Pros & cons
PROS
- Dramatic lava tidepools with big-swell coastal scenery
- Photogenic when seas are calm and light is soft
CONS
- Extremely dangerous with rogue waves and sharp lava
- No facilities, shade, or services
- Parking area has reported smash‑and‑grab thefts
Overview
Olivine Pools sit on a rugged, wave-battered shelf on West Maui’s "backside" near mile marker 16 along Kahekili Highway. The pools take their name from olivine—the green volcanic mineral speckling the black basalt. Under the right light, the water reads green‑turquoise against dark rock, making this one of the coast’s most striking viewpoints.
Getting There & The Walk
Expect a narrow, winding drive with one‑lane sections. Park in the roadside pullouts and descend roughly a quarter mile over steep, jagged lava. This is a hands‑and‑feet scramble in places—wear real shoes. A large roadside boulder known locally as “Bellstone Rock” sits opposite the turnout.
What You’ll See
A natural amphitheater of black lava, tidepools of varying depth, and relentless open‑ocean energy. On calm summer days the pools can be crystal clear with small marine life; some visitors report sea turtle sightings offshore. Even then, never turn your back to the ocean.
Safety First (Seriously)
This spot has a history of injuries and fatalities from rogue waves and powerful surge. If waves are breaking into the pools—or if rocks are wet—do not go down and do not get in. Stay well back from the ocean edge, keep off wet rock, and watch your footing; the lava is sharp. Help is far away if something goes wrong. Theft has been reported at the parking area, so take valuables with you and leave nothing visible.
Best Time to Visit
Go early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer people. Aim for low tide if you want the clearest views of the pools, but still reassess conditions when you arrive. As a seasonal rule of thumb, avoid swimming October–March; April–September can be calmer, yet conditions change quickly.
Amenities (or lack thereof)
There are no restrooms, water, lifeguards, shade, or trash cans. Pack in/pack out and bring sun protection and water.
Is It Worth It?
For scenery and geology, yes—especially from the safe vantage points above. For a casual swim, no; choose a safer spot. If seas are up, treat this as a dramatic overlook and move on.
Nearby on a West Maui drive
Pair this stop with Nakalele Blowhole’s coastal drama or the Honolua Bay overlook for a fuller, safer day of views.
Where it is
21.0097, -156.5562Tips for Olivine Pools
- 01Wear closed‑toe shoes for the steep, sharp lava descent.
- 02If waves are crashing into the pools, stay up top and keep back from the edge.
- 03Time your visit for low tide and calmer summer months, then reassess on arrival.
- 04Take valuables with you; leave nothing visible in the car.
- 05Drive Kahekili Highway slowly and use pullouts—turn back if it feels too sketchy.
Amenities
Near Olivine Pools
All places →All trails →
0.2 mi awayOlivine Pools TrailShort, steep lava descent to dramatic but dangerous tidepools.Moderate · 0.4 mi · 45 min
0.6 mi awayKahakuloa HeadCraggy sea dome above a remote bay, best admired from roadside pulloutsPullout · Scenic Viewpoint
0.7 mi awayKahakuloa Bay Scenic OverlookCliffside pullout overlooking remote Kahakuloa Bay and villagePullout · Parking
0.9 mi awayKahakuloa Head LookoutRoadside perch above a dramatic 636-foot sea cliffPullout · Scenic Viewpoint
0.9 mi awayKahakuloa Hawaiian Congregational ChurchPhotogenic 1892 church in a time‑capsule village on Kahekili Hwy
1.4 mi awayOhai Loop TrailEasy seaside loop with cliff-top views and winter whale sightingsEasy · 1.2 mi · 45 min
2.8 mi awayAcid War Zone TrailRugged lava coast with a front-row view of Nakalele Blowhole.Moderate · 2 mi · 1.5 hr
3.8 mi away13 Crossings of Makamakaole StreamStream-hopping romp to twin falls and a cool, swimmable pool.Moderate · 2 mi · 1.5 hr
