At mile marker 22 on Maui’s Hana Highway, Pua'a Ka'a State Wayside is a handy stop for waterfall views, a picnic or a swim. A short paved approach leads to small cascades, including an upper waterfall that drops into a broad pool; another fall is visible across the road. A rainforest trail reaches a swimming hole, though getting to the upper pool involves crossing a shallow stream. Shaded picnic tables, restrooms and free parking make this five-acre park useful on the drive, but its small lot fills quickly.
Waterfalls beside Hana Highway
Pua'a Ka'a State Wayside sits at mile marker 22 on Hana Highway. The five-acre park gives you a place to pause for waterfall views and a short walk without making a long detour from the drive.
A paved approach leads toward the falls. The cascades are modest in scale, with an upper waterfall dropping into a broad pool and another fall that spreads wider. A third can be seen across the road, where the stream passes beneath the highway.
Trails and swimming
A rainforest trail leads from across the road near the restrooms to a swimming hole. The upper pool is reached by crossing a shallow stream, so shoes with grip are useful on damp ground. The water comes directly from the waterfall and feels cold, which can be welcome after the drive.
Pack a swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim. Access to an additional pool farther upstream has been restricted, so do not count on reaching it.
A practical Road to Hana stop
Shaded picnic tables, restrooms, trash bins and free parking make the wayside useful for a break or a meal you bring with you. The restrooms are a convenient option along the highway, though their condition can be less than ideal.
Parking is limited and the lot can fill quickly, particularly as people stop to swim or use the restrooms. A roadside vendor has sold fresh coconut nearby, but availability is not assured. Bring your own food and water if you want to picnic.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is Pua'a Ka'a State Wayside?
It is on Hana Highway at mile marker 22 on Maui.
Can you swim at Pua'a Ka'a State Wayside?
Yes. A swimming hole is reached by a rainforest trail, and the upper waterfall pool is accessed by crossing a shallow stream. The water is cold.
Is parking available at Pua'a Ka'a State Wayside?
There is free parking, but the lot is small and fills quickly.
How long should you spend at Pua'a Ka'a State Wayside?
Allow about 30 to 60 minutes for the falls, a short walk or a swim.
