Kaihalulu (Red Sand) Beach

Maui Beach Guide

Kaihalulu (Red Sand) Beach

Kaihalulu Beach, also known as Red Sand Beach, is a dramatic Hana-area cove known for red sand, steep trail access, strong currents, no facilities and no lifeguards.

Kaihalulu (Red Sand) Beach, Maui

Kaihalulu Beach, or better known as Red Sand Beach, located just south of Maui's Hana Bay, has red-black sand, a product of the cinder cone hill (named Ka'uiki Head) on the northern end of the cove.

The beautiful ironwood trees continuously sprinkle numerous needles that blanket the ground. Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach takes some maneuvering to get down to the water's edge and can be slippery due to crumbling cinder and pine needles from the trees, but the payoff is definitely worth the challenge. The blue ocean, the red sand, the green trees and the black lava sea wall make for a very unique sight. Bring your camera!

Although the beach is partially protected by a reef, it is not suitable for swimming or any other type of watersport due to strong currents and turbuent waters. If you decide to go into the water anyway, be cautious because often times there is a fast-moving rip current that flows out to the open ocean at the northern end of the beach. Also, do not swim behind the lava sea wall because the currents are so strong, you may not be able to swim back to shore. Kaihalulu means "roaring sea" in the Hawaiian language and this beach is named like that for a reason.

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Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 2 rated visitor reviews.

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Gregory

Wed Jul 09, 2014

Gorgeous place to visit. Went with wife and 2 teenage,one twelve year kids. When you enter the field near the community center,opening to path is half way to the end on the right hand side. I highly recommend taking the path all the way down to the water, walk along the Rocky shore line (not hard at all, just take it slow) then climbing back up to path before the shore line curve to,the left..easy to figure out as is you continue it is pretty much impassable via shoreline)
Once back in path, it is a steep,up hill followed by a steep down hill. Just take it slow, lga the vines growing out of the hill sie and stay on the inside of the narrow path. I actually jogged up and down the elite path but took it slow with family on tow. Last hard part is the final trail down to the beach itself, again, take it slow really only one tricky area to navigate but plenty of roots to grab on to. Mistake was not bringing swim gear as we had other sights to see. Really special place, few free bird bathers but nothing weird at all

Thuan Tran 4/15/11

Tue May 03, 2011

We didn't take the hike on the steep cliff as directed because if another party is leaving and we came it'd be a pretty tight spot, so instead....we opt to walk along the beach front on the rocks...(pretty dangerous, yet very adventurous...tide was low of course) bout 10 min, then we seen the Red beach...WOW!!! Worth the walk, seen couple really big bright yellow fishes so we snorkeled for a bit, could not take no under water fishes as wanted because even in the cove the water were pretty strong current....very relaxing indeed

Location, Parking and Directions

Kaihalulu Beach, also known as Red Sand Beach, is located near Uakea Road in Hana, HI 96713, on Maui's east shore. The source directions describe access from the dead end of Uakea Road, south of Hana Bay, across from the Sea Ranch Cottages area. The trail is steep, slippery and hazardous, so visitors should obey all posted signs, avoid closed or private areas and use extreme caution.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Kaihalulu Beach located?

Kaihalulu Beach, also known as Red Sand Beach, is located near Uakea Road in Hana on Maui's east shore.

Why is Kaihalulu Beach red?

The red-black sand comes from erosion of the nearby cinder cone at Ka'uiki Head.

Is Kaihalulu Beach safe for swimming?

No. The source page says the beach is not suitable for swimming or other watersports because of strong currents and turbulent water.

Is the trail to Kaihalulu Beach difficult?

Yes. The source describes a steep trail that can be slippery because of crumbling cinder and ironwood needles.

What facilities are available at Kaihalulu Beach?

There are no facilities and no lifeguards at Kaihalulu Beach.