Exploring Iao Valley and seeing the Iao Needle - Maui, Hawaii

Iao Valley State Monument - Iao Needle

Iao Valley State Park Guide and hiking around the Iao Needle

Iao Valley is a fun place to spend the day exploring! There are walking and hiking trails, streams to swim in, plenty of wildlife to check out, and the iconic Iao Needle. I went to Iao Valley with my family when I was a kid so I was excited when we were able to go back this past trip! We tried to go in October 2020 but the park was still closed.

Note: The mountains tend to keep in moisture and Iao Valley is known as the second wettest spot in Hawaii. It’s not always sunny, which is nice when it keeps it cool. Be prepared for a little mud if you’re hiking.

This guide is part of our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide, which covers everything from family travel to honeymoons and first-time visits.

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How to Get to Iao Valley and Where to Park

Address: 54 S High St, Wailuku, HI 96793

Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Parking Prices: 

Non-Commercial Vehicles

• Residents = No Charge w/ID or DL

• Non-Residents = $10

Commercial PUC vehicles:

• 1-7 passenger vehicles: $25

• 8-25 passenger vehicles: $50

• 26 + passenger vehicles: $90

Entrance Fee:

As of April 19th, 2021, all non-Hawaii resident visitors to ʻĪao Valley State Monument will be required to purchase an entrance pass as well.

Individuals – Walk-In

• Residents = Free w/Hawaii DL or ID

• Non-Residents = $5

• Children 3 and Under = Free

Iao Valley State Park is located in Wailuku which is on the north side of Maui. Coming from Kaanapali, you can drive around to the valley from the North or South. The drive coming North is scenic but comes down to one lane in certain spots, let’s face it, the south drive is pretty too and a bit faster taking the highways. If you’re heading there from Wailea, just head towards the airport and keep going a bit!

There’s a parking lot that tends to fill up around 10/11am. There is a fee to park on the lot, but if you can find a free spot on the street just before you enter the parking lot. The best time to go is around 8am to get a clear view of the Needle, clouds can form around it in the afternoon obstructing the monument.

There are public restrooms just off the parking lot, although when we went in February they were closed and port-a-potties were set up in the parking lot.

Kahalawai is an old extinct volcano, eroded over the last million years into the West Maui Mountains. Its highest remaining point is Mount Kukui at 5,788 feet above sea level. The head of ‘Iao Valley stands at what remains of the summit crater of Kahalawai in the West Maui Mountains. Over time, wind and water worked at Kahalawai, digging deep into areas of softer rock, eventually collecting into streams and forming deep valleys. Today four major streams, the Nakalaloa, the Poohoahoa, the Kinihipai, and the Ae, make their way down the West Maui Mountains to converge into Iao stream. The ‘Iao stream then travels to the ocean through the valley we see today. The 1200 foot tall Iao Needle, known to Hawaiians as Kuka’emoku, is what remains of a ridge that used to run down the length of Kahalawei.

What to Bring:

Bring some water if you’re hiking and make sure you wear sneakers. If you’re planning on going for a swim bring your suit and towel! There isn’t a place to get food on premises unless you eat the fallen fruit from the trees, so you might want to pack snacks.

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Exploring Iao Valley

There are a few things to do in the park:

1. Go for a hike! Hike along stream or up in the mountains, there’s a trail for everyone!

2. Take in the Iao Needle! There is a short paved trail with a small incline with a few steps to see the famous 2250-foot-tall Needle.

3. Catch up on some Hawaiian History. Did you know one of the biggest battles in Hawaiian History was fought in this valley?

4. Explore the Botanical Garden.

5. Go for a swim! After our hike, we were a bit muddy and warm. The stream water is cool and soothing!

Warning: Maui is known to have flash floods, especially in the West Maui Mountains. Just beware of the weather, sometimes it’s raining high in the mountains but not in the valley. Be cautious when swimming, and if you notice any change at all in the color or level of the water, seek higher ground immediately.

Should we bring kids? Sure! Kids would enjoy the stream and climbing on rocks!

Iao Valley Stream

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Hiking obstacles along the hiking trail!

Hiking Iao Valley

Whether you are an advanced hiker or just looking for a leisurely stroll, there’s a trail for you!

Off the parking lot, there is a paved trail to the Iao Needle viewpoint. As a kid, I thought we did a long hike up to see the needle but now there seems to be a lookout with a gazebo to hike to that has some benches with views of the needle. It was an easy hike, only .6 miles, 200 ft in elevation, and a quick 10-minute walk from the parking lot. What’s so special about the Needle? It’s an interesting rock formation that is really the vertical edge of an eroded ridge.

There is a trail behind the gazebo, but there are signs to not pass the barriers. This trail is dangerous and should be avoided. However, if you head down to the stream and hike up the mountains you’ll end up on the same trail just past the steep dangerous part.

I did this hike at 6 weeks pregnant! We took it a little slower so it took us an hour and 45 mins to get to the top of the lookout which was about 2 miles and an elevation gain of 1061 feet. It was a little muddy at times so be careful! The trail doesn’t have any markers, but the path is pretty well-traveled so just stay on that which will take you to the top. Here is the trail we took starting along the stream:

Hiking Stats for Iao Valley

2 mile hike path to lookout - Iao Valley

Iao Valley Fern - Vegetation and Plant life

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A Landmark of Hawaiian History

Iao Valley was the location of one of the bloodiest battles in Hawaiian history! Per our friends at MauiGuide.com:

In 1790, King Kamehameha I of the island of Hawai’i (the Big Island) battled army leader Kalanikupule of Maui. The armies were evenly matched, and the battle raged for days. Kamehameha was only able to overcome Kalanikupule when he obtained access to a cannon. Many people from both sides died in the battle, their bodies clogging the waters of ‘Iao stream, and giving the battle the name Kepaniwai, “Battle of the Damned Waters of ‘Iao.”

People of Maui considered ‘Iao stream to be of great importance. They built homes along its edges and used the water for drinking and agriculture, particularly growing taro. Certain areas in the valley were revered as sacred burial sites for chiefs of Maui.

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Visiting the Iao Needle is a fun place to explore and great way to spend the day! Hope this guide helps you enjoy the park!

Please note this is not a sponsored post and based on my own personal experience, all thoughts are my own.

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Exploring Iao Valley and seeing the Iao Needle

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Malibu Wine Hikes - Best Hike in Los Angeles, California

Malibu Wine Hikes Trail and Saddle Rock Wine!

Malibu Wine Hikes - The best thing to do outside in LA!

Address: 32111 MULHOLLAND HWY. MALIBU, CA 90265

Malibu Wines is a wonderful place to go for an outing with friends in LA. We hiked, saw some animals, savored rosé pops, got some wine to go, had some laughs - it was a perfect way to spend the day outside and socially distant. You may remember my Malibu Wines Safari post or the Malibu Wines Tasting Room in West Hills, but this time we tried a new experience, Malibu Wine Hikes!

Malibu Wine Hikes Trail

Our Wine Hike Experience

I went with 7 of my girlfriends, who I hadn’t seen since the beginning of the year! We wore masks (took them off for pictures) and kept our distance, it was so nice to see them in person and not on a screen!

We checked in and waited in the shade for our guide, Joe! He was nice, entertaining, and knew so much about the vineyard and grounds. Since we’re all concerned about the spread he took photos of us throughout the hike and sent them to us in a dropbox at the end of the day. This was above and beyond our expectations.

Strike a pose in the Santa Monica Mountains

Typically the hike starts with Rosé pops, but ours weren’t frozen enough, so they gave them to us at the end.

We toured around the grounds on a 2-mile loop, the trail wasn’t too steep. It took us about 3 hours, but we weren’t in any rush, just enjoying the sunshine and company. There were water stations at the beginning of the hike and about halfway through. You can bring your own reusable bottle or purchase one of theirs.

Joe would point out the crops that were growing in the gardens, and said we could try the berries (SNACKKKS).

Berries on the hike!

White Sage growing

There are even Chumash Native Cave paintings on the property and if you’re lucky, you might even find one of their spearheads!

Chumash Native Cave Paintings

The Woolsey fire in November 2018 took out the tasting room and a lot of the vegetation on the grounds. Luckily the animals were ok and from our hike, many of the crops came back and a lot of the vineyard survived! 2020 hasn’t been easy for anyone, but their safety protocols and open-air tours make it easier for people to be together and still do fun things! We saw zebras, water buffalo, and other animals!

Malibu Wines Zebras

After we were done touring around, we returned back to the entrance where we had our rosé pops and chose our bottle of wine to take to go. I like their rosé but went with the Merlot, which is a nice red with notes of spice and pepper. These weren’t full bottles but enough for 2 large glasses of wine!

Saddlerock wines

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Booking Your Hike Reservation

The grounds are not open to any to walk around, you must be on a tour or attend an event. Book your ticket and reserve your spot on malibuwinehikes.com. We booked 3 weeks in advance to get our desired date and time.

WINE HIKE - The open hike is a 2 mile loop hike where you get to explore the vineyards of Saddlerock Ranch, organic gardens, Chumash Native American cave paintings, and more! Guests will receive wine to-go when the hike concludes. $49/person

4x4 VINEYARD TOUR - There is also a vineyard tour that you ride in a 4x4 for an adventure tour around the Saddlerock Ranch Vineyards. Guests will explore the vineyards and natural areas on the property. Includes snacks, beverages and wine to-go! $375/Vehicle (each vehicle holds 1-5 people).

Saddle Rock Ranch Sign

Arrival and Parking

There is a huge dirt and gravel parking lot with plenty of parking spots. There are also nice trailer bathrooms in the parking lot too, better than a port-a-potty, but it’s not the Four Seasons or anything.

Don’t drink and drive!

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10 FUN things you must do in Wailea - Maui, Hawaii

Top Ten Things to do and See in Wailea, Hawaii

First or sixth trip to Hawaii? Doesn’t matter, check out these fun things to do in Wailea! It’s a pretty coastal drive if you’re staying in Lahaina or a great place to stay for a few nights! We stayed at the Grand Wailea and fell in love with Wailea!

Not sure which area is right for you? Our Ultimate Maui Travel Guide compares Kaanapali, Wailea, and other regions.

Here’s a list of what to do in Wailea, Maui:

1. Go for a Hike in Wailea

   Wailea hikes are the best way to start the day! At the end of Makena Road just past Wailea, there is a trail to hike around old lava fields. We were lucky enough to find a Hawaiian Monk Seal that had just given birth days prior and was on the shore with her pup. We took the Haopili Trail to Hanomanioa Light where at the end of the trail is one of those natural pools that you often see influencers float in on Instagram. If you’re lucky, you’ll come across some black mountain goats along the way!

Hike to the natural pools in Wailea

2. Find a Secret Beach in Wailea

Maybe it’s not such a secret if I’m telling you. Again, At the end of Makena Road just past Wailea, if you’re not in the mood to hike (see #1), there are little beach coves that only fit a few people so you can jump in the water, do yoga, read a book, have a picnic lunch, or take a nap! It’s a private beach all to yourself! Pro Tip: Claim your spot early.

Secret Beaches in Wailea

3. Enjoy a day by the beach!

Beach chairs are provided by most hotels, you just have to get there early to nab one. We stayed at the Grand Wailea and would grab a few chairs around 8am to be in the front row.

4. Snorkel around Turtle Town

Wailea has some great spots for snorkeling, but you have to check out Turtle Town. Turtle Town is where the turtles come to have the cleaner fish pick off the algae and other parasites living on their backs! We also saw quite a few turtles right near our hotel (Grand Wailea).

Related posts: Best Snorkel Spots in Maui and Best Scuba Spots in Maui

Snorkel around Turtle Town in Wailea

5. Visit the Turtles in Wailea

Right off the back of a Makena Landing parking lot (5083 Makena Alanui, Kihei, HI 96753), you’ll often find turtles resting in the sand/rocks. Don’t disturb them, but admire them from the trees! Also, there were tons of chickens chasing each other in the parking lot.

Resting Turtles in Wailea

6. Go Shopping in Wailea!

I always love shopping! The Shops at Wailea have everything you need from high-end stores like Louis Vuitton to the ABC Store! Lappert’s ice cream can be found here and you’ll smell the fresh waffle cones wafting in the air when you get close! Soha Living has the cutest coastal decor, which makes great souvenirs! The Island Gourmet Markets is the best Wailea grocery store and their coffee shop brews a delicious coconut macadamia nut latte!

7. Pineapple Wine Tasting

There is a vineyard on Maui and it’s not far from Wailea! Have a taste of Maui Wine’s famous pineapple wines, exclusive small production estate wines, and sparkling wines.

FUN FACT: The King’s Cottage was originally built in the 1870s to welcome King Kalākaua himself, the last reigning king of Hawai’i. He would come to ‘Ulupalakua to enjoy a little royal vacation time with lavish dinners, dancing, champagne, and celebration. Maui wine continues that celebration today, this time inviting all of you! Complimentary guided tours of the historic estate, production area, and wine cellar.

8. Golf in Wailea

Josh loves to golf and there is a fantastic course (Wailea Golf Club) with gorgeous views in Wailea. The Wailea Gold Course is not only gorgeous but one of the top 100 courses in America!

Wailea Golf Club

9. Restaurants in Wailea

Do some fine dining - you’re on vacation! Monkeypod Kitchen is a MUST, their mai tais are my favorite on the island (food is fantastic too)! We also really liked Lineage (Top Chef, Sheldon Simeon’s restaurant), conveniently located in The Shops at Wailea shopping center.

10. Spa Day in Wailea

You’re at the beach in Hawaii, RELAX! Go for a nice massage and then grab a drink by the pool. Many of the resorts have spas, don’t be afraid to try them. This is the ultimate vacation life!

Grand Wailea Luau - Best in Wailea

BONUS TIP: Don’t miss the Grand Wailea Luau!

If you walk along the pathway at night, you’ll hear the drums and luau music play. You can kinda see what’s happening on the luau stage as you stroll by, but you should experience the show along with a traditional Hawaiian dinner! The Marriott Wailea luau puts on a good show too. Get a great price on luau tickets with Activity Authority!

Maui is part of ListForAll.com’s TOP 25 TROPICAL VACATIONS and I think these are some good reasons for Maui to make that list!

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Things to do in Wailea - Maui, Hawaii

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Lake Tahoe Hiking Trails for the Casual Hiker

I love to go hiking but I would not categorize myself as a “hiker.” I like trails with a mild incline, shade, pretty views, and something more strenuous than just a walk outside. Doesn’t everyone? We spent a weekend in Lake Tahoe and tried a different hike each morning. These trails, Eagle Lake & Cascade, came pretty close to my description. Along the trails, we saw many families with small children and lots of people with dogs ranging from all sizes. Almost anyone can enjoy these moderate hikes!

Related Post: Guide to Lake Tahoe Summer Weekend Getaway - Everything you need to know about Tahoe!

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EAGLE LAKE TRAILS

Distance: 1.8 miles (round trip)

Elevation Gain: 433 feet

Time: 2 hours if you want some time to explore around the lake or even jump in for a swim!

Parking: There is a very small parking lot off the trailhead but it fills up quickly! You’re better off parking along the road as soon as you see the sign. Try to get there before 10a for a good spot!

This moderate hike trails from the top road along Emerald Bay through the wilderness to a small lake nestled in the trees. Start at the trailhead and fill out a permit which is just filling out some contact info and holding onto a piece of paper.

Start heading Southwest up the stairs to the bridge and enjoy the waterfall.

We hiked up to a ridge, hugged some trees, had some fun, and took a few pictures!

Emerald Bay

SISTER, STAND RIGHT HERE. JK, I LOVE MY SISTER!

From the ridge, we continued down the trail until we hit a fork in the road and the sign had fallen down. Take a right for the lake, it’s another 5 min downhill.

As we arrived, a group was leaving saying they saw a bear on the opposite side of lake and he jumped in to cool off. They showed us the trail they took so we wandered around the lake and kept our eyes open for the bear across the lake. Unfortunately, we weren’t lucky enough to see the bear but we did have some nice views!

We made some friends too!

After about 15-20 mins sitting on a rock in the serene lake, we decided to head back.

More info:

https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/california/eagle-lake-trail

Related Post: Guide to Lake Tahoe Summer Weekend Getaway - Everything you need to know about Tahoe!

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Cascade Falls Trail

Distance: 1.4 miles (round trip)

Elevation Gain: 236 Feet

Time: 1.5-2 hours leaving plenty of time to enjoy the falls and the view

Parking: There is a very small parking lot off the trailhead but it fills up quickly! You’re better off parking along the road as soon as you see the sign. Try to get there before 10a for a good spot! Unless you’re the Mystery Machine! ——>

We parked fairly close to the spot we did the day before for the Eagle Lake Trail. There was a parking area through the campsite but there were limited spots available so we parked on the side of the road.

The trail starts fairly easy, walking among the trees on flat ground until you hit the trail along the mountain which is fairly rocky, make sure you watch your step!

Once you make it through the trail, you’ll find the falls and beautiful views!

Cascade Falls Views

Cascade Falls

Of course we found more friends!

Chipmunks!

Do you see the lizard?

More information:

https://www.alltrails.com/explore/trail/us/california/cascade-falls

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Related Post: Guide to Lake Tahoe Summer Weekend Getaway - Everything you need to know about Tahoe!