4.2
(13)
219
hikers
2
hikes
Hiking in Lihau Natural Area Reserve offers diverse landscapes, transitioning from dry leeward lowlands to a wet summit. The region is characterized by a steep-sloped volcanic remnant, featuring rugged volcanic ridges and deep valleys within the West Maui Mountains. Hikers can experience lush rainforests and coastal paths, with areas shaped by ancient volcanic activity. This ecological integrity supports rare grasslands and shrublands, preserving unique plant species.
Last updated: July 9, 2026
9
hikers
3.04km
00:46
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
hikers
5.14km
01:19
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

Sign up for free
13
hikers
4.77km
01:13
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Holy Innocents Episcopal Church was built in 1872 and renovated in 1927. Located across the street is the site of Moku'ula, where the kings of Maui resided since the days of Pi'ilani Nui (1500s), Maui's first king. Fast forwarding to 2023, this church was destroyed in the Maui fire and only small remnants of the foundation remain. With the deep history of the church, and the graciously donated funds from Oprah and 'The Rock', I'm sure the church will come back strong.
0
0
Lahaina Banyan Court Park housed a 150 year old Banyan tree as of April 24th of 2023. Unfortunately the tree was burned, but there is hope it will recover! This is a well shaded park with ocean views, shops within a few steps, and a plethora of heritage sites!
0
0
Cozy place with several shops.
5
0
Half a day for this cozy place is always worth it.
4
0
Old whaling town with a lot of flair and a number of shops. Perfect for half a day.
4
0
Top address for boat tours such as Molokini!
4
0
The church door was open during our visit, so just enter and admire the church from the inside.
1
0
Front Street is the shopping street of Lahaina. Whether shopping, whale watching or drinking Kona coffee, there is much to see in this beautiful street. The ancient wooden houses have the right charm.
1
0
There are 3 hiking routes in the Lihau Natural Area Reserve area that are easily accessible from bus stations. These routes offer convenient starting points for exploring the region without needing a car.
All 3 of the bus-accessible hiking trails in this guide are rated as easy. They are suitable for most fitness levels and offer a gentle introduction to the area's beauty.
Yes, all the routes featured in this guide are circular, meaning you'll end up back near your starting point. For example, the Pacific Whale Foundation – Banyan Tree loop from Lahaina Historic District is a great option for a round trip.
The bus-accessible hikes in this guide range from approximately 2.9 km (1.8 miles) to 5.1 km (3.2 miles) in length. You can expect them to take between 45 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes to complete, depending on your pace. The Pacific Whale Foundation – Banyan Tree loop from Maria Lanakila Catholic Church is one of the longer options.
Given their easy difficulty rating and relatively short lengths, these trails are generally well-suited for families with children. They provide an accessible way to enjoy the coastal and urban landscapes of the Lahaina area.
While the broader Lihau Natural Area Reserve features dramatic volcanic landscapes and lush rainforests, the specific bus-accessible routes in this guide focus on the coastal and historic areas around Lahaina. You can expect views of the ocean, historic sites like the Banyan Tree, and the vibrant atmosphere of the town.
The routes in this area are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 3.75 stars. Reviewers often praise the convenience of starting directly from bus stops and the pleasant, easy-going nature of the walks.
While specific bus route numbers can vary, look for local bus services that connect to the Lahaina Historic District and areas around Maria Lanakila Catholic Church. These are the primary starting points for the trails listed in this guide, such as the Banyan Tree – Pacific Whale Foundation loop from Lahaina.
The West Maui region generally offers pleasant hiking conditions year-round. However, the dry leeward side where these trails are located can be warm. Early mornings or late afternoons are often ideal to avoid the midday heat, especially during summer months.
Yes, as these routes start in and around Lahaina, you'll find numerous cafes, restaurants, and other amenities conveniently located near the bus stops and trailheads. This makes it easy to grab a refreshment before or after your hike.
While the general Lihau Natural Area Reserve has specific regulations, the trails listed in this guide are primarily urban and coastal walks around Lahaina. It's best to check local Lahaina town ordinances regarding dogs on public paths and in parks, and always keep your dog on a leash.


Browse the best Hikes in other regions.