📸 Lava Fields & May’s Trumpets | Maui, Hawaii
📝 My Story:
On the southern tip of Maui, just past ʻĀhihi-Kīna‘u Natural Area Reserve, lies a stunning and unexpected landscape — the lava fields.
The moment you drive into this area, it feels like you've stepped onto another planet. Towering piles of jagged, black volcanic rock stretch endlessly to either side, remnants of a long-ago eruption.
We didn’t realize at first, but we were surrounded by ancient frozen lava flows — an incredible reminder of Maui’s powerful volcanic history. Hiking across the fields isn't recommended (the rocks are extremely sharp), but simply driving through and seeing the contrast between the black lava and blue ocean was breathtaking.
We also came across some beautiful blooms known as May’s Trumpets — bright, colorful flowers growing almost defiantly amidst the rugged terrain. Another surprise in Maui’s endless collection of natural wonders.
🗺️ Location:
📌 Quick Info:
• 🏙️ City: Kihei / La Perouse Bay area
• 🅿️ Parking: Small roadside parking areas (limited, but free)
• 🚻 Bathrooms: None — plan accordingly!
• 🚲 Bike Rentals: None available here
• 🧭 Travel Tip: Go early morning to beat the heat and have better lighting for photos.
• 📸 Photographer’s Note: Wide-angle lenses work best to capture the sweeping contrast of black lava fields against the ocean.
• 🛐 Etiquette: Stay on designated paths and roads — lava rock is sharp and fragile.
• 🕰️ Best Time to Explore: Morning (before it gets too hot)
• ♿ Accessibility: Limited — rugged ground, not wheelchair accessible.
💡 Pro Tip:
Bring sturdy closed-toe shoes and plenty of water — even though you won’t hike far, the radiant heat off the lava fields can be intense.
📸 Photography Tip:
Shoot around sunrise or early morning for soft light that brings out the textures of the lava. Try shooting low to capture the depth and ruggedness.
🎉 Fun Fact:
The lava fields here were created from Haleakalā’s last eruption — around 1790! It’s some of the youngest land on the island.
🗺️ Planning Your Own Hawaii Adventure?
If you’re planning your own trip to Maui (or anywhere across Hawaii), you can find this hidden gem — and many more — on my public travel map:
👉 View My Hawaii Travel Map Here ➔
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Want to read the full story of our unforgettable adventure across Kauai and Maui?
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