Pros & cons
PROS
- Sweeping coastal views, including the Ke‘anae Peninsula
- Reliable bathroom stop early in the drive
- Shaded picnic tables for a quick meal
CONS
- Mosquitoes can be fierce after rain
- Basic restrooms; supplies may run out
Overview
Kaumahina State Wayside is one of the first true breathers on the Road to Hana (around mile 12). It sits on a coastal bluff with wide-open views of Maui’s rugged north shore and the Ke‘anae Peninsula. Think: big ocean, lush valleys, a chance to stretch your legs, and—crucially—bathrooms.
What You'll See
- Panoramic lookouts over the northeast coastline and Ke‘anae Peninsula
- Lush rainforest surroundings and shady nooks to escape the highway for a few minutes
- Quick photo ops right from the lot, plus a short path to a slightly higher viewpoint
Amenities That Matter
- Bathrooms are here, which is why this stop gets love on the Road to Hana. They’re basic and can run short on supplies, so come prepared.
- Shaded picnic tables make this an easy spot for a snack or lunch.
- A proper pull-off with parking means safer in-and-out than the tiny shoulder stops.
Quick Walks (Not a Hike)
This is a wayside, not a trailhead. You’ll find short paved and unpaved paths and little loops to viewpoints, but no real hiking or waterfalls directly from here. Plan on 10–20 minutes unless you’re picnicking.
Good to Know
- Expect rainforest weather—brief showers and slick surfaces happen.
- Mosquito repellent is your friend.
- No food, water fill, or store on-site; bring what you need.
- Cell service can be spotty. For any updates or advisories, check the Hawai‘i DLNR State Parks page before you go.
Best Time to Visit
Aim for early morning on weekdays for easier parking, softer light, and fewer people. Midday can be busier as Road to Hana traffic ramps up. It’s a quick, worthwhile stop in daylight hours as you pace your day toward Hana.
Where it is
20.8715, -156.1693Tips for Kaumahina State Wayside
- 01Stop early to use the bathrooms before the curviest stretches ahead.
- 02Carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer—supplies can run out.
- 03Walk the short path above the lot for a wider Ke‘anae view.
- 04Pack bug spray; this is true rainforest.
- 05Bring your own snacks and water—there’s no food or water on-site.
Amenities
Near Kaumahina State Wayside
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayKaumahina Wayside Loop TrailQuick rainforest leg-stretcher with big ocean views and bathroomsEasy · 0.5 mi · 30 min
0.7 mi awayGarden of Eden ArboretumLush gardens with Jurassic Park Rock views and roaming peacocksTrailhead · Restroom
0.8 mi awayPuohokamoa Falls OverlookQuick roadside peek at a tall, hidden Hana waterfallPullout · Parking
1.2 mi awayWaikamoi Ridge TrailShady, ferny leg-stretcher into real Hana rainforestEasy · 1 mi · 45 min
1.2 mi awayWaikamoi Ridge OverlookQuick rainforest loop with picnic spot and partial ocean viewsTrailhead · Pullout
1.5 mi awayAunty Sandy’s Banana BreadWarm, legendary banana bread on the scenic Ke‘anae PeninsulaFood · Parking
1.6 mi awayKeʻanae Arboretum TrailShady botanical stroll with rainbow eucalyptus and taro terracesEasy · 0.6 mi · 30 min
3.3 mi awayUpper Waikani Falls Trail (Three Bears Falls)Iconic roadside triple falls with a short, slippery scramble to pool.Easy · 0.1 mi · 30 min
