Puaʻa Kaʻa State Wayside Park

The basics

The park is 5 acres (2 hectares) of rain forest, about 30 minutes north of Hana by car. Visitors driving between Hana and Kahului can stop for a picnic, short hike, and quick dip underneath the waterfalls—and see Waikani, Hawani, and Makapipi falls nearby. Also, day trips along the famous Road to Hana stop at the park to swim or take a short break.

Things to know before you go

• The park is free to enter, and facilities include restrooms, public parking, and covered picnic tables.

• The short walk to the waterfalls from the parking lot is paved and mostly flat.

• Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles, leaving plants and wildlife alone and disposing of your trash in provided bins.

• Camping in the park is not permitted.

How to get there

Puaʻa Kaʻa lies along the famous Road to Hana, about 12 miles (19 kilometers) north of Hana and 40 miles (64 kilometers) east of Kahului. It's best to visit by car or as part of a guided tour, and free public parking is available on-site.

When to get there

The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Generally, this part of Maui is pleasant to visit year-round, though rainstorms can suddenly appear and disappear. Consider arriving mid-morning with a packed lunch to take advantage of the covered picnic areas after a swim.

Highlights on the Road to Hana

Puaʻa Kaʻa State Wayside Park is one of many attractions on the Road to Hana, also called the Hana Highway, a popular driving route between Kaanapali and Hana. It takes about 3 hours to drive (without stopping), linking sights including Wai'anapanapa State Park, with its famous black sand beach, the scenic village and shoreline of Ke‘anae Point, and Ohe'o Gulch, with its tiered waterfalls and natural pools, among other favorites.

Ways to explore

Puaʻa Kaʻa is a small state-run park approximately 30 minutes north of Hana by car. Entry is free, and the rest area offers a short paved trail to a waterfall and freshwater pool, as well as restrooms and covered picnic tables. Many full-day Road to Hana excursions and small-group tours stop here, so travelers can stretch their legs, take photos of the waterfalls, and enjoy the peaceful rainforest setting. If you’re keen for an adventure, you can explore beyond the main trail, though conditions can be slippery, especially after rain.

Accessibility

The short walk to the waterfalls from the parking lot is paved and mostly flat.

Age limits

None; the upstream trails can be slippery, so use caution if visiting with children.

What to pack

Water, snacks, bug spray

What to wear

Sturdy shoes, sandals with grip, quick-dry clothes

Not allowed

Pets, camping, smoking

Amenities

Restrooms, covered picnic pavilions, trash bins, parking

Address

Puaʻa Kaʻa State Wayside Park sits just past mile marker 22.5–22.6 on Hana Highway, about 40 miles (64 kilometers) east of Kahului. Look for the parking and facilities on the ocean (west) side of the road; cross carefully to reach the falls and picnic area.

Driving

Simply follow the Road to Hana. The park has ample parking. The waterfall is a short walk from the lot across the road.

Public transportation

No public transit directly serves the park. Visitors typically arrive via private vehicle or guided Road to Hana tours, which include this stop in their itinerary.

Best times to visit

Early morning to secure parking and enjoy cooler temperatures.

Best days to visit

The park is open daily from sunrise to sunset.

Best months to visit

Typically, the shoulder season months of April, May, September, and November offer stable weather, lighter crowds, and pleasant hiking conditions.