What it is
The Ke Ala Loa O Maui / Piʻilani Trail is an ancient coastal trail located within Waiʻānapanapa State Park in Hāna, Maui. The name translates to "The Long Road of Maui," and it is believed to be part of a much larger network of trails that once encircled the entire island, used by early Hawaiians for travel, trade, and communication. This segment of the trail offers hikers a glimpse into both the natural beauty of the East Maui coastline and the historical significance of the area, featuring dramatic black lava rock formations, sea caves, blowholes, and remnants of the original paving stones.
Visitor experience
Travelers choose the Piʻilani Trail for a relatively easy and scenic coastal hike that combines natural wonders with cultural history. The trail provides stunning ocean views, opportunities to explore sea arches, tide pools, and a freshwater cave, and is known for its dramatic black sand beach (Paiʻloa Beach). It's a fitting activity for those exploring the Hāna area and seeking a mild outdoor experience with unique geological features. The trail itself is generally considered easy to moderate, with a relatively flat path, though the lava rock can be uneven.
Logistics
The Ke Ala Loa O Maui / Piʻilani Trail is situated within Waiʻānapanapa State Park, approximately 3 miles north of Hāna town. Access to Waiʻānapanapa State Park, and thus the trail, requires advance reservations for both entry and parking for all non-resident visitors. Reservations can be made online through the Hawaiʻi State Parks website.
Parking is available within Waiʻānapanapa State Park with a confirmed reservation. The park can become crowded, especially during peak hours. The trail is relatively short, with the main section from Paiʻloa Beach to the end of the developed path typically taking about 30-60 minutes one-way, making for a 1-2 hour round trip. It is best approached as a quick stop or a half-day activity, allowing time to explore the various features within the park itself beyond just the trail.
Safety and cautions
Hikers should wear sturdy shoes suitable for uneven lava rock terrain. The trail can be muddy and slippery after rain. Ocean conditions along this coast can be rough, and swimming should only be attempted where designated and when conditions are calm. Visitors should exercise extreme caution around blowholes and sea cliffs. Always stay on marked trails to protect both yourself and fragile ecosystems.
Respect for cultural sites and natural formations is paramount. Do not disturb rocks or historical structures. Waiʻānapanapa State Park is a significant cultural area; visitors should be mindful and respectful. As with all outdoor activities in Hawaiʻi, be prepared for sun exposure, bring water, and be aware of changing weather conditions.
Editorial take
This trail is a must-do for nearly all visitors venturing to Hāna, especially those already planning to visit Waiʻānapanapa State Park. It's an excellent choice for travelers seeking a relatively easy hike with stunning and unique coastal scenery, historical context, and photo opportunities. It caters well to families and those looking for a manageable outdoor adventure without extreme difficulty.
Travelers who should skip it might be those with significant mobility issues, as the uneven lava rock can be challenging, or those uninterested in coastal walks and seeking more strenuous, elevated hikes. It should not be confused with other longer, more challenging trails on Maui, nor should the short segment within Waiʻānapanapa be mistaken for the entire ancient Piʻilani Trail, which originally spanned much more of the island.
Source notes
- Ke Ala Loa O Maui / Piʻilani Trail - Hawaiʻi State Parks: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/hiking/maui/ke-ala-loa-o-mauipiilani-trail/
- Waiʻānapanapa State Park - Hawaiʻi State Parks: https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/maui/waianapanapa-state-park/
- Waiʻānapanapa State Park Trail - AllTrails: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/hawaii/waianapanapa-state-park-trail
- Ke Ala Loa O Maui Trail (Piilani Trail) - The Maui Expert: https://www.themauiexpert.com/maui-hiking-guide/hana-maui-hikes/ke-ala-loa-o-maui/
- Maui’s Ancient Pīʻilani Trail | A Cultural Hike - Go Hawaii: https://www.gohawaii.com/islands/maui/regions/hana/piilani-trail
