About this place

Maui, the Road to Hana, and the Black Sand Beach

Location and General Context

Maui is the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands, located in the central Pacific Ocean. The island's geography is dominated by two large shield volcanoes: Haleakalā to the east, which rises to over 10,000 feet, and the West Maui Mountains to the west. The island is part of Maui County, which also includes the islands of Molokaʻi, Lānaʻi, and Kahoʻolawe. The county has a total population of approximately 164,351.

The Hana Highway

The Road to Hana, officially known as the Hana Highway, is a 64.4-mile-long route that connects Kahului in central Maui with the town of Hana on the island's remote eastern coast. The most famous stretch of the highway begins in Pāʻia and follows Hawaii Routes 36 and 360. This section is known for its challenging driving conditions.

The road is very narrow and winds its way along the mountainous coastline, featuring an estimated 620 curves and 59 bridges, 46 of which are one-lane. The journey passes through a dense tropical rainforest, offering views of steep sea-cliffs, waterfalls, and lush vegetation. Due to the road's topography and the need for frequent stops, the drive typically takes several hours to complete one way, despite the relatively short mileage.

Waiʻānapanapa State Park

Located just before the town of Hana, Waiʻānapanapa State Park is a primary destination along the highway and is home to the area's most well-known black sand beach, Paʻiloa Beach. The park's name translates to "glistening fresh water" in the Hawaiian language, a reference to the freshwater caves found within its boundaries.

The distinctive black sand of Paʻiloa Beach is not composed of traditional sand but consists of small, smooth fragments of volcanic basalt. It was formed over a long period as a nearby lava flow entered the ocean and was shattered into tiny pieces by the thermal shock, which were then eroded and polished by wave action. In addition to the beach, the 122-acre park features other geological formations, including sea stacks, a natural stone arch, blowholes, and lava tubes.