For a place that takes up less than half the island (with only a small portion really accessible), East Maui delivers more scenic drama than most national parks (and yes, it has one of those too!)
From black sand beaches to highland crosses, this wild corner of the island is a full-blown reset for anyone ready to swap noise for nature.
Here are five stunning stops to stretch your legs, catch your breath, and soak in East Maui’s natural beauty.
Wai’anapanapa State Park
Covering 122 acres along the coast, Wai’anapanapa State Park is a highlight of the Road to Hana. Visitors can explore sea caves, blowholes, freshwater lava tubes, and rugged trails along ancient lava cliffs. The park’s most famous site is Pa’iloa Beach, known for its black sand formed by eroded volcanic rock. Nearby, cultural sites include ancient Hawaiian burial grounds and a lava-rock heiau (temple), offering a deeper connection to local history. Make sure to get reservations ahead of time.
Hana Bay
Hana Bay is the gathering place of East Maui, with calm waters and a welcoming beach lined with ironwood trees. The sand here is a mix of dark gray and reddish-brown, not quite black, but still striking. This is a great spot for snorkeling in spring and summer, with the chance to see green sea turtles, parrotfish, and yellow tang. Winter brings small surfable waves, and humpback whale sightings are common in the shoulder seasons.
Fagan’s Cross
Sitting atop Pu‘u o Kahaula, Fagan’s Cross honors Paul Fagan, who founded Hana Ranch in the 1940s and helped shape modern tourism in the area. The hike is short (though uphill) and scenic, with sweeping views of Hana town and the coastline. It’s especially popular at sunrise and offers a peaceful place to reflect.
Hamoa Beach
Regularly ranked as one of the best beaches in the world, Hamoa Beach features salt-and-pepper sand, clear water, and a postcard-perfect crescent shape. Surrounded by cliffs and shaded by greenery, it’s ideal for swimming, bodysurfing, and snorkeling. The beach is popular with both locals and visitors. Though you can find it without a crowd off-season, it can get hectic. If there’s no parking, it’s going to be busy!
ʻOheʻo Gulch (sometimes inaccurately called “Seven Sacred Pools”)
Located in Haleakalā National Park’s Kīpahulu District, ʻOheʻo Gulch is a series of tiered waterfalls and pools flowing through a lush rainforest valley. While often called the “Seven Sacred Pools,” this nickname is a 20th-century invention, there are many more than seven, and none were originally designated as sacred. Swimming is prohibited due to flash flood risks and danger of rock slides, so visitors should always check current conditions with the National Park Service. The Pipiwai Trail hike will take you past waterfalls, along bridges, through bamboo forests, and past banyan trees.
Planning Your East Maui Adventure
These five highlights barely scratch the surface of what East Maui offers. From coastal hikes to quiet coves, this region requires a steady driver, common sense, and enough time to enjoy the stops you make.
