Ancient coastal trail with stone platforms and sea cliffs

Hidden Trails 4-6: Coastal & Bamboo Adventures

Ancient coastal paths, secret bamboo cathedrals, and Hawaii's most spectacular hidden waterfall

Written by a Local Expert

Kalani Miller

4. Nakalele Blowhole Coastal Trail - North Shore

Distance

4.8 miles

Elevation

400 ft

Difficulty

Moderate

Best For

Ancient Sites

Beyond the famous blowhole lies a rugged coastal trail that few tourists discover. This ancient Hawaiian path follows the wild north shore, passing sea arches, tide pools, and archaeological sites that tell stories of the people who lived here centuries ago.

The trail starts at the blowhole parking area but immediately veers away from the crowds. You'll walk across fields of sharp lava rock, following stone cairns and worn sections of the original King's Highway. The ocean crashes against towering cliffs just meters away, sending spray high into the air.

Ancient Hawaiian settlements dot this coastline. Stone foundations, walls, and platforms mark where families lived, fished, and buried their ancestors. These sites deserve respect - look but don't touch, and never move or take anything. Some areas remain kapu (sacred) to Native Hawaiians.

Wildlife & Navigation

Wildlife viewing opportunities here rival anywhere in Hawaii. Green sea turtles rest in protected coves. Monk seals occasionally haul out on remote beaches. During winter months, humpback whales breach close to shore. Seabirds nest in cliff-side caves and crevices.

Navigation follows ancient wayfinding methods. Stone cairns mark the route, but wind and weather sometimes knock them down. Follow the coastline and trust your instincts when the path becomes unclear. The ocean provides constant orientation as you move east along the shore.

Weather exposure is extreme. No trees or shelter exist along most of this route. Bring plenty of water, sun protection, and wind-resistant clothing. Morning hikes offer the best conditions before trade winds strengthen in the afternoon.

5. Makamakaole Falls Trail - West Maui

Distance

7.2 miles

Elevation

2,500 ft

Difficulty

Very Challenging

Best For

Tallest Falls

Hidden deep in the West Maui Mountains, Makamakaole Falls drops nearly 400 feet in a single spectacular plunge. This trail doesn't appear on any official maps, and reaching the falls requires serious bushwhacking skills and determination most hikers don't possess.

The adventure begins where marked trails end. From the Waihee Ridge Trail's highest point, you'll bushwhack through dense native forest, following game trails and your own navigation skills. The real path exists mainly in the knowledge passed between experienced hikers.

The falls themselves reward every difficult step. Water drops from an almost vertical cliff into a large pool perfect for swimming. The force creates constant wind and mist that cools the air even on hot days. Swimming in the pool feels like being inside a natural cathedral.

Extreme Challenges

Stream crossings become increasingly challenging as you descend into the valley. You'll wade through pools, scramble over boulders, and navigate slippery rocks covered in algae. Several crossings require careful timing with water levels - what's passable in dry conditions becomes dangerous after rain.

Access requires exceptional physical fitness and outdoor experience. This isn't a trail for beginners or anyone uncomfortable with route-finding. You'll spend hours pushing through thick vegetation, crossing unstable terrain, and making decisions that affect your safety.

Equipment needs include machete or pruning shears for vegetation, first aid supplies for cuts and scrapes, and emergency shelter in case weather traps you overnight. This is one of Maui's most remote locations - rescue would take many hours even if someone knew where to look.

6. Bamboo Forest Secret Trail - Hana Highway

Distance

3.4 miles

Elevation

800 ft

Difficulty

Moderate

Best For

Bamboo Groves

While tour buses stop at the famous Pipiwai Trail bamboo forest, locals know about a secret grove that offers the same magic without the crowds. This unmarked trail branches off the main path, leading to bamboo groves and swimming holes that most visitors never find.

The turnoff comes after the first stream crossing on the Pipiwai Trail. Look for a faint path heading right (west) into thick vegetation. No signs mark this junction - you'll recognize it by worn spots in the grass and a small opening in the forest wall.

The bamboo here grows thicker and taller than the famous groves. Sunlight filters through in golden beams, creating cathedral-like atmosphere. The sound of bamboo clacking in the wind echoes through the grove like nature's own percussion section. Walking through feels like entering another world.

Hidden Pools & Wildlife

Hidden pools scattered throughout the grove offer perfect swimming spots. Spring-fed water stays cool year-round, filtered through volcanic rock and bamboo root systems. Each pool has its own character - some deep enough for jumping, others shallow and perfect for relaxing.

Wildlife thrives in this protected environment. Native forest birds sing from bamboo tops. Wild pigs create trails through the groves. Rare native plants grow in the filtered light, including species found nowhere else on earth.

Navigation requires attention and memory. The bamboo creates a maze where all directions look similar. Mark your route with biodegradable ribbon or remember distinctive landmarks. Getting lost in bamboo groves can turn a pleasant hike into a serious emergency.