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MAUI · WATER QUALITY GUIDE · 2026

Beaches Near Hana

Hana, Maui — ranked by water quality and bacteria risk

Drive times and water quality risk levels for beaches near Hana, Maui. Risk ratings are based on long-term DOH bacteria testing data and geography. Always check current Maui advisories before swimming — conditions change after rain.

About Hana

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.

Nearby Beaches — Ranked by Proximity
Hamoa Beach Low ●
A crescent of gray sand framed by sea cliffs, frequently cited as one of Maui's most scenic beaches. Surf can be strong but the southern end sometimes has calmer water. Maintained by the Travaasa Hana hotel, but open to all visitors.
5 min
South
Jet-black volcanic pebble beach inside a state park. Advance parking reservations are required (book online before your trip). Sea caves, a blowhole, and a coastal trail add to the experience. Swimming is possible but watch for waves surging into the cove.
5 min
North
Koki Beach Moderate ●
A wild, red-tinted beach next to a cinder cone with views of Alau Island offshore. Strong shore break and rip currents make it dangerous for swimming. Best enjoyed from the sand or the lookout above.
5 min
South
Red Sand Beach (Kaihalulu) Low ●
A dramatic hidden cove of deep red cinder sand partially protected by a lava rock barrier. The trail to reach it is steep, narrow, and eroded — wear proper shoes and take care. The cove can have calmer water than the open coast, but conditions vary.
10 min walk
In Hana town
Getting Around

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).

If Brown Water Is Active

After heavy rain, bacteria levels spike at beaches near streams and river mouths. If a brown water advisory is active near Hana, Maui:

  • Wait 72 hours after rain stops before entering the water
  • Avoid brown or murky water regardless of whether an advisory is posted
  • Best rain-resistant option: Hamoa Beach (South) — generally clearer after rain due to geography
  • Check the Maui live advisories page for current conditions
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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. 🤙

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