Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve

Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve Review

South of Makena Beach, the road fades away into a vast territory of black-lava flows, the result of Haleakala's last eruption and now a place for exploration on land and below the water. Before it ends, the road passes through the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve, an excellent place for morning snorkel adventures. The area was so popular that it had to be temporarily closed in 2008. At this writing it was scheduled to reopen in July 2014. Parts that remain open include the coastal area along Ahihi Bay, including the "Dumps" surf break. This area is the start of the Hoapili Trail, where you can hike through the remains of one of Maui's ancient villages. Bring water and a hat, as there are no public facilities and little shade, and tread carefully over this culturally important landscape.