RESERVATIONSOne of the many places people visit when they’re on the island of Maui is called the “Seven Sacred Pools.” It’s a beautiful but very remote location featuring waterfalls, freshwater pools, and incredible green foliage.
Despite the name, the area isn’t actually “sacred.”
The Story
The actual name is the Ohe’o Gulch, and it’s part of the Haleakala National Park. The name “Ohe’o” translates to “something special.”
But in the interest of marketing the area to stateside travelers who wanted a true Hawaiian experience in Maui, hoteliers came up with the name “Seven Sacred Pools.” Despite the natural, unspoiled beauty, they’re not actually sacred in any way. Located at the end of the Road To Hana, it’s a nice place to visit, and if you’re lucky, have a swim.
If you’re interested in seeing real sacred areas, you can visit Hawaiian temples, called “heiaus,” that are located throughout the island.
The National Park
Kīpahulu is the
unincorporated community in the Hāna district of southeastern Maui, and is
included in the Haleakalā National Park. Since it is part of the National Park
Service, the fee for a three-day pass is $15, and an annual pass is $25. The
annual pass includes Haleakala, Volcanoes (Big Island) and Pu’uhonua O Honaunau
(Big Island) National Parks.
When the water levels
are high enough there are actually more than seven pools, (about 20 by some
estimates) and they’re available for taking a dip only when the levels are
safe. The 1km hiking loop, called the Kuloa Point Trail and goes around the
pool area, sees heavy use and is frequently crowded. Other hiking trails such
as the Pipiwai Trail, located just above the Seven Sacred Pools, are available
year round.
Taking Care At the Seven Sacred Pools
Due to the tropical
rainforest climate, flash floods are not uncommon. When it happens, the
National Park Service will restrict swimming and other activities in the park
until it’s safe. Because the flooding can expand the size of the pools and
create more, the danger increases.
While you may have
seen pictures and videos visitors jumping and diving off cliffs, it’s actually
not recommended because of hidden dangers in the water. There are warning signs
that prohibit jumping. Multiple injuries and deaths of thrill-seeking visitors
have occurred after they ignored the warning signs and jumped anyway.
It’s also recommended
that you not sit under the waterfalls. Debris that washes over the side and
down with the water can also cause injuries, which will mar an otherwise
incredible day of your trip.
Stay with Hana Kai Maui After The Seven Sacred Pools
The Seven Sacred Pools
is just one amazing area to visit when making a trip to Maui. We can offer you
and your family all the comforts of home on the beach in Hana, one of the most
beautiful and peaceful places in the Hawaiian Islands.
Call Hana Kai Maui today to book your next reservations at 1-800-346-2772, or book directly online. We’re open 8:00 am to 8:00 pm Hawaii time to answer all of your questions. We’re ready to welcome you to Maui anytime.
