Keawanaku Beach
Overview:
Are you the type of person who thrives of adventure? As in put on some hiking boots, fill up a water bottle, and trek for miles across jagged sharp lava in search of a beach kind of fun?
If so, then this hidden South Maui beach is definitely your type of trip.
This hike begins at the end of the road in Keoneo'io, or La Perouse Bay, and is set along the Hoapili Trail--a coastal path built by Hoapili, Governor of Maui in 1824. For more info on the trail's history, visit the page for the Hoapili Trail...it's truly a hike back in time.
As for Keawanaku Beach itself, this tucked-away pocket of gray black sand is a peaceful, calming, slice of beauty in the midst of a shadeless void. This barren, hot, windy landscape is surrounded by lava from the island's last eruption, and just finding the beach is a mini-victory worth celebrating once you get there.
Granted, when you do finally make it to the sand, the surf is often too rough for swimming and the currents are dangerous and strong. Swimming is possible on the calmest of days, although I'd advise against anything more than a quick dip.
Nevertheless, this is defnitely an adventure the intrepid won't want to miss!
If so, then this hidden South Maui beach is definitely your type of trip.
This hike begins at the end of the road in Keoneo'io, or La Perouse Bay, and is set along the Hoapili Trail--a coastal path built by Hoapili, Governor of Maui in 1824. For more info on the trail's history, visit the page for the Hoapili Trail...it's truly a hike back in time.
As for Keawanaku Beach itself, this tucked-away pocket of gray black sand is a peaceful, calming, slice of beauty in the midst of a shadeless void. This barren, hot, windy landscape is surrounded by lava from the island's last eruption, and just finding the beach is a mini-victory worth celebrating once you get there.
Granted, when you do finally make it to the sand, the surf is often too rough for swimming and the currents are dangerous and strong. Swimming is possible on the calmest of days, although I'd advise against anything more than a quick dip.
Nevertheless, this is defnitely an adventure the intrepid won't want to miss!
Good For:
Escaping the crowds, sense of adventure, ancient Hawaiian historical sights. Bonus points for spotting wild goats!
Not So Good For:
Swimming, snorkeling, forgetting your water, hiking in the middle of the day.
Maui Expert Tip For Keawanaku Beach:
Start early in the morning to beat the heat, pack lots of water, and wear some real hiking shoes. The a'a lava will destroy your slippers and even turns sneakers to shreds. For a scenic adventure make the drive in the dark and then head for the beach right at sunrise!
Directions and Parking Situation:
From Wailea or Makena, just drive south to the end of the road where it ends at Keoneo'io (La Perouse Bay).
After you've followed the shoreline for .7 miles, you'll pass a popular surfing spot where waves as large as 20 feet can sometimes break in summer.
Ten minutes after the surf spot you'll see a sign that mentions the King's Highway and to respect the historical sites (so please do!). The sign will also indicate that Kanaio Beach is two miles ahead.
You'll notice a spur trail that leads down to the lighthouse at Cape Hanamanioa, but to reach Keawanaku you'll stay on the main trail for about 20 more minutes. As an indicator to where the beach is, you will see a short, lone palm tree springing from the black lava field which is surrounded by a grove of kiawe trees. Once you’ve located where the beach might be, keep a keen eye out for the short spur trail that winds its way down to the beach. Hang a left at the square rock walls and follow the trail to the sand.
After you've followed the shoreline for .7 miles, you'll pass a popular surfing spot where waves as large as 20 feet can sometimes break in summer.
Ten minutes after the surf spot you'll see a sign that mentions the King's Highway and to respect the historical sites (so please do!). The sign will also indicate that Kanaio Beach is two miles ahead.
You'll notice a spur trail that leads down to the lighthouse at Cape Hanamanioa, but to reach Keawanaku you'll stay on the main trail for about 20 more minutes. As an indicator to where the beach is, you will see a short, lone palm tree springing from the black lava field which is surrounded by a grove of kiawe trees. Once you’ve located where the beach might be, keep a keen eye out for the short spur trail that winds its way down to the beach. Hang a left at the square rock walls and follow the trail to the sand.
Facilities:
None. Pack it in pack it out.
