The best running trails around Makena

The Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk Trail offers a delightful jogging experience, winding along the coastline just above the sand. You'll traverse a mix of stone, paved, and concrete paths, passing five pristine white-sand beaches and eight luxury resorts. The continuous ocean views are a highlight, with opportunities to spot green sea turtles and, in winter, humpback whales. It's a smooth, relatively flat route, perfect for a leisurely outing.

This moderate 3.2-mile (5.2 km) jogging route has a gentle 103 feet (31 metres) of elevation gain and takes about 32 minutes to complete. Given the limited shade, the best time to run the Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk is early in the morning to beat the heat and crowds. Many Wailea resorts provide direct access, making it very convenient for visitors.

Beyond the beautiful scenery, the trail is known for its vibrant atmosphere, offering excellent people-watching opportunities and even potential celebrity sightings. It connects several famous Wailea beaches, allowing for quick swim breaks, and provides access to beachside dining and cafes. The path's accessibility and gentle nature make it a fantastic option for families and those seeking an easy, rewarding oceanfront run.

The Mākena Road & Wailea Alanui Drive loop run offers a fantastic blend of Maui's coastal beauty and unique landscapes. You will jog along the scenic Wailea Oceanfront Boardwalk, passing pristine crescent beaches and enjoying continuous ocean views, before transitioning to stretches alongside manicured golf courses and the dramatic, ancient lava fields of Makena. This moderate 4.4-mile (7.0 km) route, with its 195 feet (59 metres) of elevation gain, provides a varied experience over paved roads and boardwalks, making it a great way to see a lot in about 43 minutes.

For the best experience, plan your run for early in the morning. This helps you beat the heat and avoid the crowds, especially on the popular boardwalk sections, allowing for a more serene jog. While the loop itself is well-defined, you have the option to extend your run past Makena Landing Park towards Makena Cove, where a gravel shoulder offers a bit more distance. Just be mindful that the road narrows considerably further south.

What makes this route stand out is its incredible diversity, showcasing both the lush, developed beauty of Wailea and the rugged, windswept black lava fields of Makena, remnants of Maui's last eruption. It is a favorite among local running communities like the Valley Isle Road Runners, appreciated for its accessibility and the ever-changing scenery. This trail truly gives you a comprehensive tour of the area's natural and developed highlights.

Step onto the ancient King's Highway, the Hoapili Trail, and experience a truly unique jogging route across Maui's youngest lava flows. This 5.5-mile (8.9 km) path, with only 175 feet (53 metres) of elevation gain, takes you through stark black lava fields contrasting with the vibrant turquoise Pacific. You'll encounter kiawe trees, panoramic ocean views towards Molokini Crater, and the historic Hanamanioa Lighthouse, all while navigating rugged, uneven 'a'ā lava rock that makes this moderate trail feel like a true adventure.

Planning your visit requires preparation for the challenging terrain; sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must for tackling the loose lava cobbles. The trail offers little to no shade, so be sure to carry ample water and consider jogging in the early morning to avoid the intense midday heat. Located within the ʻĀhihi-Kīnaʻu Natural Area Reserve, it provides a secluded experience away from the island's more crowded spots.

This trail is steeped in history, being a section of the Alaloa Kihapiilani, built over 500 years ago by King Pi'ilani as a vital route for ancient Hawaiians. Jogging here feels like stepping back in time, with remnants of ancient settlements visible along the way. It's a fantastic option for those seeking a blend of historical significance, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and constant ocean vistas, making it a notable alternative to more conventional trails.

The Āhihi Bay Trail offers a distinctive jogging experience across ancient 'a'ā and pāhoehoe lava fields, remnants of Haleakalā's last eruption. You'll navigate rugged coastal paths, where the stark volcanic landscape meets the clear blue waters of the Pacific Ocean, providing stunning views. Keep an eye out for the distinctive kiawe trees and the beautiful Āhihi Bay itself, known for its black lava rocks and excellent snorkeling.

Planning your visit to this trail within the 'Āhihi-Kīna'u Natural Area Reserve requires a $10 per car day-use fee for non-residents. The reserve is open from 5:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. daily, and it's crucial to stay on designated trails to protect the fragile ecosystem. Remember that dogs are not allowed, so leave your furry friends at home for this adventure.

This moderate 3.8-mile (6.1 km) trail, with a minimal 88 feet (27 metres) of elevation gain, can be completed in about 39 minutes, making it a great option for a quick but challenging run. It's an opportunity to explore a unique marine and terrestrial ecosystem, home to rare anchialine ponds and significant cultural sites, all while enjoying panoramic views that can include Molokini Crater and other Hawaiian islands.