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Puu Olai (Red Hill) from Oneloa “Makena” Beach

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Rating

2.5 out of 5 Coconuts

Summary

A nice little hike that makes you feel like Ke Ali’i (King) of the Hill

Difficulty

5/10

Duration

Short; 1 hour from parking to end

1.5 miles roundtrip

~350 ft elevation gain

Access

Parking at Big Beach parking lot, walk to beginning from there

Where

South Maui; Makena near Big Beach and Little Beach

Coordinates

20.6361099,-156.4666763

Map

Description

Puu Olai, also known as Red Hill, is the mound that you have probably seen if you’ve driven along the water anywhere on the south to southwest side of Maui. Standing at the bottom of Haleakala on the water’s edge, Puu Olai is the volcanic tuft sitting at Makena, near Big Beach and Little Beach.

You begin this hike by heading on the path from Big Beach to Little Beach. Halfway across the climb across the beaches, you’ll turn right to continue to climb up Red Hill. Keep climbing, following the path, where you’ll eventually reach the summit of Puu Olai and the trail will loop around around, bringing you back the way you came from.

Media

no images were found

Address

6600 Makena Rd, Kihei, HI 96753

Gear

Gear

Your Brain (as always when hiking)

Waterproof Phone Case (while there are others, this one is the best.)

Water Filter or Camelbak pack

Bug Repellent (this natural one is our favorite!)

Dry Bag (you're on an island. You'll probably get wet.)

Paracord (there's always a use for this.)

Camera or Drone (you can't beat this one.)

Spare Socks (laugh now, but you'll take this one seriously post-hike.)

Shoes (these are great hiking shoes.)

Clothes you can get wet

Sunglasses (this brand specifically is the best for ocean and water activities.)

Sunscreen (use this one to help preserve the coral and marine life.)

Trekking Poles

First Aid Kit (better safe than sorry.)

 

Check out this link for a deeper look: Best Things to Bring on a Hike

Nearby and Related

Big Beach and Little Beach

Disclaimer

Make sure you have permission to hike here. Respect the Aina and help keep this place of beauty beautiful.

https://letsgotomaui.net/disclaimer/

Specific Cautions

Proper permission to continue the hike

More Info

https://www.outdoorproject.com/adventures/hawaii/hikes/puu-olai-red-hill

https://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=HGP008-021

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