For such a small place, East Maui is filled with natural wonders that will truly make you forget about the fast-paced urban landscapes you’ve left behind. If you are looking for adventure, relaxation, and a chance to really be a part of the natural world, then you absolutely must visit these amazing natural retreats during your trip to East Maui:
• Wai’anapanapa State Park
Start your commune with nature at Wai’anapanapa State Park, which covers 122 acres along the East Maui coast. This park has it all. Visitors can hike along two different looped trails and take in the wonders around them, including beautiful coastal vistas, lava shelves sculpted by the sea, multiple caves, and even ancient Hawaiian burial sites. The park also includes Pa’iloa Beach (also known as Black Sand Beach) where you can kick off your trail shoes and rest your tired feet in the water.
• Hana Bay
One of the first thing you’ll notice when you arrive at Hana Bay (besides all of the people if you visit on the weekend) is the black sand beach. Eroding lava washes into the bay giving the sand its distinct color.
There is so much to do in Hana Bay. You can simply relax under the shining sun or take some time to frolic in the water. More active visitors will find that Hana Bay is a great snorkeling and surfing spot. The clarity of the water is best during the spring and summer, and snorkelers can get amazing views of angelfish, parrotfish, yellow tang, green Hawaiian sea turtles, and more. Surfing is best during the winter months. If you visit during spring or fall keep an eye out for humpback whales in the distance.
• Fagan’s Cross
Fagan’s Cross is a memorial built to honor Paul Fagan’s contributions to East Maui. Fagan was the first man to bring cattle ranching to East Maui, and he also created the 14,000-acre Hana Ranch in 1944.
Fagan’s Cross is a short hike up to the top of Pu’u o Kahaula. It’s a nice way for visitors to stretch their legs without having to spend hours on a hiking trail. The hike is well worth the beautiful views of the East Maui coast you’ll find at the top.
• Hamoa Beach
Do not leave East Maui without enjoying the true Hawaii experience of relaxing on a beautiful beach while aquamarine waves crash along the shore. Hamoa Beach is just the place to soak in the sun and beauty of East Maui. Regularly listed as one of the top beaches in the world, Hamoa Beach offers salt and pepper sand and a clear, warm ocean for swimming, bodysurfing, snorkeling, and surfing. This is a great place for couples or families to play and decompress.
• Pools of Ohe’o
Nestled within Haleakala National Park, the Pools of Ohe’o are one of the most gorgeous natural wonders in the entire world. The Pools of O’heo, also known as the Seven Sacred pools, are made up of seven freshwater pools that run through the mountains all the way down to the ocean.
Try to get to the pools early before they crowd with other guests and tourists. As much as you want to, don’t stay in the pools all day. Haleakala National Park is worth exploring in its own right. The park allows camping, so you may even want to spend the night to really make the most of the experience.
These are just five of the many amazing natural wonders you can see in East Maui. We have so much more to share with you. Contact us at Ali’i Resorts, and we can give you even more tips on great activities and places to stay during your time in East Maui.
