Puaʻa Kaʻa State Wayside

Overview

A true Road to Hana classic at mile marker 22.5, Pua'a Ka'a State Wayside is a lush, 5‑acre rainforest rest stop split by the highway. It’s one of the easiest places on the drive to stretch your legs, hit a real bathroom, and hop into a natural pool beneath a small waterfall.

What You'll See

• A pair of small waterfalls and clear pools just steps from the parking area.
• The popular lower pool sits right by the bridge; an upper pool is a short walk beyond the picnic area.
• Thick rainforest greenery and a relaxed, picnic‑friendly lawn. Expect the occasional feral cat or a mongoose cruising for crumbs.

Why Stop Here

You’re getting a scenic waterfall, legit restrooms, and shaded picnic tables in one quick pull-off—rare on this route. It’s not the biggest or most dramatic waterfall on the drive, but for convenience and a refreshing dip, it punches above its weight.

Swimming and Safety

The lower pool is the easy, obvious swim. Rocks are slick, so water shoes help. Skip swimming if the stream is high, fast, or brown—flash floods happen after rain. The path to the upper falls can get very muddy with some narrow, dicey crossings; many folks turn around.

Amenities

Day-use only, no fee. Small paved parking lot, restrooms, and multiple shaded picnic tables. A short path leads up-valley for closer views and the upper pool.

Best Time to Visit

Hit it early (before 10 am) or late afternoon for easier parking and fewer tour vans. Midday is busiest. The light is softest in the morning; after storms, expect mud and potentially unsafe water conditions. Officially open during daylight hours.

Good to Know

Bring a towel, bug spray, and water shoes. If you’re on a tight schedule, enjoy the lower pool and move on—there are bigger waterfalls ahead, but few with this combo of scenery and facilities.