Maui Beach Guide

Kaihalulu (Red Sand) Beach

Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach is a striking Hana cove with red volcanic sand, black lava rocks, blue water and a dangerous, unofficial access trail.

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Kaihalulu (Red Sand) Beach

Kaihalulu (Red Sand) Beach, Maui

Kaihalulu Beach, better known as Red Sand Beach, is located just south of Maui's Hana Bay. Its red-black sand comes from the cinder cone hill named Ka'uiki Head on the northern end of the cove.

Ironwood trees drop many needles along the access area, and the route down to the water's edge can be steep, slippery and unstable because of loose cinder and pine needles. The view is dramatic: blue ocean, red sand, green trees and a black lava sea wall all in one small cove. Take extra care if you go, and avoid closed, unsafe or private areas.

Although the beach is partially protected by a reef, it is not suitable for swimming or any other type of watersport because of strong currents and turbulent water. A fast-moving rip current can flow out to the open ocean at the northern end of the beach. Do not swim behind the lava sea wall because currents can be too strong to swim back to shore. Kaihalulu means "roaring sea" in the Hawaiian language, and this beach carries that name for a reason.

Key Features

Small Hana cove known for red volcanic sand from iron-rich cinder and rock
Black lava rocks and blue water create one of Maui's most unusual coastal color contrasts
Located below Kauiki Head near Hana Bay, but access is not officially managed
The route to the beach is narrow, exposed, slippery in places and unsafe for many visitors
No lifeguards, no restrooms, no showers and no regular beach-park facilities at the cove
Not a swimming beach because of strong water, rocks, no lifeguards and difficult access
No official beach parking lot; visitors should not block Hana roads or private driveways
Access may cross sensitive or private areas, so respect signs, local guidance and property boundaries
Shoes are needed if walking around rocky or uneven ground, and flip-flops are not enough for rough terrain
Fragile coastal area that should be treated carefully, not promoted as a casual Road to Hana stop

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is the sand red at Kaihalulu?

The red color comes from iron-rich volcanic cinder and rock around the cove. As the hillside erodes, the red material mixes with darker grains and gives the beach its unusual color.

Is the trail to Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach safe?

No. The trail is narrow, exposed, slippery in places and not officially managed as a normal beach access route. Falls can be serious, and the route should not be attempted in poor conditions or if any access signs say to stay out.

Is Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach good for swimming?

No. The cove has strong ocean conditions, rocks, no lifeguards and difficult access. This beach is better treated as a fragile and risky coastal area, not a swimming beach.

What is Kauiki Head?

Kauiki Head is the volcanic cinder cone above the cove near Hana Bay. It helps create the red sand setting and is tied to important Hana history and coastal scenery.

Can you park near Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach?

There is no official beach parking lot for Kaihalulu. Do not block Hana streets, driveways, gates or local access, and do not cross private land to reach the beach.