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The Photo Stop
Maui's Heart-Shaped Rock.
A few minutes from Nakalele Blowhole, the surf carved a heart into the lava coastline — one of Maui's most loved photo stops, hiding in plain sight on the same trail.
Is it still there? Yes — despite rumors of erosion damage, the heart-shaped rock is still standing and still photogenic. Confirmed by locals, 2026.
Where it is
On the trail between the mile marker 38 pull-off and the blowhole, close to the coast — look seaward as the terrain opens up and the ocean frames a heart-shaped opening in the dark lava rock. Most people walk right past it heading straight for the blowhole.
Framing the shot
Shoot with the ocean filling the heart — a slightly low angle keeps the sky out of the opening and the blue inside it. A phone does fine; step laterally until the shape reads as a clean heart.
Best light
Morning light is cleanest on this coast; late afternoon backlights the spray from the blowhole nearby. Windy days add drama — and there is almost always wind out here.
Visit with care
The formation is fragile, shaped — and reshaped — by the same surf that carved it. Photograph it, don't climb it, and keep off the wet rock between it and the ocean. Same coastline rules as the blowhole: never turn your back on the water.
Make it one stop on the full visit: park per the directions guide, take the trail past the heart, and finish at the blowhole at high tide. Free to visit, always — no tickets.
Free Island Guide
The full guide + five-day itinerary & trip planner — free PDF.