Wai'anapanapa State Park

Wai'anapanapa is a state park featuring Pa'iloa Beach with dark sand composed of crushed volcanic rock along the Hana coast. The park spreads across volcanic terrain with coastal caves and walking paths that wind through the rugged shoreline.

Native Hawaiians established over 34 archaeological sites within the park over centuries, including burial grounds, temples, and cave shelters. These remains show how this coastal area served as a significant settlement and spiritual center for local communities.

The name Wai'anapanapa means glistening water in Hawaiian, referring to the freshwater pools forming within coastal caves. Visitors walking the trails encounter these calm water bodies as part of the landscape shaped by local traditions and geography.

Entry to the park requires advance reservations through the official booking system. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes for walking the coastal trails over rocky terrain and bring water for the exposed areas.

The park contains anchialine pools, landlocked water bodies connected underground to the ocean, creating isolated ecosystems. These rare habitats support native red shrimp found nowhere else on Earth.

Location: Maui County

Website: http://dlnr.hawaii.gov/dsp/parks/maui/waianapanapa.cfm

GPS coordinates: 20.78580,-155.99700

Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:41