A few days ago we partially tackled the Lahaina Pali Trail from the Maʻalaea side but ran out of time. When my hiking partner unexpectedly had a free morning, we decided to go back and finish the adventure. We started around 6:30 AM and wrapped up just before 10 AM.
According to All Trails, this is a difficult hike—and after completing it, I agree. That said, starting from the Maʻalaea side is definitely easier than beginning from the Lahaina side (which we’ve also done—see that blog post here). The full hike is about 6 miles with roughly 1,600 feet of elevation gain, following a rocky, exposed trail up to the windmills and then down toward Lahaina, just past the tunnel.
This trail is hot, windy, and completely exposed, so start early or later in the afternoon. Bring lots of water, sunscreen, a hat, snacks, and sturdy hiking shoes. Hiking poles were a lifesaver on the descent.
Where to start
From Kihei, drive along Sugar Beach and turn left at the light toward Maʻalaea (not Wailuku). Watch for the first turnout on the right. The gate opens at 6 AM. If it’s closed, you can park in the turnout; otherwise, continue up to the small trailhead parking lot. Unfortunately, break-ins are common here, so leave absolutely nothing visible in your vehicle.
I’ll fully admit I was the weakest link on this hike, stopping often to catch my breath (ummm, take pictures). But this time we made it all the way to the windmills!
AllTrails says the middle third going up is the hardest and the final section easier, and I found that to be true. Once we reached the windmills, I checked Google Maps and realized we were already about two-thirds of the way through the trail. Instead of turning around as planned, I convinced my hiking partner to continue down to Lahaina while Sig agreed to pick us up at the other end.
Along the trail, we passed several DLNR workers weed-whacking the path—mahalo to them for maintaining this historic route.
The Lahaina side descent was stunning. The ocean views were incredible, with bright turquoise reef patches below and sweeping coastal scenery the entire way down. My feet definitely felt every rock by the end, but thankfully we were descending rather than climbing.
The way down on the Lahaina side of the windmills is gorgeous – the ocean so blue and turquoise where the reef is. I absolutely recommend.
History Along the Trail
The Lahaina Pali Trail is also a historical trail, with interpretive markers numbered 1–16 along the route (starting from the Lahaina side). You’ll also notice separate mile markers, so don’t confuse the two.
This hike is challenging, windy, and absolutely worth it. I would do it again in a heartbeat.