Tips for Visiting Waiʻanapanapa State Park

Is “visit a black sand beach” on your Maui itinerary? Does the term “glistening waters” bring to mind a Maui beach? Include a visit to Waiʻanapanapa and include both.

If visiting a national park is on your Maui agenda, don’t forget that there are two state parks on the Valley Isle as well. One park is Waiʻānapanapa State Park, located on Hana Highway just north of us here at Hana Kai Maui. It has both incredible beauty and easy walks for beachgoers, as well as great hiking for the experienced hiker. Add to that fresh water pools, cliff diving, ocean caves, black boulder beaches, cabins, camping, and more, and this spot off the Road To Hana you don’t want to miss.

Waiʻanapanapa State Park Tips

Like many places in Maui, they’ve become popular tourist spots. With Waiʻanapanapa State Park, you’ll need to make some plans—and reservations. Here are some things you need to know before making the excursion.

Make Advance Reservations

Because Waiʻanapanapa State Park has become popular, the State of Hawaii has implemented reservations to prevent overcrowding. The park is open 7 am to 6:00 pm, and you must have reservations to visit Waiʻanapanapa State Park. Schedule your visit for one of the four available time slots: 7:00 am to 10:00 am, 10:00 am to 12:30 pm, 12:30 pm to 3:00 pm, and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. The cost is $5 per person for entry tickets. Children 3 and under are free. You can make reservations up to 30 days in advance of your trip, and no later than the day before. Waiʻanapanapa State Park does not have same-day or walk-up reservations. Make sure to arrive early or on time. If you do not arrive 30 minutes after your reservation time, you will lose your reservation and must make another one. You’ll also be charged for additional entry tickets. The exception is residents of the state of Hawaii, who are exempt from reservations and entry fees. Residents must show their state-issued ID to enter fee-free. Non-residents who accompany a resident still pay entry and parking fees.

Parking Permits Are Required

In addition to entry tickets for each person, you’ll need a parking permit for your vehicle. These permits are $10 per vehicle, except for Hawaii residents (ID required).

Camping

If you want to camp while visiting Waiʻanapanapa State Park, you have a couple of options:

Campervans, $20 per night per campsite for residents, and $30 for non-residents.
Tent camping in the “undesignated campground” area
Cabins, reserved online at least 7 days in advance, $$70 per night for residents and $100 per night for non-residents.

Vans modified for camping and sleeping are allowed and are considered “campervans.” However, camping is not allowed in passenger vehicles and unmodified vans. Make your reservations here, and check out the Frequently Asked Questions here.

Come Prepared

If you’re planning to hike when visiting Waiʻanapanapa State Park, bring plenty of water, snacks, sunscreen, and other sun protection. Wear sturdy hiking boots as the terrain can be challenging, even for experienced hikers.

The “No Rings” Zone

It’s always safer to leave expensive jewelry at home or in a safe deposit box when you travel. Social media comments also indicate that visitors should not wear any rings in Waiʻanapanapa State Park because of the high risk of loss. Choppy waves quickly pull rings right off your hand.

No Rescheduling Or Refunds—All Sales Final

If you miss your scheduled reservation time, you’ll have to purchase another entry ticket for each member of your party. You can cancel your reservations online if plans change.

Observe All Signs And Warnings

Of all the Waiʻanapanapa State Park tips, we think this is one of the most important. Waʻānapanapa’s coastline has powerful surf, sharp lava rocks, sudden drop-offs, and no lifeguards, so posted signs warn of real drowning and injury risks. The park also protects fragile ecosystems and sacred cultural sites, so obeying warnings prevents environmental damage and cultural disrespect. Visitors should always pay attention to any warnings given or posted signs for both personal safety and respect for the land and people here.

Visiting Waiʻanapanapa State Park from Hana Kai Maui

If you see black sand beaches in your future, Hana Kai Maui is the place for you. Our oceanfront condos are just what you need to enjoy the ocean view and are close to the best Hana has to offer. Whether you’re just staying the weekend or staying longer, we think we have the best oceanfront condos in Maui, and we’re happy to see you. Your Hana getaway will be the best you’ve ever experienced. Call us at 1-800-346-2772, or book your oceanfront accommodations online.