Maui’s “secret” Red Sand Beach on the Road to Hana

Kaihalulu Beach is one of the stops on Maui’s “Road to Hana,” which is no longer a “secret.” Still, it’s not easy to get to, so it’s often uncrowded.

Known as the “Red Sand Beach,” Kaihalulu is on the opposite side of Hana Bay Beach Park, right in the town of Hana itself.

The bright blue ocean water contrasts in a striking way against the crimson sand and cliffs, which were once a volcanic cone.

Jagged black lava rocks form a natural ocean wall break, which creates a swimmable area with only small waves (under ideal conditions).

From the relative peaceful. nature of the blue-water cove, you’ll watch the waves slam the lava rock wall relentlessly.

Getting to the beach

This whole part of the island of Maui is remote, and largely without cell service. The town of Hana *does* have cell service in most spots.

For reference, it’s a *minimum* two-hour drive from the airport, and a three-hour drive from Lahaina. It’ll likely take longer if the Hana Highway is crowded with cars.

Park at the corner of Uakea Road and Hauoli Road, which you can find on Google Maps easily.

Only a handful of “legal” roadside parking spots exist. We parked on the highway itself, alongside the historic church across the park.

Police patrol the area frequently, writing parking tickets which start at $35.

It’s a hike

Heading down toward the water, you’ll have to cross a field, which is private property. A trail leads you into the trees, and a path develops down toward the beach.

A landslide wiped the original trail out, and its replacement isn’t ideal for everyone. We found it enjoyable and challenging, but we saw several people turn around, and not even bother making it down to the beach.

You’ll pass several signs, warning that you’re entering “at your own risk.” Other signs say the beach is closed entirely. Another warns that visitors die on the trail and at the beach annually.

This isn’t a hike for sandals.

Beware

You’ll be surrounded by hazards, from the cliffs to the waves. Swimming anywhere near the lava rocks puts you in great danger.

The trail is covered in loose sand, and some sort of round seed pods, which make it easy to slide off the side.

Remember to park in legal spots only, unless you don’t mind the ticket, which an officer says “starts” at $35. It goes up if he finds “other infractions.”

Plus, on the Road to Hana in general, watch out for wildlife. Driving back after dark, we came across cows, dogs, and chickens right in the middle of the windy, narrow road.

All that said, the Red Sand Beach is one of the most unique, memorable stops you can make on the Road to Hana.