Ohai Trail Loop - Underrated Trail in West Maui
Introducing the Ohai Trail Loop
Ohai Trail, Maui
For a peaceful and serene way to experience West Maui’s spectacular coastal views, spend an afternoon trekking through one of the island’s hidden gems: the Ohai Trail Loop.
Located on the North Side of West Maui, the Ohai Trail loop is about a 45-minute drive away from Ka’anapali, which houses some of the largest and most well-known resorts. It’s the perfect place to stop over if you’re headed to that area, or if you’re on the way to see the famous Nakalele blowhole located just a few miles before the trail.
Thankfully, the trail itself is situated far enough from the popular spots in Maui for it to offer solace seekers a quiet and calming experience in nature. In fact, many who have attempted the Ohai trail loop typically report passing only one or two other hikers along the way.
Key Information
The Ohai Trail loop is relatively easy compared to other trails in Maui which have much higher inclines. If you’re travelling with older folks or little ones, this is one scenic walk to consider embarking on.
The trail itself is also very well maintained and with its minimal elevation, the stunning views you’ll see throughout are all the more worth the trip.
The entire 1.9km-long route should take you about 30 minutes to complete, or no more than an hour if you stop for photos along the way.
Here’s some additional information to note:
Elevation gain: 54m
Pet Policy: Dogs are allowed, but they must be put on a leash throughout
Temperature: Around 80°-85°, mostly warm all year round with the occasional wind.
Shade: As this is an unshaded trail, do come prepared with sunblock and a hat to combat the heat, especially in the early afternoon hours.
Views on the Ohai Trail Loop
The is the perfect destination for sightseeing enthusiasts in Maui, as the views you’ll get are some of the best on the island.
With the gorgeous scenery of surrounding gulches and coastline spewing out before you (along with the potential whale and green sea turtle sighting), it’s no wonder why this hidden gem gets great reviews from all over.
Sesbania tomentosa, the “Ohai plant”
Fun Fact: The trail was named after the Ohai plant, which is one of the many native plant species you’ll see along the trail.
As you meander through the green pastures and being that close to the cliffside, you’ll find that the place has a slight Game-of-Thrones quality to it (Think: Pyke or Dragonstone castles). At the furthest point east of the trail, you’ll also be able to spot the eroded cinder cone, Kahakuloa Head (Pu’u Koa’e).
During the months of January to May, visitors can also look forward to sightings of humpback whales breaching in a distance. Frigate birds and white-tailed tropic birds, native to the island, are also a common sight at the trail all year round, so keep a lookout for them.
The trekking experience at the Ohai trail loop is complete with plenty of native Hawaiian flora and fauna to admire along the way. Make sure you snap up-close photos of the colorful, blooming flowers that line some of the pathways. Informational plaques are also situated along the trails, to tell you more about the various plant and rock formations you’ve been snapping pictures of!
Directions to the Ohai Trail Loop
Ohai Trail Loop Signage
To get to the Ohai trail, we recommend starting from Kaanapali and driving along the coast toward the direction Napili-Honokowai.
Taking highway 30, you’ll pass by several beaches such as Ka’anapali Beach and Punalau Beach, which boast stunning ocean views.
Not only is it an immensely scenic drive, but there are also plenty of attractions to stop at along the way. This includes the well-known Nakalele blowhole, which, albeit being a slightly steeper and rockier hike to get to compared to the Ohai trail, is still well worth the climb.
Fancy a good poke bowl to fuel you for your adventures? Following this route, you’ll also pass by the famous Fish Market Maui. That’s where you can get some of the freshest seafood dishes, sourced from local catches daily, made available for dine-in or takeaway. We highly recommend their fresh oyster shooters and fish tacos!
Map of the Recommended Driving Route
Pro Tip: Download the map before heading there, as cell service can get spotty due to the trail’s slightly remote location.
The trailhead for the Ohai Trail loop is located at an area before mile marker 41 on Highway 30. There is a small parking lot on the ocean side of the road, which can accommodate roughly five to six cars. However, you don't have to worry too much as the place doesn’t attract anywhere near the crows of more popular spots in Maui, like the Red Hill Haleakala. In any case, there are several more parking spots available on the side of the road.
Once you’ve parked, you can access the trailhead which is located conveniently right by the parking lot. Bon voyage!
Insider Tips
Do the trail counterclockwise for better views.
Once you’ve reached the top of the cliff, sit on the bench available and soak in the gorgeous views for a moment. It’s also a good spot to watch out for whales spouting and breaching.
Go during sunset (about an hour before) for a cooler hike and spectacular views.
Bring plenty of water with you, and drop by one of the snack trucks for some shaved ice after you’ve completed the trail.
Must-knows before Visiting
Though the trail is a relatively easy one, there are some things you can prepare for to ensure a pleasant trip.
Firstly, it can get quite windy in the afternoon hours, so prepare for winds, and if you’re vulnerable to chillier weather, bring along a windbreaker just in case.
Do not leave your valuables in the car, or at the very least, ensure that they’re kept out of sight. While the trail is remote, unfortunately, break-ins aren’t an uncommon thing around Maui attractions, so you’ll still want to be careful.
Lush greenery at the Ohai Trail
Schedule a bathroom break before heading to the trail, as no bathrooms are available there.
As mentioned previously, you shouldn’t count on cell service to hold up at this part of the island, as many visitors have reported it being spotty and disconnecting randomly.
I know—bummer. But at least this will save you the disappointment of heading there and realizing you’re unable to go on Instagram Live to show your followers the view in real-time.
Lastly, practice safety and don't get too close to the edges, as the cliffs drop straight into the ocean. If you have kids embarking on the trail with you, make sure you keep a watchful eye on them throughout.
Gear Tips and Checklist
Appropriate Hiking Footwear
Water
Snacks
Sunscreen and Hat
Binoculars to watch the whales
Phone/ Camera
Other Attractions and Activities in West Maui
The dramatic coastal views and relatively easy walk make the Ohai Trail Loop an underrated gem in West Maui. Moreover, the nearby attractions available also make it well worth the trip.
Keen on enhancing your experience with a snorkeling adventure or food-tasting session? Here are some of the activities we’ve curated just for you.
