Waianapanapa State Park boasts a black sand beach that’s simply unparalleled on the island of Maui. It’s nestled in a private cove with pitch black granules that glisten dark and mysterious hues. Created long, long ago by the rough surf pounding on a fresh bubbling lava flow courtesy of Haleakela. It took a millennium or more to be ground down into a beach.
A striking coastline, mysterious caves, unpredictable blowholes and picturesque sea arches are the backdrop. Relating back to “kahiko” (ancient) times. Ancient folklore tells of stories of love, duty, family, war, peace, joy and daily struggles for survival in Hawaiian culture. It was a time of living simpler. It’s definitely a once in a lifetime experience that is not to be missed!
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Kaihalulu Bay and Red Sand Beach is on the side of Ka'uiki Head, which is a cinder cone just south of Hana Bay, on the Maui’s eastern coastline. The bay name comes from kai halulu, which means "roaring sea" in the Hawaiian language. The hill name comes from ka ʻuiki which means "the glimmer". It was the site of a fortress and temple (heiau) where several battles were fought against invaders from Hawaiʻi island.
Red Sand Beach is partially shielded from the rough open ocean by an offshore reef. The result is a natural sea wall that protects the bay from large waves. Kaihalulu is one of the few red sand beaches in the world. The sand is a deep red-black, which contrasts with the blue water, the black sea wall, and the green ironwood trees. The cinder cone behind the beach erodes constantly, which continually enlarges the cove. This hill is rich in iron and is why the beach's sand is such a deep red. Another fabulous sight on the Road to Hana!
Category:Scenic
Subcategory:Coastlines
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