Nakalele Blowhole
Nakalele Blowhole is a dramatic natural geyser on Maui's rugged northwestern coastline, located between Kapalua and Wailuku. Formed by ancient lava tubes, the blowhole shoots seawater high into the air when waves crash into the shore below. Visitors can view it from a distance or hike down a rocky trail for a closer (but safe) view. While it's a captivating sight, caution is critical - approaching the blowhole too closely can be extremely dangerous due to sudden rogue waves and strong surges.
Nakalele Blowhole, Maui
The Nakalele Blowhole is located near the northernmost tip on Maui. A blowhole is created when there are tubes in the rocks under water that were created by ancient lava flows. With each wave, water gets pressed into these tubes and shoots up into the air. The stronger the waves, the higher the water will shoot into the air. The tides also change how high the blowhole is blowing (during high tide it is more).
This blowhole can be seen from the road or trailhead when there is enough wave action. If you decide to hike down to it, be sure to wear sturdy shoes and stay away from the blowhole area. Going too close to a blowhole can lead to serious injury or death. It may be a tempting idea to have a closer look at the blowhole and play in its spray, but this is very dangerous. Large waves can unexpectedly occur, sweep you off your feet and suck you into the blowhole.
Key Features of Nakalele Blowhole
- Powerful natural blowhole: Water can spout 50 feet or more depending on wave strength and tide levels.
- Scenic lookout: Viewable from the trailhead or roadside during high surf conditions.
- 15-minute coastal hike: A short but rugged trail leads to closer (safe-distance) views.
- Warning signs posted: Multiple safety warnings exist due to past fatalities from getting too close.
- Photo-worthy landscape: Surrounded by lava rock formations and views of the wild West Maui coastline.
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat causes the Nakalele Blowhole to shoot water?Ancient lava tubes funnel waves from beneath the rocks, forcing seawater to erupt like a geyser when surf conditions are strong. Is there a hike to the blowhole?Yes, a 15-minute hike over uneven lava rock leads to a safe viewpoint. Proper footwear is recommended. Can I get close to the blowhole?No. Visitors are strongly advised to keep a safe distance - rogue waves have pulled people into the blowhole, resulting in serious injury or death. Where is Nakalele Blowhole located?It's along West Maui's Honoapi'ilani Highway (Highway 30), between mile markers 38 and 39, north of Kapalua. | |||||||||||||
