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Waianapanapa State Park Review

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All Hawaii National Parks

Waianapanapa State Park

Address: Hana Hwy. near mile marker 32, Hana, HI, 96713 | Map It
Phone: 808/984-8109

Category: Parks
Location: The North Shore

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Fodor's Review:

Home to one of Maui's only black-sand beaches and freshwater caves for adventurous swimmers to explore, this park is right on the ocean. It's a lovely spot to picnic, hike, or swim. To the left you'll find the volcanic beach, picnic tables, and cave pools. To the right is an ancient trail which snakes along the ocean past blowholes, sea arches, and archaeological sites. The tide pools here turns red several times a year. Scientists say it's explained by the arrival of small shrimp, but legend claims the color represents the blood of Popoalaea, said to have been murdered in one of the caves by her husband, Chief Kaakea. In either case, the dramatic landscape—black sand, green beach vines, azure water—is bound to leave a lasting impression. With a permit you can stay in state-run cabins here for $45 a night—the price varies depending on the number of people—but reserve early. They often book up a year in advance.