Keanae Peninsula
Dramatic black lava coastline meets powerful Pacific waves on this iconic Road to Hana stop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Keanae Peninsula
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic black lava coastline meets powerful Pacific waves on this iconic Road to Hana stop.
"This spot is truly a little piece of heaven. Don't skip it!"
🚗 Stop Early for Parking
Arrive before midday to secure a good parking spot, especially during peak season.
🌊 Admire, Don't Swim
The ocean here is beautiful but dangerous. Enjoy the views from a safe distance.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dramatic Lava Coastline
Keanae Peninsula
Witness powerful waves crash against striking black lava rock formations for unforgettable views.
Keanae Lookout
Overlooking the peninsula
Capture panoramic vistas of the rugged coast, lush greenery, and the vast Pacific Ocean.
Local Banana Bread Stand
Near Keanae Congregational Church
Savor delicious, freshly baked banana bread from a beloved local vendor.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Journey
Coastal Caution
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Stop Early for Parking
Arrive before midday to secure a good parking spot, especially during peak season.
🌊 Admire, Don't Swim
The ocean here is beautiful but dangerous. Enjoy the views from a safe distance.
📸 Capture the Rugged Beauty
The dramatic coastline offers incredible photo ops, but be cautious on the rocks.
🍌 Taste the Local Banana Bread
Don't miss the famous banana bread from the roadside stand; it's a local treat!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Stop Early for Parking
Arrive before midday to secure a good parking spot, especially during peak season.
🌊 Admire, Don't Swim
The ocean here is beautiful but dangerous. Enjoy the views from a safe distance.
📸 Capture the Rugged Beauty
The dramatic coastline offers incredible photo ops, but be cautious on the rocks.
🍌 Taste the Local Banana Bread
Don't miss the famous banana bread from the roadside stand; it's a local treat!
🚶 Stretch Your Legs
A perfect halfway point on the Road to Hana to break up the drive and enjoy the scenery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Keanae Peninsula for its breathtaking, rugged beauty and dramatic coastal views. The opportunity to taste delicious local banana bread is a highlight, making it a beloved stop on the Road to Hana. However, many caution against swimming due to dangerous ocean conditions.
"Beautiful spot. . Got banana bread at the little stand and liked it,Nice place for refreshment. Road is very beautiful there are 3-4 places where you can take a stop on this Road.but not quite as much as the loaf from "Halfway to Hana". Would definitely recommend to visit all places on this road."
SURESH MITTAL
"The waters here are pretty dangerous and rough, so I wouldn't advise attempting to swim here. That being said, the rock formations do make a great view and show the more rugged side to Maui's coastline."
J.C. Lochan
"Beautiful spot. Saw lots of cool creatures in the tide pools. Got banana bread at the little stand and liked it, but not quite as much as the loaf from "Halfway to Hana". Would definitely recommend this stop."
Scott and Megan Diefenbaugh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Keanae Peninsula is located about halfway along the Road to Hana on Maui. You'll need to turn off the main highway onto Keanae Road. Many travelers use GPS apps or follow signs for the peninsula.
The Road to Hana is known for its winding, narrow roads with many hairpin turns and one-lane bridges. While the drive to Keanae is part of this scenic route, it's manageable if you drive cautiously and take your time.
Parking can be limited, especially during peak tourist times. It's advisable to arrive earlier in the day or be prepared to wait for a spot.
Public transportation is not readily available for the Road to Hana or Keanae Peninsula. Most visitors rent a car or join a guided tour.
The drive from Kahului to Keanae Peninsula typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic and how often you stop along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit the Keanae Peninsula itself. It's a scenic stop along the public Road to Hana.
Unlike some other popular Maui attractions, Keanae Peninsula does not require advance reservations for general access.
The Keanae Peninsula is an outdoor natural attraction and is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no admission fee to visit the banana bread stand. You only pay for any food or drinks you purchase.
Yes, you can drive to Keanae Peninsula without completing the entire Road to Hana, but it's most commonly visited as part of that iconic drive.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire coastline offers stunning photo opportunities. Look for dramatic shots of waves crashing on black lava rocks, panoramic views from the lookout, and the iconic taro fields.
While the rocks offer unique perspectives, they can be slippery and dangerous due to crashing waves. Exercise extreme caution and prioritize safety over a photo.
Mid-morning offers good light without harsh shadows, while late afternoon provides the beautiful golden hour glow.
Drone usage may be restricted in certain areas or by local regulations. Always check current rules and fly responsibly.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water and enhance colors.
🎫 🌊 Onsite Experience
You can admire the dramatic coastline, take photos, enjoy local banana bread, and learn about the area's cultural significance. It's primarily a scenic stop.
Swimming is strongly discouraged due to dangerous currents and rough waves. The waters are beautiful to look at but not safe for swimming.
It's famous for its rugged black lava coastline, powerful ocean waves, and as a picturesque stop on the Road to Hana, often featuring local banana bread stands.
Restroom facilities may be limited or basic. It's advisable to use restrooms at previous stops or plan accordingly.
The taro fields are part of the traditional landscape. While you can view them from the road, it's important to respect private property and avoid trespassing.
🍽️ 🍌 Food & Dining
The most popular food option is the local banana bread stand, often found near the Keanae Congregational Church. For more options, you'll need to continue further along the Road to Hana.
The primary offering is delicious, freshly baked banana bread. Some vendors might also offer other local snacks or drinks.
Yes, many visitors rave about the banana bread, describing it as a must-try local treat.
There are no formal restaurants directly on the Keanae Peninsula. The focus is on natural beauty and small local vendors.
Absolutely! Packing a picnic is a great idea, as food options are limited. Remember to pack out all your trash.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks and drinks as food options are limited to the roadside vendors. The drive itself can be long for younger children, so breaking it up with stops like Keanae is essential. The visual spectacle of the waves crashing against the black rocks can be captivating for all ages, offering a memorable experience of Maui's wilder side.
📸 Photographers & Content Creators
Experiment with wide-angle lenses to capture the vastness of the coastline and telephoto lenses to focus on the power of the waves. Be mindful of the slippery rocks and unpredictable sea spray when setting up your gear. The Keanae Lookout offers a classic panoramic view, perfect for establishing shots.
🚗 Road Trip Enthusiasts
Embrace the journey and don't rush your visit. Take time to appreciate the unique landscape and the cultural significance of the area. It's a chance to experience a more rugged and less developed side of Maui, making the entire Road to Hana experience even richer.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Road to Hana Drive
Key stops along the Road to Hana include the Rainbow Eucalyptus trees, various waterfalls like Wailua Falls, and the famous black sand beaches such as Waianapanapa State Park (which requires reservations). The drive is as much about the journey as the destination, with numerous opportunities to pull over and soak in the breathtaking natural beauty of Maui's unspoiled coastline.
It's crucial to prepare for the drive by packing essentials like water, snacks, motion sickness medication, and a full tank of gas. Many visitors opt for a guided tour to navigate the challenging roads, while others prefer the freedom of a self-drive. Regardless of your choice, the Road to Hana, with stops like Keanae Peninsula, promises an unforgettable Hawaiian experience.
Cultural Significance of Keanae
Historically, the area was known for its extensive taro fields, which were ingeniously irrigated by ancient Hawaiian engineering. These fields are still visible today, showcasing the agricultural ingenuity of the past. The Keanae Congregational Church, a historic landmark, stands as a testament to the community's enduring faith and traditions.
Visiting Keanae offers a chance to appreciate the resilience of Hawaiian culture and the importance of preserving ancestral lands and practices. It’s a reminder that this beautiful landscape is also a living cultural heritage site, cared for by its residents.
Coastal Dangers and Safety
Visitors are strongly advised to admire the ocean's power from a safe distance, typically from the lookout points or the edge of the lava fields. The rocks themselves can be slippery and unstable, especially when wet from sea spray. Climbing on them for photos, while tempting, carries a risk of slips, falls, and potential injury from the crashing waves.
Always heed local warnings and signs regarding ocean safety. Prioritize your well-being over capturing a risky photograph. The beauty of Keanae Peninsula is best enjoyed with a healthy respect for the formidable forces of nature at play.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit