Ohai Trail in Maui
I think the Ohai Trail is one of Maui’s most underrated trails. Unlike many others on the island, this 1.2 mile loop trail doesn’t require a grueling effort to get to a specific payoff. Basically, the entire hike includes a constant payoff of awesome views of Hawaiian cliffs and coast.
The hike is not difficult. It is perfect for those looking for a leisurely stroll with benches available to rest on along the way. You don’t need to worry about a substantial elevation gain or descent. It provides the perfect relaxing opportunity to watch the waves crash against the Hawaiian cliffs.
Location – Ohai Trail is in West Maui
The Ohai Trail is located at the northwest tip of the island of Maui. Remember, this part of Maui is one of the most remote. It is about a 45 minute drive from the biggest resort areas, and at times the drive can get a bit dicey as the road turns to one lane and includes a ton of switchbacks along the edge of a cliff.
The good news is that the relative distance away from the biggest hotel areas is that it is often not nearly as crowded as other parts of Maui.
The Ohai Trail Loop
The trail is a 1.2 mile circle. You can take the trail clockwise or counterclockwise. Either way is great, but generally people say that if you take it in a counterclockwise manner you will have more time facing awesome views.
Ohai Trail Parking
There is a small parking lot with additional spots available along the side of the road. I visited on a Friday afternoon and only about ½ of the spots were full.
Negatives
I love and fully endorse this hike, but in the interest of full disclosure it is worth pointing out a couple things that are less than ideal.
No Shade
If you are looking to cool off in a nice shaded area this isn’t the hike for you. You can expect a seabreeze, but you should also plan on the sun beating down on you.
Valuables In Your Car
When there I saw the remnants of a broken car window. This is likely due to someone leaving something valuable out on the seat of their car. As with most places in Hawaii, keep your valuables hidden as there is a prevalence of petty crime like car break-ins.
Spotty Phone Service
If you are hoping to do a Facebook live from the trail you might be disappointed. The phone service at this tip of the island is spotty. There were times where it operated fine and times where I couldn’t get a signal at all.
Other Area Attractions
It is about 2 miles from the Olivine Pools and about 2 miles from the Nakalele Blowhole. I HIGHLY recommend you stop at at least one of these spots when journeying to this part of the island.
Conclusion
I love this easy hike! Being able to enjoy the ocean and cliffline views for almost the entire 1.2 mile loop was an amazing experience. It’s a perfect setup if you want a leisurely hike or are looking for a place to take your morning jog.
What to Pack for Maui
- Quick Dry Travel Towel – This quick dry towel is amazing to travel with. It really will come in handy when you need extra room in your suitcase.
- Snorkeling gear – for obvious reasons.
- Hiking boots – I have two pairs of hiking boots that I love. My Columbia waterproof boots and my Salomon hiking boots. Highly recommend checking them both out!
- Sandals – LOVE these Teva’s! They are my new go to travel sandal. Shop my favorite Teva’s here. They are great to wear in the water snorkeling and also amazing for hiking in Hawaii.
- Dresses for Hawaii – Packing a few good dresses is essential for Hawaii. Dresses have become my go to on trips to help quickly put an outfit together. Revolve is one of my go to shops for beach dresses. ASOS also has great summer dresses.
- Shorts – Anyone who is traveling to Hawaii needs a good pair of shorts. Khakis are great for guys. For women, cute athletic shorts or denim shorts are perfect for a breezy summertime look. These Levi denim shorts are my current favorites! These high waisted athletic shorts have gone viral on instagram and for good reason, they are AMAZING.
- Sports bra – This SKIMS bra is the most comfortable sports bra you will ever wear! Trust me. I travel with 5 of them. Also, highly recommend checking out the SKIMS fits everybody bra is to die for as well.
- Agolde 90’s jeans – I actually can’t remember the last trip I have been on where I haven’t brought these Agolde jeans. I have them in multiple colors and sizes. Check out my full review here.
- Tank tops – Free people is my go to place to buy cute and affordable tank tops. I have this tighten up tank in almost every color.
- Hat – essential. Shop the newest hats at Nordstrom.
- Beach cover-up – Having at least one good cover-up is essential on any beach trip. I recommend ASOS, Nordstrom and Revolve as well.
- Tennis Shoes – I guess you could wear sandals hiking the trails in Maui but I would recommend tennis shoes or hiking boots. It can get narrow and slippery in parts. These New Balance shoes are amazing. Only problem is they sell out so fast! Blah. They look so cute with shorts too!
- Packing cubes – I always go to Urban Outfitters for my packing cubes. They have the cutest ones!
Planning a trip to Maui? Here are our best MAUI BLOG POSTS:
My husband and I have been to Maui a couple times and have written up more blog posts to help you plan your trip. These are my most popular blog posts and Hawaii travel guides to help you plan your trip. I hope it helps!
Maui general trip planning
Maui Beaches
- Guide to Visiting the Red Sand Beach– One of the best beaches in Maui!
- Hookipa Beach – (Best beach to see turtles in Maui)
- Makena Beach/Big Beach (One of my favorite beaches in Maui)
- Little Beach (also known as Oneloa Beach) – WARNING – nude beach.
- Oneuli Beach – Black sand beach
- Maluaka Beach – all around great beach
- Slaughterhouse Beach – (AKA Mokuleia Bay)
- La Perouse Beach (Bay) – great snorkeling tours here. Best if reached by boat.
Maui Hikes & Lookouts
- Sliding Sands Trail – (also known as Keonehe’ehe’e Trail) is one of the most unique hikes on Earth!
- Waihee Ridge Trail – Most Underrated Maui Hike
- Hoapili Trail – (Hike through lava fields in Maui)
- Dragon’s Teeth Hike
- Ohai Trail Loop – (Easy but Awesome)
- Leleiwi Overlook in Haleakala National Park – (Maui must see!)
Maui Waterfalls
- 6 Easily Accessible Maui Waterfalls – The Best and Most Easily Accessible Maui Waterfalls
- 7 Waterfalls in Maui That You Can Swim In – Must see!
- 13 WATERFALLS IN MAUI YOU CAN’T MISS
Everything else
- Nakalele Blowhole – (100 foot Maui blowhole)
- Olivine Pools in Maui – What you need to know before going