When planning your Maui vacation and for places to stay along the Hana coast, you may encounter information about the Seven Sacred Pools, also known as Ohe’o Gulch, and the Pools of ‘Ohe’o. Located within Haleakalā National Park, the Seven Sacred Pools are part of a larger rainforest in Hana. It is one of the many stops on the Road to Hana.
Here is a secret about the Seven Sacred Pools: there are more than seven, and they aren’t actually “sacred.” The Hawaiian name, ‘Ohe’o, translates to “something special. “Located in an area called Kipahulu, it was once home to many ancient Indigenous Hawaiians.
Here is a secret about the Seven Sacred Pools: there are more than seven, and they aren’t actually “sacred.” The Hawaiian name, ‘Ohe’o, translates to “something special. “Located in an area called Kipahulu, it was once home to many ancient Indigenous Hawaiians.
Cautions Around the Seven Sacred Pools
Yes, there are several significant safety concerns and warnings for visitors to the Seven Sacred Pools (officially known as the Pools of ‘Ohe’o) in Maui:- No Swimming: As of March 2025, swimming is prohibited in the pools due to safety concerns. The pools can be seen from the Kuola Point trail.
- Flash flooding: The area is prone to sudden flash floods that lead to fatalities. Visitors should watch weather conditions and leave immediately if storm clouds appear.
- Slippery rocks: The wet rocks around the pools are enormously slippery, posing a significant fall risk.
- Falling rocks: Rockslides and falling debris have led to accidents, including fatalities. For this reason, avoid sitting directly under waterfalls.
- Cliff hazards: The trails along ‘Ohe’o Gulch have dangerous ledges, and falls from these areas have led to serious injuries and deaths.
- Jumping and diving: Although prohibited, some visitors ignore warnings and jump from cliffs or bridges, which has resulted in accidents, some fatal.
- Water quality: The National Park Service warns about potential water quality issues in the pools.
- Adhere to all posted signs and warnings
- Stay on designated trails
- Check weather conditions before visiting
- Wear appropriate footwear for hiking
- Bring plenty of water
- Be aware of surroundings and potential hazards
Etiquette of Mahalo
Any Ohe’o Gulch travel guide will tell you to wear sturdy, nonslip shoes for walking and hiking and pack essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, and insect repellant. But because this area has cultural significance, there is a certain etiquette that we ask you to observe in the spirit of Mahalo:- Follow The Park’s Rules: Stay on designated trails and respect signs indicating prohibited swimming or other activity areas. (NOTE: Swimming is not currently allowed in this area but can be seen from the Kuola Point trail.)
- Practice “Leave No Trace”: Remove all trash and avoid damaging plants and wildlife.
- Archaeological Sites: The area surrounding the pools contains over 700 archaeological sites, including remnants of ancient Hawaiian life, such as agricultural terraces, house platforms, and religious structures. This includes the third-largest temple ruin in Hawaii, showcasing the region’s spiritual and cultural significance.
- Piʻilanihale Heiau: Located in Kahanu Garden, this is the largest temple in all of Polynesia. Constructed in the 12th century, it holds immense spiritual significance and provides insights into ancient Hawaiian worship practices.