Camp Waianapanapa State Park

Just over a two hour drive East of Kahului, Hawaii, Waianapanapa State Park on Maui is the perfect overnight stop during your Road to Hana adventure.

Along the windy Road to Hana, you'll experience the many windy turns the coast of Maui has to offer. One of the only parks offering secure reservations, you can opt for bring your tent or grab one of their cabins.

Upon arriving to the park, you'll park in front of the Caretaker's Cottage. Here, you will sign in and be directed to the camping areas nearby. A large open area is great for larger groups. We happened to camp during the Taro Festival (late April) so the area was reserved by a large family. After some scouting, we opted for a site with a picnic table overlooking the Pacific Ocean below. 

Bathrooms were very accessible from the entire park. Located close enough for a middle of the night run, but out of earshot for comfort. A shower head located outside the building provides a solid option for a quick rinse during the warm summer months.

A short trail located next to a private cemetery will lead you to the black sand beach below. Here, you can explore a hardened lava cave to your right or glance to your left for a path leading up to beautiful views of the coastline. The lava trail winds around native plants and palm trees to an overlook of remote beaches. You truly feel the power of the ocean as it smashes against the hardened lava landscape formed several thousand years ago.

To book your site, visit the Waianapanapa State Park site.

Note: If you arrive after the office is closed, be prepared with printed email reservation confirmation. The ranger checked sites after dark and there is little to no cell phone reception.