Hawaii Snapshots: Kaihalulu Beach, Maui

Step carefully when visiting this island landmark

 

There are only a handful of red sand beaches in the world. Without a doubt, the most photographed is Maui’s Kaihalulu Beach. Located on the island’s east coast, this small stretch of iron-rich volcanic sand is surrounded by rugged black lava cliffs which make access challenging.

The short but unmarked trail to Kaihalulu Beach requires good shoes and careful footing, as it traverses a slope of loose cinder where one slip could send a hiker into the rocks below. Those who do negotiate the narrow descent can cool off in a sheltered tide pool. Due to its isolated setting, many visitors to Kaihalulu Beach feel comfortable shedding their swimwear, making this a destination that is neither for the timid or the inhibited.