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Road cycling routes
United States
Maui County

Makena

The best road cycling routes around Makena

By Fede from komoot

·

Updated May 29, 2026

If you’ve ever tried to plan road cycling around Makena, you know how quickly the options can become overwhelming. With so many beautiful coastal roads and tempting climbs, it’s hard to tell which routes are genuinely worth your time and effort. That’s where we come in. Our komoot community has mapped, ridden, and reviewed countless routes here, and we’ve distilled that collective wisdom into a curated shortlist, saving you the guesswork.

Road cycling around Makena is a real treat, offering a stunning mix of golden beaches, dramatic volcanic topography, and rugged lava fields. You’ll find everything from relatively flat, scenic coastal paths to challenging routes with significant elevation gain, especially as you head inland. The region splits nicely between the accessible, paved sections near Makena State Park and the more demanding climbs found on routes like the Kahekili Highway.

If you only do one ride, we’d point you straight to the Mokulele Bike Path & Kahekili Highway loop. This difficult 60.7-mile (97.7 km) route offers substantial elevation gain and a truly epic experience for advanced cyclists. For something a bit more relaxed, the Charley Young Beach – Kamaole III Beach loop from Wailea is an easy 19.6-mile (31.6 km) ride, perfect for soaking in those iconic coastal views. With over 800 road cyclists having explored Makena with komoot, you’re in good company.

If you only do 3 of these routes

  1. 1

    Mokulele Bike Path & Kahekili Highway loop
  2. 2

    Charley Young Beach – Keawakapu Beach loop from Wailea
  3. 3

    Charley Young Beach – Mokulele Bike Path loop from Hale Pau Hana Resort

Compare these routes at a glance

Trail

Distance

Elevation

Difficulty

Mokulele Bike Path & Kahekili Highway loop

97.7 km

1,220 m

Hard

Charley Young Beach – Keawakapu Beach loop from Wailea

31.5 km

280 m

Easy

Charley Young Beach – Mokulele Bike Path loop from Hale Pau Hana Resort

49.8 km

260 m

Moderate

Keawakapu Beach – Mokulele Bike Path loop from Wailea

87.1 km

750 m

Moderate

Palauea Beach loop from Wailea

16.5 km

170 m

Easy

Roadbike loop from Ulupalakua

27.7 km

450 m

Moderate

Keawakapu Beach – Mokulele Bike Path loop from Wailea

79.6 km

360 m

Moderate

Keawakapu Beach – Kamaole III Beach loop from Makena

13.3 km

160 m

Easy

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1.

Mokulele Bike Path & Kahekili Highway loop

97.7km

04:36

1,220m

1,230m

The Mokulele Bike Path & Kahekili Highway loop offers a dramatic contrast in road cycling experiences across Maui's diverse landscapes. You'll start on the flat, paved Mokulele Bike Path, gliding past sugar cane fields, before tackling the rugged, twisty Kahekili Highway. This section treats you to breathtaking ocean views, winding roads through tropical trees, and panoramic vistas of green hills, especially as you approach the fishing village of Kahakuloa. It's a ride that showcases Maui's wild northwest coast, where rich red earth meets the blue waters.

This difficult 60.7-mile (97.7 km) loop involves a substantial 4000 feet (1219 metres) of elevation gain, typically taking around 4 hours and 36 minutes. The Kahekili Highway portion is particularly demanding, with continuous ascents, switchbacks, and even some unpaved sections where you might need to push your bike. This route is best suited for experienced cyclists with good fitness who are prepared for a challenging and varied ride. Always carry ample water and check conditions before heading out.

What makes this route truly stand out is its reputation as one of Maui's premier and most challenging road cycling routes, often compared to the famous Hana Highway for its stunning coastal beauty. It allows you to experience both the straightforward sections of the Mokulele Bike Path and the visually spectacular, less-traveled coastal ride along Kahekili Highway. The combination of contrasting environments and the demanding nature of the Kahekili Highway make it a memorable adventure for those seeking a true test of endurance and a unique perspective of Maui.

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5.

Palauea Beach loop from Wailea

16.5km

00:52

170m

170m

Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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7.

Keawakapu Beach – Mokulele Bike Path loop from Wailea

79.6km

03:17

360m

360m

The Keawakapu Beach – Mokulele Bike Path loop from Wailea offers a captivating road cycling journey across Maui's varied terrain. You'll pedal past the pristine golden sands and clear waters of Keawakapu Beach, enjoying expansive ocean views, before heading inland onto the Mokulele Bike Path. This dedicated route carves through former sugar cane fields, providing a unique perspective on the island's agricultural heritage and a welcome change from the coastal bustle. The ride blends gentle coastal undulations with the flat, open stretches of the bike path, creating a diverse and engaging experience.

Planning your ride is straightforward, with parking readily available near Keawakapu Beach or along South Kihei Road. It's highly recommended to start your journey in the morning, particularly for the Mokulele Bike Path segment, to take advantage of calmer winds. This moderate route is best suited for cyclists with good fitness levels, and carrying ample water is always a wise precaution, especially when traversing the more exposed inland sections.

This loop stands out among popular trails in Wailea for its blend of iconic Maui coastal scenery and the less-traveled, historic agricultural lands. The Mokulele Bike Path, with its minimal elevation change and safe, paved surface, offers a stark contrast to the more dynamic coastal roads. It's a fantastic way to experience both the tranquil beauty of Maui's beaches and the island's unique inland character, providing a comprehensive road cycling tour for those seeking more than just a beachside spin.

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Tips from the Community

Andre - Mindblow-africa
September 4, 2024, Keawakapu Beach

Perfect barefoot running beach, as always as early or late in the day as possible.

Translated by Google

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Perfect running route for a lap without shoes.

Translated by Google

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Lots of fresh air and always parallel to the water.

Translated by Google

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Sue
November 16, 2023, Kamaole III Beach

Kamaole III is one of the last main beaches in Kilhe and is a favorite hangout for locals and visitors. It includes a giant beach park, playground and barbecue facilities, perfect for families to enjoy a full day enjoying the beach. Sunset here is something of a tradition. Locals make this place a habit in the evenings to play bocce ball, eat and watch the sun go down.

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Sue
November 16, 2023, The Shops at Wailea

The Shops at Wailea is a collection of island restaurants and distinctive Hawai‘ian stores. There is a lovely courtyard here where you can enjoy a refreshing drink after your run or pick up any essentials you may need for an afternoon at the beach.

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Sue
November 14, 2023, Palauea Beach

Palauea Beach, also known as White Rocks Beach, is mostly used by locals, which makes it a chill and less crowded beach, especially on weekdays. The beach's slope is gentle, making it a perfect spot to swim and cool off after a run on a hot day. Moreover, it's an excellent place to snorkel as the lava rocks create a vibrant underwater world, full of colorful marine life, tropical fish, and sea turtles that gather in this area.

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Sue
November 14, 2023, Charley Young Beach

This beach is a beautiful, small stretch of sand with lots of character. It is named after a nearby resident who became a local celebrity for offering beachgoers a hose to wash the sand off their feet after a swim and keeping the pathways clear past his home. There are plenty of opportunities for snorkeling here and a grassy area for families to enjoy a picnic and beach volleyball on a broader section of the sand. While passing by, watch for sea turtles often spotted in this area. After a run, it is an excellent spot to kick off your shoes and enjoy the scenery.

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Sue
November 14, 2023, Keawakapu Beach

Keawakapu I Beach is a serene and tranquil destination situated behind luxurious multi-million dollar homes. It is a popular spot for those who want to enjoy a peaceful and less crowded beach experience. Visitors can indulge in activities such as yoga, jogging, whale watching, walking their furry friends, or just taking in the stunning sunset views. The name 'Keawakapu' means "forbidden cove" due to the intense storms that can hit the beach. Sometimes, after a storm, the sand may be swept away, revealing lava rock. However, over time, the sand returns gradually, thanks to Mother Nature.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many road cycling routes are available around Makena?

There are over 20 road cycling routes around Makena, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. You'll find everything from easy coastal rides to challenging routes with significant elevation gain.

Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Makena?

Yes, Makena offers several easy road cycling routes perfect for beginners or those seeking a relaxed ride. An excellent option is the Charley Young Beach – Kamaole III Beach loop from Wailea, an easy 19.6-mile path with scenic coastal views. Another easy choice is the Wailea Beach – Mākena State Park loop from Wailea, which is 15.9 miles long.

What are some challenging road cycling routes for advanced riders in Makena?

For advanced road cyclists looking for a challenge, Makena features routes with substantial elevation gain. The Mokulele Bike Path & Kahekili Highway loop is a difficult 60.7-mile route that takes approximately 4 hours and 36 minutes to complete, offering a rigorous experience.

Are there loop road cycling routes in Makena?

Many of Makena's road cycling routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the easy Charley Young Beach – Kamaole III Beach loop from Wailea and the more challenging Mokulele Bike Path & Kahekili Highway loop.

What kind of scenic viewpoints can I expect along Makena's road cycling routes?

Makena's road cycling routes are renowned for their stunning coastal scenery. You can expect breathtaking ocean vistas, views of popular beaches like Charley Young Beach and Keawakapu Beach, and glimpses of natural landmarks such as Mākena State Park. Many routes also pass by designated Viewpoints and the Hanamanioa Lighthouse.

What is the typical length and duration of road cycling routes in Makena?

Route lengths vary significantly, from shorter rides like the 15.9-mile Wailea Beach – Mākena State Park loop from Wailea (around 1 hour 15 minutes) to longer, more demanding tours such as the 60.7-mile Mokulele Bike Path & Kahekili Highway loop, which can take over 4.5 hours.

Are there any specific landmarks or attractions to look out for while road cycling in Makena?

Absolutely. Along Makena's road cycling routes, you can encounter several notable landmarks and natural attractions. These include the historic Hanamanioa Lighthouse, the unique Lava Fields at King's Trailhead, and the beautiful Mākena State Park. Many routes also follow the scenic Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk.

What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Makena?

The road cycling routes in Makena are highly regarded by the komoot community, boasting an average rating of 4.7 stars from over 4 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse terrain, from flat coastal stretches to challenging climbs, and the stunning ocean views that accompany many of the rides.

What is the best time of year for road cycling in Makena?

Makena generally offers excellent road cycling conditions year-round due to its tropical climate. However, the drier, slightly cooler months from April to November are often preferred, as they typically provide more comfortable temperatures and less chance of rain, making for ideal riding weather.

Are there less crowded road cycling options near Makena?

While popular coastal routes can see more activity, exploring routes that venture slightly inland or during off-peak hours (early mornings) can offer a more serene experience. Routes like the Kamaole III Beach – Mokulele Bike Path loop from Wailea, while moderate in difficulty, might offer stretches with fewer cyclists compared to the immediate beach areas.

Where can I find parking for road cycling trails in Makena?

Specific parking information for each trailhead is often available within the individual route descriptions on komoot. Generally, public parking lots near popular beaches like Charley Young Beach or within Wailea and Mākena State Park areas serve as convenient starting points for many road cycling routes.

Are there any family-friendly road cycling routes in Makena?

For families, easy and relatively flat routes are ideal. The Charley Young Beach – Kamaole III Beach loop from Wailea is an easy 19.6-mile option that connects popular beaches, making it suitable for families with older children. The Mokulele Bike Path – Keawakapu Beach loop from Wailea is another easy 39.3-mile route that utilizes dedicated bike paths, enhancing safety for family rides.

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