By:
Submission
When it comes to camping locations in paradise, Waianapanapa State Park remains an unspoiled gem. Low, volcanic cliffs envelop the sparkling black sand lagoon below. Located at the end of Waiʻanapanapa Road off Hana Highway, this park offers a wide range of scenic views, tropical hikes, and tons of unique recreation opportunities. Those looking for solitude and respite from the day-to-day grind of modern life are sure to enjoy this secluded campground.
Waianapanapa is unique in that it’s one of the few places where you can enjoy dark, volcanic sand beaches. Even cooler, throughout the year the various tide pools throughout turn a deep shade of maroon-red. Scientists attribute this to the shrimp colonies that visit throughout the year. However, locals say it’s a due to a haunting from the blood of Popoaleae, a mythical princess who was killed by her husband Chief Kaakea in a cave nearby. We’ll let you decide what you want to believe.
The campsites here are spacious enough to accomodate any tent or van dweller, but RVers aren’t going to find much accomodation here. The campground includes bathrooms, drinking water, an outdoor beach shower, fire pits, and tons of hikes nearby. In addition, the park grants access to shore fishing, snorkelling and scuba destinations nearby. Waianapanapa is also known for it’s natural blow-holes scattered through the park, and its world-class sea-bird watching.
Waianapanapa State Park is massive, featuring over 122 acres of unspoiled volcanic terrain. However, parking is limited and the campground itself is on the small side. If you’re looking to camp here, reservations must be made at least 3 days prior to your check-in date. For HI residents, fees are $12 per night for up to 6 people, and $2 per night for every person thereafter. If you’re not a resident, fees are $18/night, with an addition charge of $3 per additional camper. Additionally, the park also offers Cabins on reservation at $60/night for residents, and $90/night for visitors. That being said, if you’re planning on camping in a cabin be aware there is a 2 day minimum. If you’re the type to procrastinate, definitely take care of your reservations in advance as they are strict about permitting here.
The black sand against the turquoise backdrop of the ocean was gorgeous! It was very busy with lots of people though, even with reservations required. The waves were so powerful! The blow hole was pretty impressive! Definitely worth making the reservation to see this beauty! And bonus, sweet cats were roaming the park!
This is a great way to spend a 1/2 day in the state park near Hana! Make sure you wear good walking shoes as the trail is rocky and quite rough. I would also recommend you make reservations ahead of time or you will be waiting outside the park trying to make same day reservations. Parking can be an issue even with reservations but there are parking attendants that help.
Summary:
Excellent beach ⛱️ and a must watch on the road to Hana. This needs a prior reservation. The vibe here is very refreshing.
Pros:
Clean water and no salt
Black sand is easy to clean
Nice waves for swimming
Bonus cave to explore
No smell
Cons:
Only that it requires a reservation.
There were many people on the black sand beach actually, we only spent a few minutes there. We discovered the hiking to the rocks, the view was beautiful, and the ocean was so blue. Watching the big waves coming in splashing through the rocks was amazing and definitely worth the hike.
Beautiful park! You do need a reservation to enter, so be aware of that. The surf is a little rough, not many people in the water besides me on the day we visited. There are picnic tables, bathrooms, campgrounds, showers (outdoors), and more! Come and enjoy the black sand! When you get down to the beach, don't forget to check out the little cave immediately to the right, it's a cool little adventure!
