An oceanfront campground in the Kipahulu district of Haleakala National Park, on a grassy bluff above the surf at the end of the Road to Hana. Camping here turns the notorious Hana drive from a rushed day trip into two relaxed days, and it puts the Pipiwai Trail and the Oheo Gulch pools a short walk from your tent, hours before the tour vans arrive. Facilities are minimal: pit toilets, picnic tables, grills, and no potable water at all. Bring every drop you plan to drink.
Hawaii State Parks rents a small group of simple housekeeping cabins at the black sand beach park outside Hana, along with a tent campground. The cabins are basic, with beds, a kitchen and a bathroom but no resort polish, and they are one of the only affordable ways to actually sleep in Hana rather than driving back the same day. Staying overnight means the black sand beach, the lava tubes and the coastal trail before the day traffic arrives. Reservations are mandatory and the park now controls entry times for visitors.
A series of cascading pools and waterfalls that flow from the mountains down to the ocean in the Kipahulu district of Haleakala National Park. When conditions allow, swimming in the tiered rock pools is magical with waterfall-fed water and views of the ocean below. The pools are frequently closed for safety during high water so check before making the long drive. A short paved trail leads to the lower pool area. The setting is stunningly beautiful with jungle, waterfalls, and ocean all in one view.
A 4-mile round trip trail through a dense bamboo forest that is one of the most magical walks in Hawaii. The trail ends at Waimoku Falls, a 400-foot waterfall cascading down a cliff face. Walking through the towering bamboo grove with the stalks creaking and swaying overhead is an unforgettable sensory experience for kids. The trail also passes a massive banyan tree. This hike is in the Kipahulu district of Haleakala National Park at the end of the Road to Hana so plan your drive time accordingly.
A dramatic black sand beach surrounded by sea caves, lava tubes, and blowholes on the Road to Hana. The jet-black sand contrasts with turquoise water and green jungle creating otherworldly scenery. Kids are fascinated by exploring the lava tubes and sea caves along the coast. A short coastal trail leads to blowholes and natural rock arches. The beach itself has strong waves so swimming requires caution but wading at the edges is fine. The park also has cabins and camping for overnight stays.