Maui is more than just a postcard-perfect island; it’s a road biker’s dream come true. With its sweeping coastal views, volcanic terrain, and rural backroads, Maui is an ideal destination for road biking.
This guide highlights the best road bike routes on Maui, providing essential information on safety, gear, weather, and planning to help you make the most of your island ride.
Things to Know Before Road Biking on Maui
Before you clip in and take off, it’s essential to understand the unique conditions of biking on Maui. From changing weather to narrow roads, a little preparation can go a long way toward a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Road Conditions and Terrain
Maui’s roads vary dramatically depending on the region. Coastal roads are often well-paved but narrow, while mountain routes can be rough and steep.
The shoulders on some highways are minimal, primarily on scenic routes like the Hana Highway and West Maui Loop. Expect hills—lots of them—and prepare for climbs that test your endurance.
Weather and Wind Considerations
Maui’s weather changes quickly. The leeward side (Kihei, Lahaina) tends to be hot and dry, while the windward side (Hana, Haʻikū) is wetter and more humid. Trade winds blow strongest in the afternoons, especially on the north and east coasts, so morning rides are ideal.
At higher elevations, such as Haleakalā, temperatures drop rapidly, so bring layers.
Safety Tips and Bike Laws in Hawaii
Hawaii has laws and customs specific to biking:
- Ride as far to the right as practicable in a single file.
- Helmets are required for riders under 16 (strongly recommended for all).
- Use hand signals and obey traffic laws.
- Use lights and reflectors when riding before sunrise or after sunset.
Watch for local drivers unfamiliar with cyclists and be cautious on blind curves and narrow roads.
What to Bring for a Maui Road Ride
Essentials include:
- Plenty of water and electrolytes
- Sunscreen and UV-protective clothing
- Flat tire repair kit and bike tools
- ID, cell phone, and a downloaded offline map
- Light windbreaker or thermal jacket (for mountain descents)
Top Road Bike Routes on Maui
Below are five of the best road bike routes on Maui, offering a mix of coastal cruising, mountain climbs, and cultural sightseeing.
1. West Maui Loop
- Distance: 60 miles (4,400 ft elevation gain)
- Highlights: Ocean views, rolling hills, scenic cliffs
- Difficulty: Advanced
The West Maui Loop is legendary. Starting and ending in Lahaina, this route circumnavigates the West Maui Mountains, offering panoramic ocean vistas, rugged cliffs, and serene stretches through rural towns.
Be prepared for steep climbs and narrow roads near Kahakuloa—this section demands full attention. Most riders go clockwise to avoid being on the cliff-side of the road.
Beginning at the parking lot of Foodland, begin a gentle descent toward Ma’alaea and round the turn into Lahaina. Stay alert as you ride along the busy highway for about 30 miles. Near Kapalua, the road narrows and climbs through this 20-mile stretch of beautiful northwest coastline. At mile 43, descend into Kahakuloa.
Tip: Stop at Lorraine Shave Ice in Kahakuloa for their famous banana bread and refill your water
Take on the 1,200-foot climb before finishing your trip with a long descent into Wailuku.
2. Haleakalā Summit Ride
- Distance: 36 miles uphill (10,023 ft elevation gain)
- Highlights: Volcano summit, epic descent
- Difficulty: Expert
An actual bucket-list climb, the Haleakalā Summit Ride takes you from sea level in Paia to the summit of the dormant volcano, reaching over 10,000 feet. It’s one of the longest paved climbs in the world. On clear days, you can view Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa on the Big Island. Thin air, high winds, and cold temperatures at the summit make it a challenge only for experienced riders.
Start your Haleakalā climb from Lower Paia Park, right by the beach with clear views of the volcano. The first 7 miles ascend 1,800 feet to Makawao. At the T-intersection, go straight up a steep pitch on Olinda Rd, then turn right after a mile onto Hanamu Rd—don’t continue up Olinda, as it leads to an unnecessary 6-mile detour.
After a brief break on Hanamu, bear left at two forks to reach Haleakalā Highway. Ride 5 miles through Kula and turn left toward the national park. From Crater Rd, it’s 22 miles to the summit. At 7,000 feet, you’ll enter the park ($15 fee or free with a pass). We recommend refilling your water at the Visitor Center. The final 10 miles include a steep last half mile to the true summit.
Don’t forget to pack warm layers for the thrilling descent. We recommend at least having gloves, arm and leg warmers, and a light windbreaker.
Heads-up: While it may be sunny at the summit, the weather below the clouds is unpredictable, with fog, mist, and rain.
3. Kihei to La Perouse Bay
- Distance: 22 miles round trip (1,200 ft elevation gain)
- Highlights: Coastal views, lava fields, relaxed pace
- Difficulty: Beginner
Start your ride beachside along South Kihei Road, cruising the flat, scenic stretch with ocean views to your right. Although there’s a designated bike shoulder, this is a high-traffic area—stay alert and ride cautiously.
About 5 miles in, you’ll roll into Wailea, where the terrain starts to shift into gentle hills. We’ve included a few optional detours to guide you through the peaceful neighborhoods of Wailea and Makena. These short side routes are a great way to escape the main road and enjoy quieter, more picturesque surroundings.
Around the 7-mile mark, traffic begins to thin and the road narrows as you head toward La Perouse Bay. You’re now riding across some of the youngest land on Maui, home to ancient Hawaiian sites and rugged lava fields. Along the way, you’ll pass several great swimming beaches and a few local food trucks—perfect for a mid-ride break or a spot to return to later with the family.
Heads-up: While the road is fully paved, the last mile leading to La Perouse is in rough shape. If you’re on a road bike, we suggest turning back when the pavement starts to break down to avoid a very bumpy two-mile out-and-back. But if you’re feeling adventurous—and have a spare tube, go for it!
Once you’re ready, retrace your route and cruise back to our Kihei shop to complete your ride.
4. Makawao Figure 8 Cycling Route
- Distance: 40 miles (4,500 ft elevation gain)
- Highlights: Rolling hills, cooler temps, local farms
- Difficulty: Advanced
Begin your ride in Paia with a 7-mile, 1,700-foot climb up Baldwin Avenue to Makawao. Continue straight through town and up a short, steep pitch before turning right onto Hanamu Road. Keep left at the forks to join Haleakalā Highway and climb another 6 miles to reach Kula, the route’s high point at just under 4,000 feet.
Enjoy a well-earned descent: turn right onto Kula Highway, then quickly right again onto Lower Kula Road for quieter, more scenic riding. Take a break at Harold Rice Park or stop by one of the food spots along the way. Lower Kula Road briefly rejoins the highway, then splits again—take the side road for better views and less traffic.
Tip: For the beer drinkers, we recommend trying Mahalo Aleworks located along Aapueo Parkway.
At mile 24.5, turn right on Makawao Avenue to return to your earlier intersection. From here, descend via Kaupakalua Road through Haiku. Watch for a sharp hairpin at mile 28.5. Turn left onto E Kuiaha Road for a peaceful, winding descent, followed by another left at the stop sign.
Cruise through downtown Haiku, then follow the road back to Hana Highway. Turn left and enjoy a mostly downhill ride with potential tailwinds back to Paia.
5. Tour of Haiku – Paia Bike Route
- Distance: 15 miles (1,300 ft elevation gain)
- Highlights: Rainforest, waterfalls, winding roads
- Difficulty: Beginner
This short lollipop loop offers a mix of stunning ocean views and jungle rollers, with a quick climb into Haiku before looping back to Paia.
Start from the shop and head east on Hana Highway, passing Ho’okipa Lookout and climbing through the sweeping S-turn. Turn right onto Haiku Road to reach downtown Haiku—grab a bite if you’re hungry—then continue left on Haiku Road to enjoy winding, jungle-lined rollers.
At mile 8.5, turn left onto E Kuiaha Road, then left again onto Hana Highway for a mostly downhill cruise back to Paia, often with a helpful tailwind.
6. East Maui Loop
- Distance: 106 miles (10,500 ft elevation gain)
- Highlights: Panoramic ocean view, rainforest, waterfalls
- Difficulty: Expert
This world-class cycling adventure circumnavigates the majestic Haleakalā volcano and showcases some of the most breathtaking—and demanding—terrain Hawaii has to offer.
This ride is not for the faint of heart, but it’s a true test of endurance, skill, and determination, reserved for experienced cyclists ready to take on some of the most intense road riding in the world.
Tip: Ride the loop counterclockwise to tackle the toughest climb early, catch lighter traffic moving in your direction on the return from Hana, and take advantage of Maui’s trade winds giving you a helpful push back to Paia in the afternoon.
The route starts in Paia, where the climbing begins immediately, ascending 3,000 feet through the upcountry town of Makawao and into the rolling hills of Kula. Riders can choose a quieter, more scenic path via Lower Kula Road before reaching Harold W. Rice Memorial Park, the high point of the ride. From there, a fast and winding descent drops you toward the island’s remote southern flank.
The road narrows past Ulupalakua, entering a rugged, dry landscape with stunning ocean views and little traffic. This section is isolated, with rough pavement and steep rollers, eventually bringing you to sea level before the lush region of Hana. It’s a perfect place to refuel and prepare for the second half of the ride.
From Hana, the famous Hana Highway climbs over 4,000 feet through dense rainforest, past waterfalls, and over dozens of narrow bridges. The terrain is relentless, but the natural beauty is unmatched. As you near Twin Falls and roll back into Paia, it’s clear why this ride stands out. It’s a tough and rewarding route that takes you through some of the most remote and stunning parts of Maui.
Heads up: There are no bike shops, cell service is spotty in many areas, and you’ll need to be fully self-sufficient. We recommend that you bring essential gear, plan your food and water stops carefully, and be prepared to handle any mechanical issues on your own.
Tips for Planning Your Maui Cycling Adventure
Planning makes all the difference. Use these tips to make your Maui cycling trip safe and unforgettable.
Start Early to Avoid Heat and Traffic
Mornings are your best friend on Maui. The light is beautiful, the temperatures are cooler, and the roads are quieter. Starting early also helps you beat the stronger afternoon trade winds.
Know Where to Refuel (Water/Food Stops)
Some routes, especially Haleakalā or Upcountry, lack food and water stops. Plan accordingly and carry what you need. On routes through towns like Makawao, Lahaina, or Kihei, you’ll find convenience stores, cafes, and food trucks.
Use a Local Bike Shop for Rentals and Repairs
Not traveling with your bike? Maui Sunriders offers high-quality road bike rentals, expert tune-ups, and insider local advice to help you ride with confidence. Whether you need a carbon road bike for a summit push or a map of the best mid-ride pit stops, their team has you covered.
FAQs About Road Biking on Maui
- Is it safe to road bike on Maui?
Yes, but it requires caution and awareness. Many routes are shared with vehicles and may have narrow shoulders. Ride defensively, follow bike laws, and choose quieter times of day. - Do I need a specific type of bike for these routes?
A road bike with good gearing is ideal for most routes. For steep climbs like Haleakalā, compact gearing is essential. Make sure your brakes are in top shape as the descents can be fast and technical. - Are there organized bike tours available?
Yes. Local bike shops, such as Maui Sunriders, offer self-guided and guided options, including summit rides with shuttle support. These tours are ideal if you’re looking for expert guidance, gear support, or a group ride experience.
Enjoy Road Biking on Maui
Maui’s road biking scene is as diverse as its landscapes. From sun-soaked coastal paths to lung-burning volcanic ascents, the island offers unforgettable rides for cyclists of all levels. With the proper preparation, awareness, and local knowledge, your Maui bike adventure can be one of the most rewarding rides of your life.
Ready to ride? Let Maui Sunriders help you gear up for your perfect island cycling journey. Book your bike, get route recommendations, and start planning your Maui road adventure today.
