Black Sand Beach, Waiʻānapanapa State Park

This touring cycling route offers a captivating journey through Maui's lush eastern coast, culminating at the striking Black Sand Beach (Pa'iloa Beach) within Waiʻānapanapa State Park. You'll pedal past verdant rainforests and dramatic sea cliffs, experiencing the unique blend of tropical foliage and raw volcanic landscapes. The contrast of the shiny black sand against the blue ocean and green surroundings is truly a sight to behold, making this an easy 6.0-mile (9.7 km) ride with a big payoff.

Planning your visit requires a bit of foresight: you'll need reservations to enter Waiʻānapanapa State Park. While the route is an easy 36-minute ride with only 332 feet (101 metres) of elevation gain, the Road to Hana can have heavy but slow-moving traffic, so an early start is recommended. Be mindful of potentially mossy road surfaces, especially after rain, and remember that internal park trails are not suitable for bikes.

This segment of the famous Road to Hana is a fantastic way to experience its natural wonders without tackling the entire challenging route. The park itself is rich with natural features beyond the beach, including lava tubes, blowholes, and freshwater caves, offering plenty to explore on foot once you've parked your bike. It's a perfect introduction to the unique geology and coastal beauty of Maui's eastern side.