Maui's Volcanic Wonders

Maui’s landscape is defined by two primary volcanic masses: the massive Haleakalā shield volcano and the older, deeply eroded West Maui Mountains, or Mauna Kahālāwai. This list explores the island's geological evolution, from the 10,023-foot summit of Haleakalā Crater to coastal cinder cones like Puʻu Olaʻi. These sites showcase unique features including high-altitude peat bogs, ancient rift zones, and colorful mineral deposits formed by eruptions and erosion over nearly two million years.

Haleakala Crater

Haleakalā, or the East Maui Volcano, is a massive, active shield volcano that forms more than 75% of the Hawaiian Island of Maui.

Maui Komohana

The West Maui Mountains, West Maui Volcano, or Mauna Kahālāwai which means "holding house of water," is approximately 1.7 million years old…

Puʻukukui

Puʻu Kukui is a mountain peak in Hawaiʻi. It is the highest peak of Mauna Kahalawai.

Puʻu Olaʻi

A 360-foot-tall dormant cinder cone located within Mākena State Park. It represents one of the most recent volcanic events on Maui's coastline.

Puu a Kali

An extinct cinder cone situated on the southwest rift zone of Haleakalā, providing a distinct landmark on the island's central southern slopes.

Pu'u Moa'ulanui

The highest peak on the island of Kahoʻolawe, reaching an elevation of 1,477 feet. It is the remains of the island's single extinct shield volcano.

Ka Lua o ka ʻŌʻō Cinder Cone

A prominent cinder cone located within the Haleakalā Crater. It is visible from the Halemauʻu Trail and is known for its distinct red and orange mineral-rich slopes.