Nakalele Blowhole — Attraction in Maui

I've visited all four of the accessible blowholes throughout Hawaii, and IMO, Nakalele is the star of them all as it constantly puts on a show due to its location on Maui's choppy northwest coast. And, you can get as close as you want to it. The Spouting Horn on Kauai comes in second as it's fairly active, yet is viewed from a short distance away. The Waianapanapa State Park blowhole is third. Though it wasn't too active when we were there, you can walk right up to this one as well. Last is Halona on Oahu, which was literally invisible the day we visited as there was no geyser-like entertainment due to the area's usually calm waters and is the furthest in viewing distance.

ACCESS: Driving here is easier if you're already in west Maui as you'll avoid the nail-biting one-lane road coming from central Maui. Look for all the cars parked along the roadside near mile marker 38. Parking is fairly plentiful. Don't leave valuables in your car especially if you have a rental as break in's are common.

While you can see the blowhole from the parking area, you'll definitely have a better experience if you hike down. The hilly terrain is a mix of loose gravel and jagged lava rocks. Shoes are recommended but not required as we did fine in our slippers (flip flops to you continentals). The hike down took about 10 minutes and is definitely worth it as there are other sites to see.

BLOWHOLE: As soon as you step foot onto the lava shelf, you not only hear but can feel the force of the ocean under you, violently entering the partially submerged lava tube before shooting out like Old Faithful. There are no barriers sans for your common sense. The hole is about 3-4 feet wide. People have straddled it, one man even fell in after being knocked over by a rogue wave, never to be found, back in 2011. Just this past year, another visitor was washed out to sea after being stuck by a rogue wave while perched along the coast. Point being, stay clear from the blowhole as well as the coastline near it. If you want an overhead view of it, walk to the higher cliffside behind it, which is where I shot my video and a few pics.

HEART ROCK: Sad to report that this is long gone due to erosion.

MOONSCAPE: WTF? Yes! After visiting the blowhole, head west of it and you'll be taken to a valley-like landscape that looks like you're on the moon. Nothing but a rocky landscape of lava and stone boulders dwarf you as you hike the coastline.

TIPS: There are zero comfort facilities here. Cell signal is strong.

OVERALL: Allow about 2+ hours for this visit. Totally free and natural with...

The Nakalele Blowhole is an absolute must-see on Maui’s rugged northwest coast—a natural spectacle that leaves you in awe of Mother Nature’s power and beauty! Perched just off the Kahekili Highway, this blowhole shoots water skyward with a thunderous roar when the waves crash just right, sometimes reaching heights of 50 feet or more. The raw energy is mesmerizing, and the surrounding scenery is straight out of a postcard—jagged black lava rocks, endless ocean views, and the wild, untamed vibe of Maui’s less-traveled side.

Getting there is half the adventure. The short hike down from the roadside parking is rocky and steep, but manageable with decent shoes and a sense of excitement. Once you’re there, the salty mist kisses your face as you watch the geyser-like eruptions—it’s thrilling, almost like the island is breathing. The area feels pristine and untouched, a refreshing break from the more crowded tourist spots. On a clear day, you might even spot Molokai in the distance, adding to the magic.

It’s not just the blowhole itself that steals the show—the whole atmosphere is invigorating. The sound of the waves slamming into the cliffs, the cool breeze whipping through, and the untouched coastal landscape make it a sensory feast. Pro tip: time your visit with high tide for the most dramatic show, and keep a safe distance—nature’s power here demands respect. Nakalele Blowhole is a hidden gem that delivers an unforgettable punch of beauty and excitement. You’ll leave with a grin and a...

Of you can stomach the twisty turny and sometimes single lane road to get out to Nakalele's Blowhole, do yourself a favor and take a much needed road break and take the short hike down to see it. There were tons of people out but only a few actually down at the blowhole. Lots of folks were just posted up in random places along the cliff's edge just soaking up the sun and watching the waves. Even if the blowhole wasn't doing its thing, it's still a picture perfect spot to stop and chill. If it's a sunny day, you better wear so.e sweat resistant sun screen because you'll bake on your hike in and out. It's not a long hike by any means but there isn't a dedicated set of stairs or handrails so make sure you're physically and mentally prepared to do this. There's a lot of rock scrambling too. Maybe that's why there weren't that many folks at the bottom. You'll see a ton of cool lava rock formations, sea salt crystals in long since empty tide pools, and even some jurassic looking fish who've somehow managed to get stuck. The blowhole was cool. You got a big spray before the wave hit and the blowhole erupted. But timing my phone's camera to get the epic shot was harder than I had anticipated. It's a super cool and totally free natural wonder. Stop by and take in the view of the ocean, the waves, the rocks, and enjoy nature...