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Seven Sacred Pools on Maui

‘Ohe’o Gulch, aka Seven Sacred Pools on Maui, is a fabulous cascade waterfall in The Helakelala National Park. It is one of the best stops on the Road to Hana. How to get to Seven Sacred Pools on Maui? How does the hike look like? What to prepare and when to visit? Check our guide to Seven Sacred Pools Trail.

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Seven Sacred Pools on Maui: stunning cascade of water between jungle trees.

Seven Sacred Pools on Maui – Introduction

Update: We are shocked by the tragedy that has affected Maui in the last few days of August 2023. We deeply sympathize with the victims of the catastrophic wildfires, all those who lost their loved ones and possessions due to the tragedy. If you are planning any trips, check the local guidelines first

Maui is one of the most beautiful Hawaiian islands, with exciting attractions for everyone. It is one of the best places in the world for whale watching.

You can also go on a thrilling trip on the Road to Hana and admire the Seven Sacred Pools. For sure, one of the most beautiful stops on the Road to Hana, and at the same time, one of the final stops on the Hana Highway is Seven Sacred Pools.

‘Ohe’o Gulch’s remote valley features cascading waterfalls and deep freshwater pools surrounded by rainforest, jungle, and incredible natural beauty. This post focuses on the hike to Seven Sacred Pools in Maui. We will give you tips and information about this place as we experienced it ourselves, and we love this hike.

Chris and I spent there a night and a full day in this stunning scenery, so we shared our personal experiences, tips, and photos that we took during our adventure.

Seven Sacred Pools on Maui

What is ‘Ohe’o Gulch, aka Seven Sacred Pools on Maui?

Along the Kipahulu coast in Haleakala National Park is a hidden gem of Maui—the breathtaking Seven Sacred Pools. It’s also known as Ohe’o Gulch. The name “Ohe’o” translates to “something special.” The waterfall is also known as The Pools at Oheo and Oheo Pools.

It might be a little confusing, but the most common name is Seven Sacred Pools, aka Ohe’o Gulch.

It’s an incredibly scenic and spectacular place. The Seven Sacred Pools (‘Ohe’o Gulch) are waterfalls part of a stream that flows from the mountain to the mesmerizing North Pacific Ocean. When you stand on the cliff near the waterfalls, you can admire how the strong stream meets the sea.

The Pools of Ohe’o, with their high cascades, surrounding tranquility, and the sound of the surf in the distance, crystallize Maui’s dynamic, radical beauty. And no doubt that this place is special and magical. It’s worth adding to your itinerary if you plan Maui Vacation.

Seven Sacred Pools on Maui - ‘Ohe’o Gulch among lush greenery

How to Get to Seven Sacred Pools on Maui?

Parts of Haleakala National Park

As we mentioned at the beginning, the waterfalls are located in Haleakala National Park. But it might confuse you. So read carefully about the location of ‘Ohe’o Gulch.

Haleakala National Park has two separate parts: the Summit district and the Kipahulu district.

Summit district

Usually, when planning a vacation to Maui, you hear about the famous sunrise on the summit side at the top of Haleakala National Park. Probably plan a summit drive to this peak. It’s a fabulous adventure but an entirely different side of the park. Please don’t confuse them as those two parts of Haleakala National Park are not connected by road.

Kipahulu district

Hike to the Seven Sacred Pools on Maui (‘Ohe’o Gulch ) will be a separate trip from the summit drive to the peak of Haleakala.

To see these spectacular Haleakala waterfalls, you must hike the Kuloa Point Trail in the Kipahulu district. It’s important to remember that the Kuloa Point Trail is part of the Kipahulu area, which also includes the Pipiwai Trail.

 Haleakala National Park
Haleakala National Park - ‘Ohe’o Gulch - nps information.

The Road to Seven Sacred Pools on Maui

You can visit the Seven Sacred Pools as part of the famous Road to Hana drive. It’s about 30 minutes and 12 miles past Hana town, at the end of the Road. If you choose this option, read our detailed Road to Hana guide with the best stops on the route.

It’s the last scenic stop on this route. From this point (Hana town), most people turn around and drive the Road to Hana as an out-and-back. But we think the place is so beautiful that it is worth staying here longer. Therefore, having at least two days for the Road to Hana itinerary is best. On the first day, end the trip at Hana, and the next day in the morning, visit Haleakala National Park with its phenomenal waterfalls, Seven Sacred Pools.

Seven Sacred Pools on Maui - ‘Ohe’o Gulch: cliffs and rough sea

Where to Stay when visiting ‘Ohe’o Gulch

You can stay for a night in Hana, an incredibly charming and romantic town. However, the accommodation prices are not low.

There is also a great campground close to the waterfalls inside the Haleakalā National Park if you like camping. Check out the Kīpahulu campground. We stayed there, and the place was delightful.

Another camp option in this area can be Wai’ānapanapa State Park. We wrote about it in our post about the best stops on the way to Hana. The place is charming, with fabulous black beaches, but you must have earlier reservations.

Kīpahulu campground ‘Ohe’o Gulch
Agnes Stabinska, the author, on Maui at Kīpahulu campground

Hike to Seven Sacred Pools on Maui

Exploring Haleakala National Park

In 1969, Kipahulu Valley and ‘Ohe’o Gulch were added to Haleakala National Park. Therefore an entrance fee is charged. All park visitors must purchase a pass for recreational use upon entering Haleakalā National Park. Passes are non-transferable and are valid for three days, including the date of purchase. The cost is $30.00 per private vehicle and is valid for three days.

If you plan to visit at least three U.S. National Parks for a year, purchase an America the Beautiful Annual Pass for all U.S. parks. It costs only $79,99 and is your ticket to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites across the country, including all U.S. national parks.

Seven Sacred Pools on Maui  - ‘Ohe’o Gulch between jungle

Hike the Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls

The most scenic way to get to the Seven Sacred Pools, aka ‘Ohe’o Gulch, is via the Pipiwai Trail. It’s only a 2-mile-long one-way trail. It’s 800 feet elevation change. This trail is moderately strenuous. But for sure is one of the best hikes in East Maui. You’ll encounter a giant banyan tree, dense bamboo forests, a grove of mountain apple trees, and a series of dramatic pools and waterfalls.

However, the highlight of this hike is at the end – below the spectacular 400-foot Waimoku Falls. As you stand at the base of the cliffs, you can enjoy the views of waterfalls and the sea. There is a refreshing mist created by the falling water around. Wet rocks along the water’s edge can cause you to slip and fall, so be careful.

'Ohe'o Gulch on Maui: official map in the park.
'Ohe'o Gulch on Maui

Hike the Kuloa Point Trail as the easiest way to Seven Sacred Pools

It’s the easiest way to Seven Sacred Pools, so choose this option if you do not have too much time. It’s only 0.5 miles (total) and 80 feet of elevation gain. This trail leaves the Kīpahulu Visitor Centre and passes a Hawaiian cultural display area to Kuloa Point at the mouth of ‘Ohe’o Gulch.

Here you’ll find beautiful ocean views and archaeological sites. This trail is popular for visiting the Pools of ‘Ohe’o.

'Ohe'o Gulch on Maui among lush greenery nad jungle trees.

Can You Swim in the Seven Sacred Pools on Maui?

It’s important to know that swimming is strictly prohibited at the Seven Pools but not along the Pipiwai Trail. Be extremely cautious if you decide to bathe in the two lower pools. There are lots of slippery rocks, and the water is cold.

Do not jump or dive off cliffs because the water has many dangers. Warning signs prohibit jumping. Several injuries and deaths of thrill-seeking visitors have occurred after they ignored the warning signs and jumped anyway. So do not do that.

Also, don’t swim directly below a fall. Swimming in the pools when it’s raining is also dangerous, as flooding can increase the pool size and the danger. So be careful of flash flooding, underwater hazards, and slippery surfaces.

What to Pack to Seven Sacred Pools on Maui?

If you want to wade in or swim in the water, you must wear waterproof shoes with excellent grips, such as our favorite Keen sandals with toe protection or comfy water shoes. This way, you will protect your feet from abrasions and cuts.

The pools are sometimes closed to swimming because of hazardous conditions. So, check alerts on the official website before you go.

Ocean areas are unsafe for swimming or wading. Also, don’t forget to pack a quick-drying towel. Due to the tremendous amount of moisture and mists from the waterfall in the air, take microfiber cloths to clean the camera lenses because they absorb water very quickly. It is also an excellent place for a romantic picnic amidst stunning nature. So pack some snacks to rest and enjoy this scenery. And, of course, you will need a travel tripod if you want to achieve the effect of blurred water in your photos.

Are you looking for more inspiration for Maui?

Check out our posts with a guide for Road to Hana and the best whale-watching tours on Maui.

hike to Seven Sacred Pools on Maui

12 Comments

  1. I had no idea that Haleakala National Park has two parts, good to know they aren’t connected as well so I don’t end up heading one way thinking I can just go the other. Also, good to know you can’t swim in the pools, seems like a good way to get caught in a slippery slope!

  2. Wow! This is paradise. We have never really explored Maui and would love to go back. Will make to sure to visit the Seven Sacred Pools.

    Thank you for sharing this detailed post. Thanks for the heads up about the lodging costs. Will take your advice and book early.

  3. The pools look beautiful, truly sacred and best not to swim in them. They remind me of many places in India, where people have not stepped in. It would surely be a lovely hike and a nice place to just revel in the beauty of Nature.

  4. I can see how it got it’s name! The “something special” it is indeed. What a hidden gem you’ve found and would love to visit the Pools at Oheo and Oheo Pools.

  5. Hawaii is a dream trip for me and visiting Maui would be wonderful. Great tips on how to find the Sacred Pools, I would love to see them for myself in person. Quite the hidden gem!

  6. Hawaii and Maui have been on our wish list for a long time. The hiking there must be superb. First time I saw pictures of the Haleakala National park and the 7 Sacred pools. It looks impressive and at the same time very peaceful. It seems there were not many people there when you visited.

  7. The pools look incredible with greenery on both sides of the water! I really think it is a must stop on the Road to Hana. Both views from Pipiwai Trail and Kuloa Point Trail are amazing!

  8. Those waterfalls and pools look stunning. And what I found most impressive on the trails are the signboards that tell you what to expect in terms of the trail and the wildlife. Good tips on swimming along the trail. And very useful bits about the cost. Loved all your pics

  9. Ridiculously, I missed the road to Hana when I was in Maui years ago. The people I was staying with had made the trek the week before so I missed out. Looking at these photos, makes me want to go back.

  10. We would definitely plan to visit the Seven Sacred Pools in the Helakelala National Park if we get to Maui. An awesome stop on the road to Hana for sure. Great to plan to stay close by and take advantage of a 3 day pass. I love that view from above with all the different waterfalls visible.

  11. We have just arrived in Maui and definitely plan to visit Helakelala National Park – if the weather cooperates. We got a rental car so we could do the Road to Hana and are looking to plan for some great stops. The Seven Sacred Pools certainly look like something we would want to see. But I can see why you would say that it would be helpful to stay in Hana so you have time to do the hike properly. I love that there is so much to see along the waterfall route.

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