Shipwreck Beach

Shipwreck Beach Review

The rusting World War II tanker off this 8-mi stretch of sand adds just the right touch to an already photogenic beach. Maui is visible in the distance, and Molokai lies just across beautiful but unrelenting Kalohi Channel. Strong trade winds have propelled vessels onto the reef since at least 1824, when the first shipwreck was recorded. The unnamed Navy oiler you see stranded today, however, was intentionally scuttled. To see petroglyphs of warriors and dogs decorating dark red boulders, follow the painted rocks and signs at the end of the road south about 200 yards. The water is unsafe for swimming. There are no lifeguards, so kids should play only in the shallows, and adults should stick to beachcombing. Take Highway 440 (Keomuku Highway) to its eastern terminus, and then turn left on dirt road and continue north for 2 mi.