Kipahulu (Haleakalā National Park)

National park · Hana, Hawaii

Kipahulu (Haleakalā National Park)

The coastal district of Haleakalā National Park, south of Hana, with the terraced ʻOheʻo pools and the Pīpīwai Trail, which crosses a bamboo forest and leads to Waimoku Falls, about 120 meters high.

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About Kipahulu (Haleakalā National Park)

Kīpahulu is the part of Haleakalā National Park that descends to the sea on Maui’s southeast coast, about 16 km south of the village of Hana. There is no road connecting the summit to this district: you reach it by continuing on the road to Hana. The same park ticket is valid for both park districts for several days.

Near the visitor center, the short Kūloa Point Trail descends to the mouth of Palikea stream, where water forms the terraced ʻOheʻo pools down to the ocean. Swimming in the pools is not allowed because of flash floods and falling rocks; they can be viewed from the trail overlooks.

On the other side of the road the Pīpīwai Trail begins, about 6 km round trip, which climbs the valley past a huge banyan tree, Makahiku Falls and through a forest of tall bamboo trunks, where the wind makes the culms hit each other. It ends at the base of Waimoku Falls, about 120 meters high.

The area also preserves ruins of agricultural terraces and Hawaiian dwellings. Further down the road, near Palapala Hoʻomau Church, is the grave of aviator Charles Lindbergh.

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Before you go

Practical information

Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.

How much time to set aside

Two to three hours for the Pīpīwai Trail and the ʻOheʻo overlook, plus travel time on the road to Hana.

Best time

In the morning, to hike Pīpīwai with fewer people and before the afternoon rains. After heavy rain, streams rise and parts of the trail may close.

How to get there

By the road to Hana to the village and then 16 km south, about 30 minutes of winding driving. From Kahului, allow about three and a half hours with stops. Park entrance fee is required and is also valid for the summit; check the park website.

Tip

Bring footwear that can get wet and insect repellent for the Pīpīwai Trail. Do not enter the ʻOheʻo pools or the streams.

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Get your questions answered

Frequently asked questions about Kipahulu (Haleakalā National Park)

Can you swim in the ʻOheʻo pools?

No. Swimming in the pools is not allowed because of flash floods and falling rocks; they can be viewed from the Kūloa Point Trail overlooks.

How long is the Pīpīwai Trail?

About 6 km round trip, with a moderate climb through the bamboo forest to Waimoku Falls.

Does the Kīpahulu ticket cover the summit of Haleakalā?

Yes. The park ticket covers both the summit and Kīpahulu for several days. Reservations for sunrise at the summit are separate.

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