Honolua Bay and the Beautiful Magical Enchanted Forest of Maui

The first time we visited the Magical Enchanted Forest on the northside of the West Maui Mountains, I thought it was going to be some sort of cheesy attraction. I grew up seeing things called “enchanted” so had that thought of trepidation. Honolua Bay and the Magical Enchanted Forest really is spectacular. Old growth trees with pathways leading to a beautiful bay really are what you hope to experience on Maui.

Have you been here to the Magical Enchanted Forest, or maybe have you gotten to watch the surfers on Honolua Bay as the waves come in? I think this is one of the most special places on Maui and I’m happy to share tips for how to visit. If you have any questions or want to share your own tips and ideas, please leave a comment or send us a note. We’re happy to include others’ advice!

Why Visit Honolua Bay and the Magicial Enchanted Forest

I don’t know where to start with Honolua Bay and the Magical Enchanted Forest. Whether you approach it from the east or west entrance will have an impact on your first impression as the forest opens up. Located between the Northwesetern Loop road and the waters of Honolua Bay, the forest is very grand. What makes it so impressive is the combination of the size of the trees and the vines connecting everything. Along the forest floor there are flowers and more beautiful vegetation, all while the birds are singing and it really is just like its name: magical, enchanted.

As you do the easy walk through the woods, you’ll see Honolua Bay opening up in front of you. This is a great spot to sit and enjoy the surfers, as the bay is shaped in such a way that it creates a really unique wave break. You can just watch or you can get in the water yourself. In any case, be safe, as the pull in and out of bays like Honolua Bay can be very strong, especially in the winter with the big wave.

When it’s calm, Honolua Bay is actually a great snorkeling spot. This is a part of the Mokulēʻia Marine Life Conservation District so the reef and rocks are well looked after and great for snorkelers. Even in summer when it’s more calm, this is still a spot that you’ll want to ensure you’re a strong swimmer before snorkeling. The bays, I tell ya, they can fool even the most experienced snorkeler.

Tip: Olowalu Beach on the other side of the West Maui Mountains is a great snorkeling beach any time of year.

Tips for a Honolua Bay Visit

Late morning is the best time to visit the Magical Enchanted Forest and Honolua Bay. By this time the light will have started streaming through the forest’s canopy and began to bring the magic to life. If you’re here too early it’ll be kind of dark, which can also be cool, but it’s not as photogenic. Also, you’ll want it to be a bit later if you’re planning on spending time at Honolua Bay as the mountains around the Honolua Bay Preserve are pretty steep/tall and they keep the sun from getting to the water until around noon or so.

If you’re planning on swimming, it’s nice to have warm sunlight for when you get out of the water. Visiting the Magical Enchanted Forest and Honolua Bay Preserve isn’t really a hiking experience. The trails through the forest are not steep and even if you walk the whole thing, it won’t take you more than an hour to cover the whole area. It’s worth your time and you’ll love it, but this isn’t a full day activity.

Gear for Visiting the Magical Enchanted Forest and Honolua Bay

To be prepared for a nice visit to the Magical Enchanted Forest and Honolua Bay, keep in mind that you need to pack out anything that you pack in, whether that be snacks or boogie boards that break. This is a very small area connected to the ocean and anything you leave or loose turns into a piece of ocean pollution, so be smart about it.

Now that I’ve said that, for a fun time here be sure that you bring everything you’d need for a beach day where you AREN’T planning on laying out between swims. The beach at Honolua Bay is all rocks and not conducive to sunbathing. Bring your snorkels, towels, and snacks though, because it’s a beautiful spot. Do NOT forget to use reef-safe sunscreen for your visit!

When it comes to bringing a camera, you definitely want to have one. The Magical Enchanted Forest is beautiful when the light streams in, and then once you’re at Honolua Bay watching the surfers, you can get some really cool shots as they ride in. The waves are impressive here and the people surfing them even more so. Also, for the snorkeling visitors, be sure you have a good underwater camera or GoPro when you head out. You never know when you’ll see a honu (Hawaiian green sea turtle) or even a small shark.

Parking for the Honolua Beach Access Trail

There are two options for parking at the Honolua Bay Access Trail. The Honoapiilani Highway bends at the valley at the top of the Magical Enchanted Forest / Honolua Bay Access Trail. There are a few parking spots on the side of the road when you first get close to the trail. They are on the north side of the highway, so if you’re coming from Lahaina you’ll need to do a U-turn to park. PARK FULLY OFF THE ROAD.

The other parking area is MUCH BETTER and there are usually enough parking spots without struggling. The parking area is fully off the road with lots of room to park safely. Once parked, cross the street to get some banana bread from the farmstand and then head down into the forest on the Honolua Bay Access Trail.