A Million Kisses On Your Skin in Maui

If you’ve ever watched the movie IQ you’ll recall Meg Ryan calling the Seven Sacred Pools in Maui like a million kisses on your skin, from the aerated water. The experience is incredible, and the area magical.

There is a collection of waterfalls and natural pools near the shore, and are part of Halakeala National Park. Both visitors and Hawaiians love this area for the sheer enjoyment of the waterfalls, of sliding into the pools, of swimming and hiking in this natural paradise.

The native name for this area is O’heo Gulch. If you’re only there for one day, go to the falls and pools closest to the shoreline, as they are the most lovely and easiest to access.

Hiking: if you want a great hike, take the Pipiwai Trail above the Seven Sacred Pools, and enjoy one of the most spectacular walks in Hawaii. It is four miles around the trail, so it may only take you a couple hours depending on how often you stop to look around. You’ll also be rewarded by seeing and hopefully getting into the natural Infinity Pool, which is surrounded by thick rocks so you don’t go spilling over the falls.

Practical Needs:

- You can stay in Hana, which is 10 miles from the area, and arrive at the park in the morning.
- there are restrooms (very basic ones)
- take bug spray for mosquitoes
- remember that during moderate to heavy rain there can be flash floods.
- don’t stand under the falls, as rock can fall.
- refreshments at a concession on weekends sometimes.
- bring your own water.
- do not dive into pools as you don’t know the depth and where the rocks are.
- wear beach shoes with grip as lava rock is very slippery.
- gas up at Kahului as you’ll need a full tank on the trip to Hana. The drive is two or three hours depending on where you started from and the drive is considered exquisitely beautiful, so you may want to plan a family vacation just heading to Hana and staying around the area. There are no gas stations past Hana by the way, until Makawao.
- there are fruit stands on the way to Hana.

There are several cottages and a few hotels, as well as a campground by the ocean.

Directions: Hwy 30 to Hana and hwy 31 to just after Mile Marker 42 where there is a parking lot on the side closest to the ocean.