Red Sand and Razor Trails: Finding Kaihalulu Beach on Maui’s Wild East Coast
A short, steep hike and a rare scarlet shore — how to reach and responsibly enjoy Maui’s Red Sand Beach.
The air tastes of salt and iron as you round the last bend of the narrow trail and the world opens into a small, riotous bowl of crimson. Kaihalulu Beach — the so-called Red Sand Beach — sits like an ember against the blue Pacific, a pocket of volcanic cinders ground to glassy grit by wind and surf. The cliff scent of oleander and iron-rich dust, the raw roar of the ocean below, and the coral-streaked cliffs that hem the cove create an immediate sense of being somewhere forged rather than landscaped. You feel, for a moment, like an intruder in a place that earned its solitude the hard way.
Trail Wisdom
Go early or late
Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and reduce exposure on the loose trail.
Wear sticky-soled shoes
Trail sections are loose cinder and steep; shoes with good traction greatly reduce slip risk.
Respect currents
The cove can have strong rips—only swim if you’re experienced and stay near shore.
Pack out everything
There are no facilities; carry out all trash and avoid taking sand or rocks.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Kaʻeleku Caverns and nearby lava outcrops east of Hana for quiet coastal exploration
- •Small roadside stands on Hana Highway for fresh banana bread and local poke
Wildlife
brown noddy and wedge-tailed shearwater seabirds, green sea turtles offshore (occasional)
Conservation Note
The site is ecologically sensitive — avoid trampling cinder cone vegetation, use reef-safe sunscreen, and pack out all trash to protect the beach’s fragile systems.
This stretch of East Maui is part of a landscape long stewarded by Hawaiian communities; Hana retains strong traditions in taro cultivation and fishing.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: fewer crowds, wildflower viewing, mild temps
Challenges: occasional rain showers, trail slipperiness after storms
Spring brings mild weather and fewer visitors; trails can be slick after seasonal showers, so time your visit accordingly.
summer
Best for: dry trail conditions, clear water for swimming, longer daylight
Challenges: strong sun, higher winds some afternoons
Summer is the most reliable for dry access and clear water, but sun protection and early starts are advised.
fall
Best for: stable weather, warm ocean temperatures
Challenges: occasional storms later in season, shorter daylight
Autumn keeps warm water and pleasant hikes, though keep an eye on weather forecasts for storm risk.
winter
Best for: dramatic surf viewing, fewer people
Challenges: large, dangerous surf and stronger currents, trail erosion after storms
Winter delivers big ocean energy — great to watch from the cliffs, but swimming is often unsafe and access can be impacted by storm damage.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoes with sticky rubberEssential
Grip is crucial on loose cinder and narrow ridgelines.
1–2 L water reservoirEssential
Hydration is essential in exposed sun and heat.
Light sunproof layers and wide-brim hatEssential
Sun can be intense even with ocean breezes; protect skin and eyes.
Small dry bag & reef-safe sunscreen
Keeps valuables dry; reef-safe sunscreen protects marine life if you swim.
Common Questions
Is Kaihalulu Beach legal to visit?
Yes, but access is via an unmaintained trail that crosses some steep, eroding slopes; respect private property signs and local requests — conditions can change, so check recent local guidance or a guided operator.
Can I swim at the beach?
Sometimes — the cove can be calm, but currents and sneaker waves are common; only swim if you’re confident in open water and avoid going out alone.
How long is the hike?
Expect 20–45 minutes one way depending on pace and fitness; allow extra time for photos and the return climb.
Are there facilities or lifeguards?
No — there are no bathrooms, lifeguards, or services at Kaihalulu; come self-sufficient and pack out everything.
Can I visit as part of a Road to Hāna tour?
Many private Road to Hāna and hiking tours include Kaihalulu as an optional stop, but verify access and safety with the operator before booking.
Why is the sand red?
The red color comes from iron-rich volcanic cinder in an ancient cinder cone that erodes into the cove’s sand, creating the distinctive hue.
What to Pack
sturdy hiking shoes (traction for cinder trail), 1–2 L water (no services), reef-safe sunscreen & hat (sun protection), small first-aid kit (for scrapes and slips)
Did You Know
Kaihalulu is one of only a handful of naturally occurring red sand beaches in the world; the sand’s color comes from oxidized iron in a nearby volcanic cinder cone.
Quick Travel Tips
Start early to avoid crowds; confirm access with a local guide or operator; bring cash for Hana roadside food stands; plan extra time for slow, single-lane driving.
Local Flavor
Hana’s community is quietly proud — roadside stands sell housemade banana bread and laulau, taro patches dot the hills, and local guides share stories about plant uses and Hawaiian chants; buy local to support small businesses.
Logistics Snapshot
Location: near Hana, East Maui • Access: steep, unmaintained trail • Facilities: none • Best time: early morning • Safety: loose cinder, strong currents • Recommended: guided Road to Hāna or small-group hike if uncertain.
Sustainability Note
Kaihalulu’s red sand is finite and fragile — do not remove sand or rocks, stay on durable surfaces, use reef-safe sunscreen, and support local operators practicing low-impact tourism.