Maui’s Best Photo Spots

It’s easy to see how Makalua-puna point got its fantastical nickname. Created from one of Maui’s most recent lava flows, the rock got its “Dragon’s Teeth” formation from the strong winds that swept over the point, causing the hot magma to cool in an upswept position. The effect is equal parts fascinating and creepy, as you’ll marvel at the natural sight while feeling trapped within the jaws of a giant be...

Also known as "The Three Bears" this triple waterfall and plunge pool is very popular. Its photogenic qualities and ease of access (right next to the road) mean that you'll encounter a lot of tourists in high season. One of the less attractive features is the parking situation - spaces are quite limited so try to get there early enough in the day before the crowds wake up.

This dark shoreline was created from the lava basalt that flowed here then exploded into pieces as it hit the ocean water. White sand is pulverized over eons but black sand is created almost instantly from the explosions. Then, the pieces are rounded into tiny pebbles over many years. You may also spot many sea turtles here who choose to make black sand beaches their nesting spot for the warmth that is r...

If ever a trip was more about the journey than the destination, the drive to Hana definitely fits the bill. Famed for its breathtaking scenery, Hana Highway (i.e. Hawaii State Routes 36 and 360) or “The Road to Hana” as it’s commonly referred to, stretches 68 miles between Kahalui and the town of Hana. Along this narrow, serpentine road that hugs Maui’s northeast coast, you’ll see waterfalls, rainforest ...

This celestial garden overlooking the Pacific is privately owned. Many of the species of plants are rare and hard to find. Some were donated by George Harrison. While it's a peaceful and serene place, rappelling is also offered for those who want a little more activity while there. This is the way to access the Puohokamoa Waterfall. Admission to the gardens is $15 per person although the extra activities...

The absolute epitome of tropical paradise, the Seven Sacred Pools in Oheo Gulch are the stuff daydreams are made of. Like pearls on a string, these world renowned pools (also known as the Pools of Oheo) are joined together by bubbling streams and small waterfalls—their natural beauty beckoning locals as well as weary city-dwellers from far and wide to take a dip in their tranquil waters. That said, the a...

One of the most beautiful places on earth to watch the sun rise, the summit of Haleakala Crater is over 10,000 feet above sea level (making it a very chilly spot, so bring some warm clothing) and overlooks beautiful volcanic Haleakala National Park. According to Hawaiian legend, the summit was home to the grandmother of the god Māui, and together they captured the sun in order to slow down its journey ac...

The Big Beach at Makena stretches nearly two thirds of a mile and is 100 feet deep—making it a very big beach indeed. Although it’s official name is Oneloa Beach, it gets its nickname name because it’s the much larger of two beaches at Makena State Park. While Little Beach is well known for being one of the premiere nude beaches in Hawaii, Big Beach is renowned for its size, buttery soft white sands, sce...

Built in 1990 by Maui resident and artist Donald Detloff who just wanted a way to secure his surfboards in preparation for a storm, this surfboard fence grew to be the world’s longest (according to Guinness Records), and is comprised of over 400 old boards that have been donated toward this unique recycling project. If you happen to have a surfboard that’s seen better days, give it new life by dropping i...

During high tide and powerful surf, the famed Nakalele Blowhole can spout water up to 100 feet in the air, making it one of the most awe-inspiring natural sights in Maui. For that reason, the best time to view it is when waves are high—however, this advice comes with a very serious warning to keep away from the blowhole itself. After a spurt (which happens unpredictably), the waters rush back into the ho...

This monolithic natural monument is one of Maui’s most beloved landmarks. Standing 1200 feet high, the Iao Needle is not only a majestic sight, but it marks an important spot in Hawaiian History. Using the needle as a lookout point, the Maui army pushed back against the incoming forces of King Kamehameha I during the Battle of Kepaniwai in 1790. Ultimately, Maui succumbed to Kamehameha during his fierce ...

Ka'anapali Beach in West Maui is split in two by this coral-covered lava rock which extends into the azure ocean. Because the plentiful coral along the rock face draws a large number of fish and other sea critters, Black Rock is a popular spot for snorkeling. However, as there is no reef, the current can get aggressive, so it’s best to only snorkel/swim during months when the waters are calm. Black Rock ...

Banyan Tree Park contains one of the largest, most impressive banyan trees in the United States. It was imported from India (from where the species originates) and planted in front of the Lahaina Courthouse in 1873, and today, the majestic tree towers over 60-feet high and sprawls across an entire city block—totaling an area of 200 feet! Amazingly, you can walk two thirds of an acre and never leave its s...