Driving in Maui was a crazy experience! Most people venture on the Road to Hana but we took another road that isn’t quite as popular. I have to share our experience with you so you do not make the same mistake we did! We will get into more of these crazy details below!
What I do not want is for you to be scared after reading our experience. Maui is an amazing place and you are going to love it!
What I do want is for you to pay attention to one very important piece of advice for driving in Maui!
Let’s get started and I’ll explain exactly what I mean!
If you want to save this for later be sure to post this to Pinterest.
This post may contain affiliate links that will give me a commission at no additional charge to you.
Renting a Car in Maui
Before I tell you my story, I want you to know that I encourage you to rent a car. Maui is so beautiful and you will want to have the freedom to see and do more.
Renting a car in Maui was very easy. We rented our car through rentalcars.com. After we landed from our flight, we headed to the car rental section of the airport. It was very nice and easy to find. The workers were so nice and helped us by giving directions to our hotel.
They handed us a lovely magazine and driving guide that listed all the amazing things to do in Maui. It also included coupons and tours.
We had no trouble getting to our hotel and really we were just so excited to be in Maui! We didn’t think driving in Maui would be a problem at all!
Driving in Maui to Nakalele Blowhole
Google Maps recommended route.
Driving In Maui – GPS Fail
On our first day in Maui we were really excited to hike. I had researched out a few amazing locations and entered one of them in our GPS. We had decided to hike to the Nakalele Blowhole.
The GPS gave us two options to drive to the trailhead. One was about 2 minutes faster so we clicked on that and headed off. This was our first big mistake!
The Road of Death
Because we were unfamiliar with driving in Maui we didn’t realize we had selected the road of death! (okay, our name, not the real name – HWY 340)! Everything seemed fine until we came to a road that was one lane. (Yup, one lane for both directions.)
That would be scary enough if it hadn’t been for the fact that this one lane road was on the edge of a mountain with cliffs down to the ocean on the north side! Not to mention it was a very curvy road with quite a few blind spots.
Luckily for us it was 6:00 am almost and no one else was on the road! But that really didn’t take away the dangerous situation that we were in. If another car was to come around the bend we could have easily been hit!
Driving in Maui Guide
I grabbed that driving guide the car rental company had given me and started looking at the map of Maui. I was shocked to find that there are certain areas in Maui that rental cars are not allowed or insurance would be void!
Yes! you guessed it we were on one of the restricted roads! (There are a few more of these restricted areas on the Road to Hana)
Encountering Another Car!
We knew we were in a terrible spot but there was nothing we could do! The road was too narrow to turn around and go back. We had to keep pressing forward. We did encounter one car while driving on this awful road. The man had his teeth clenched and his knuckles were white from gripping the steering wheel so tight.
My Google Map Recommendation
In total this was a 1 hour and 4 minute drive from our hotel near the airport. The total miles added up to about 21.7 miles. The alternative route was 1 hour and 6 minutes and 40.2 miles.
On a map it doesn’t make sense because the longer route takes you completely on the other side of the island and around. But don’t be fooled! It will save your life to avoid Maui’s road of death!
Making it to Nakalele Blow Hole
Once we arrived at Nakalele Blow Hole we were so glad to get out of the car! Our prayers were answered and we were able to take a deep sigh of relief. Now let’s learn all about the Nakalele Blow Hole!
Parking at Nakalele Blow Hole
There are two parking lots for the Nakalele Blow Hole. One is located on the upper side and is a better option if you do not want to hike. The parking at the other side of Nakalele is pretty limited.
This is where we went because we were really looking forward to hiking. There are a few spots as you pull off the side of the road. We were able to secure a spot without any problems.
What is a Blow Hole?
A blow hole is a hole in the ground that connects to an underground ocean cave. When the waves come in, water shoots up through the hole making a big splash! They are extremely dangerous if you get too close. You can get sucked in or easily get pulled out to sea. Use caution as you observe these amazing acts of nature.
Best Time Of Day To Go To Nakalele Blow Hole
Going at high tide is the best time. That tends to be later in the afternoon. We didn’t think about this fact and went in the morning. We didn’t see huge bursts from the blowhole but we still got a big show of sea life crawling all over the place. It was pretty cool.
Avoid going if it has just rained. The rocks will be very slippery. Also, the wind is known to rage in this area so keep that in mind when you plan to hike.
High Tide Vs. Low Tide at Nakalele Blow Hole
The first thing you need to do is download the app “Tides near me”. This will help you plan accordingly. Aim for high tide and you will not be disappointed.
We only had one day in Maui and wanted to be on the other side of the island, and so morning was our only option. If you look at this image above you can see crabs everywhere! This was still a thrill for us. The blow hole did shoot out some water but it wasn’t putting on a big show!
What You Will Need to Bring to Hike Nakalele Blow Hole
There are a few things you will need as you hike Nakalele Blow Hole. A good pair of hiking shoes is a must! Some of the terrain is rough and you will want your feet to be well protected.
Sunscreen is also something to have on hand. We also brought our running pack which included two water bottles.
Hike to Nakalele Blow Hole
Nakalele Blow Hole Hike
Distance – 2 Miles total there are back (Although, it didn’t seem that long to us)
Moderate – This hike has some steep parts that can be slippery
The first part of the hike is a rough terrain that doesn’t have much of a view. You have to be really careful and watch your steps as rock formations are everywhere.
Hiking in Maui is an adventure and I highly recommend it. The hike to Nakalele Blow Hole is worth it and a great adventure.
Our Experience Driving in Maui And Experiencing The Nakalele Blow Hole
Driving in Maui on HWY 340 was absolutely a nightmare. We wouldn’t recommend anyone doing so! It was a long and treacherous!
However, we do recommend hiking to Nakalele Blow Hole. We loved our adventure to the blow hole. The views were absolutely beautiful. Remember to use caution when you go to the blow hole and you will have an incredible time!
If you are thinking of island hopping be sure to take a look at my One Week Oahu Itinerary. Also, you may be interested in going to the North Shore and seeing the Polynesian Cultural Center. Then head to Hanauma Bay , and find more places to snorkel in Oahu.
Don’t forget to hike on Oahu, you will not be disappointed!
If you have ever drove on HWY 340 in Maui let us know in the comments!
If you have any questions be sure to join my Facebook Travel Community This great community can help answer any questions you may have about your upcoming trips. Plus, I try to add any great deals or promotions that companies send me!
Lee Anne
February 20, 2020 10:26 amThere are some wild roads on that island! Good info, I will save for our next trip!!!
Lisa
February 21, 2020 9:22 pmOh great! Don’t make our mistake!
Pam
February 20, 2020 10:53 amWhat an amazing adventure!
Lisa
February 21, 2020 9:22 pmIt was a great adventure!
Yuri
February 20, 2020 11:03 amWe are going to Hawaii next year for our 10yr anniversary. Thanks for sharing.
Lisa
February 21, 2020 9:22 pmSo fun! Love Hawaii!
kmf
February 20, 2020 12:27 pmWhat an adventure…although not a fun one! We’ve been to Maui and there were some roads not designed for a sedan (fortunately, we stuck to the main roads and only experienced those “roads of death” when with a tour guide who was doing the driving). Beautiful photos!
Lisa
February 21, 2020 9:22 pmI would have rather gone with a guide on that road!
LaurenGlobe
February 20, 2020 2:06 pmI can’t wait to explore Hawaii more!
Lisa
February 21, 2020 9:21 pmI want to go back so bad!
Cindy
February 20, 2020 2:28 pmThat road sounds super crazy. I love the picture of the blow hole though-amazing!
Lisa
February 21, 2020 9:21 pmWorth the drive!
Jen
February 20, 2020 3:12 pmDid this trip years ago. So gorgeous and peaceful
Lisa
February 21, 2020 9:21 pmIt is a beautiful paradise!
Stacey
February 20, 2020 3:26 pmI’ve heard the road to Hana is the same. Maui is definitely on the bucket list and I will for sure keep in mind what you’ve shared. Thank you.
Lisa
February 21, 2020 9:20 pmI have heard that too!
Jennifer
February 21, 2020 12:37 amI get a bit nervous on those one lane roads. There’s one here up in the mountains to the road where my great-grandparents lived. And, my great great grandfather is buried. I’d like to go back, but I don’t want to drive the road on my own.
Lisa
February 21, 2020 9:19 pmI understand that completely!
Shannon Delaney
February 21, 2020 7:41 amYes…. we accidentally did the same thing only we had taken the longer route, past Lahaina. We were having a great drive, checking out all of the gorgeous scenery and then we took one turn that landed us on the one lane road along the cliff. The bad thing was that there is no way to turn around. Once you make that turn, you are stuck finishing out the drive on that road and praying that no one else is coming the opposite way. A few times we had to drive our car as far to the side of the road as possible, making it seem as though we were completely on our side. I was terrified.
But after the fact….. I have amazing memories of that drive. We won’t ever do it again, but the sights we saw along the way were unbelievable and would have been missed, had we not taken that road.
Lisa
February 21, 2020 9:18 pmI know right! It was beautifully terrifying!
Stacey Billingsley
February 21, 2020 12:15 pmWow, what a scary drive! Thanks for warning us. I know if we were to go to Maui, we would definitely rent a car because my husband would have to have one. He hates not having a car. We even drive to some parks at Disney. Anyway, the drive was certainly worth it! I didn’t know what a blowhole was until now. Very interesting!
Lisa
February 21, 2020 9:17 pmThey are really cool, kind of dangerous but amazing!
Lori Nielsen
February 21, 2020 1:45 pmWe drove the Road to Hana and we had to come back the same way (the long way) instead of making the short loop back. Because it was one of those roads that voided our insurance. Now I’m glad we didn’t take it!
Lisa
February 21, 2020 9:16 pmThe long way is sometimes the more safe option!
Hera
February 22, 2020 1:43 amRoad of death? Yikes! So glad you got there safely. Maui is awesome and you certainly had quite an adventure for one day there, wow! Great tips too
Lisa
February 23, 2020 9:02 amI know we like to do as much as possible! This was out of the comfort zone!
Courtney
February 22, 2020 6:59 amWe very rarely rent cars outside the mainland US. We have not driven in Hawaii. We usually just arrange transportation at our destinations. I need a vacation from driving!😀
Lisa
February 23, 2020 9:02 amGood Idea!
Julie Gazdecki
February 22, 2020 8:31 amWhat an adventure. Now we know to use a tour guide.
Lisa
February 23, 2020 9:01 amYes, especially on the road to Hana!
Taci- Life Beyond Zebra
February 22, 2020 12:54 pmLooks like a great hike but that road sounds so scary! Wow.
Lisa
February 23, 2020 9:01 amYes, it was a crazy adventure!
Madeline
February 22, 2020 1:25 pmThanks for the tips! So if you had driven the other way your GPS gave you, are you saying it would have been fine and you wouldn’t have been on this death road? Or even that way do you end up on this road….?
Lisa
February 23, 2020 9:00 amThe other way is safer, it was longer but safer! Stupid GPS!
Amanda
February 22, 2020 9:28 pmWow driving in Maui Nakalele Blowhole is not for me. haha The photos are fab and I can hardly wait to visit one day, I just won’t be driving! 😉
Shirley
February 23, 2020 11:10 amSo beautiful! I would love to visit Maui one day so I’m bookmarking for future reference. Thanks!
Lisa
February 24, 2020 9:06 amHawaii is so wonderful, I will be back!
Missy
February 23, 2020 12:59 pmThank you for the suggestion to rent a car. Some places we visit, it is best to rent a car and others it is best to use public transportation.
Lisa
February 24, 2020 9:06 amI would rent a car again, it gives a lot of freedom to explore. In Maui there are places it is better to go on a tour instead like the road to Hana.
Liz
February 24, 2020 8:38 amRoad of Death LOL! I feel that pain from a google fail.
Lisa
February 24, 2020 9:03 amI know right!
Cindy
February 24, 2020 10:58 amHawaii is so on my bucket list. your pictures are great and remind me why I want to go there!
Lisa
February 24, 2020 2:46 pmI highly recommend Hawaii!
Alice
February 24, 2020 11:40 amWow! That sounds very scary! I would love to go sometime but maybe not the hiking part I walk with a cane.
Lisa
February 24, 2020 2:46 pmThat might be a little hard!
Eva
February 24, 2020 11:40 amLooks like fun! Visiting all of the Hawaiian Islands is on our bucket list!
Lisa
February 24, 2020 2:46 pmI know I can’t wait to go back and see big island!
Debbie
February 24, 2020 12:05 pmWow! Good advice. We rented a car in Maui and drove the Road to Hana and the long way was still scary. This is terrifying tho!! It reminds me of Pike’s Peak in CO. That scared me more. Haha Beautiful pics and detailed description. Thanks for sharing!
Lisa
February 24, 2020 2:45 pmI have been on Pikes Peak! so scary!
jen
February 24, 2020 12:54 pmyup! been there…done that…feared for my life….LOL made it and have great stories to tell 😉
Lisa
February 24, 2020 2:45 pmThat’s funny!
Melissa
February 24, 2020 12:59 pmMy husband would probably choose that road on purpose! Ha, Ha! Can’t wait to go to Hawaii someday!
Lisa
February 24, 2020 2:44 pmAdventure!
Tiffany
February 24, 2020 2:52 pmWhat an adventure! I love looking at the ocean but even reading about the blow hole made me nervous – little fear of water always gets to me!
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:54 amIt is a beauty that should be observed at a distance!
Ramae Hamrin
February 24, 2020 3:08 pmI’m not sure what I would have done — how I would have stayed calm. Kudos to you for keeping your wits about you and continuing on. It looks like the destination was worth the journey. I’d so love to see Hawaii some day.
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:53 amWe were trapped but husband did a great job driving and staying calm.
Angela Sedlak | Mean Green Chef
February 24, 2020 4:01 pmSounds like quite an adventure, I do agree with renting a car to tour areas. Although I don’t personally drive (can choose not to) lol my guy does and it’s really the only way to fully explore areas! If you head to Aruba do the same thing it’s a blast. Love your photos and story, look forward to reading more 🙂
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:53 amI would love to go to Aruba! We usually rent a car unless they drive on the opposite side of the road.
Tricia Snow
February 24, 2020 5:04 pmGreat info Lisa! I will be saving this for when we get to HA! Thanks!
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:52 amYes, Don’t make our mistake!
Hollysbirdnest
February 24, 2020 5:10 pmI love Maui but I hate the roads..I learned the first time visited…But Nakalele is a must-see!
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:51 amI wonder why they do not make improvements to some of their roads?
Lisa
February 24, 2020 6:25 pmWhile the drive looks a little scary, this would be amazing! Maui has been on our bucket list for quite some time.
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:50 amHawaii is amazing and worth going for sure!
Lucy
February 24, 2020 8:04 pmWhoa, I’ve never seen anything like the blow hole, looks really cool!
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:49 amBlow holes are pretty awesome. We went to one on the Oregon Coast called Thor’s well. It was even better than this one.
Jenny
February 25, 2020 2:47 amThanks for sharing this info, sometimes GPS directions are not “smart”. So glad it all worked out and you got to the enjoy Nakalele Blow hole and the hike, it looks beautiful
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:48 amYes, GPS fail!
Suzan | It's My Sustainable Life
February 25, 2020 9:00 amReminded me of driving on Tortola, up steep, steep, steep grades with 90 degree turns on narrow roads. Custom called for honking your horn as you made the turns, LOL. Glad you enjoyed Nakalele!
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:48 amThat sounds horrible!
Sydney Delong
February 25, 2020 9:53 amHow cool! I will have to note that road so I never drive it XD
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:48 amYes, I am hoping this post warns people!
Sandi
February 25, 2020 10:34 amWe are heading to Maui in the spring. I’ll be sure to stay off the “road of death”
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:47 amOh good! You will have so much fun!
Noelle Collins
February 25, 2020 4:40 pmHow terrifying that must have been! I’m so glad you arrived safely and were able to take a safer road back.
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:46 amYes, I would never go on that road again!
vanessa
February 25, 2020 5:06 pmSounds like such a great adventure. Hawaii is definitely on my bucket list.
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:46 amYes, it was an adventure!
Adrienne
February 25, 2020 6:16 pmLove the very specific advice and tips. This is definitely a post to refer back to when taking this trip!
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:45 amOh good!
Christina Furnival
February 25, 2020 10:34 pmHawaii has some magical places, and this sounds like one of them!
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:45 amHawaii is magical, blow holes are incredible!
Karla Petersen
February 25, 2020 11:13 pmMy heart was pounding while reading this! I kept flashing back to that road while looking at your pics. Criminy!!!!
Lisa
February 26, 2020 8:41 amSeriously!
heather J jandrue
February 26, 2020 6:16 pmWow, I guess I never realized how much there was to do in Hawaii. Another great post.
Lisa
February 27, 2020 6:39 pmThanks! There is more to do on Oahu!
Charlotte
February 27, 2020 8:21 pmI’ve always found myself very adventurous, but the road of death may be the one I can’t do 😝
Lisa
February 28, 2020 9:03 pmI would not recommend it!
Brianna
March 1, 2020 7:17 pmThis looks like such a beautiful place to visit and the pictures are gorgeous!
Lisa
March 3, 2020 9:19 pmIt is! Thanks!
Melissa Jones
March 1, 2020 9:52 pmGreat tips and ideas! Hawaii is definitely on my to-do list!
Lisa
March 3, 2020 9:19 pmI hope you get to go one day!
Lisa
March 2, 2020 1:27 amI’ve never seen a blow hole in person…this looks amazing! Sounds like it was an adventure to get there.
Lisa
March 3, 2020 9:17 pmThey are pretty amazing!
T.M. Brown
March 2, 2020 4:54 amI love fascinating places of nature like this!! At the same time – I don’t think I would have survived that one lane road of death. Oh, my gosh – that had to have been terrifying!
Lisa
March 3, 2020 9:17 pmI know it was scary!