiking that day.

La Perouse Bay Trails

Haleakala’s last display can be seen on Maui’s southeast shore at La Perouse Bay. Scientists guess that in 1790 Haleakala erupted to form the jagged lava rock coastline. There is a monument and ruins of Hawaiian natives who made their home on the sharp lava rock.

In La Perouse, you can walk through the lava and explore the sea estuaries. This is a favorite place for dolphins and local fishermen. Make sure to wear sunscreen and be prepared for wind. The hike is 5.5 miles round trip. You do not have to do the entire hike! Sometimes it is extremely hot out there and nice to just do a small portion. Afterwards you can go stop for lunch in Wailea or Kihei!

Twin Falls

Twin Falls is a beautiful, muddy, humid and wet trail that is great for all levels. If you do not want to go deep into Hana to find waterfalls, this is a great alternative! There is parking, and a little map of the trail (2.5 miles round trip). There are big swimming holes and jumping spots here. It is a great spot for the whole family! Be very cautious if you are going to be jumping. Rocks are constantly falling and moving around the waterfalls, especially after big rains. Don’t forget to watch out for flash floods!

We hope you like our list of the best Maui hikes with beautiful scenery! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask us! We would to help make your experience in Maui an unforgettable one! Tag us on instagram : @bellesurfcafe to be featured!

Aloha