Kahekili Highway: Maui’s Most Adrenaline Infused Drive
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“Oh Lord, please, please, please don’t let me meet another car on this road.” I thought to myself as I drove like a 90-year-old man. I had scooted up on the edge of my seat, hands at 2 and 10, knuckles white from gripping the steering wheel intensely, and my nose was practically on the front window trying to peer over the car’s hood.
The Kahekili Highway starts from the Honoapiilani Highway, transitioning into a narrow, twisty road with minimal infrastructure that demands caution and careful driving.
Now, this was the real deal – a road worthy of being called one of the best (and most dangerous) drives in the world. Yet Kahekili Highway was one of the mountain roads very few people knew about – which is probably what made me love it even more.
Table of Contents
Map of Kahekili Highway
Why Kahekili Highway Is Better Than the Road to Hana
Kahekili Highway vs Road to Hana: Beware of Falling Rocks
The Kahekili Highway (Hawaii State Highway 340) lives in the shadow of its big, well-known brother – the Road to Hana. However, this well-paved highway runs along Maui’s North shore, flanked by the West Maui Natural Area Reserve and the Pacific Ocean. It was no Road to Hana, because it was 10 times better than the Road to Hana.
First, A Serious Warning About One-Lane Bridges
“Many people consider it (Kahekili Highway) hazardous and one of the spookiest roads they have ever driven. The road hugs the edge of the sea cliffs and is very narrow (often just one lane), with many blind curves and no guard rails. One-lane bridges are common, requiring drivers to yield to oncoming traffic. So, not many people visit this part of Maui.” via To-Hawaii.
Please take this into account. This route is the real deal, and you must be comfortable driving on this dangerous type of narrow road with one-lane bridges, big drop-offs, and no help for miles. The speed limits are usually 15 mph or slower, emphasizing the need for caution.
It’s Not as Well Traveled as the Road To Hana
When I expressed interest in driving the road to Hana, my friend in Maui furrowed her brow and said, “Everyone does the road to Hana when in Maui. I have a better suggestion.”
This was all I needed to hear to kick my craving for unique experiences into high gear. I grabbed my DSLR and was ready for a little Maui road trip off the beaten path.
The Drive is More Exciting (aka Scarier) Due to the Narrow Road
As I set off south on Highway 340 past Kaanapali, I started seeing them – Narrow Road, One Lane Bridge, Yield to Oncoming Traffic, Falling Rocks, Winding Road next 17 miles – these were the standard signs peppered along Highway 340, highlighting its narrow and twisty nature.
I was excited and scared at the same time. My adrenaline was pumping from a combination of the picture-perfect views and the possibility of meeting another oncoming vehicle on the narrow cliff.
Kahekili Hwy Maui was initially completely paved back in the late 90s, and as I started the drive, it was really pleasant driving. The road had a fresh coat of asphalt and brightly colored lines. It didn’t seem too bad at all – in fact, it was relaxing.
However, all of a sudden, the newly paved road ended, leaving me with a bit dodgier pavement full of undulations, crumbling asphalt, no shoulder, and faded lines. I seemed to be winding deeper and deeper along the cliffs and back into the valleys.
All of a sudden, I let out a gasp – I wasn’t sure when it exactly happened – but I was on a one-lane road going east and around hairpin turns. I panicked for a moment as I wondered if it was even possible to back the rental car up if I did meet a car.
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See Views With No One Else Around
It’s not just about the driving, it’s also about what you can stop and see along the way that is virtually tourist-free. I pulled over and ate my picnic poke lunch at a lookout with absolutely no one around. I was on top of a rocky cliff and could see for miles as little clouds that looked like cotton balls dotted the sky. The waves crash against the rocks below me in a rhythmic fashion and enjoyed my perfect moment of Maui Zen.
Experience the Powerful Nakalele Blowhole
I had also heard about the Nakalele Blowhole (near mile marker 38), but I wasn’t too sure where it was. I knew you had to hike to it, and luckily, at one of my roadside stops for a picture, I met a guy from Wisconsin who knew where it was. We wandered down to the rocky coastline together, and he took me further out into the tide pools than I ever would have gone by myself.
The waves were tumultuous as they rolled in sets crashing into the rocks sending sea spray everywhere – it was here where you felt the wrath of Mother Nature.
The spray felt refreshing, but of course, I had stupidly left my LensCoat raingear for my camera back in the rental car since it certainly wasn’t rainy weather, but down by the blowhole it was pretty easy to get drenched.
The blowhole occurs in the lava shelf, which can reach over 100 feet when air and water are forced upwards through the hole, causing a geyser-like effect. We waded through the water to get a bit closer, and that’s when it really hit.
I later read this warning about the blowhole – so do be careful if you go visit it:
“While it may seen tempting to approach the blowhole for a great photo opportunity, don’t do it. People have been killed as they get sucked back into the hole by the retreating water at this and other blowholes in Hawaii.”
Visit Remote Communities
Just when I didn’t think the road could get any more questionable, Hwy 340 Maui narrows considerably for about 1 mile as it descends the mountain and enters the small town of Kahakuloa Village (near mile markers 14 and 15). This community is located in one of the most isolated spots in east Maui, and most of the residents work in and around the village.
The village and town are home to about 100 people, a couple of churches, Lorraine’s Banana Bread and Banana Cream Pie, Julia’s Banana Bread, Karen Lei’s Art Gallery, Bruce Turnbull Studio and Sculpture Garden, and a few small businesses. Be sure to stop and give the community some love.
After the nail-biter one mile of narrow road where I luckily didn’t meet an oncoming car, I stopped for a smoothie at Kahakuloa Village and sat and just took in the Pacific Ocean view.
Experience the Ranch Land and Kahakuloa Head on Maui’s North Shore
The road climbed out of Kahakuloa Village and went into ranch land with sweeping vistas of green pastures. You can also get a great close-up view of Kahakuloa Head, which is 636 feet high. King Kahekili was said to leap 200 feet down to the water from this hill in the mornings before eating breakfast from a spot called “Kahekili’s Leap.”.
There’s still a trail that leads up there, but it’s too narrow and dangerous. I did get out of the car and walk for a bit – but not to the top as it looked too dangerous. It’s a great place to stretch your legs for a little while!
Visit Fruit Stands That Don’t Get Much Business
Finally, before coming down the Kahekili highway into Waihee, I passed a number of little fruit stands and artists. Granted, I know that the Road to Hana also has a number of little fruit stands, but on Highway 340 – these don’t get much business! I stopped to buy some jam and chatted with the woman who lived there. I asked her about what it was like to live so remotely out here. She, of course, said she loved it!
And what’s not to love – this part of western Maui was certainly unique and it felt untouched. It had a completely different vibe than the rest of the island.
The Highway of Death Maui
This scenic coastal road is known for its narrow lanes, tight blind curves, and challenging driving conditions. Accidents and fatalities have occurred on this highway over the years due to its challenging nature, unpredictable weather conditions, and sometimes reckless driving. The number of Kahekili Highway deaths per year can vary and is influenced by factors such as changes in traffic patterns, road improvements, and safety measures. Similar to the Kahekili Highway, the Piilani Highway (Highway 31) is also known for its narrow sections, sharp turns, and the need for increased vigilance, making it a potentially risky road to navigate.
To obtain the most accurate and current information on the annual number of serious traffic fatalities on Kahekili Highway, it’s recommended for drivers to refer to official sources like the Hawaii Department of Transportation or local law enforcement agencies. Additionally, some rental car companies may prohibit driving on the Kahekili Highway due to its dangerous nature, with specific warnings about driving at night or in poor visibility.
Kahekili Highway Driving Tips
- Drive from Lahaina to Waihee so that you are on the inside when/if you pass another car on the narrow bits.
- If you are using a rental car – make sure it has a backup camera – you will need it if you meet another car.
- Don’t drive fast…take your time.
- Often, when you can’t see around a corner to see if someone is coming from the opposite direction on one-lane stretches of road – use your horn and beep a few times to let people know you are coming around the corner.
- Don’t play loud music – you will want to hear the beeps of oncoming traffic (see above)
- And always be respectful of locals.
Highway 340 represents exactly what I love most about Hawaii – it’s not hard to find peace, rest, and solitude on the islands, which are one of the most popular tourist destinations around. If you are looking for something a bit different in Maui, then spend a day driving west on Highway 340. Take your time, explore, rest, and soak in the views and the people you meet along the way.
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Such intense colors – that green is lush, it almost hurts to look at it – and I like it!
wow, okay i’m jealous
I have had the opportunity to drive this road and meet another car on a stretch of road where the last pull out was behind us. I can say I was freaking out a bit when we had to BACK down the road to get to turn out so they could pass us.
Gorgeous photos! I love the strong greens and blues.
Wow!!Stunning shoot.The sky is looking like a roof that has no end.Loved it!!!
Brilliant suggestion, beautifully described. This drive is absolutely gorgeous – and unexpectedly thrilling!
We drove that road a few years back and loved it. Stopped several times to admire the beauty and buy some goodies at the stands. Saw a school bus.later a chopper pilot told us we had been on the forbiden road.forbiden by rental car companies.would like to do it again
Did this trip today!!! Wish I read this beforehand but you nailed the description of that drive. Also – it’s great you had a guide to the blowhole – we got a bit lost both there and back.
Cool! Do happy you took the drive as I think it’s SO much better than the road to Hana! Did you stop and have some shave ice too?!
Hope everyone realizes that driving this road in a rental car, invalidates your rental contract. If you have a problem with the car on this road, rental car company will not help you ~ you’re on your own! Having said that, I also have to say we’ve driven this road a few times. It is quite beautiful, but kind of scary! On one drive, we were on the inside(mauka) and we met a couple of locals in a big pick-up ~ we had to back up to a place where we could pullover a little bit to let them pass. That’s the unwritten rule, the people on the ocean cliff side (makai) have the right of way, and you must somehow do whatever you can to allow them to pass. Scary!!
When I did it there were no restrictions with the rental car. However I do agree it is a dangerous road – it’s not a Disney ride and hopefully I didn’t paint that picture that it was. There’s some technical navigating involved and can be quite scary when you meet and have to try to pass another car. But some people like a little scary…
We drive this road every time we go to Maui and it’s my favorite. Best banana bread on the planet from a roadside stand. A must stop is the art gallery at the top before you descend. Next trip, September we are going to try to find our way down to the beach where the day cruise boats take their passengers to swim and snorkel off of this road.
Sounds like a good quest for your next trip. If you find the secret beach let me know!
We drove this road during one of our Maui trips and it is gorgeous! We unfortunately drove in the direction that put us on the outside of the mountain so although we had wonderful views of the ocean below we also had the fear that we were about to fall off at any given time. We did run into many people traveling in the opposite direction and had to back up several times. The road was crumbling in many places, the little one lane bridges were several times chipping away at the edges so we barely had all four wheels on pavement. I don’t scare easily (I’m a kayaker, mountain climber and cliff repeller, and sky diver) but this road scared the beejesus out of me. I still recommend it because it IS that gorgeous but be careful!
When I took his highway 2 years ago I was with 3 young ladies. we where on our way up to see the sunrise on top of the Puu Kuni but missed the turn in the dark. We saw the sunrise from the beach and no-one was disappointed . On Girl, Christy wants to be married at that church you photographed.
We stopped for frozen chocolate covered Bananas. It is a special road to be sure lots of dips to catch air on too.
I have drove dune buggy trails in the Utah canyon lands, mountain roads in Colorado, apachie trail in Arizona and mountain roads in North Carolina. None of them compare to the intense ride (both shear fright and beauty) that this road provides. My wife and I, along with another couple decided to drive this”little country road” from east to west on our daily romp along Maui’s northern coast. What a surprise! I’m not sure I would have drove it had I read about it before hand. I am glad I did.
When you get to the area where it turns to one lane you should turn around. It is no prettier than what you already saw. It is dangerous and I can’t believe the road dept doesn’t have a warning sign.
Another travelogue from a one time tourist, who thinks they know everything. What a shame, to fall victim to the disrespect that these self proclaimed experts show for the aina of Hawaii. The internet is replete with this kind of nonsense. If you want to show reverence for this land, you will not follow this amateur’s advice. Following advice from a no-nothing has lead to many tourists deaths. Don’t obey the warnings and pay for it with your life. The advice on this blog is irresponsible and may ever well lead to a very unhappy ending to your vacation. You cannot trust advice from a tourist, get your information from a local. It may save your life, Happy trails to you, Sherry Ott, and may you never give poor advice to anyone again. Your experience with your smoothie was not Zen, if you think so, you have no idea what Zen is. Just sayin’
Thanks for your thoughts Chad. All I can say is that I drove it by myself, I enjoyed it, and I’m alive.
I rode this road with my ex-husband who had one hand on the steering wheel and one pointing out everything.. needless to say I was closed eyed crying the whole way lol.. I need to go back.
So wait a minute…you want to go back…so you did sort of like it?!!
My Wife (Rose) and I rented a Harley and drove on this road back in 2011, I was 49 years old then, what a Great Experience…We went the same route from West to North (Maui’s Head), (The recommended route since cliffs are on your right instead of the ocean 🙂 also it was easier with the motorcycle to find places in the cliffs to squeeze our bike in for passing traffic. It would have been almost impossible to back a bike down that narrow road. Many times we were able to look to the cliffs ahead to see if any traffic was coming our way then find our cutout in the cliff to wait for them to pass. It is a slow drive, 10 to 15 miles an hour, be sure you can handle a motorcycle pretty well, because there are several up hill hair pin turns. Not easy with a passenger on the back, love you Rose :). I have done several things in my life, skydived, flying small aircraft, cliff diving, etc., by far this was the most exhilarating of them all, seemed like to road would never end :). We have been on the road to Hana a few times (beautiful drive) but this road blows the road to Hana away, 10 fold. The View is breath taking from the high cliffs above the deep blue, blue ocean. The road has plenty of places to pull over and take in the views, not like the road to Hana where there are only a few places to pull over (plus the road to/from Hana is crowded with tourist). This road is very open allowing you to see much, much more than the forested road to Hana. I recommend both but I guarantee you will never forget this road. This road reminds me of some of the cliff roads I have been on in Italy and the Alps.
Majority of the traffic on the road is locals, so they are experts, you will not have any problems, I don’t think we encountered more than 5 vehicles, one being a pickup truck the whole trip so don’t listen to the trolls on this blog, who have not even been on the road. We talked to many locals before going on the road, even one lady who lives up the road on the Head. Keep in mind you are only going 10-15 miles an hour, plenty of time to brake, the only bad thing is the driver (Me) was not able to take in the sights since my focus was mainly on the road most of the trip, which trust me was still awesome on a Harley. My wife took the pictures and videoed most of our drive. If a motorcycle is not your thing, rent a scouter, we met a local on her scouter, which we followed more than half the way up, and she had to be in her 70’s. So you have no excuse to travel on this road.
One more note, at the Motorcycle rental in Kaanapali, they gave me a map for this road, is was not forbidden like car rental companies deem it. If you take a car rental on the road you will be responsible for any break-downs or accidents, just fyi. so don’t run out of gas 🙂 and Definitely Do Not Drink while driving on this road, youngsters :).
ENJOY THIS AWESOME ROAD!!! Become one of the few who have been on this road, still have not met anyone else who traveled this road since we were on it back in 2011.
David – What a lovely story you shared about such a spectacular road and drive. I absolutely fell in love with it there and it was pretty nail-biting to do in a car…by yourself! But it was definitely worth it! Cheers!
My girlfriend has lived on Maui for 16 yrs. She drove it one time and said “never, ever again”! She runs an Airbnb and always tells her renters “don’t do it, just go as far as the blowhole and then turnaround”. It certainly looks breathtakingly beautiful, unspoiled, and uncrowded but, I go to Maui to relax so, this road is not for me!
Yes – this drive isn’t for everyone which is why I tried to be honest about it and provide some images about what it looked like. Some like the adventure, some like the beach – to each his/her own.
Hi Sherry, I truly enjoyed reading this in-depth blog and gained valuable insights from it. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks!
Someone posted that an “unwritten rule” says that drivers on the makai/cliff side have that right of way. I’ve never heard of such a thing. Normally the vehicle traveling in the uphill direction has the right of way and the vehicle traveling downhill must yield. This is certainly the case for the road down to the Waipio Valley on the Big Island. The downhill traffic on the makai side ALWAYS yields to vehicles traveling uphill on the mauka side.
So our concierge in Kaanapali Beach suggested the 13 crossings trail. I told her both my husband and I are terrified of heights. She stated the road was “repaired and is a great drive”. WTF. We nearly scraped the rental car on the rocks on the hairpin turns and ultimately make a sketchy u-turn. I would drive Hana in a heart beat over this any day. I get it some are thrill seekers but this was ridiculous for us normal folks. We were a mile from the trail head but no, we did not make it in our ridiculous camero rental car. Hey Maui Post some frickin signs. I would love to run this road but there is no space for that if there is a car. Great for you all thrill seeks. No thanks. I love maui but not the hiking, the roads are too treacherous for me. I am a two lane kinda girl. Absolutely beautiful. Makes the crazy drives in the Eastern Sierras (California) seem like a cake walk.