Kaihalulu Beach Hana Maui
A secluded cove on Maui's Road to Hana, famous for its striking red sand and dramatic volcanic cliffs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Trail is less slippery
Kaihalulu Beach Hana Maui
Best Time
Trail is less slippery
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A secluded cove on Maui's Road to Hana, famous for its striking red sand and dramatic volcanic cliffs.
"Stunning, hidden gem with vibrant red sand and dramatic cliffs, a must-see for adventurers."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Crucial for the steep, slippery trail. Hiking boots or shoes with good grip are a must.
🚗 Park Smartly
Limited parking; consider Hana Beach Park and walking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Vibrant Red Sand
Experience the unique, deep red sand created by eroding iron-rich volcanic cinder cones.
Dramatic Cliffside Cove
A secluded bay protected by jagged black lava rocks and towering red cliffs.
+1Stunning Red and Blue Contrast
The striking juxtaposition of the red sand against the turquoise ocean waters.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
The Hike is Part of the Adventure
Parking and Access Nuances
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Crucial for the steep, slippery trail. Hiking boots or shoes with good grip are a must.
🚗 Park Smartly
Limited parking; consider Hana Beach Park and walking.
⚠️ Be Aware of Trail Conditions
The trail can be dangerous, especially after rain or landslides.
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
The protected cove is great for swimming and snorkeling.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Crucial for the steep, slippery trail. Hiking boots or shoes with good grip are a must.
🚗 Park Smartly
Limited parking; consider Hana Beach Park and walking.
⚠️ Be Aware of Trail Conditions
The trail can be dangerous, especially after rain or landslides.
🤿 Bring Snorkel Gear
The protected cove is great for swimming and snorkeling.
📸 Capture the Contrast
The red sand against the blue ocean is incredibly photogenic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Kaihalulu Beach is a breathtaking, secluded gem with unique red sand and dramatic cliffs, offering a rewarding experience for those willing to tackle the challenging hike. While the trail requires caution and proper footwear, the stunning scenery and calmer waters for swimming make it a memorable stop on the Road to Hana. Parking and trail access can be tricky, and it's not ideal for families with young children.
"Kaihalulu Beach is a stunning, hidden gem with its vibrant red sand and dramatic cliffs. The hike in is short but challenging, with narrow, steep, and slippery sections—proper footwear is essential. Parking is tricky, and access is unmarked, so expect an adventure. The cove offers calmer waters for swimming, but conditions can change. Not ideal for kids or those uncomfortable with heights. A breathtaking, off-the-beaten-path experience for those willing to take the trek."
Shane Perry
"Parking for the beach is somewhat tricky as you have to park in the community. Once parked, you will walk to the trail and then take the trail to the beach. The trail is fairly easy. There is not much elevation change. It does have a few slick spots if not wearing the right type of footwear. There are also a few narrow areas along the trail. The view along the trail is very nice. However, the trail is very manageable on a dry day. There were quite a few people there at the beach, about 50 to 70 people when I got there, which is a fairly small beach. It is a good swimming and snorkeling area as it is protected."
Christopher Etherton
"One end of the beach has a high ledge where animals come to graze. Very organic and picturesque. It’s been years since I last visited Hana and this beach, but it is etched in my mind as one of the most beautiful beach settings I have ever been blessed to visit, in this lifetime!!"
Reiki Healer
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kaihalulu Beach, also known as Red Sand Beach, is located on Maui's Road to Hana. Access is via an unmarked, challenging hiking trail that starts near Hana town. Parking can be difficult, often requiring visitors to park in the community or at Hana Beach Park and walk to the trailhead.
Yes, the hike is considered challenging. It's steep, narrow, and can be slippery, especially after rain. Proper footwear is essential, and it's not recommended for those with a fear of heights or young children.
No, you cannot drive directly to Kaihalulu Beach. The final approach is on foot via a hiking trail.
Parking is limited and can be tricky. You may need to park in the local community or at Hana Beach Park and walk to the trailhead.
No, the trail is unmarked, which adds to its secluded and adventurous feel.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kaihalulu Beach does not require reservations and is free to access.
Kaihalulu Beach is a natural attraction and does not have set opening hours. It's best visited during daylight hours for safety on the trail.
No, there is no entrance fee to visit Kaihalulu Beach.
The beach itself is generally safe for swimming and snorkeling due to its protected cove. However, the hike to get there presents significant safety challenges due to steep and slippery terrain.
It is generally not recommended to visit with young children due to the challenging and potentially dangerous hiking trail.
📸 📸 Photography
Morning light often provides beautiful contrast between the red sand and blue waters. The midday sun can be harsh, but the unique colors are always striking.
The beach's striking features include its vibrant red sand, dramatic black lava rock formations, and the contrast with the turquoise ocean.
The entire cove offers stunning photographic opportunities. Look for shots that capture the scale of the cliffs, the texture of the sand, and the powerful waves crashing against the rocks.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the dramatic landscapes. A polarizing filter can help enhance the colors of the water and sky.
Drone regulations can vary. It's always best to check current FAA and local regulations before flying a drone in protected natural areas.
🎫 🏊♀️ Onsite Experience
The cove is protected by lava rocks, making the water generally calmer and suitable for swimming and snorkeling. However, always assess current ocean conditions before entering the water.
Swimming and snorkeling are popular activities. The unique scenery also makes it a great spot for photography and simply enjoying the natural beauty.
No, Kaihalulu Beach is a natural, undeveloped beach and does not have any facilities such as restrooms or showers.
Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, a towel, and wear sturdy footwear. Snorkel gear is also recommended if you plan to swim.
Yes, there have been sightings of monk seals at Kaihalulu Beach. Remember to observe them from a safe distance and never disturb them.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers
+1 Be sure to wear sturdy hiking boots and be prepared for steep, potentially slippery sections. The unique red sand and dramatic cliffside setting offer incredible photo opportunities. 📸 Photographers
+2 Capture the raw beauty of this secluded cove, but be mindful of the challenging terrain when setting up your shots. Early morning light often yields the most dramatic colors. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Challenging Trail to Kaihalulu Beach
+1Due to the trail's difficulty, it's strongly advised against for families with young children or individuals with a fear of heights. The unmarked nature of the path adds an element of adventure, but also requires careful attention and awareness of your surroundings. Always check the weather conditions before you go, as a dry day significantly improves the safety of the hike.
Understanding the Red Sand Phenomenon
+1 Over time, this iron-rich volcanic material has eroded and washed down into the cove, creating the unique, deep red hue of the sand. This natural process makes Kaihalulu one of the few red sand beaches in the world, offering a truly unique visual spectacle. The surrounding landscape further enhances the beach's dramatic appearance. Jagged black lava rock formations protect the bay from the open ocean's wrath, creating a more sheltered and calmer environment within the cove.
+1 This contrast between the fiery red sand, the dark, rugged lava rocks, and the vibrant turquoise waters of the Pacific Ocean creates a breathtaking and unforgettable scene. +1
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