Koki Beach Hana Maui
Dramatic red sand beach on Maui's Road to Hana, known for powerful waves and a unique offshore island teeming with birds.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful, fewer crowds, great light
Koki Beach Hana Maui
Best Time
Peaceful, fewer crowds, great light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic red sand beach on Maui's Road to Hana, known for powerful waves and a unique offshore island teeming with birds.
"Absolutely breathtaking! But just to stroll and take photos. Don’t swim - strong current."
🚫 No Swimming Zone
Powerful currents and rough waves make swimming dangerous. Enjoy the views from shore! :warning:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The red sand and offshore island offer stunning photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Red Sand Shores
Koki Beach
Unique dark red sands meet turquoise waters for a visually stunning contrast.
Offshore Island Views
Koki Beach
Observe the island offshore teeming with birds, a captivating natural spectacle.
Huli Huli Chicken Stand
Near Koki Beach
Savor delicious Huli Huli chicken, a local favorite often found near the beach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
🌊 Embrace the Red Sands, But Skip the Swim
🚗 Road to Hana Essential Stop
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚫 No Swimming Zone
Powerful currents and rough waves make swimming dangerous. Enjoy the views from shore! :warning:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The red sand and offshore island offer stunning photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
🍗 Delicious Local Eats
Look for Uncle Russell's Huli Huli Chicken for a tasty local treat. :poultry_leg:
🚗 Road to Hana Stop
An essential and beautiful stop on your Road to Hana journey. :oncoming_automobile:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚫 No Swimming Zone
Powerful currents and rough waves make swimming dangerous. Enjoy the views from shore! :warning:
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The red sand and offshore island offer stunning photo opportunities. :camerawithflash:
🍗 Delicious Local Eats
Look for Uncle Russell's Huli Huli Chicken for a tasty local treat. :poultry_leg:
🚗 Road to Hana Stop
An essential and beautiful stop on your Road to Hana journey. :oncoming_automobile:
🐦 Birdwatching Delight
The offshore island is a haven for various bird species. :bird:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Koki Beach's stunning red sand and unique offshore island, calling it a breathtaking stop on the Road to Hana. While swimming is strongly discouraged due to dangerous currents, the scenic beauty and the chance to try delicious Huli Huli chicken make it a memorable experience.
"Very pretty stop/beach, but not for swimming. You can wet your feet and take some great pictures as you can see Alua Island from the beach, but no swimming. Water is rough and it's not safe. There are signs about it too."
Ana S
"Not technically red sand as that beach is by the Huli chicken shop. The beach has some nice shade trees to set up under and the beach is mostly sand. That said the currents were strong and multiple warning signs were up warning of drownings. The waves were also unpredictable and the occasional one would make it all the way up the beach. Definitely not the best beach for small children and constant supervision is needed. But the scenery was nice and the island off shore has lots of birds flying around it."
Brian Ward
"Absolutely breathtaking! But just to stroll and take photos. Don’t swim - strong current. If you missed the black sand beach cause no reservation, fear not. This place has you covered
Follow me on IG @ avensnow for more tips and adventures!"
aven snow
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Koki Beach is located on the eastern side of Maui, along the famous Road to Hana (Highway 360). It's a well-marked stop, often appearing after the turn-off for Kaihalulu (Red Sand Beach) if you're coming from the west. Parking is available but can be busy, especially during peak times.
Public transportation is very limited on the Road to Hana. Most visitors access Koki Beach by car, either their own rental or as part of a guided tour. Consider renting a car for flexibility.
There's a large parking lot, but it can get crowded. Be prepared for a one-way traffic flow in and out, with cars sometimes parked on both sides. Arrive early for easier parking.
Absolutely! Koki Beach is a picturesque and unique stop that breaks up the drive. It offers beautiful scenery and a chance to stretch your legs. 
While the beach itself is accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and lack of lighting. It's best enjoyed during daylight hours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Koki Beach is a public park and there is no entrance fee to visit. You can enjoy its natural beauty for free.
Koki Beach Park is generally open from sunrise to sunset. However, facilities like the Huli Huli chicken stand may have their own operating hours and can close early.
No advance booking is required for Koki Beach as it's a public park. You can visit anytime during daylight hours.
The main restriction is regarding swimming due to dangerous currents. Always pay attention to posted warning signs for your safety.
Yes, Koki Beach is an ideal spot for a quick stop to admire the scenery, take photos, and perhaps grab a bite to eat.
📸 📸 Photography
The striking red sand, the contrast with the turquoise ocean, and the offshore island with its bird population are prime subjects. The dramatic waves also make for dynamic shots.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for serene shots. Late afternoons provide a beautiful golden hour glow.
Drone usage may be permitted, but always check current local regulations and be mindful of other visitors and wildlife. Some creators have captured stunning aerial footage.
The main beach area offers excellent vantage points. You can also find elevated spots along the park's grassy areas for broader scenic views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for photographing the birds on the offshore island.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, a popular local spot is Uncle Russell's Huli Huli Chicken stand, known for its delicious grilled chicken. However, it may have limited hours and can close early.
The main food offering is Huli Huli chicken, a Hawaiian-style grilled chicken marinated in a sweet and savory sauce.
There are no formal restaurants or cafes directly on the beach. The Huli Huli chicken stand is the primary food vendor.
Yes, Koki Beach Park has grassy picnic areas, making it a great spot for a picnic. Remember to pack out all your trash.
Prices can vary, but Huli Huli chicken is generally an affordable and filling meal option. It's best to check with the vendor for current pricing.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the Huli Huli chicken is a hit with many, it's wise to pack snacks and drinks as food options are limited and may not always be available. The drive to Koki Beach is part of the adventure, so ensure children are comfortable with car travel.
🚗 Road Trippers
Don't miss the chance to try the Huli Huli chicken if the stand is open – it's a delicious and authentic local experience. Remember to heed the no swimming warnings and enjoy the scenic beauty from the safety of the shore.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
+1Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive coastline and a telephoto lens for the birds on the island. Drone footage can also be spectacular here, offering a bird's-eye view of the unique landscape, but always be aware of local regulations.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Koki Beach's Unique Landscape
Adjacent to the main beach is a small offshore island, often referred to as 'Alula Island. This island is a significant nesting ground for various seabirds, and observing them in flight can be a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts. The combination of the red sand, the dynamic ocean, and the bird-filled island makes Koki Beach a truly unique and photogenic spot.
+1Safety First: Navigating Koki Beach's Waters
Travelers often emphasize that while the water looks inviting, the undertow is strong and can sweep individuals out to sea. The occasional large wave can also surge unexpectedly far up the beach. Therefore, it's best to enjoy the beach by walking along the shore, dipping your feet in the shallowest parts, or simply admiring the powerful ocean from a safe distance.
The Iconic Huli Huli Chicken Experience
While the Huli Huli chicken stand is a highlight, it's important to note that its operating hours can be inconsistent and it may close earlier than the beach itself. Many visitors recommend planning your stop to coincide with the stand's open hours if you wish to try it.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit