Exploring Maui’s Red Sand Beach | Hidden Gem on the Road to Hana

Red Sand Beach, also known as Kaihalulu Beach, is one of the most unique and visually striking beaches on Maui. Located just outside the small town of Hana, this secluded cove is carved into the side of the Kaʻuiki Head cinder cone, where crumbling dark red lava cliffs meet the deep blue waters of the Pacific. The iron-rich rock gives the sand its dramatic reddish color, creating an incredible contrast against the black lava rock wall and turquoise waves.

Reaching the beach is part of the adventure. The trail starts near Hana and follows a narrow footpath along the hillside with sections that can be slippery and exposed. Landslides have reshaped parts of the route, and some sections hug the cliff edge, so careful footing is important. The hike isn’t long, but it feels wild and exciting—like you’re stepping into a hidden world that few visitors get to see.

Once I reached the cove, I spent a couple of hours playing in the water and small waves with family who was visiting the island. A natural lava rock wall protects part of the bay, creating a pocket of calmer water when conditions are right, though occasional currents and surges keep things interesting. The vivid red cliffs rising above the beach make every direction feel like a postcard, and it was easy to lose track of time while swimming and soaking in the incredible scenery.

This combination of vibrant red sand, rugged volcanic cliffs, and secluded atmosphere makes Kaihalulu Beach a must-see for anyone exploring Hana and the Road to Hana on Maui. It’s not a simple walk-up beach—getting there requires a bit of effort and caution—but the reward is a one-of-a-kind Hawaiian landscape that feels worlds away from the more crowded beaches on the island.

Other Road to Hana Videos (ordered by location if driving clockwise around the island):
Twin Falls - https://youtu.be/Qj7KGquAV5o
Bamboo Forest & Waterfalls/RainbowTrees - https://youtu.be/jj6FM1H7pu8
Waikamoi Streams & Waterfall/Haipua’ena Falls - https://youtu.be/ddSkpgK3XHo
Ching’s Pond (Blue Sapphire Pools)/Upper Waikani Falls (Three Bears Falls) - https://youtu.be/KSXVI1GAfcw
Pua'a Ka'a Falls/Hanawi Falls/Makapipi Falls - https://youtu.be/ULhowqbZPkI
Red Sand Beach - https://youtu.be/rgQ0lHkyhHc
Waioka Pond (Venus Pools) - https://youtu.be/vVYHlCfq2Vk
Seven Sacred Pools/Pīpīwai Trail - https://youtu.be/UKrxGaF5vmU

Gear used for this video:
📸: GoPro HERO8 - get it at https://amzn.to/3DCjjqc
📸: Foretoo selfi stick (waterproof): get it at https://amzn.to/3DHc801
👟: Gerald's Hiking sandals - Keen Newport - https://amzn.to/3BJpyrX
👟: Hailey's Hiking sandals - Chaco - https://amzn.to/3lIZOGu

Other gear:
🤿: Mask/Snorkel - get it at https://amzn.to/3vhAaf5
🤿: Toddler/Kids Mask - get it at https://amzn.to/3BL3PzI
👟: Gerald's Trail Runners - Saucony Peregrine - https://amzn.to/2YVccL0
🎒: Hiking Backpack: Osprey Talon 22 - https://amzn.to/3AIjzSS
🏕️: Madera Hammock/Rain Fly/Camping Gear - https://bit.ly/3BsEc74

Some links are affiliate links, which help support the channel at no extra cost to you.