Hoapili Trail (King's Highway)
Hike through ancient, otherworldly lava fields along Maui's rugged coast. A challenging yet rewarding trek with dramatic ocean views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid the heat & crowds
Hoapili Trail (King's Highway)
Best Time
Avoid the heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through ancient, otherworldly lava fields along Maui's rugged coast. A challenging yet rewarding trek with dramatic ocean views.
"An otherworldly hike on Maui, Hawaii, traversing barren lava fields with breathtaking vistas."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Closed-toe hiking shoes are essential for navigating sharp lava rocks. No flip-flops allowed!
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Carry at least a liter of water per person. The trail is exposed with no shade.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Otherworldly Lava Landscapes
The entire trail
Hike across stark, ancient lava fields that feel like another planet. A truly unique geological experience.
Dramatic Coastal Vistas
Along the coastline
Enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean crashing against rugged shores. Watch for powerful waves.
Wild Goat Sightings
Throughout the trail
Keep an eye out for wild goats grazing among the lava rocks and coastal vegetation. A charming wildlife encounter.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trek Through Lava Fields: Essential Gear
Timing is Key for This Maui Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Closed-toe hiking shoes are essential for navigating sharp lava rocks. No flip-flops allowed!
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Carry at least a liter of water per person. The trail is exposed with no shade.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Wear sunscreen, a hat with a tie, and sunglasses. The sun is intense here.
⚠️ Heed Trail Warnings
Signs advise on water, first-aid, and sun protection. Cell service is spotty.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is a Must
Closed-toe hiking shoes are essential for navigating sharp lava rocks. No flip-flops allowed!
💧 Hydration is Crucial
Carry at least a liter of water per person. The trail is exposed with no shade.
☀️ Sun Protection is Key
Wear sunscreen, a hat with a tie, and sunglasses. The sun is intense here.
⚠️ Heed Trail Warnings
Signs advise on water, first-aid, and sun protection. Cell service is spotty.
🐾 Consider Doggy Shoes
If bringing a dog, their paws need protection from the sharp lava rock.
🐐 Wildlife Spotting
You might see wild goats! They're a common sight along the trail.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Hoapili Trail for its unique, otherworldly lava landscapes and dramatic coastal views. However, many caution about the treacherous, sharp lava rock terrain requiring sturdy footwear and the lack of shade, making early morning visits essential. Some find the full trail challenging and suggest shorter hikes.
"This is an awesome trail. The lava rock is very treacherous though once you get to a certain point on the trail. Hiking shoes required. No flip flops or open toe shoes.
There is a sign at the trailhead that states (sic)" carry at least a liter of water per person, and have a first aid kit, and sun protection" Cell service is sketchy if you get hurt or there, so this is important. Also, the sign heavily suggested dogs need shoes because of the sharp lava rock.
I went for a hike alone at 7:30am. I did not encounter another person on my 1.5 hours or and back. If I had injured myself, and not had some basic supplies, I would have been kind of screwed. Heed the sign.
Pretty sure the trail goes for MUCH longer than my hour-ish walk.
Also: there are goats."
Mark Duncan
"You're walking along the coast alternating between beach and lava fields. Sometimes you're in the shade and other times under full sun. When we were there, the winds were strong from the south, the surf was high, and pounding the coast.
The only wild life was goats grazing.
The road in is a curvy, narrow, almost cobble stone, one and a half lane road. It's through a lava field, and there's no shoulder. This was my first introduction to Maui driving. The hike was worth it."
Matt Asmus
"Scenic hike through lava fields. Saw ferel black goats. Beautiful ocean waves. Amazing views. Wear shoes with a covered toe. Bring water. Windy so wear a hat that has a tie to secure it."
Marilyn Wacko
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is located at La Perouse Bay in South Maui. The road leading to it is a narrow, winding, and somewhat rough lava road, often described as cobblestone-like. Drive slowly and carefully. Parking can be tight, especially on weekends.
No, the road is not paved. It's a narrow, winding, and uneven lava road that requires cautious driving.
The King's Highway is another name for the Hoapili Trail. Access is typically from La Perouse Bay.
Yes, you can drive to the trailhead at La Perouse Bay, but be prepared for a challenging road.
Public transportation options are very limited for reaching remote trailheads like Hoapili. Renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to hike the Hoapili Trail. It's a public access trail.
The trail is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's strongly advised to visit during daylight hours, especially early morning, due to the lack of shade and potential hazards.
No reservations are needed for the Hoapili Trail. It's an open access hiking area.
There are no official parking fees, but parking at La Perouse Bay can be limited and fills up quickly, especially on weekends.
While technically open, hiking at night is not recommended due to the treacherous terrain, lack of lighting, and potential for injury.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes with good ankle support. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended. A hat with a tie and sunglasses are essential for sun protection.
The full Hoapili Trail can be quite long, but many visitors opt for shorter out-and-back hikes. Some sections are described as challenging.
The terrain is rugged and can be challenging, especially the latter parts. Beginners might prefer to hike a shorter section or stick to the initial parts of the trail.
You're likely to see wild goats grazing along the trail. You might also spot marine life from the coastal viewpoints.
There is very little to no shade on the Hoapili Trail. It's a highly exposed hike, so sun protection is critical.
Expect dramatic views of barren lava fields, rugged coastlines, and the vast Pacific Ocean. 
📸 📸 Photography
The stark lava fields against the blue ocean provide dramatic contrast. Look for interesting rock formations and coastal overlooks.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A polarizing filter can help manage the bright sun and enhance ocean colors.
Sunrise or early morning light can be beautiful on the lava fields. Sunset can also offer dramatic colors, but be mindful of hiking back in fading light.
Drone regulations in Hawaii can be strict. Always check current FAA and local park rules before flying a drone.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, making it ideal for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
The main costs will be transportation to the trailhead and your personal supplies like water and snacks. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Terrain: Hoapili Trail's Unique Landscape
The terrain is predominantly composed of sharp, uneven lava rock, which makes sturdy, closed-toe hiking shoes absolutely essential. While the trail offers stunning coastal views, it also presents practical challenges. The path alternates between beach and lava fields, and can be exposed to strong winds.
Safety First: Essential Preparations for the Trail
Beyond water and a first-aid kit, proper footwear is non-negotiable. Closed-toe hiking shoes are a must to protect feet from the sharp lava rock.
Social
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