Dragon's Teeth (Makaluapuna Point)

Overview

Dragon’s Teeth is a short, rewarding coastal stop where a late West Maui Volcano flow met wind and surf and hardened upward into jagged “teeth.” The salt and sun have bleached the lava over time, so the fins look otherworldly against the blue Pacific. It’s a bite-size adventure with oversized views toward Molokaʻi.

Getting There & Parking

Head toward Kapalua and turn makai off Hwy 30 onto Office Road near mile marker 30. At the end, turn right on Lower Honoapiʻilani Road; a small lot for the access trail is just ahead. From the lot, follow the dirt path along the edge of the golf course to the point. Parking is limited and street parking is discouraged, so go early or consider rideshare if you’re arriving late. There are no services at the trailhead; full facilities are at nearby D.T. Fleming Beach Park.

The Walk

Plan on about 0.6–0.7 miles round trip with roughly 65–85 feet of gentle gain. The path is easy but turns rocky and uneven near the point, where sharp lava makes sturdy shoes a smart call. You’ll also find the Kapalua Labyrinth set back from the cliff—quiet, meditative, and photogenic. Keep an eye out for stray golf balls along the course edge.

Culture & Respect

Makaluapuna sits beside Honokahua, an ancient Hawaiian burial ground and a sacred wahi pana. The boundary is marked by a hedgerow—do not enter. Stay on established paths and treat the area with the same respect you would a cemetery.

Safety Notes

Rogue waves and strong winds are common. Stay well back from cliff edges, keep your footing on the rough lava, and never turn your back to the ocean. There are no railings, water, or trash cans—pack in, pack out.

Wildlife & Views

Scan the water for honu (green sea turtles) year-round. In winter, roughly December–April, this lookout can double as a casual whale-watching perch. Clear days deliver long looks across the Pailolo Channel to Molokaʻi.

Best Time to Visit

Sunrise and the golden hour before sunset bring cooler temps, softer light, and fewer people. Midday (especially weekends) is the busiest and hottest, and parking is tight. Skip stormy or high-surf periods when waves can crash over the rocks.

Make It a Mini-Outing

Pair the stop with a stroll on the Kapalua Coastal Trail or a beach session at Oneloa (Ironwoods) or D.T. Fleming. If you need snacks, the Honolua Store is close by. Dogs are typically allowed on leash—always follow posted signs.