Pros & cons
PROS
- Packed lava features—blowhole, sea arches, lava tubes—in a tiny loop
- Photogenic black sand and dramatic color contrast at sunrise and late light
CONS
- Timed reservation required for park entry; same‑day often unavailable
- Sharp, uneven lava and limited shade make it rough in flimsy footwear
Park at the main lot inside Waiʻānapanapa State Park by the black‑sand beach; the loop starts near the stairs and paths around Pāʻiloa Bay. Timed reservation required for entry.
Sharp, uneven lava; surfaces slick when wet; strong surf and rogue waves; keep distance from blowholes and cliff edges; respect cultural sites and closures; not accessible for strollers or wheelchairs.
This quick loop circles the famous black sand of Pāʻiloa Bay inside Waiʻānapanapa State Park. In a half-mile you get a highlight reel of rugged volcanic coastline—inky sand, sea cliffs, a blowhole, lava tubes, and pocket coves—without committing your whole Road to Hana day.
What you’ll see
Expect jet‑black sand framed by turquoise water and bright green coastal plants like hala (pandanus) and naupaka. Short spurs reveal sea arches, a blowhole, and lava tubes formed where ancient flows met the ocean. You’ll also pass culturally sensitive areas, including caves and historic sites—look, don’t touch, and respect all closures and signs.
Trail stats and difficulty
The loop is about 0.5 miles total, typically 20–30 minutes if you poke around viewpoints. It’s mostly level but rocky and uneven, with a few stone steps and short ups and downs. Not stroller/wheelchair friendly. Lava rock is sharp and slick when wet—wear real shoes; skip flip‑flops.
Tips and essentials
Entry to Waiʻānapanapa State Park requires a timed reservation (especially for non‑residents); same‑day slots may not be available. Facilities (restrooms/showers) are near the main lot. Swimming is often hazardous here due to strong surf and rocks—heed posted warnings. Stay well back from blowholes and edges, and watch for rogue waves. Bring water, sun protection, and keep to obvious paths.
Best time to hike
Year‑round. Go early morning or late afternoon for cooler temps, softer light on the black sand, and fewer crowds. Midday gets busy and hot, with limited shade.
Where it starts
20.7835, -155.9977Near Pāʻiloa Bay Loop Trail
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayWai‘anapanapa State ParkBlack sand beach, lava caves, and roaring surf on a rugged coastTrailhead · Restroom
0.5 mi awayWaiʻānapanapa CampgroundCamp steps from a black sand beach on a wild lava coastCampground · Restroom
0.5 mi awayHonokalani Black Sand BeachIconic black-sand cove with sea caves and cliffside viewsTrailhead · Restroom
0.6 mi awayWaiʻānapanapa Coastal Trail (Ke Ala Loa O Maui / Piʻilani Trail)Rugged lava coast from Black Sand Beach to ancient sites and views.Moderate · 1.5 mi · 2 hr
1.9 mi awayHana Lava Tube (Ka'eleku Caverns)Maui’s biggest accessible lava tube on a cool, self-guided walkRestroom · Exhibit
1.9 mi awayHana Lava Tube (Kaʻelekū Cave) TrailShort, self-guided walk through Maui’s largest lava tube.Easy · 0.6 mi · 36 min
2.3 mi awayKaihalulu (Red Sand Beach) TrailShort, sketchy path to Maui’s photogenic red-sand coveChallenging · 0.6 mi · 30 min
2.8 mi awayKahanu Garden Loop TrailPeaceful coastal garden loop to Hawai‘i’s largest heiauEasy · 1 mi · 45 min
