From breathtaking sights, amazing beaches, spectacular spots to gastronomic experiences, Maui is the place to be when you want non-stop adventure and fun. There are so many things to do, beautiful places to visit, and exciting Maui activities to explore. And if there is one activity you should not miss, it’s the road trip in the West Maui Loop to see what it has to offer. This west coast section of Maui was once a hidden getaway of Hawaii’s monarchy and is now the to-go destination of locals and vacationing tourists alike because of so many landmarks, adventure sites, and recreational areas.
Drive, explore, and collect memories
It’s best to arrange a car rental beforehand to eliminate the hassle and think ahead when it comes to your itinerary for the day. Here’s a roundup of what you are going to see in the West Maui Loop:
First stop: Lahaina Pali Trail
It is one of the best hiking spots in West Maui, so get ready to burn a lot of calories to reach the windmills. It would take about 2.5 miles of hiking up and another 2.5 miles back to your car from the Lahaina Pali Trailhead. Once in the apex, you’ll enjoy the magnificent sights of the rotating wind turbines, ocean views, and the pure beauty of nature.
Second stop: Lahaina Town
Lahaina was the capital of the Kingdom of Hawaii during the 19th century and the present-day buzzing tourist destination with art galleries, boutique shops, souvenir stores, bars, and restaurants. This West Maui’s historic town is home to the iconic, massive Banyan Tree that occupies a whole block. The tree was planted in 1873 and is now over 60 feet tall with big branches that shield tourists from the scorching sun while having photo ops. A leisure stroll in the streets of this charming place will give you glimpses of the past. Don’t forget to visit the historic Baldwin Home Museum, Lahaina Lighthouse, Front Street, and the old courthouse to complete your tour.
Third stop: Ka’anapali Beach
Head on to this golden sand beach with a panoramic view and Black Rock that serves as the jump-off point into the crystal blue waters below. Kaanapali Beach is also a famous area to snorkel or simply wait for the appearance of sea turtles.
Fourth stop: Napili Bay
Another must-see sight is Napili Bay, which is basically a sandy cove that is home to a number of resorts like Napili Shores and Napili Kai. At one end of the beach is the Sea House restaurant, where you and your road trip companions can relax and enjoy delectable dishes to prepare for the next set of road adventures.
Fifth stop: DT Flemings Beach
At the tip of Kapalua’s Ritz Carlton Resort is this lovely beach with a quarter-mile stretch of golden sand. On the south portion of Fleming Beach is the huge black lava rock that crashes the incoming waves. It is a perfect island honeymoon destination.
Sixth stop: Slaughterhouse Beach
No, it’s not what you think it is. It is a spectacular beach with white sand and rocks on both sides that is picture-perfect. The name is derived from the slaughterhouse/tanning/storage shed of the Honolua Ranch that was perched on the edge of the cliff above the ocean. Although the structures are gone, the name remains. To reach Slaughterhouse Beach, you need to hike down from the highway. It is a nice sheltered cove and kid-friendly as long as they can handle the sandy concrete steps that lead to the beach.
Seventh stop: Honolua Bay
This world-famous spot has a mesmerizing coral formation and clear waters with exotic fishes like parrotfish, surgeonfish, bonefish, mullet, and more. Honolua Bay is also a popular spot to snorkel. To reach it, you need to walk through the forest-like area.
Eighth stop: Punalau Beach aka Windmills
A 3-minute drive from Honolua Bay is a spot that will give you the mesmerizing sight over Punalau Beach. Make a quick stop and enjoy the view from the top. Don’t forget to do some selfies or group pictures to capture the moment.
Ninth stop: Ohai Trail
On the north section of West Maui, you will come across a short hike trail, which is a nice place to take a break, stretch your legs, and enjoy the scenic views around you. This trail offers a vivid display of lush foliage, blue-green ocean, and blues of the sky above.
Tenth stop: Nakalele Point’s Blowhole
This 38.5 mm blowhole is the prime attraction in Nakalele Point. Tourists flock to witness the geyser-like blowhole’s effect where a jet of water periodically blasts off into the air. During high tides and surf, the jets can reach 50 feet high skywards.
Eleventh stop: Olivine Pools
Twenty miles north of Lahaina are the natural tide pools or Olivine tide pools. The trail down below can be tricky, but reaching the spot is a fulfilling experience. The coastline with rugged lava rocks meets the rough waves of the ocean, creating small tide pools which are swimmable during calm days.
Twelfth stop: Waihee Ridge Trail
If you’re up for another hike in a trail that lets you see the wonderful valley and coastal views and forests with rainbow eucalyptus, koa, and pine trees, this is the perfect stop to conclude your adventure for the day, right before heading back to your vacation home.
Home away from home
The most important thing in your “stress-free” luxury vacation in Maui is to make sure that you have a great place to stay. Ideally, it should be in a location that lets you easily access the tourist spots in the area with scenic views that will greet you in the morning and help you relax after a tiring outdoor adventure.
Kahana Village is the top choice of visitors on the island when it comes to vacation rental homes. Nestled in the Lower Honoapiilani Road, Kahana Village has spacious condo units for individuals or families. The deluxe amenities and modern facilities will make you feel pampered. And because you are special, Kahana Village has amazing rental deals and discounts for you, plus no resort or parking fees. Call now at (808) 669-5111 and reserve a unit ahead of your trip.
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