USA Kahakuloa Bay

Kahakuloa Bay is located on the northern shoreline of Maui near the famous Olivine Pools.

This is photo is an HDR panorama taken on a windy shoreline. I would recommend the use of a sturdy tripod or using a wider angle lens. The photo details of the nominally exposed photo are below:

Camera: Nikon D7200
Lens: Sigma 18-35 f/1.8
Shutter Speed: 1/80 sec
Aperture: f/9
ISO: 160
Focal Length: 18mm crop sensor (so approx. 27mm full frame)

Reviewing this photo a couple years later (and a couple years more experienced), there was really no need to make an HDR. The nominally exposed photo was not over or under exposed.

Due to the winds on the coastline, increase the ISO to reduce your shutter speed, thus blur.

Once you arrive at the pull off you will find a trail. Follow the trail and bear right to end up viewing the bay.

The first time I traveled here I was looking for the Olivine Pools. I randomly took the trail to the right and was blessed with beautiful views of the bay. If you want to stop by and swim in the Olivine Pools then follow the trails leftward.

BE CAREFUL - This coastline has steep cliffs which plunge into rough seas and big rocks. Winds can be strong and the soil loose. If you fall into the sea it will be your last swim. Use *extreme* caution when approaching the edge of cliffs.

So how do you actually get here?...

Two options...
1. Approach from the north by driving around the north west peninsula. Take the Honoapiilani Hwy (30) until it turns into the Kahekili Hwy (340). This is a longer distance, but is quicker and easier.

2. Approach from the south (like I did) by driving north on Khekili Hwy (340). You will be blessed with some of the most beautiful seascapes and tropical views imaginable. However, this part of 340 is very narrow (1 lane) and has steep cliffs. The driver must go very slow and pay attention at all times. Because the road is so narrow and twisty it takes a much longer time especially because you'll be stopping for photos every 5 minutes! If you're not a nervous driver and have the time to spare, take this route for the best experience.