MAUI'S BLACK SAND BEACH

There is an unique inhabitant of these pools. It’s a small, red shrimp called “opae’ula“. The opae’ula didn’t just adapt to live in these brackish water conditions, they thrive here. Only five of the eight major Hawaiian islands have anchialine pools. Of course Maui has them and the locals take care of them because it’s part of their sacred Hawaiian culture. The pools are formed from the erosion of the volcanic rock over long periods of time. There are several pools located in Waianapanapa State Park. Just another reason to love Maui!

These are unusual inland pools of fresh and saltwater that remain relatively un-mixed. The little known fact that these pools have a series of underground tunnels that connects to the ocean makes them very special indeed. Simple and natural in design, the aforementioned tunnels allow the seawater to flow into the pools, all while keeping the saltwater beneath the fresh water. When the tides change, so do the levels of fresh and saltwater in the pools, but remember, the fresh water will always stay on top because it is less dense than salt water.

All you need is a clear day and you’ll be able to see and photograph completely through it, as if peering through the eye of a giant needle. And if you time it right and the waves are big enough, you might just luck out and one of the big waves will crash behind it and force water through it, creating a memorable photo op. To locate it, stand near the blowhole, look towards the west and you will see a natural stone arch at the tip of the bay.

A famous group of impressive blowholes is located nearby. They come to life when the waves crash into them, forcing seawater up and out through the holes, sometimes several feet, (splashing everything in the general vicinity). It’s especially eventful when the tide is high and the waters are rough. (NOTE TO SELF: the most active blowholes have no vegetation around them, so they are pretty easy to spot.) Keeping the perimeters of the “splash zone” in mind while exploring is advisable, unless of course you like saltwater showers!

The volcanic characteristics of the island make up the raw materials for Mother Nature to create many of  the unforgettable features you’re sure to discover along the rugged coast of Waianapanapa State Park. The ocean’s pounding surf, over timeless aeons, has worn away the softer rock along the shore naturally to create many stunning structures. Get the camera ready for once-in-a-lifetime pics of enormous sea stacks, (giant pillars of rock that have risen up from the ocean floor). Notably, many of those stacks which dot the coastline are covered with numerous vibrant species of green plants that have created a convenient, beautiful resting spot for several of the seabirds. They also have been known to function as a shelter for the local sea turtles from the rough waters found on this side of the island.

These peaceful, respectful tributes to those who lived before us are scattered across Maui and the Hawaiian islands. Many are japanese-style burial grounds and are viewed as a testimony to the long history of Japanese cultural influence in the islands. Minimalist in nature, simple stones mark the graves and islanders cherish these sacred places. You will notice that they are kept immaculate, out of respect. Should you visit one, please, do not touch anything. Simply take in the beauty and feel the reverence conveyed throughout the grounds.