Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Fine hilltop views of Kahoʻolawe and Lanaʻi are in store along this trail, which follows
an ancient footpath as it zigzags steeply up through native dryland. From the Hwy 30
trailhead, after the first mile, the trail passes into open, sun-baked scrub, from where you
can see Haleakalā and the fertile central plains.
Ironwood trees precede the crossing of Kealaoloa Ridge (1600ft), after which you des-
cend through Ukumehame Gulch. Look for stray petroglyphs and
paniolo
graffiti. Stay
on the footpath all the way down to Papalaua Beach and don't detour onto 4WD roads.
The 5.5-mile trail should take about 2½ hours each way.
You can hike in either direction, but starting off early from the east side of the moun-
tains keeps you ahead of the blistering sun. Be aware of the risk of dehydration and heat-
stroke on this trail - bring plenty of water and a hat that provides shade. The trailhead ac-
cess road, marked by a Na Ala Hele sign, is on Hwy 30, just south of its intersection with
N Kihei Rd. If you prefer to start at the west end, the trailhead is 200 yards south of mile
marker 11 on Hwy 30.
For a basic map and more details visit
http://hawaiitrails.ehawaii.gov
.
Eating
Beach Bums Bar & Grill
BBQ $$$
MAP
(
243-2286; Maʻalaea Harbor Shops; lunch $7-12, dinner $9-24; 8am-10pm)
This har-
borfront eatery uses a wood-burning rotisserie smoker to grill up everything from burgers
and ribs to turkey, mahi-mahi and Spam. Come between 3pm and 6pm for $3.25 drafts of
Kona-brewed Longboard Lager.
Waterfront Restaurant
SEAFOOD $$$
$$$
MAP
(
244-9028;
www.waterfrontrestaurant.net
; Maʻa-laea Harbor Shops, 300 Maʻalaea Rd; lunch
mains $10-19, dinner mains $25-47; 11am-9pm)
Savor the good life and fresh-off-the-boat
seafood at this sparkling restaurant above Maʻalaea Harbor. A longtime favorite for fine
dining, the Waterfront re-opened in this new, picturesque spot in 2012. At dinner, the fish
depends on the daily catch, but the method of preparation - six tempting options - is
yours.
For lunch, try the fish, a kiawe-grilled burger, or a globally inspired array of sand-
wiches. Food, service and wine selection are among Maui's best.
