Wai'anapanapa State Park wilderness guide
State Park · HI

Wai'anapanapa State Park

Located on the rugged eastern coast of Maui, Wai'anapanapa State Park is known for its striking black sand beaches, dramatic sea cliffs, and cultural significance that offer visitors a unique glimpse into Hawaii's natural and cultural heritage.

State Park1221+ Trails
DesignationState Park
Total Wilderness Area122
Elevation / TerrainDiverse Wilderness
Field Editorial Guide

About Wai'anapanapa State Park

Located on the rugged eastern coast of Maui, Wai'anapanapa State Park is known for its striking black sand beaches, dramatic sea cliffs, and cultural significance that offer visitors a unique glimpse into Hawaii's natural and cultural heritage.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Wai'anapanapa State Park is a stunning coastal park located near the town of Hana on the island of Maui, Hawaii. Spanning approximately 122 acres, this park is celebrated for its otherworldly black sand beaches, formed from volcanic activity. The park features vibrant coastal views, lava arches, and sea caves. It is a haven for native wildlife, including seabirds and marine life. The lush, tropical landscape provides a dramatic contrast to the black lava coastline, making it an ideal site for photography enthusiasts. Historically, Wai'anapanapa holds significant cultural value to the native Hawaiian people. Visitors can explore ancient Hawaiian burial sites and heiaus (temples). Key recreation opportunities include hiking, particularly the famous Ke Ala Loa O Maui/Piilani Trail, known for its breathtaking ocean vistas. The park’s natural beauty and cultural landmarks offer a serene escape for those seeking to immerse themselves in Hawaii's rich history and natural splendor.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Wai'anapanapa State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Pailoa Bay's black sand beach✦ Fascinating sea arches and lava tubes✦ Cultural sites including ancient burial grounds✦ May's Spring Tide Pools for a unique aquatic experience
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Wai'anapanapa State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Wai'anapanapa State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Wai'anapanapa State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Wai'anapanapa State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Wai'anapanapa State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Wai'anapanapa State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No fee required for day-use entry, camping requires a reservation and fee.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Wai'anapanapa State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Wai'anapanapa State Park Campground

Located within the park, offering oceanfront views and proximity to trails and the beach.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Wai'anapanapa State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Hana, Hawaii
⌖ 2.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hana, Hawaii

Hana, Hawaii offers a serene escape with lush trails, stunning waterfalls, and coastal beauty. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility on the Hana Coast.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Hāna, Hawaii
⌖ 2.47 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Hāna, Hawaii

Hāna is an isolated Hawaiian town prized for its lush rainforests, stunning waterfalls, and scenic coastline. Outdoor adventurers enjoy hiking, paddling, and exploring the famous Road to Hāna for an authentic island wilderness experience.

April to October
Explore Town
Kīpahulu, Hawaii
⌖ 9.65 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kīpahulu, Hawaii

Kīpahulu is a vibrant coastal community on Maui known for lush rainforest hikes, stunning waterfalls, and natural ocean pools. Outdoor lovers can hike forests, paddle calm seas, snorkel reefs, and experience Hawaiian culture away from crowds.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Keʻanae, Hawaii
⌖ 10.71 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Keʻanae, Hawaii

Keʻanae is a peaceful coastal hamlet on Maui’s Hana Highway known for its taro farms, lush landscapes, and ocean views. Perfect for hikers, bikers, and paddlers who want cultural authenticity and quiet natural beauty.

Spring to Fall
Explore Town
Makawao, Hawaii
⌖ 20.43 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Makawao, Hawaii

Makawao is a rustic Hawaiian town offering outdoor adventures on the slopes of Haleakalā, from hiking and horseback riding to surfing and cultural tours. Experience Hawaiian culture and nature in this off-the-beaten-path gem.

Kula, Hawaii
⌖ 20.84 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Kula, Hawaii

Kula is an outdoor adventurer's paradise in Maui’s upcountry, with spectacular biking routes, serene trails, and stargazing atop Haleakalā Crater. Adventure awaits under blue skies and among native flora.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Wai'anapanapa State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

Road To Hana - From Maui
ADVEXPEDITION
Maui, Hawaii
Sightseeing TourADV Bookable

Road To Hana - From Maui

Travel the famed Road to Hana with Dynamic Tour Hawaii on a full-day journey through Maui’s wild coastline, rainforests, and black sand beaches. Discover hidden gems and local flavors on this iconic island adventure.

Sightseeing TourRoad to Hana Adventure Tour from MauiCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Road to Hana Adventure Tour (M2)
ADVEXPEDITION
Hana, Hawaii
Bus TourADV Bookable

Road to Hana Adventure Tour (M2)

Discover the iconic Road to Hana on a comfortable, expert-guided bus tour. Swim beneath waterfalls, savor local farm-fresh cuisine, and explore Maui’s lush natural beauty without the hassle of driving.

Bus TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Luxury Full-Circle Road to Hana Tour - Shared
ADVEXPEDITION
Hana, Hawaii
Bus TourADV Bookable

Luxury Full-Circle Road to Hana Tour - Shared

Discover Maui’s legendary Road to Hana in style with a luxury full-circle tour. Relax in comfort as you explore waterfalls, beaches, and vibrant flora on this unforgettable day trip.

Bus TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Private Luxury SUV Tour Package (Hana) (7 Passenger SUV)
ADVEXPEDITION
Kahului, Hawaii
PrivateADV Bookable

Private Luxury SUV Tour Package (Hana) (7 Passenger SUV)

Discover Hana’s breathtaking coastline and lush landscapes in style with Hana Air & Ground Tours’ private luxury SUV experience. Led by a local guide, this trip offers personalized insights and exclusive access to Hana’s most iconic sights—perfect for families and curious travelers alike.

PrivateCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Kahanu Garden Guided Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Hana, Hawaii
Guided TourADV Bookable

Kahanu Garden Guided Tour

Discover the rich history and lush plant life of Hawaii on a guided tour through Kahanu Garden. Perfect for culture and nature lovers alike, this experience offers a unique look into Hawaiian heritage in a stunning rainforest setting.

Guided TourCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Luxury Full-Circle Road to Hana Tour - Private Cadillac Escalade
ADVEXPEDITION
Hana, Hawaii
History TourADV Bookable

Luxury Full-Circle Road to Hana Tour - Private Cadillac Escalade

Cruise Maui’s Road to Hana in luxury with Hawaiian Style Tours’ private Cadillac Escalade. Experience waterfall stops, black sand beaches, and expert local insights on this unforgettable day-long adventure.

History TourDaily • 3 years & older • Maximum 4 passengers • 10-12 hoursCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
7 Sacred Pools & Bamboo Forest Hike
ADVEXPEDITION
Kihei, Hawaii
WellnessADV Bookable

7 Sacred Pools & Bamboo Forest Hike

Discover Hawaii’s natural beauty with a private hike through the 7 Sacred Pools and Bamboo Forest in Kihei. Tailored for adventurers and nature lovers, this 10.5-hour tour offers stunning waterfalls and peaceful forest hikes.

WellnessCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip
Private Halfway to Hana Tour
ADVEXPEDITION
Hana, Hawaii
PrivateADV Bookable

Private Halfway to Hana Tour

Experience the magic of Maui's famous Road to Hana on a private, half-route adventure. Explore rainforests, waterfalls, and ocean vistas with local guides on this unforgettable tour.

PrivateCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip