Finding Sea Turtles in Maui

When I booked my trip to Hawaii, I told myself I wouldn’t leave without finding sea turtles in Maui. Coming from the concrete jungles of New York, this would be a first for me, and honestly, who can resist those cute little heads bobbing out of the water for a quick breath of air?

Swimming with Sea Turtles at Kaanapali Beach

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Before You Look For Maui Sea Turtles

Before I dig in too deep, please keep in mind to give turtles their space, and not to disturb them while they are resting on the beach or in the water. They recommend not to approach turtles any closer than 20 feet.

If they happen to be swimming towards you just move out of their way and enjoy their beauty. Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act, and it’s illegal to touch or harass them.

By following these rules, we will all be able to enjoy their graceful presence for years to come!

The Search for Sea Turtles

With that out of the way, the second we got to our hotel in Maui, I was in search finding of sea turtles. I started pounding the keyboard and reading countless articles where I might get a glimpse without having to pay.

I came up with nothing. This is when I  decided I would just go to a bunch of different beaches until I found them.

Finally Finding Sea Turtles in Maui

Ok, Ok… so let’s get to the point of where you can find sea turtles in Maui. Throughout my trip, I learned that Maui is full of sea turtles, but here are the two spots I particularly loved watching them.

The first spot was actually at my hotel, The Sheraton at Black Rock. The second place was the Honolua-Mokuleia Bay Marine Life Conservation District (Slaughterhouse beach) but not to worry it’s safe.

The nickname “slaughterhouse” comes from the Honolua Ranch slaughterhouse and tanning/storage shed that was torn down in the 60’s, but the “wonderful” name stuck.

Black Rock Beach, Maui

I was lucky enough to have Black Rock beach right in my backyard so to speak. I rented my snorkel gear for the week and dove in. Within minutes I spotted not 1 but 4 green sea turtles!

As you could imagine, I felt like a kid on Christmas that just found out I got a puppy. I learned that the turtles were here around 7 am and 2:30 pm like clockwork munching on the algae-filled rocks.

One downside about this place is that it’s a pretty popular place to snorkel. Because of this, people were huddling over the turtles, which broke my heart to see people not giving them their space to swim freely.

Please don’t be this person. The great thing about Black Rock is that they have been coming here for many years, so consider these sea turtles regulars.

Mokuleia Beach, Maui

We loved Honolua-Mokuleia beach and actually stumbled here by accident. This beach is close to mile marker 32 on Highway 30.

It’s part of the Mokuleia Marine Life Conservation District with a sign pointing out to not disturb the wildlife or take anything from the beach, not even the sand. I didn’t see a sign that says Mokuleia Bay or Slaughterhouse Beach, but you will see cars parked off to the side (which piqued our interest to stop and find this gem).

Just look for a green painted metal fence and you are likely in the right spot. At the far end of the railing, there are concrete steps that lead down to the cove.

This is a nice secluded beach with a local feel and my favorite spot for finding sea turtles! We went down to the far left side and swam by the rocks close to the shore and saw 4 sea turtles just swimming around the rocks!

The water was super clear so we watched them for hours. In one spot we were able to just stand and look down. It was low tide. I was in love.

Subsequently, I was later bathing in Maui Vera Aloe with my entire back as red as a lobster. Although this aloe is a miracle worker (and organic), keep applying your sunscreen especially if your snorkeling!

Tip: Our favorite sunscreens are Blue Lizard Australian Sensitive Sunscreen SPF 30 and Juice Beauty SPF 30 Sport Moisturizer which is coral reef safe!

Maui Sea turtle Wrap-up

This wraps up our guides on finding sea turtles in Maui! Also note, during winter months, the surf can be high and not safe for snorkeling so make sure to check before going out. If you find you know of any other great places to find sea turtles in Maui, we would love to hear!

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A Detailed Guide on How to Self-Drive The Road to Hana

The Road to Hana is a must-do when visiting Maui, Hawaii, and takes a full day around the twisting and winding roads. Although it’s a long day, this was easily the top thing to do in Maui! In this guide, we cover how to self-drive the Road to Hana and the stops you won’t want to miss!

Road To Hana, Maui Self Driving Guide

Randomly talking to a couple we met in Kauai about Maui, they had recommended we download Shaka Guide – Road to Hana app for our trip.

They said it was so amazing for their trip and they were not lying. We took their word and downloaded it for our trip.

Once downloaded, the App gives you 3 road options. The Loop, Reverse Loop, and then the classic tour. The App costs around 5$UDS for the map you chose, so pick wisely. (not an affiliate)!

What is great about having this app, is that we felt like we were on a tour guide, but it was all based on our time. They told you what was worth seeing and skipping and giving a lot of history through the drive.

Had it not been for the app we would have most likely missed a bunch of stuff or had no background behind it.

There is also very little service while driving the road to Hana, so the app really helped!

Road To Hana Road  Guide Black Sand BeachView Point

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Rental Cars and The Road to Hana

We choose to do the loop route despite what the car rental place told us. We were in an economy car and made it through just fine.

As long as you don’t mind taking the risk of damage to your rental car and the car is not very low to the ground, it should be fine, but this is at your own risk despite my feeling or experience! I am in no way an expert on Rental Car Policies!

With that said, the unpaved road can be a little shady as there are no railing and tiny one-lane bridges, but it was my favorite part through Hana.

You get to see the other side of Mt. Haleakala and it is just stunning. You will also get to see some free-range cattle which was also pretty cool.

Food Tips for Road to Hana

One thing the app suggests from the beginning is for you to stop in Paia at the Hana Picnic Lunch Company for picnic food. It is a great idea in theory, but I would recommend just getting smoothies and bringing some snacks from wherever you get gas for the trip.

There are so many good places to get food along the way, so it’s not worth bringing the picnic lunch. For example, there is the famous Aunty Sandy’s which was out of this world banana bread that comes piping hot, or Coconut Glen’s Homemade Dairy-free ice cream, YUM. Glen lets you taste before you buy and they are all so amazing!

Top Spots Along the Road to Hana Drive in Maui Hawaii

In the guide, starting early is key when self-driving The Road to Hana. If you can, try to get to Paia Town by 7 AM. This is also where you should fill up your gas! It’s a long day with a lot to see so you won’t want to cut yourself short. Check my packing list before you go!

Twin Falls Mile Marker 2

Ready for your first waterfall while driving the Road to Hana in Maui? You will see the parking lot on your left but if there is no parking, you can find some a little further up the road.

The only bad part about this is they have a bunch of signs saying “5 Cars were broken into this week that was not in the lot”.

Because we didn’t park in the lot we figured we would run in, check it out, and go back to the car.

We found one waterfall as we quickly walked in, I just don’t think it was Twins falls.

If you can park in the lot, Twins Falls is supposed to be one that you can actually swim in.

Bamboo Forest (I believe this was between mile marker 6-7)

I would highly recommend stopping at the Bamboo forest on the Road to Hana. The path was muddy and slippery but had such amazing views. There are several places to enter through, although the one we chose was not necessarily the best.

There were so many cars stopped here so we had to park further up the road and just followed a couple in.

Bamboo Forest

Where we entered, the path was narrow and on the edge of a stream. I would recommend holding several bamboo stalks while walking through in case one snaps. Our exit spot was much easier so not all paths are difficult.

Through the dense bamboo forest, we made our way to a stream with a peaceful waterfall. We spent about 30-45 minutes here.

Painted Tree’s

The Painted trees will be on your left-hand side. For parking, you should be able to pull over a little way up the road on the right-hand side. You will see a small section of the beautiful Eucalyptus trees, also known as the painted trees.

They get their name from the colorful bark that looks to have been painted. (makes sense!) These trees are actually indigenous to Australia but, I was so happy I got to see them here in Maui, Hawaii!

Kaumahina State Wayside

You have probably been driving for a while now and may be in need of a restroom. The Kaumahina State Wayside has restrooms and a nice viewpoint.

The Shaka guide app will let you know this is a short detour, but it’s definitely worth it! This is where you can get Aunty Sandy’s Banana bread which is famous in Maui and see some beautiful views on a lava cost.

Wailua Valley State Wayside Park

We stopped at Wailua Valley State Wayside Park shortly to view panoramic views of the lush jungle and the ocean. It’s quick and a beautiful picture.

3 Bear Waterfalls

Ready to chase waterfalls? On the road to Hana, you will see more waterfalls than you can count, one more beautiful than the next. 3 Bear Falls was one of my favorites to see in Maui.

We saw people swimming at these falls, but it seemed difficult to get down to. Throughout this trip, you want to stay aware of the time since this is not the road you want to go down in the dark.

Wailua iki Falls

You will notice that most of the land has no trespassing signs, however, everyone is trespassing. Since we saw everyone doing it, we figured how bad could it be. Of course, this is all at your own risk.

These falls are a bit of a hike, but it’s a nice place to stretch your legs. We only walked to the first falls, but if you go further there is suppose to be another nice waterfall.

Lava Tunnel

This is a small lava tunnel on the side of the road that you can easily drive past and not even see. I know there are much larger lava caves where you pay to go into, but being that we are on a budget, we didn’t entertain them.

Make sure you bring your phone as it is pitch black but super cool.

Towards the end of the tunnel are a bunch of tree branches coming down. We climbed out and were able to go around to the car. I thought this was really awesome and was no more than 10 minutes.

Hidden Lava tunnel

Waianapanapa Black Sand Beach

After countless Instagram pics of this Maui beach, it was on my top list of things to see. The park is huge, but the beach itself is rather small. Regardless of the size, it is absolutely beautiful.

I expected the beach sand to feel like “real” sand, but it was more like a bunch of black pebbles. The sand is actually lava all broken down, so it makes sense, but I didn’t know that until we got there.

We saw a sea turtle, a couple of mongooses, explored a lava cave, and more. This is a place you want to spend some time to explore, relax and eat some snacks like that delicious bread from Aunty Sandy’s.

Town of Hana, Maui

We finally made it to Hana. This is a charming little town and I would definitely recommend grabbing a bite here although I didn’t get to myself due to the whole Paia sandwich thing. All the stands and food did look really good and fresh!

Fish Pond

The Fish Pond stop seems to be more of a locals place but we saw red sand here which was pretty awesome. You can also see Alau Island here. I will leave it up to the Shaka guide to give you the inside scoop on this spot!

I would just say, be very respectful since it does not seem like a normal tourist area.

Haleakala National Park

You have now made it to the end if you choose the classic route. To go into the park you have to pay $25 per private vehicle (credit/debit card only) and is valid for 3 days.

I would plan your Haleakala sunrise within these same 3 days this way you don’t have to pay twice. I share a separate post about attending the Haleakala sunrise, which is something you do not want to miss in Maui!

On this side of Haleakala National park, you will find the 7 sacred pools and tons of hiking trails. People use to swim here, however, the pools were closed indefinitely and there were shark signs saying not to go in as well.

The Road to Hana Loop

If you decided to do the classic route, you might want to go to some places you skipped on the way there, but if you are like us and choose the loop, here are some extra places to stop on for your Road to Hana guide.

When driving the unpaved road, please make sure you respect the locals by not going through their property and letting them go around you on the road.

Also just FYI, make sure you are a very comfortable driver because there are some very tight 1 lane spots and are just slightly sketchy.

Charles Lindbergh’s Grave

We went here, but I would skip it unless you have a lot of time left. There was a nice Banyan tree, but that was about it.

South Side Views of Mt. Haleakala

The rest of your journey is mainly taking in the landscape with a couple of optional stops along the way. First I want to start by saying how breathtaking the south side of Mt Haleakala is (my pictures do not do it any justice!)

We saw a bunch of free-range cattle just walking along the road and plenty of panoramic views of the rough seas and landscapes. Throughout the drive, the app points out different areas and gives you some history while driving.

Smooth Rock Beach

We pulled off to the right side of the road, ran down to check out smooth rock beach. We were greeted with stacks of smooth rocks, crashing waves, and gusting winds.

A unique thing about this beach is when the waves crash, the rocks would bang against each other to make beautiful music.

Road to Hana, Maui Guide Review

Our Guide through the Road to Hana took about 7 hours and boy were we beat when we got back to the hotel. Overall, it was such an amazing experience to see the lush jungles on one side of Mt Haleakala to the lesser-seen dry side of the mountain.

Besides the Road to Hana, you should also make sure to experience the sunrise atop Mt. Haleakala. If you enjoy looking for photogenic spots, you can also check out these Maui Instagram spots!

I hope you found this Road to Hana guide helpful and that you have an amazing time exploring Maui. Also, thanks to Shaka guide for giving us the best private tour we could have ever asked for! (Not Sponsered!).

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Discovering the Mt Haleakala Sunrise

Mt Haleakala Sunrise is a must-do if you find yourself in Maui. This was one of the most incredible things I have ever witnessed hands down! Waking up at 2 am to make it up the twisting and winding, no guard railed or lighted road was so beyond worth it.

Background to Mt. Haleakala

Haleakala National Park is Maui’s highest peak soaring 10,023 (3,005 m) feet above sea level.  Haleakala means “house of the sun”. This is also where demigod Maui lassoed the sun, to give his people more daylight for things like fishing, farming, and dry their Kapa.

Before You’re Visit to Haleakala National Park

If you planned to do the 7 sacred pools and other hiking around Mt Haleakala, plan to do this within 3 days of each other this way your receipt is valid. I must note, that we did not (lesson learned) however they told us for $5 dollars we can use that receipt towards a year pass to the park(not sure if this is always the case).

If this is your first visit to Mt. Haleakala the price is $25 per private vehicle (credit/debit card only) and is valid for 3 days.

Additionally, I’d suggest reading these important 6 Sunrise Mt. Haleakala things to know.

Reservations

Another lesson learned was the reservation process. We just assumed like the rest of our ventures in Hawaii, we can just show up…NOPE. Luckily we spoke with the front desk at the beginning of our stay!

The woman alerted us that a reservation must be made for the sunrise (3am-7am) online only. If you’re like me and didn’t know this, there is still hope.

Get a Ticket

Each day, 40 tickets are available for reservation two days in advance, at 4:00 p.m. Hawaiian time. They go quick so have the web-page open and ready to go at 4 PM Link You might need to do a little extra searching with the link above, as the recreation gov website sometimes gives an error page.

If you are smart and looking this up now, you can purchase your reservation 2 months in advance and the reservation is $1.50 dollars. There are other guidelines, so definitely check out the recreation gov’s website. You do not want to wake up at the crack of dawn to realize they will not let you up.

Mt. Haleakala Sunrise Experience

We got there and it was freezing, about 34 degrees Fahrenheit. Thankfully I brought the comforter from our hotel! There was a group of people waiting by a rail next to the bathrooms to watch the sunrise. I thought to myself, how am I going to see it through all these people.

That’s when we noticed some people walking up the mountain and so we followed them, giant comforter wrapped around me and all. Slightly tripping and falling up the mountain terrain in the pitch dark added to the experience as we made it to the top and sat on a rock for the show.

We had perfect conditions as the sun slowly fired up the clouds giving a view I will hold with me for a lifetime. It was truly spectacular!

Mt Haleakala Sunrise Summary

So to summarize, we had 3 hours of sleep resulting in a 2 AM wake-up, 3-hour ride up, crazy twisting roads in the dark, and freezing weather, but it was so beyond worth it to sit above the clouds and just be apart of this moment in time.