Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
LANDING ON RED OR BLACK?
When it comes to choosing a beach in Hana, this question has nothing to do with
a roulette wheel and everything to do with the color of the sand. Unlike at a
casino, choosing isn't a gamble, however, since you're sure to be awed by the
beauty of both. The red sand of Kaihalulu (Red Sand Beach) is formed by the
crushed red cinder of towering Ka'uiki Hill, and this is one of the island's most
oft-photographed and unique sections. Meanwhile, on the outskirts of town by
Wai'anapanapa State Park, Pa'iloa Beach (Black Sand Beach) is formed from the
crushed black lava rock from the dramatic coastline, and the sand is closer to little
black pebbles than fine powder. Can't decide between the two? That's okay. Hana
is small enough you can make time to visit both.
MM Hamoa Beach
Continue along Haneo'o Road, paralleling the ocean, the snowcapped peak of Mauna Kea
on the Big Island occasionally visible in the distance. At low tide you can also see the rem-
nants of the ancient Haneo'o Fishpond, although access to the fishpond rests on private
land. As the road rounds back to the right, you'll finally catch glimpses of a beach that
Mark Twain considered one of the most beautiful in the world.
Before you experience Hamoa Beach for yourself, however, you need to find a parking
spot. Parking is tight; park only on the right side of the road so that traffic flows smoothly
on the left. You might have to drive past the beach before you can find a space. Access to
the beach is down the stone stairway. The park area at the bottom of the stairs is property
of the Travaasa Hana hotel but the sandy beach is public property.
This is the best spot in Hana for a relaxing day at the beach. On the calmest of days it's
possible to snorkel along the rocky coastline, though most visitors will prefer to bodysurf
the consistent, playful shorebreak. This can also be one of the best surf breaks in the area
KIPAHULU AND BEYOND
Although there aren't any beaches between Hamoa and 'Ohe'o (Seven Pools), if you're
continuing around the “back” of the island the road will intersect the shoreline again at a
number of rocky beaches.
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