Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Once inside the park, you'll notice a large parking lot next to an informative visitor
center. Take time to explore the visitor center because it's the best place on this side of
the island to gain an understanding of the history, culture, and unique environment of the
Kipahulu region. Rangers here are the best sources of information on current conditions of
trails and waterfalls throughout the park.
The visitor center is also where you begin the Kuloa Point Loop Trail leading down to
the famous pools. Along the 10-minute walk you'll go through groves of
hala
trees and
past a number of historic sites. Eventually the trail emerges at a staircase down to the pools
and one of the most iconic vistas in Hawai'i.
On most days the three main pools are open for exploring and swimming, although
they're closed during heavy rains and flash floods. Reaching the uppermost pools requires
some rock scaling; it's well worth the effort if you're physically fit.
•
Mile Marker 41.9:
Trailhead for Pipiwai Trail (parking for trailhead is inside park)
•
Mile Marker 41.7:
Entry to Haleakala National Park
•
Mile Marker 41.2:
Ono Organic Farms
Ono Organic Farms
The granddaddy of all the organic farms is
Ono Organic Farms
(808/248-7779,
www.onofarms.com
, tours $35 adult, children under 10 free), half a mile past the entrance
to Haleakala National Park. If you're a fan of exotic produce, you'll be absolutely blown
away by the selection at this 50-acre farm. In addition to growing over 3,000 pounds of
bananas
every week,
this farm also cultivates durian, cacao, coffee, tea, 'awa, star fruit,
Surinam cherries, and 60 other types of tropical and exotic fruits. Owner Chuck Boerner
recommends you come hungry. Tours run Monday-Friday at 1:30pm and last two hours.
The cost of the tour more than pays for itself in food, local knowledge, and genuine is-
land experience, offering a culinary journey of certified organic and GMO-free produce
plucked directly from the land. Chuck is happy to “talk story” about everything from the
history of Kipahulu to surfing (the movie
Blue Crush
was based on his daughter Lilia and
her friends surfing around Maui). A genuine spirit of
aloha
permeates the compound. It's
easiest to take the tour if you're staying overnight in Hana. The driveway up to the farm is
part of the adventure.
•
Mile Marker 40.9:
Ho'onanea Farms fruit and coffee stand
