Dragon's Teeth Trail
The Dragon's Teeth Trail in Kapalua, Hawaii (Maui) is an easy 0.5-mile out-and-back hike that leads to the ocean-side lava rock formation known as the Dragon's Teeth.Hike Description
This is less of a hike and more of walk, but regardless begins at a very small parking lot at the coordinates provided and follows a small trail that leads downhill along a compacted dirt path toward the ocean. Along this trail, visitors may notice the burial site information at the trailhead - there's an official ancient burial site located off-trail here and this information simply asks visitors to stay on-trail at all times; however, the signage makes it seem like the trail is off-limits, it's actually going off-trail that's off-limits here. Also note the private golf course property adjacent to the trail - please stay off and stay on-trail at all times.
Eventually the hiker will reach a split in the trail which leads down to D.T. Fleming Beach. Stay left to continue on the Dragon's Teeth Trail. Pass through some overgrown grasses to find a jagged rock lava field. On the edge of the lava field, abutting the ocean, is the row of standing rocks known as the Dragon's Teeth, located around mile 0.25. Hikers can enjoy a view of the Dragon's Teeth without risking getting to close to the ocean, in case a large wave were to topple over.
Parking
There's a small parking lot at the coordinates that can fit about 6 vehicles. Just before this parking lot is additional public parking that can fit another 10 vehicles or so. Note that this parking is popular day use for the Kapalua Coastal Trail.
Warning
Sharp, slippery rocks: The Dragon's Teeth sits on the edge of an old lava flow and thus the rock surrounding them are often jagged, sharp, or slippery when wet. By staying back from the ocean's edge, you also give yourself a buffer in case a large wave were to wash ashore.
Slippery trail: When wet the trail's clay-like substrate can be very slippery and not suitable for footwear with no or minimal grip.
Respecting the Land
Hawaiian land is considered sacred to native Hawaiians and many locals, so please stay on-trail, take nothing but photos, and leave nothing but footprints. Respect the locals - don't stay for long and have a backup hike planned in case the parking lot is full.
