Waiʻanapanapa State Park in Maui

Wai’anapanapa State Park: It’s a mouthful! Pronounced: Why-a-nah-pah nah-pah. This park is worth stopping at for the views alone.

The black sand beach contrasted by the blue of the ocean and the vivid greenery makes for a visual delight.

Wai'anapanapa State Park has beautiful views.

Where is Wai’Anapanapa State Park located?

There are many fantastic stops along the road to Hana in Maui, Hawaii. One of our favourite places to stop is Wai’Anapanapa State Park.

After you’ve made it to Hana and you’re on your way back to your starting point is the best time to stop at the park. You’ll find this must-see stop near mile marker 32. You’ll be glad you stopped here.

What is there to do at the park?

Wai’anapanapa State Park has several amenities available for travellers. We first visited this park in 2011 and are impressed with the work that has gone into making this park visitor-friendly and safe.

Check out the scenic viewpoints located around the park! They are perfect if you are a birdwatcher, a photographer or just love a good view. You can stop and have a swim in the ocean, relax on the black sand beach, check out the caves or the lava tube (please admire from a distance!) or go for a hike in the area.

Washrooms & Showers
Camping & Cabins (Book in advance here!)
Picnic Tables

Inside the cave at Wai'anapanapa State Park in Maui, Hawaii

There is a Hawaiian legend about the caves at the Wai’anapanapa State Park. There is an old legend that a Hawaiian princess named Popaloaea tried to escape her cruel husband Cheif Kakae. She used the cave as a hiding place as she attempted to escape her husband. He sadly found her and killed her.

If you’re lucky you may see the water of the cave a shade of red. A species of red shrimp is the cause of this dramatic colour change. Many believe that this is a reminder of the princess’s death.