When I posted the above photo on my personal Facebook account I had so many friends and family ask me, “Is that for real?” or “Is this photoshopped?” And to those that asked about the photoshopping, thank you for believing that my skills are THAT good. 😉 I can see why people would think the latter as heart-shaped cutouts aren’t the “norm” in lava rock, however this rock near the Nakalele Blowhole is indeed real.
So, are you up for a hike to the Nakalele Blowhole and Sweetheart Rock? (the original sweetheart rock is off Lanai, so I’m calling this the “other” sweetheart rock).
You’ll need directions:
- From Lahaina/Ka’anapali/Kahana head North on Highway 30. (Side note: Highway 30 will eventually turn into 340).
- The Nakalele Blowhole is between mile marker 38 and 39 (about a 30-40 minute drive from Kahana).
- At mile marker 38.5, turn left and park in the dirt parking area. There will be other cars parked on that side of the road so you know you’ve reached the right spot.
What you’ll need:
- There is no shade on this trail so bring a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunscreen. You may want to consider hiking in the morning when temperatures are lower.
- Bring a LOT of water
- Hit the restrooms before you come. There is a port-a-potty on site, however the vendor asks for a $2 “donation” for use. Can you actually call that a donation?
- Your camera–duh! 😉
The hardest part about this hike is that you hike uphill on your way back, and did I mention that there is no shade? It can get HOT, so take your time and enjoy the views.
PS. I hiked in flip-flops but it’s not recommended…when will I ever learn??
Aloha!
Pictures and Plane Tickets 
Reblogged this on swiss experience.
Thanks, Shana!! 🙂
Never made it to the North side of Maui when I visited. After viewing your beautiful pictures, I now wish I did make the trek. Love the rugged scenery AND Sweetheart Rock! 🙂
Thanks for sharing!
~Carl~
Carl,
Thank you for stopping by. I hope on your next visit you’ll take a drive and visit the North end of the West side. The Nakalele Blowhole which is adjacent to sweetheart rock is a sight to see as well. I have some videos of it but they were blurry when I published them to You Tube, so no dice…
Hope you have a great day. Aloha!
Beautiful photos! That blue colour! I miss it! 🙂
Me too, Kristina, me too! Hope you get to go back sooner rather than later! 🙂
Wow… Wish I had known this before our trip to Maui… Will definitely keep this in mind for next time 🙂
I love that we can always add to our “next time” list. I have a few of those as well! 🙂 Thanks for stopping by Shikha.
I hiked in flip flops in part of the hana trail in some brush to a water fall or two!! It about killed me!!! Good advice…
Good Morning!
You and me both, my friend! You would think I’d learn my lesson after hiking the Pipiwai Trail (near Hana) in flip flops. The trail to the sweetheart rock was nowhere near as long, but with all the rocks it was a lot easier to roll an ankle. Maybe next time I’ll wear the correct shoes…
Have a great day!
Awwwww….. how lovely 🙂 We will have to add this to our “to-see” list 🙂
It’s a really neat sight. Not to mention the views of the coastline are pretty incredible. 🙂 Let me know what you think about it… Have a great day!
Gorgeous photos. Thanks for sharing your adventures.
Thank you for reading. 🙂