La Perouse Bay(edit)

Overview

This is an easy out-and-back 3.2 mile hike in Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Marine Sanctuary via the Hoapili Trail. The trail is very rocky with little shade so bring good hiking boots and lots of water (and probably some snacks too!). The area is very windy in the afternoon, so most people hike in the early morning hours.

This trail goes by La Perouse Bay and ends just past the Hanamanioa Point Lighthouse, which is actually just a light beacon on the edge of a rocky cliff. The trail is primarily used for hiking, walking, nature trips, and fishing. You will often see goats on this hike.

Getting Started

Located south of Makena Beach at the very end of Makena Alanui Road, you’ll end at Keone’o’io Bay, later named La Pérouse Bay after the French explorer Captain Jean-François de La Pérouse, the first European to set foot on Maui in 1786. There is a small gravel parking lot with two porta-potties. Park there and start hiking south along the trail. You'll be hiking in sand initially, but the trail eventually turns to lava. This trail does connect with the [Kings Trail] (https://www.gaiagps.com/hike/458528/kings-highway/).

Taking Children

This hike could be challenging for small children as some of it is very rocky and the footing is uneven. If bringing children along, be aware that the path leads to some rocky cliffs perched above the churning ocean and the strong winds could certainly knock a small child over the cliff.