palm trees by the water at Wai‘anapanapa State Park

Glistening waters and volcanic coastline attract visitors to a remote coastal park – Wai’anapanapa State Park – located in Hana, on the Hawaiian island of Maui. Black sandy beaches, a private swimming hole, sea caves, ancient Hawaiian burial sites, rugged hiking trails, campsites, cabins, and breathtaking views lay within this gorgeous 122 acre coastal park.

Here guests love to camp, hike, fish, swim, bird watch, picnic, and explore. And explore the ancient coastal trail that leads through the park, past breathtaking coastal views and into nearby Hana.

Activities

Escape to the islands for a bit of rest and relaxation. Camp, hike the ancient trails over volcanic rock, fish along the shoreline, have a picnic, or get a closer look at the colorful sea life along the black sandy shoreline at this Hawaii state park.

Wai’anapanapa State Park is a perfect stop for a day of adventure or a few nights of peace and quiet, listening to the surrounding ocean. Whatever your plan, just be sure to make reservations ahead of time. Visitors are now required to purchase entrance and parking reservations at least a day before their visit. For more information and to purchase tickets go to https://www.gowaianapanapa.com/.

Here are some of the activities that you can do during your visit to Wai’anapanapa State Park:

Swimming at Wai’anapanapa State Park

Stunning Pa’iloa Beach may just be the focal point of Wai’anapanapa State Park. Here guests may swim, snorkel, explore an ocean cave, picnic, and relax. Be aware that swimming may not be possible when the ocean waters are not calm.

Before heading over to the beach remember to put on your water shoes and grab a beach chair. The unique black sandy beach is actually made up of small black pebbles and not really comfortable for sunbathers or for walking on.

For more opportunities to swim and snorkel head over to Hana Bay.

people enjoying the beach at Wai‘anapanapa State Park

Hiking at Wai’anapanapa State Park

Wai’anapanapa State Park provides guests with access onto the Ke ala loa o Maui/ Piilani Trail. This moderate 3 mile trail loops up and down across the rough rocks of the barren lava and past hala trees and breathtaking views of the Hana Coast and Slopes of Hleakala. Make sure you wear comfortable supportive shoes and bring water before heading out on this ancient coastal trail.

Fishing at Wai’anapanapa State Park

Bring your angling gear with you, you may just get a chance to catch sea bass, snapper, or ulna. Fish along the rugged shoreline, beach, or hire a charter boat and guide.

Birding at Wai’anapanapa State Park

Hawai‘i is such a wonderful state for bird lovers. Guests may see a variety among the species as they travel from one island to another. At Wai’anapanapa State Park you may see a Laysan Albatross, Hawaiian Petrel, Wedge-tailed Shearwater, Red-footed Booby, Northern Cardinal, or a Warbling White-eye.

Nature and Wildlife at Wai’anapanapa State Park

Beautiful and rugged Wai’anapanapa State Park showcases a native hala forest, a small black sand beach, natural stone arches, blow holes, and an ocean cave.

Turtles, sea urchins, butterflyfish, surgeonfish, unicornfish, black durgons, triggerfish, tangs… The brightly colored corals, fish, and other sea creatures are amazing to see while snorkeling or walking along the shore.

Pets

Please make other arrangements if traveling with your pets. They are not allowed inside Wai’anapanapa State Park. Service animals are not considered pets and are permitted anywhere within the park.

Camping

Plan ahead and spend a few peaceful nights inside Wai’anapanapa State Park. The park’s overnight accommodations include cabins and campsites for tents and camper vans. This is the only state park in Hawai‘i that allows camper vans. Reservations may be made up to 90 days ahead of time.

The rustic cabins overlook the beautiful Hana shoreline. These fully furnished cabins have 1 or 2 bedrooms, a kitchen, living room area, and a bathroom with a shower. Guests should bring their own linens and kitchen supplies (cookware, dishes, utensils, dish soap, towels, etc.) along with their personal belongings, food, and other needed supplies.

Park Location

Wai’anapanapa State Park
Wai’anapanapa
Hana, HI 96713
Phone: 808.248.4843

Park Website
Reservations

Map

Video

Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Wai’anapanapa State Park: