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Nāhiku Coastal Trail Area adventures

Nāhiku Coastal Trail Area Adventures

Nāhiku Coastal Trail Area offers a scenic, lush rainforest hike along Maui’s northeastern coastline that leads to hidden beaches and panoramic ocean views, ideal for nature lovers and photographers.

Approximately 200 acres
Acres Protected
2 miles
Miles of Trails
Estimated 25,000
Annual Visitors
Trail and area managed since early 2000s
Year Established

About Nāhiku Coastal Trail Area

 

The Nāhiku Coastal Trail Area is located on the northeastern shore of Maui, Hawaii, within the Hana district. The trail follows a narrow path stretching about 2 miles from the Nāhiku Marketplace down to the coastline, passing through dense tropical rainforest rich with native flora such as ʻōhiʻa lehua, ferns, and bamboo groves. The terrain offers a mix of dirt paths and rocky shoreline walking, with the trail ending at pristine, less-trafficked beaches including Whites Beach and Black Sand Beach. The surrounding waters are home to diverse marine life, making it a popular spot for tidepool exploration and occasional sightings of seabirds and native Hawaiian geckos. Historically, the trail area was used by native Hawaiians and later by local sugar plantation workers. Visitors today enjoy it for its peaceful natural setting, quiet beach access, and spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. While the trail is relatively short and easy, the ocean access points provide opportunities for picnicking, swimming when conditions are calm, and photography of Maui’s rugged coastline. Nāhiku’s proximity to Hana, a culturally rich region known for its waterfalls and old Hawaiian communities, adds to its appeal. The trail’s remote-feeling environment makes it a peaceful destination for those looking to experience Maui’s lush east side beyond the more crowded tourist spots.

Highlights

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Nāhiku Coastal Trail – a scenic rainforest walk with ocean vistas

Highlight

Whites Beach – a quiet, natural sandy beach with tidepools

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Lush native Hawaiian flora including ʻōhiʻa lehua and bamboo clusters

Highlight

Remote coastal viewpoints with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean

Notable Natural Features

Nāhiku Coastal Trail

A 2-mile trail through dense rainforest leading to remote beaches along Maui’s northeastern coast.

Whites Beach

A secluded sandy beach at the end of the trail, ideal for tidepool exploration and ocean views.

Native Hawaiian Flora

Dense stands of ʻōhiʻa lehua, ferns, and bamboo that provide habitat for native wildlife.