Visiting South East Maui will give you plenty of awesome sights to see and activities to indulge your heart and soul.
If you just arrived in South East Maui from Hana Highway, the first place you will come upon is Kipahulu. You may believe that nothing can be more spectacular than the scenery that abounded along the Hana Highway; however, you are still in for a huge treat.
South East Maui offers waterfalls, freshwater pools, mountain views, unique coastline, trails, valleys, historical sights, awesome beaches and of course many things to see and do.
On the top of the list is Waioka or as many mainlanders call it Venus Pool. Venus Pool can be found in Kipahulu shortly after you leave Hana Highway. This is the largest freshwater pools in Maui. Early mornings or late afternoon is the best time to visit and it is only about a five-minute walk from your car. If you wish to see what paradise really looks like, then this is a must see. To find the Venus Pool, it is right past mile marker 48 close to the Hana side of the bridge. You will find an opening in the fence or gate and then the trail that leads down to the ocean.
When it comes to waterfalls, South East Maui has a few that cause pride which include Paihi Falls, Wailua Falls, Photo Sized Falls, Pau ’s-lu’u Falls, Waimoku Falls, and Alelele Falls. Along with this magnificent falls, you are sure to enjoy all the beautiful pools, which include of course the most popular, and famous Waioka, Seven Sacred Pools, and Infinity Pool.
Pahihi Falls is situated past mile marker 45. First, you will see a cross that was placed there in memory of Helio Koaeloa, one of the first Hawaiian Catholic priests. Nearby you will find a trail and a sign for the Pahihi Falls. Cross over the stream and you will find Wailua Falls. Be careful as you walk down the trail as the rocks can be very slippery, not the kind of walk you should you do in hard soled sandals.
A very secluded waterfall is coming up and you will more than likely be able to enjoy it all by yourself as most people just drive right past not knowing there is an awesome falls hiding in secret. As you pass mile marker 44 you will notice a bridge when you drive about 9/10 of a mile, here you can pull over at the bridge or up ahead at 43. You need to cross over the road toward the downstream side in order to find the slippery trail leading to this unique waterfall.
Now, just up the road you will see another waterfall known as Pua’a-lu-u Falls. If you glance over you will also get a great view of the Blessed Mother Shrine. Next, you will come upon one of the most popular attractions in South East Maui, which is the Seven Sacred Pools. Just before, you make it to mile marker 42 you will find this awesome place to enjoy a dip and a bit of relaxation before going any farther. However, the real name of these unique pools are ‘Ohe’o Gulch but the name has been changed to look better for guide books and visitors.
The valley above these pools is called Kipahulu Gap that stretches the entire way to the center of Haleakala Crater. The Kipahulu Gap is home to one of the most beautiful pristine forests in the world. Just above the pools is also one of the most popular hiking trails known as Pipiwai Trail. The trail can be strolled or walked rather quickly, however, even walking fast will take up to 2 ½ hours and strolling along can take up to five hours.
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