Maui, a beautiful Hawaiian island that’s famous for its breathtaking landscapes and pristine beaches, holds a hidden treasure on its shores: black sand beaches. These mesmerizing stretches of coastline possess an extraordinary allure, distinguished by their unique ebony sands that create a striking contrast to the typical golden or white shades found on tropical shores. However, with numerous choices available, figuring out which black sand beach in Maui to visit can be quite daunting. If you’re unsure which black sand beach to choose, don’t worry. You’re in the right spot. Come with us as we discover Maui’s best black sand beaches, so you’ll know which one to visit!
Does Maui Have Black Beaches?
Yes, Maui has black beaches, mostly found on the Road to Hana. Notable ones include Honokalani Beach, Wai’anapanapa Black Sand Beach, Pa’iloa Beach, Honomanu Bay Beach, Oneuli Beach, Alelele Beach, and Waioka Beach. But you want to check out our best picks, which we are going to talk about in a minute.
Top 5 Black Sand Beaches Maui – Our Best Picks
If you’re thinking of visiting black sand beaches in Hawaii, make sure to explore the ones found in Maui. Take a look at these remarkable black sand beaches Maui that you definitely shouldn’t miss:
Honokalani Beach
Source: SeanCervone
Honokalani Beach is an absolute must-visit destination in Maui. This extraordinary black paradise offers an experience like no other. The mesmerizing black sand, formed from volcanic activity, creates a stunning contrast against the clear blue waters. Besides its unique beauty, Honokalani Beach offers exciting activities for everyone. You can soak up the sun, swim in the refreshing ocean, or have a picnic on the soft black sand with your friends or loved ones. Nature lovers should also be interested in this beach. They can explore the nearby lava tubes and caves, while adventure seekers can try their hand at bodyboarding or snorkeling.
Location: Honokalani Beach is situated in Waianapanapa State Park, which lies approximately three miles north of Hana town.
Honomanu Bay Beach
Source: William Boyer
Honomanu Bay Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Maui. With its unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes, this black sand bay offers an unforgettable experience. When visiting this beach, you have a couple of options. You can enjoy swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, sunbathe on the black sand beach, and go hiking along coastal trails for breathtaking views. You can also picnic amidst the scenic beauty or if you want to, try fishing in the bay’s abundant waters (but make sure you ask the locals if they’re okay with it).
Location: Honomannu Bay Beach can be found near mile marker 14 on the renowned Hana Road in Maui.
One’uli Beach
Source: Regusso
Situated on the Wailea side of the Pu’u Ola’i cinder cone, One’uli Black Sand Beach, also known as Naupaka Beach, is a captivating part of Makena State Park. The beach offers a unique experience with its stunning black sand and is located near the prominent geological landmark feature, the Pu’u Ola’i cinder cone, which is visible from various points along the coastline. When it comes to the things one can do here, visitors can go swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. Not only that but taking leisurely walks along the shoreline to admire the beautiful scenery and geological landmarks is also a great option. For families, this is a great place to enjoy picnics and appreciate nature’s wonders.
Location: The Oneuli Beach is located in Makena, following the Maui Prince Hotel, and before reaching Makena Beach.
The Beach Near Alelele Bridge (Yes, it’s a black sand beach)
Source: www.flashpackingamerica.com
There is a black sand beach near the Alelele Bridge on the road to Hana. It doesn’t have a name but is a quiet and peaceful spot located right alongside the road. You can visit this beach to experience the beauty of black sand while on your journey.
Location: This beach is located near the Alelele Bridge. Please note it does not have any name.
Waioka Pond (aka Venus Pool)
Source: Dksurface
The Waioka Pond, a stunning gem of the Hana coastline, is considered by many as a “pond” but reveals its black sand and rocks during low tides. It offers a unique and captivating sight. However, it’s important to note that accessing Waioka Pond can present several challenges and concerns that you should be mindful of. Also, when the tides are high and the waves are strong, you should avoid jumping in the pond. You might end up in the ocean.
Location: Waioka Pond is located on Hana Highway in Hana, Hawaii (zip code 96713), USA.
Important Note – Best Black Sand Beaches
When visiting the black sand beaches in Maui, it is crucial to respect the local culture and property cleanliness. That’s because some beaches are private, while others are public, so it’s important to be mindful of the rules and boundaries. Additionally, always check the weather and wave conditions before heading out to these beaches to ensure your safety.
These are our top picks for the best black sand beaches in Maui. While we are aware of other beaches you can explore, we believe these ones offer unique experiences that you won’t find elsewhere.
Happy travels, and don’t forget to share with us how your trip to Maui unfolds!