Panorama from Kaumahina SWP
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Kaumahina State Wayside Park

4.7
·143 reviews·, United States

A breathtaking first stop on the Road to Hana, offering stunning coastal views, essential amenities, and free parking.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Fewer crowds, best light

CrowdLow
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Panorama from Kaumahina SWP

Kaumahina State Wayside Park

Best Time

Morning

Fewer crowds, best light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A breathtaking first stop on the Road to Hana, offering stunning coastal views, essential amenities, and free parking.

4.7
(143 reviews)

"A very enjoyable quick pit stop on your way to Hana with spectacular views."

Vertical photo
TIP

📸 Capture the Views

The main viewpoint is stunning, but take the short cliff path for even better photo ops!

🚻 Restroom Break

Fully stocked restrooms available, making it a perfect first stop on the Road to Hana.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Coastal Views

Panoramic Coastal Views

Main viewpoint near parking lot

Spectacular ocean vistas and dramatic cliffside scenery await. A must-see for any Road to Hana itinerary.

Cliffside Scenic Path

Cliffside Scenic Path

Path along the cliff

An elevated trail offers even more breathtaking perspectives of the bay and coastline. Perfect for photos.

Convenient Rest Stop

Convenient Rest Stop

Near entrance

Fully stocked restrooms and ample free parking make this an essential and comfortable break on your drive.

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Planning Your Visit

Your First Road to Hana Stop

Kaumahina State Wayside Park is often the first major stop on the iconic Road to Hana. It's a perfect spot to stretch your legs, use the facilities, and soak in your initial breathtaking coastal views before continuing your journey. Arrive early to beat the crowds and enjoy the tranquility.

Quick Pit Stop Essentials

This park offers essential amenities like clean restrooms and free parking, making it an ideal quick break. The main viewpoint is easily accessible from the parking lot, but a short path along the cliff offers even more spectacular vistas. Don't miss this scenic photo opportunity!

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Fewer crowds, best light
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Kaumahina State Wayside Park. This state park is one of the first big stops on the Road to Hana. #vacation2024 #mauihawaii #travel #triptohana
nonoy_ubal
0 likes • 43 views

📸 Capture the Views

The main viewpoint is stunning, but take the short cliff path for even better photo ops! Instagram

🚻 Restroom Break

Fully stocked restrooms available, making it a perfect first stop on the Road to Hana. Reddit

📍Kaumahina State Wayside Park - HI . . . . . #brasileirosporai #brasileirosnoseua #hawaii #hawaiian #hawaiistagram #hawaiilove #hawaiitrip #hawaiivacation #hawaiiliving #unitedstates #unitedstatesofamerica #unitedstates🇺🇸 #banzaipipeline #oahu #oahuhawaii #oahulife #oahuhikes
alexandregavazza
0 likes • 245 views
#Maui 📍Haiku 📍Kaumahina State Wayside Park 📍Ko’olau Forest Reserve 📍Aunt Sandys 📍Pailoa Bay 📍Ho’okipa Beach Park
arikarirey
25 likes • 410 views

🅿️ Free Parking

Ample free parking makes this an easy and accessible stop for everyone. Reddit

🚗 First Road to Hana Stop

Often the first major scenic stop, ideal for an initial taste of Hana's beauty. Instagram

Kaumahina State Wayside Park, situated along the Road to Hana in Maui, is a serene and lush rest stop that promises a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors. Boasting a diverse array of exotic flora and stunning coastal views, this park is an ideal location for a picnic or to simply appreciate the stunning surroundings. #roadtohana #kaumahinastatewaysidepark #mauivacation #travelreels #subathra
subathra.vijay
20 likes • 738 views

Tips

from all over the internet

📸 Capture the Views

The main viewpoint is stunning, but take the short cliff path for even better photo ops! Instagram

🚻 Restroom Break

Fully stocked restrooms available, making it a perfect first stop on the Road to Hana. Reddit

🅿️ Free Parking

Ample free parking makes this an easy and accessible stop for everyone. Reddit

🚗 First Road to Hana Stop

Often the first major scenic stop, ideal for an initial taste of Hana's beauty. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.7
(143 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise Kaumahina State Wayside Park as a beautiful and convenient first stop on the Road to Hana. Its spectacular coastal views, well-maintained restrooms, and free parking are frequently highlighted as major positives. While it's a brief stop for most, its scenic beauty and practical amenities make it a highly recommended and enjoyable part of the journey.

"A very enjoyable quick pit stop on your way to Hana.

There are bathroom facilities that were fully stocked with toilet paper.

The view is right a the parking lot, so no need to walk unless you’d like a bit higher up of a view, as there is a path along the cliff for another viewpoint. It is a truly spectacular view.

Free parking is very handy.

Overall this is a great place for a photo op as well as a bathroom break."

Emma Van Achte

"A very scenic viewpoint you shouldn't miss when driving on the scenic Road to Hana. There is plenty of free parking."

Walter R

"Clear signage with an easy off and on to the Hana Hwy makes this an easily accessible stop to stretch and use the facilities. Take the short path up the cliff side for some great bay vistas. Then pop back into your car because you still have quite a ways to go!"

SMorris Travels

What People Like

Spectacular coastal views
Convenient restrooms
Free parking

What People Dislike

Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kaumahina State Wayside Park is located along the famous Road to Hana (Hana Highway) on Maui. It's typically one of the first major scenic stops you'll encounter after leaving the main highway. Look for clear signage indicating the park entrance. Instagram+1

Yes, it's very accessible with clear signage and an easy pull-off from the Hana Highway. The main viewpoint is right by the parking lot, making it a convenient stop. Reddit

Many visitors recommend starting early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the scenic drive. Kaumahina State Wayside Park is a great first stop to get acquainted with the stunning coastal scenery. InstagramReddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Kaumahina State Wayside Park offers free parking and entry, making it a budget-friendly stop on your Road to Hana adventure. Reddit

The park is generally open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, providing ample time for a visit during daylight hours. Reddit

There is no need to book tickets in advance as the park is free to enter and parking is also complimentary. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy breathtaking coastal views from the main viewpoint or a short cliffside path, use the well-maintained restrooms, and have a picnic. It's an ideal spot for a photo opportunity and a brief respite. InstagramReddit

Yes, the park has public washrooms that are reported to be well-stocked and clean, making it a convenient stop. Reddit

Absolutely! The park features a picnic area and offers stunning surroundings, making it a perfect spot to enjoy a meal or snack. InstagramReddit

Most visitors spend about 15-30 minutes here, just enough time to take in the views, use the facilities, and snap some photos before continuing their journey. Reddit

The park is known for its lush, tropical vegetation and diverse array of exotic flora, adding to the scenic beauty of the location. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The primary viewpoint near the parking lot offers stunning panoramic ocean and coastline views. For a different perspective, take the short path up the cliff for elevated vistas. InstagramReddit

Mornings often provide softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons can offer beautiful golden hour hues over the ocean. Reddit

Yes, the park provides spectacular views of the Maui coastline and the Pacific Ocean, making it a prime location for scenic photography. InstagramReddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kaumahina State Wayside Park is a fantastic, easy stop for families on the Road to Hana. The convenient restrooms are a lifesaver for parents, and the free parking makes it stress-free. The main viewpoint is right by the parking lot, so kids don't have to walk far to see the incredible ocean views. It's a great spot for a quick stretch and to let children marvel at the vast Pacific. Reddit

While there aren't specific playgrounds, the open space and stunning natural scenery provide plenty of wonder. The short cliffside path can be an exciting mini-adventure for older kids, offering a slightly elevated perspective. It’s an ideal place for a brief picnic break, allowing everyone to recharge before continuing the drive. Instagram

🚗 Day-Trippers on the Road to Hana

For day-trippers tackling the Road to Hana, Kaumahina State Wayside Park is an essential first stop. It offers a perfect opportunity to get your bearings, utilize facilities, and capture those iconic initial coastal shots. Its accessibility and free amenities make it an unmissable part of the experience. InstagramReddit

Don't just stop for a quick photo; take the short walk along the cliff for a more expansive view. This park is designed for a brief, impactful stop, allowing you to maximize your time exploring further down the highway. It sets the tone for the incredible natural beauty you'll encounter throughout the day. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Road to Hana Experience

Kaumahina State Wayside Park is a quintessential stop on the legendary Road to Hana. This scenic drive is more about the journey than the destination, with countless waterfalls, lush rainforests, and dramatic coastal vistas. As one of the first major pull-offs, Kaumahina offers a perfect introduction to the breathtaking beauty that awaits. Many travelers use it as a crucial first stop to orient themselves, use facilities, and capture initial stunning photos before venturing further into the winding highway. Instagram+1

This park is strategically located, providing an accessible point to break up the drive. The ease of access, coupled with its natural beauty, makes it a popular choice for those embarking on this iconic Maui adventure. Remember that the Road to Hana is known for its narrow, winding roads, so taking breaks at designated spots like Kaumahina is not only enjoyable but also practical for a safe and pleasant journey. Reddit

Beyond the immediate views, the park's lush surroundings hint at the rich biodiversity of the region. It's a place to appreciate the tropical flora and the sheer power of the Pacific Ocean crashing against the rugged coastline. For many, it's the first tangible sign that they've truly entered the magical world of Hana. Instagram

Essential Amenities and Accessibility

One of the most appreciated aspects of Kaumahina State Wayside Park is its essential amenities. Travelers on the Road to Hana often find themselves needing a restroom break or a place to simply stretch their legs. This park delivers with clean, well-stocked public washrooms, a welcome relief for many. The availability of these facilities significantly enhances the comfort of the drive. Reddit

Furthermore, the park offers ample free parking, which is a significant advantage given the popularity of the Road to Hana. This ease of access means you can quickly pull over, enjoy the scenery, and continue your journey without hassle. The main viewpoint is conveniently located just steps from the parking area, making it accessible for most visitors, including those with limited mobility. Reddit

For those who wish to extend their stay slightly, there's a short path along the cliff that provides an elevated perspective. This path is generally easy to navigate, offering a slightly different angle on the stunning bay and coastline. It’s a simple yet rewarding addition to the park's offerings, allowing visitors to appreciate the landscape from multiple vantage points. Reddit

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