Hana, Maui — ranked by water quality and bacteria risk
Hana is a remote town at the eastern tip of Maui, reachable via the famous Road to Hana (Hwy 360) — a winding 52-mile drive with 620 curves and 59 bridges from Kahului. Most visitors come on a day trip, but staying overnight lets you explore the beaches without the rush. The town has one gas station, a small general store, and limited dining options.
All beaches near Hana are within a five-minute drive of town. The coastline here is dramatic — black volcanic sand, red cinder coves, and lush cliffs. Ocean conditions can be rough with strong currents, so check conditions before entering the water at any of these beaches.
All four beaches are clustered within a few minutes of Hana town. Hamoa Beach and Koki Beach are accessed from Haneoo Road south of town. Waiʻanapanapa is on Waiʻanapanapa Road just north. Red Sand Beach is a walking trail from behind the Hana Community Center. No driving between beaches takes more than five minutes.
Best for scenery: Hamoa Beach (dramatic cliffs). Most unique: Waiʻanapanapa (black sand, sea caves). Best for photography: Red Sand Beach (hidden red cove). Best lookout: Koki Beach (island views from above).
After heavy rain, bacteria levels spike at beaches near streams and river mouths. If a brown water advisory is active near Hana, Maui:
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
Safe to Swim Hawaii is an independent passion project — not affiliated with the Hawaii Department of Health or any government agency. Water quality ratings are estimates based on publicly available testing data and geographic analysis. They are not real-time measurements and may not reflect current conditions.
Always verify current water quality conditions with the Hawaii DOH Clean Water Branch before entering the water.
This site does not recommend or advise anyone to swim at any beach. We share government data and geographic analysis so you can make your own informed decisions. By using this site you accept full responsibility for your own safety. See our Terms of Use for full details.
When in doubt, don’t go out. 🤙