A Quiet Turn on the Road to Hana: Chasing Waterfalls at Puaʻa Kaʻa State Wayside Park
A short, shaded waterfall stop on the Road to Hana that rewards slowing down—great for a quick swim, photos, and a taste of Hana’s rainforest.
A ribbon of asphalt peels away from the surf and climbs into a living cathedral of green. You pull off the Hana Highway at a narrow turnout, the engine ticking as it cools, and the rainforest immediately fills the car with humidity, the smell of wet earth and guava. Far below, water drops in a steady sheet into a shaded pool: Puaʻa Kaʻa Falls, the small, easy-to-reach centerpiece of Puaʻa Kaʻa State Wayside Park. It is not the largest cascade on Maui, nor the most famous, but there is an intimacy here—an island-scale moment where the forest leans in close and the roadside reveals one of the island’s most trustworthy delights.
Trail Wisdom
Arrive early
Beat tour vans and buses—early morning offers cooler light and quieter trails.
Wear good shoes
The overlook is paved but the trail to the pool is steep and slippery—grip-soled footwear prevents slips.
Check conditions before swimming
Pools are unguarded and currents change after rain—ask your guide or a local before entering.
Leave no trace
Pack out trash and avoid using soap in freshwater—these systems are fragile.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Ke'anae Peninsula taro fields and viewpoint (short detour)
- •Nearby roadside stands selling fresh banana bread and tropical fruit
Wildlife
ʻApapane (native Hawaiian honeycreeper), Hawaiian hoary bat (nocturnal; may be heard at dusk)
Conservation Note
The area’s streams and pools are sensitive freshwater habitats—visitors should avoid disturbing plants, refrain from using soaps, and pack out all waste to protect water quality.
Puaʻa Kaʻa is one of several waysides along the historic Hana Highway, an early 20th-century route that opened access across East Maui and connected remote coastal communities.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: waterfall flow, wildflower bursts, cooler hikes
Challenges: occasional rain showers, muddy trails
Spring brings steady waterfall flow and fresh greenery; trails can be muddy after storms—bring waterproof shoes.
summer
Best for: warmer swimming, long daylight, fruit stands
Challenges: more visitors, higher UV exposure
Summer offers warmer water and easier swimming but expect more tour traffic and strong sun—apply reef-safe sunscreen.
fall
Best for: photography, fewer crowds, comfortable temperatures
Challenges: intermittent rain, variable pool levels
Autumn balances pleasant temperatures with quieter trails; waterfall strength can vary with rainfall.
winter
Best for: dramatic waterfalls, lush rainforest colors
Challenges: frequent heavy rain, slippery trails, possible road closures
Winter delivers big flows and saturated forests—exercise caution on slick rocks and watch for flash-flood advisories.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Grip soles protect on wet, rocky descents to the pool.
Light rain shell
Quick storms are common—stay dry and comfortable on short walks.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protect yourself and marine life if you swim at coastal stops later in the day.
Quick-dry towel or swimwear
Bring a towel if you plan to swim; rocks and benches dry slowly in shade.
Common Questions
Is swimming allowed at Puaʻa Kaʻa Falls?
Swimming is often possible in the pool below the falls, but conditions change with rainfall—check with your guide or observe posted warnings; there are no lifeguards.
How long is the trail to the waterfall?
The main overlook is a short, mostly paved walk from the parking area; a steeper dirt trail to the pool adds roughly 10–20 minutes round-trip depending on pace.
Are there restrooms and parking?
Yes—there is a small parking area and basic restroom facilities at the wayside, though spaces fill quickly during peak tour hours.
Can I visit Puaʻa Kaʻa on a Road to Hana tour?
Most Road to Hana small-group and private tours include a stop here; private tours offer more flexibility for time and swimming opportunities.
Is the site accessible with children?
Yes—the overlook is family-friendly, but supervision is required on the steeper trail to the pool and around slippery rocks.
Are pets allowed?
Pets are generally discouraged on the short trails and near the pool; if you bring a pet, keep it leashed and clean up after it.
What to Pack
sturdy shoes for slippery trails, reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life, light rain jacket for quick showers, refillable water bottle to stay hydrated
Did You Know
The Road to Hana—on which Puaʻa Kaʻa sits—includes roughly 600–620 curves and about 59 one-lane bridges, a route engineered in the early 20th century to connect remote eastern Maui communities.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Start early to avoid crowds; 2) Bring cash for roadside stands (banana bread!); 3) Wear shoes that grip wet rock; 4) Ask guides about recent weather before swimming.
Local Flavor
Pop into local fruit stands for warm banana bread or coconut ice cream, chat with vendors about family recipes, and taste small-batch island coffee at roadside stalls to connect with the community along the Hana Highway.
Logistics Snapshot
Parking: small lot; Facilities: restrooms, picnic tables; Trail: paved overlook + steeper dirt path to pool; Safety: unguarded water, slippery rocks—exercise caution.
Sustainability Note
Protect freshwater systems by not using soaps in pools, staying on established trails to prevent erosion, and packing out all trash; support local vendors to reinvest in the community.