Kaumahina State Wayside

Ocean overlook and reliable bathroom stop early on the drive

Kaumahina State Wayside, Road to Hana
Image credit: Parkwolf

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, -156.1693
Kaumahina State Wayside

Tips for Kaumahina State Wayside

  1. 01Stop early to use the bathrooms before the curviest stretches ahead.
  2. 02Carry your own toilet paper and hand sanitizer—supplies can run out.
  3. 03Walk the short path above the lot for a wider Ke‘anae view.
  4. 04Pack bug spray; this is true rainforest.
  5. 05Bring your own snacks and water—there’s no food or water on-site.

Amenities

Near Kaumahina State Wayside

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More about Kaumahina State Wayside

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