📸 ʻĀhihi-Kīnaʻu Natural Area Reserve | Maui, Hawaii

2022Maui

May 14

As we journeyed to the southern tip of Maui, we found ourselves surrounded by some of the island’s most dramatic and untouched landscapes — welcome to the ʻĀhihi-Kīnaʻu Natural Area Reserve.

This area was like stepping onto another planet.
Black volcanic lava fields stretched out for miles, remnants of the last eruption of Haleakalā that shaped this rugged coastline centuries ago.
Mixed between the rough black rocks were pockets of bright blue ocean coves and the occasional splash of green plant life daring to grow in such a harsh environment.

Although much of the reserve is protected and inaccessible to the public (to preserve fragile ecosystems both above and below water), there are scenic overlooks and roadside pull-offs where you can admire this alien-like beauty safely.

🗺️ Location:

📍 Open in Google Maps ➔

📌 Quick Info:

🚗 Parking: Limited roadside pull-offs; be cautious
🏙️ City: Wailea-Makena, Maui
🚗 Parking: Limited roadside pull-offs; be cautious
🚻 Bathrooms: No public restrooms available — plan ahead
🚲 Bike Rentals: Not available at the reserve (bring a car)
🥾 Hiking: Short walks from some parking areas, but most land is protected
🌊 Best for: Scenic drives, photography, admiring untouched volcanic coastline
🧭 Travel Tip: Bring sturdy walking shoes — lava rocks can be sharp and uneven
📸 Photographer’s Note: Best lighting is late afternoon when the sun casts dramatic shadows over the lava fields
🛐 Etiquette: Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems
🕰️ Best Time to Explore: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest sun
♿ Accessibility: Limited — rough lava terrain makes it challenging for strollers and wheelchairs

💡 Pro Tip:

Wear sturdy shoes if you plan to walk around — the lava rock is sharp and jagged, not sandal-friendly.
Also, pack plenty of water if you're stopping for a while — the black rocks soak up the heat fast!

📸 Photography Tip:

Use a polarizing filter if you have one — it can really cut down on glare from the black lava rock and make the turquoise water pop even more in your shots.

🎉 Fun Fact:

ʻĀhihi-Kīnaʻu was Hawaii’s first designated Natural Area Reserve, established in 1973 to protect both its land and vibrant underwater marine ecosystems!

🗺️ Planning Your Own Hawaii Adventure?

If you're planning your own trip to Maui (or anywhere across Hawaii), you can find this surreal spot — and many more — on my public travel map:
👉 View My Hawaii Travel Map Here ➔