Acid War Zone Trail
Hike to the powerful Nakalele Blowhole through a rugged, volcanic landscape with stunning coastal views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid the midday sun
Acid War Zone Trail
Best Time
Avoid the midday sun
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to the powerful Nakalele Blowhole through a rugged, volcanic landscape with stunning coastal views.
"An amazing view!!! You will not regret the effort. Wear good shoes."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail is rocky and steep. Good hiking shoes are essential for safety and comfort.
🗺️ Trail Navigation
The path isn't well-marked. Follow advice from returning hikers and stay close to the sea, but not too close to cliffs.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nakalele Blowhole
End of the trail
Witness a natural geyser erupting seawater up to 100 feet through a lava tube. A truly powerful display of nature's force.
Unique Geological Formations
Along the trail
Explore tide pools and the remnants of the Heart-Shaped Rock, showcasing the trail's dramatic volcanic landscape.
Coastal Cliff Views
Throughout the hike
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged Maui coastline and the vast Pacific Ocean.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigate the Trail Wisely
Blowhole Safety First
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail is rocky and steep. Good hiking shoes are essential for safety and comfort.
🗺️ Trail Navigation
The path isn't well-marked. Follow advice from returning hikers and stay close to the sea, but not too close to cliffs.
💧 Stay Hydrated
It's an exposed trail with intense sun. Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking during warmer parts of the day.
📸 Capture the Moment
The views are spectacular! Don't forget your camera to document the blowhole and coastal scenery.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
The trail is rocky and steep. Good hiking shoes are essential for safety and comfort.
🗺️ Trail Navigation
The path isn't well-marked. Follow advice from returning hikers and stay close to the sea, but not too close to cliffs.
💧 Stay Hydrated
It's an exposed trail with intense sun. Bring plenty of water, especially if hiking during warmer parts of the day.
📸 Capture the Moment
The views are spectacular! Don't forget your camera to document the blowhole and coastal scenery.
⚠️ Respect Nature
Leave no trace and travel responsibly. Protect the unique environment of the Acid War Zone Trail.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular views and the awe-inspiring Nakalele Blowhole, calling it a 'wonderful place' and an 'amazing experience.' The unique geological formations and coastal scenery are consistently praised. However, some find the trail poorly marked and challenging, advising caution for those with young children or seeking an easy stroll.
"An amazing view!!! Follow the path to the marker, then go down the rocks to the right. Take time to enjoy the many other amazing sights besides the blow hole. You will not regret the effort. Wear good shoes."
Jared Hopkins
"A wonderful place to start you hike to the cliffs and blowhole. The parking spots might be limited, but we were lucky that we got a spot in the middle of day in May, close to the road side. The trail was not well marked, so we had to figure out the way as we hike. “Stay as close to the sea but not too close to the cliffs” was the advice given by a returning hiker, and was proved to be wise through our own experience when we started hiking to the first portion. The view is unique and marvelous. Definitely worth of your a couple of hours while visiting the island."
Xin Chen
"While the view is spectacular, the trail is not marked at all and difficult to navigate. Sharp, rocky, steep scrambling. We took our toddler, thinking it was a leisure trail, and was a little concerning. Ended up bushwhacking through grass and fields because we couldn't find trail. Trail very exposed on the cliffs. Reco to go early morning or evening to minimize burning sun."
Lauren Nelson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Acid War Zone Trail is located near Lahaina, Maui. Many visitors recommend mapping to the 'Acid War Zone Trail' trailhead instead of directly to the Nakalele Blowhole for a more scenic approach. The drive along the coast to the trailhead is also described as very pleasant.
The road leading to the trail is described as very winding, but also beautiful. Enjoy the scenic coastal drive as part of your adventure.
Parking spots can be limited, especially during peak times. Some visitors were lucky to find a spot close to the roadside in the middle of the day in May.
Yes, the Acid War Zone Trail is a great option for a day trip. The hike itself is about 1.25 to 1.3 miles round trip, making it manageable for a few hours of exploration. 
While you can see the blowhole from the overlook, hiking the Acid War Zone Trail offers a more up-close and personal experience with the feature and the surrounding unique landscape. Parking for the blowhole itself is about half a mile past the trailhead.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets or admission fees required to access the Acid War Zone Trail or the Nakalele Blowhole. It is a natural attraction open to the public.
The trail is accessible at any time, as it is an outdoor natural area. However, it is highly recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety and visibility.
There is no entrance fee for the Nakalele Blowhole or the Acid War Zone Trail. It's a free natural attraction.
While there aren't specific guided tours advertised for the Acid War Zone Trail itself, many local tour operators in Maui include stops at the Nakalele Blowhole as part of their island tours.
The main restriction is to be mindful of safety, especially around the blowhole and cliffs. Always follow 'leave no trace' principles and respect the natural environment.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Acid War Zone Trail is a relatively short hike, typically around 1.25 to 1.3 miles round trip. It's considered a moderate trail.
No, the trail is not well-marked, and hikers often have to figure out the way as they go. It's advisable to pay attention to the terrain and any advice from other hikers.
The trail is rated as moderate due to its steep, rocky, and exposed sections. It involves some scrambling and requires good balance and footwear.
Sturdy hiking shoes with good grip are highly recommended. Lightweight, breathable clothing is also advisable due to the sun exposure.
There are no specific facilities like restrooms directly at the Acid War Zone Trailhead. It's best to use facilities before you arrive or at designated stops along the drive.
📸 📸 Photography
The Nakalele Blowhole eruption is a prime photo subject. Additionally, the dramatic coastal cliffs, unique rock formations, and ocean vistas offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful golden hour shots. The midday sun can be harsh, but the dramatic spray of the blowhole can still be captured.
It's crucial to prioritize safety. Maintain a safe distance from the blowhole and the cliffs while taking photos. Never turn your back on the ocean.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing the blowhole's spray from a safe distance. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance ocean colors.
Drone regulations can vary. It's essential to check current FAA guidelines and local Maui regulations before flying a drone in this area. Respect any posted signage.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
The stunning coastal views provide a rewarding backdrop for a personal exploration of Maui's natural beauty. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The best light for photography is often during the golden hours of early morning or late afternoon, though the blowhole's action can be compelling at any time. Remember to bring a wide-angle lens for the expansive views and be mindful of your surroundings while composing shots. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Nakalele Blowhole: Nature's Spectacle
+1While the blowhole is the main draw, the surrounding area also features a smaller, secondary blowhole, adding to the geological intrigue. The sheer force and sound of the blowhole are captivating, making it a memorable part of any Maui itinerary. Remember that the blowhole's activity is dependent on ocean conditions, so its intensity can vary.
+1Navigating the 'Acid War Zone' Trail
Despite the challenging terrain, the trail offers incredible rewards. Hikers are treated to stunning panoramic views of the Maui coastline, with dramatic cliffs meeting the Pacific Ocean. The unique geological features, including tide pools and remnants of past formations like the Heart-Shaped Rock, add to the trail's allure. It's a hike that truly immerses you in the raw, natural beauty of Maui's volcanic landscape.
+1Safety and Responsible Hiking
Visitors are strongly encouraged to practice responsible tourism. This includes staying on marked paths where they exist, not disturbing the natural environment, and practicing 'leave no trace' principles by packing out everything you pack in. Being mindful of the ocean's power, especially near the blowhole, is critical. Heeding advice from locals and experienced hikers can significantly enhance your safety and enjoyment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit