Wailua Valley State Wayside
A quick, scenic pullover on Maui's Road to Hana offering breathtaking views of lush valleys and the Pacific Ocean.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy serene views
Wailua Valley State Wayside
Best Time
Beat the crowds and enjoy serene views
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A quick, scenic pullover on Maui's Road to Hana offering breathtaking views of lush valleys and the Pacific Ocean.
"Nice scenery, quick stop on the way to Hana and the national park."
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking is very scarce, often only for 3-4 cars. Be patient or be prepared for a quick stop!
📸 Quick Photo Stop
Perfect for a brief leg stretch and stunning photos of the valley and ocean.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ke'anae Valley Overlook
Wailua Valley State Wayside
Panoramic views of lush green valleys and the Pacific Ocean. A breathtaking vista that's a must-see on the Road to Hana.
Ocean Vistas
Wailua Valley State Wayside
Stunning glimpses of the Maui coastline, offering a refreshing contrast to the verdant inland scenery.
Mountain Scenery
Wailua Valley State Wayside
Majestic mountains form a dramatic backdrop, showcasing the island's natural beauty and volcanic origins.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Quick Scenic Stop
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking is very scarce, often only for 3-4 cars. Be patient or be prepared for a quick stop!
📸 Quick Photo Stop
Perfect for a brief leg stretch and stunning photos of the valley and ocean.
📍 Easy Access Viewpoint
A short walk up a few stairs reveals beautiful viewpoints. Very accessible for most.
🗺️ Road to Hana Essential
A worthwhile quick stop while driving the scenic Road to Hana.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Limited Parking Alert
Parking is very scarce, often only for 3-4 cars. Be patient or be prepared for a quick stop!
📸 Quick Photo Stop
Perfect for a brief leg stretch and stunning photos of the valley and ocean.
📍 Easy Access Viewpoint
A short walk up a few stairs reveals beautiful viewpoints. Very accessible for most.
🗺️ Road to Hana Essential
A worthwhile quick stop while driving the scenic Road to Hana.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Wailua Valley State Wayside to be a beautiful, albeit brief, scenic stop on the Road to Hana. While the views of the valley and ocean are consistently praised, the extremely limited parking is a recurring point of concern. Most agree it's a worthwhile quick photo opportunity if you can snag a parking spot.
"It has a decent view, but you pretty much can see the same thing all along Hana Highway. Parking was very limited, maybe enough for 3 cars plus one for the mobility challenged."
Big Fish Dive Club
"This stop is literally just a spot for a handful of cars to pull over into and just overlook into a pretty landscape. There is nowhere to go and it comes out of nowhere on the road. If you can fit your car in it's definitely worth the view."
Kyle Kempf
"Nice scenery, quick stop on the way to Hana and the national park"
Luis Duckworth
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Wailua Valley State Wayside is located on Maui's famous Road to Hana, approximately 31 miles east of Kahului. It's a roadside pullover, so keep an eye out for the signs as you drive.
Yes, it's a designated wayside park along the main highway. However, parking is extremely limited, so finding a spot can be the main challenge.
Many visitors drive themselves, stopping at various points like Wailua Valley State Wayside. Consider starting early to avoid crowds and allow ample time for exploration.
Yes, Wailua Valley State Wayside is one of many stops on the Road to Hana, including Twin Falls, Garden of Eden Arboretum, and Hana Town.
Public transport is not practical for the Road to Hana. Renting a car or booking a guided tour is the recommended way to visit.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Wailua Valley State Wayside is a public park and does not require an entrance fee or tickets.
As a wayside park, it is generally accessible during daylight hours. There are no official opening or closing times posted.
There is no admission fee to visit Wailua Valley State Wayside. It's a free scenic viewpoint.
While technically accessible, visiting at night is not recommended due to safety concerns and the lack of lighting. The primary draw is the daytime scenery.
Standard park rules apply. Please respect the natural environment and do not litter. Parking is the main restriction due to limited space.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the lush Ke'anae Valley, the dramatic Maui coastline, and the surrounding mountains.
Most visitors spend only 10-15 minutes here, as it's primarily a scenic overlook. It's a quick stop to appreciate the views.
There are a few easy stairs to climb to reach the best viewpoints, but it's not a traditional hiking trail.
Restroom facilities are not typically available at this small wayside. It's best to use facilities at previous or subsequent stops.
The main viewpoints are accessible via a few stairs, which are generally manageable. However, the parking area is small and uneven.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the sweeping vistas of the Ke'anae Valley, the vibrant green landscape, and the expansive ocean. The overlook provides excellent panoramic shots.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoon provides a beautiful golden hour glow.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty. A wide-angle lens can be helpful for panoramic shots.
The main viewpoint itself is the highlight. Look for interesting cloud formations or rainbows that often appear in the valley.
Drone usage may be restricted in state parks. It's always best to check current regulations before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Key tip: Due to very limited parking, consider visiting early in the morning or late afternoon to increase your chances of finding a spot. Pack snacks and drinks, as there are no facilities here. It's a great place for a quick photo opportunity before continuing your adventure.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Best times for photos are early morning for soft light and fewer people, or late afternoon for the warm, golden hour glow. While the parking is limited, the accessible viewpoints offer excellent opportunities for capturing panoramic shots of Maui's natural beauty.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Road to Hana Experience
Many travelers find that the Road to Hana is best experienced at a leisurely pace, allowing for spontaneous detours and appreciation of the scenery. While Wailua Valley State Wayside is a quick pullover, it serves as a reminder of the breathtaking natural wonders that await further down the road. It’s a place to pause, breathe in the tropical air, and prepare for the continued adventure.
Pro-tip: Start your Road to Hana journey early in the morning to maximize your time and minimize crowds at popular spots. Pack snacks, water, and be prepared for narrow, winding roads.
Parking and Accessibility
Despite the parking challenges, the viewpoint itself is quite accessible. A short climb up a few stairs leads to the primary overlooks, making it manageable for most visitors. However, the small, uneven parking area can pose a slight challenge for those with significant mobility issues.
Because visitors tend to spend only a short time here, turnover can be relatively quick. If you find yourself unable to park immediately, a short wait might be all that's needed. The quick nature of the stop makes it a popular choice for those wanting to experience the Road to Hana without extensive time commitments.
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