
Kīpahulu Point Overlook
A serene overlook in Haleakalā National Park, offering ocean vistas and historical intrigue near Charles Lindbergh's grave.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds on the road

Kīpahulu Point Overlook
Best Time
Beat the crowds on the road

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene overlook in Haleakalā National Park, offering ocean vistas and historical intrigue near Charles Lindbergh's grave.
"Nice quiet place to gaze across the ocean and reflect."

🚗 Use a Guided App
Shaka Guide or similar apps offer local insights and navigation for the Road to Hana.
🎟️ Reserve Black Sand Beach
Waiʻānapanapa State Park requires advance reservations to visit.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pipiwai Trail
Haleakalā National Park, Kipahulu District
Hike through a bamboo forest to stunning waterfalls, including the 400-foot Waimoku Falls.
Ocean Views & Lindbergh's Grave
Kipahulu Point Overlook
A quiet spot for ocean gazing, near the resting place of aviator Charles Lindbergh.
Black Sand Beach
Waiʻānapanapa State Park
Famous for its striking black sand, this park requires advance reservations.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Road to Hana Visit
Kipahulu District Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Use a Guided App
Shaka Guide or similar apps offer local insights and navigation for the Road to Hana.
🎟️ Reserve Black Sand Beach
Waiʻānapanapa State Park requires advance reservations to visit.
🥾 Hike Pipiwai Trail
Don't miss this lush rainforest hike with impressive waterfalls.
🧺 Picnic Spot
Kipahulu Point Overlook has picnic tables for a scenic meal.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Use a Guided App
Shaka Guide or similar apps offer local insights and navigation for the Road to Hana.
🎟️ Reserve Black Sand Beach
Waiʻānapanapa State Park requires advance reservations to visit.
🥾 Hike Pipiwai Trail
Don't miss this lush rainforest hike with impressive waterfalls.
🧺 Picnic Spot
Kipahulu Point Overlook has picnic tables for a scenic meal.
💧 Freshwater Stops
Pua'a Ka'a State Park offers refreshing freshwater pools.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Kipahulu Point Overlook to be a small, quiet park with historical connections, offering a peaceful place for reflection and picnics. While some note that foliage can obscure ocean views and the park could use maintenance, its proximity to Charles Lindbergh's grave and its unique historical markers make it a noteworthy stop for those exploring the Road to Hana.
"Small, hidden park. I was happy to take the photo of this item. Lowell Thomas has an Explorers Club award having his name. Found out his son (LT Junior) put this object there. And it makes sense now as I just discover the aviator explorer Charles Lindberg is buried a few meters away."
Louis-Philippe LONCKE
"A little secluded park near the Charles Lindbergh grave and tiny church. No restrooms. Tables for a picnic. Views aren't great because foliage blocks the way."
Brittany
"Nice quiet place to gaze across the ocean and reflect. Very clean, solid picnic table."
charlie compton
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kipahulu Point Overlook is located in the Kipahulu District of Haleakalā National Park, past Hana. It's accessible via the scenic Road to Hana. Many visitors use navigation apps like Shaka Guide to help them along the way.
The Road to Hana is known for its narrow, winding roads with many hairpin turns and one-lane bridges. It's best driven slowly and cautiously. Starting early is recommended to avoid heavy traffic.
Yes, the full loop is possible, but the back road past Kipahulu can be rough and is not always recommended by rental car companies. Check current conditions and your rental agreement.
Popular stops include waterfalls, black sand beaches like Waiʻānapanapa State Park (reservations needed!), lush rainforests, and scenic overlooks. The Pipiwai Trail is a must-do hike.
Kipahulu District of Haleakalā National Park has an entrance fee, but specific timed entry reservations are not typically required for the park itself, unlike Waiʻānapanapa State Park.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Kipahulu is part of Haleakalā National Park, which has an entrance fee valid for three days. This fee covers both the Summit and Kipahulu districts.
While the national park has an entrance fee, specific timed entry reservations are generally not required for Kipahulu itself. However, it's always wise to check the official Haleakalā National Park website for any updates.
No, the Pipiwai Trail is within Haleakalā National Park, so your park entrance fee covers access to the trail.
Restrooms are not available directly at Kipahulu Point Overlook. Facilities are typically located at the main Kipahulu Visitor Center area.
You can purchase your park pass at the entrance station or online in advance through the official National Park Service website.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Pipiwai Trail, with its bamboo forest and waterfalls, is a major highlight. The Seven Sacred Pools (Ohe'o Gulch) are also a popular, though sometimes closed for swimming, attraction.
Swimming at the Seven Sacred Pools (Ohe'o Gulch) is often prohibited due to safety concerns, especially after heavy rains. Always check current conditions and posted signs.
It's a small, quiet park with picnic tables offering ocean views. It's notable for being near the grave of Charles Lindbergh and the site of a Lowell Thomas award.
While Pipiwai is the most renowned, there are shorter, easier trails within the Kipahulu District, such as the Kuloa Point Trail leading to the Seven Sacred Pools.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes suitable for hiking. Lightweight, quick-drying clothing is recommended due to the humid rainforest environment.
📸 📸 Photography
The bamboo forest on the Pipiwai Trail offers unique photographic opportunities. The waterfalls and coastal views from overlooks are also popular.
While the overlook offers ocean views, dense foliage can sometimes obstruct the best shots. The area near Charles Lindbergh's grave also provides a unique, historical photo backdrop.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light. However, the lush greenery of the rainforest is beautiful throughout the day.
Drone usage is restricted in all National Parks, including Haleakalā. Check the official NPS website for current regulations before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive rainforest and ocean vistas. A waterproof camera or protective case is advisable due to potential rain and mist.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For younger children, shorter stops like Pua'a Ka'a State Park with its freshwater pools can be a fun break. While the Seven Sacred Pools are beautiful, swimming is often restricted, so manage expectations. The black sand beach at Waiʻānapanapa State Park is visually striking, but requires advance booking.
🚶 Hikers & Nature Lovers
Beyond Pipiwai, explore the shorter Kuloa Point Trail to see the Seven Sacred Pools (Ohe'o Gulch), though swimming access varies. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, the Kipahulu Point Overlook offers a peaceful spot to enjoy ocean breezes and reflect on the area's history.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Pipiwai Trail
As you ascend, you'll walk through a magical bamboo forest, a truly unique experience that many visitors describe as otherworldly. The trail is well-maintained but can be muddy and slippery, especially after rain. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring water. The sheer scale of the bamboo and the power of the waterfalls make this hike a highlight for many Road to Hana travelers.
Local Tip: While the trail itself is the main draw, keep an eye out for the massive banyan tree along the path. It's an impressive sight and a great spot for photos. The sound of the rainforest and the distant roar of the falls create a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere.
The Significance of Kipahulu Point Overlook
This spot is notable for its connection to Lowell Thomas, the famed explorer and broadcaster, who received an Explorers Club award that is commemorated here. His son, Lowell Thomas Jr., is credited with placing an object at this site. The proximity to the grave of aviator Charles Lindbergh and a tiny church adds another layer of historical intrigue to the location.
While it may not offer dramatic panoramic views, Kipahulu Point Overlook provides a peaceful respite. It's a place for quiet reflection, a picnic lunch at one of its solid tables, and a moment to appreciate the blend of natural beauty and historical footnotes that characterize this part of Maui.





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