Seven Sacred Pools Haleakala National Park
Discover the sacred ʻOheʻo Gulch, where waterfalls meet the ocean, and hike through a magical bamboo forest to Waimoku Falls.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds on the road
Seven Sacred Pools Haleakala National Park
Best Time
Beat the crowds on the road
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the sacred ʻOheʻo Gulch, where waterfalls meet the ocean, and hike through a magical bamboo forest to Waimoku Falls.
"The beauty and serenity of this place are undeniable, a truly sacred spot worth the journey."
🚗 Drive the Road to Hana Early
Start your journey before 7 AM to avoid traffic and enjoy the scenic drive to the Seven Sacred Pools.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The Pipiwai Trail has steep inclines and steps; comfortable, grippy shoes are essential.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Seven Sacred Pools (ʻOheʻo Gulch)
Kipahulu District, Haleakala National Park
Cascading pools and waterfalls meeting the ocean, a truly sacred and serene spot.
Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls
Kipahulu District, Haleakala National Park
Hike through a magical bamboo forest to a towering 400-foot waterfall.
Giant Banyan Tree
Kipahulu District, Haleakala National Park
Marvel at the sprawling branches of an enormous, ancient banyan tree.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything on the Road to Hana
Park Pass & Safety First
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive the Road to Hana Early
Start your journey before 7 AM to avoid traffic and enjoy the scenic drive to the Seven Sacred Pools.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The Pipiwai Trail has steep inclines and steps; comfortable, grippy shoes are essential.
📶 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty along the Road to Hana and within the park.
🎟️ National Park Pass Needed
Ensure you have a valid National Park pass for entry to the Kipahulu District.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive the Road to Hana Early
Start your journey before 7 AM to avoid traffic and enjoy the scenic drive to the Seven Sacred Pools.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
The Pipiwai Trail has steep inclines and steps; comfortable, grippy shoes are essential.
📶 Download Offline Maps
Cell service is spotty along the Road to Hana and within the park.
🎟️ National Park Pass Needed
Ensure you have a valid National Park pass for entry to the Kipahulu District.
⚠️ Check Swimming Conditions
Swimming in the pools is often closed due to flash flood risks; always heed safety warnings.
💧 Pack Water & Snacks
There are limited facilities, so bring plenty of hydration and food for your adventure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking beauty and serene atmosphere of the Seven Sacred Pools and the surrounding Kipahulu District, particularly the magical bamboo forest and the hike to Waimoku Falls. However, some express frustration with park staff and a perceived unwelcoming attitude from locals, alongside the frequent closure of pools for swimming due to safety concerns.
"Beautiful destination in southern Maui - worth the drive on the somewhat terrifying road to Hana. We hiked up to the falls as well (4 miles round trip) and it was very beautiful. If we had more time, I would have loved to explore the seven sacred pools more thoroughly and take more time along the trail. Some other highlights beyond the waterfall were the large banyan tree and the bamboo forest. The sound of the bamboo trunks hitting each other in the breeze was like a (very large) set of wind chimes. Though the hike had plenty of steps and steep inclines, we saw hikers of all ages and abilities on our way."
Delaney Lehmann
"You can't deny the beauty of this place and the absolutely serenity of the Gulch.
This area first opened in 1968/69 and allowed swimming up until 2018. They claim they have not fixed the flash flood system in all these years, so you can be the judge of that.
The park staff was extremely rude when asked about it, and since there is only a small camp ground and some limited trails left here, it makes for a very disappointing drive here, almost 3 hours from Paia.
10 stars on the beauty, lure, and awe of this place.
-10 stars on the parks department and the people of Hana who have made it clear they do not want tourism in their area and refuse to service this park."
Justin Craft
"A very short walk from the Visitor Center of Haleakala National Park south entrance. This is where you will find the 7 Sacred Pools and some waterfalls. The views of the pools were nice and the ocean views were mesmerizing. Along the way, we learnt about the history of the area and Hawaii’s land division history.
You will need to have a National Park Pass or buy a 3-day pass good for all National Parks for $30 at the entrance.
There are two ways to get here, either via the famous (albeit winding) Hana Highway or through the narrow but beautiful ocean front road through the southern part of Maui. We drove from Ka’anapali through the south and then return via Hana Highway. It took about the same amount of time for us to and from this spot with some sightseeing stops and for lunch. Roughly 4 hours each way. It was well worth the drive, but I probably won’t do it again as it was not an easy drive.
We’ve visited both 7 Sacred Pools (the other one being in Sedona, Arizona) and found this one was to be much more impressive."
Big Fish Dive Club
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Seven Sacred Pools, also known as ʻOheʻo Gulch, are located in the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park. You can reach it via the famous Road to Hana or the southern Piilani Highway. The drive is long and winding, so start early.
Yes, the Road to Hana is known for its numerous hairpin turns, narrow sections, and one-lane bridges. Drive cautiously and be aware of local traffic.
From central Maui, the drive to the Kipahulu District can take 3-4 hours each way, depending on your starting point and stops.
No, the Kipahulu District (Seven Sacred Pools) is a separate entrance from the Haleakala Summit District and requires a separate drive, typically via the Road to Hana.
Yes, there is a parking area at the Kipahulu Visitor Center, which is the main access point for the Seven Sacred Pools and Pipiwai Trail.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a National Park pass is required to enter the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park. You can purchase a 3-day pass valid for all National Parks at the entrance.
The Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park is typically open daily from sunrise to sunset. However, it's always best to check the official National Park Service website for current hours.
Entry to the Kipahulu District requires a National Park entrance fee. As of recent information, a 7-day vehicle pass costs $30, or you can use an America the Beautiful Pass.
Swimming in the Seven Sacred Pools is often prohibited due to safety concerns, particularly the risk of flash floods. Always check the posted signs and conditions before attempting to swim.
Besides potential swimming closures, be aware that cell service is very limited in the area, so download maps and information beforehand.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Besides viewing the beautiful ʻOheʻo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools), you can hike the Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls, explore a bamboo forest, and see a giant banyan tree. 
The Pipiwai Trail is a 4-mile roundtrip hike that takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how often you stop to admire the scenery.
The Pipiwai Trail involves some steep inclines and stairs, but it's generally considered moderate. Hikers of various ages and fitness levels complete it.
The bamboo forest on the Pipiwai Trail is a unique and enchanting experience, with towering bamboo stalks that create a serene atmosphere and a distinct rustling sound in the wind.
Yes, there are well-maintained restrooms available at the Kipahulu Visitor Center.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly within the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park. It's recommended to pack your own snacks and drinks or plan to eat before or after your visit.
Food options are limited in the immediate vicinity. You'll find more choices in the town of Hana or further back along the Road to Hana.
Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas within the park, but be sure to pack out all your trash to keep the area clean.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the cascading waterfalls, the lush greenery, and the unique rock formations. The viewpoints along the Pipiwai Trail, especially the bamboo forest and Waimoku Falls, offer stunning photographic opportunities.
The trail can be wet and slippery, especially after rain, so be careful when maneuvering for shots. The dense bamboo forest can also make lighting challenging.
Early morning light can be beautiful, but the midday sun can also create dramatic contrasts. Consider the weather, as rain can enhance the waterfall's power.
Drone usage is restricted in all National Parks, including Haleakala. Please adhere to all park regulations regarding drone operation.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes and waterfalls. A polarizing filter can help manage reflections on the water.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Emphasize the importance of safety, especially regarding swimming. If the pools are closed, focus on the beauty of the landscape and the unique experience of the bamboo forest. Consider breaking up the drive along the Road to Hana with frequent stops to keep children entertained and manage the winding roads.
🚶♀️ Adventure Seekers & Hikers
+1 Be prepared for varied terrain, including stairs and potentially slippery paths. If you're seeking more adventure, consider exploring the less-developed parts of the park (with caution and proper preparation) or looking for other scenic viewpoints along the Road to Hana. Remember that swimming in the Seven Sacred Pools is often restricted, so manage expectations if that was a primary goal.
📸 Photographers
The Pipiwai Trail's bamboo forest is particularly photogenic, offering a surreal and atmospheric subject. Early morning light can be soft and magical, while midday sun can create dramatic contrasts. Be mindful of the weather, as rain can enhance the power of the waterfalls. A wide-angle lens is recommended to capture the expansive landscapes.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sacred History of ʻOheʻo Gulch
In the mid-20th century, there were plans to develop the area, but local outcry and a deep respect for its sacred nature led to its preservation. Eventually, the land was purchased by Laurance Rockefeller and later donated to the National Park Service, ensuring its protection for future generations. This history underscores the importance of visiting with respect and reverence.
Today, while swimming is often restricted due to safety, the spiritual essence of the Seven Sacred Pools remains palpable. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate its beauty and historical context, understanding that it's more than just a scenic spot; it's a place with a profound past.
Navigating the Road to Hana
Many travelers recommend starting very early in the morning, ideally before 7 AM, to avoid the heaviest traffic and have more time to stop at various points of interest. Popular stops include waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and fruit stands. Downloading offline maps is crucial as cell service is unreliable along most of the route.
While the drive can be demanding, the rewards are immense. The Road to Hana leads to the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park, home to the Seven Sacred Pools and the stunning Pipiwai Trail. It's a full-day commitment, so plan accordingly and be prepared for a memorable, albeit potentially white-knuckle, experience.
Hiking the Pipiwai Trail
+1The highlight of the hike is undoubtedly the bamboo forest, where towering stalks create a surreal, almost otherworldly atmosphere. The sound of the bamboo creaking and rustling in the wind is a unique sensory experience. As you continue, the trail follows a river, leading you to the magnificent Waimoku Falls, a 400-foot cascade plunging into a lush valley.
+1While the trail is generally well-maintained, it can be steep and slippery, especially after rain. Hikers of moderate fitness can complete it in about 2-3 hours, allowing time for stops to admire the scenery. Be sure to wear appropriate footwear and bring water.
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