📸 Nakalele Blowhole | West Maui, Hawaii
📝 My Story:
Located on the rugged northwestern tip of Maui, Nakalele Blowhole is nature's version of a fountain show — and it’s way cooler than anything man-made.
The crashing surf pushes water through an underwater lava tube, launching it high into the air like a natural geyser.
Leza and I made the short hike down rocky terrain to reach it, and watching the powerful bursts of ocean spray against the black lava rocks was unforgettable.
While there are plenty of places to get good views from above, we carefully ventured closer for some epic photos — but kept a safe distance (safety first!).
This wild stretch of coastline felt wonderfully raw and untouched compared to many of Maui’s more polished beaches.
🌎 Location:
📍 Open in Google Maps
📌 Quick Info:
🏙️ City: Near Wailuku, Maui (Northwest tip)
🅿️ Parking: Small gravel lot near trailhead
🚻 Bathrooms: None — plan ahead
🚲 Bike Rentals: Not available
🧭 Travel Tip: Bring sturdy shoes — the hike down can be slippery and rocky
📸 Photographer’s Note: Best photos are during mid-tide when the blowhole is most active
🛐 Etiquette: Stay back from the blowhole — rogue waves are dangerous!
🕰️ Best Time to Explore: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and softer light
♿ Accessibility: Not accessible — requires walking over uneven lava rock
💡 Pro Tip:
Keep your distance!
People have gotten seriously injured (or worse) standing too close to the blowhole. Enjoy the spectacle from a safe and respectful distance.
Also, wear grippy shoes — flip flops aren't your friend here.
📸 Photography Tip:
Use a fast shutter speed to freeze the action of the water shooting upward.
Or for a creative effect, slow your shutter slightly (~1/100s) to create a smooth, misty look.
Bring a lens cloth — the sea spray gets everywhere!
🎉 Fun Fact:
Nakalele means "the leaning" or "bent" in Hawaiian — fitting for the way the coastline dramatically curves and bends around the blowhole.
There’s also a naturally eroded “Heart-Shaped Rock” nearby — if you can find it before the tides shift!
🌺 Return to Main Hawaii Travel Story
Want to read the full story of our unforgettable adventure across Kauai and Maui?
👉 Click here to explore our complete Hawaii Travel Journal ➔
🗺️ 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 ➔
