Hamoa Beach on the East Side of Maui

Hamoa beach can be found just past the town of Hana. With a blend of white and black sand and crystal blue waters, this beach will take your breath away if you glance up at the right moment from the road above. A destination unto itself, Hamoa will remain in your memory long after you have washed the sand off your body.

Watersports: Like many of Maui’s beaches, the conditions dictate the activities best-suited for the day. Body-surfing here can be friendly and fun, and can get critical when the waves get big. Surfers will often paddle out into the bay to find waves, and on calm days, you’ll see spear fishermen and snorkelers headed out into deeper water. While protected on the inside, it’s best to be cautious when venturing too far from the shore if you are unfamiliar with the ocean currents. There are no lifeguards on duty.

Shade: There is ample shade available along the entire beach. Many people choose to bring an umbrella so they can position themselves closer to the water. The lounge chairs on the beach are reserved for guests of Hotel Hana Maui.

Food: There is no food or drinks available at Hamoa, but you can stock up at one of the two markets or grab a meal from one of the many food trucks in Hana town. 

Parking/Hours: There are no posted hours at this beach, and parking is quite limited, so if you’re planning to come for a visit, it’s a good idea to arrive earlly. Be sure to follow the posted parking signs along the road. There is a fairly steep, paved walkway taking you down to the beach from the road. There is a shower at this beach but use of the restrooms are reserved for hotel guests.

What’s in a name: Originally known as Mokae, the name was changed to Hamoa when the land above the beach was purchased by Hotel Hana. You can learn more about efforts to preserve the coastline here.

Historical Opportunity: Hamoa was used as a launch for canoes in ancient times, as it offered a protected area to enter and exit the water, and the land just past the beach, beginning with the small pu’u, or hill, has cultural significance as a burial place for ancient Hawaiians. James Michener called Hamoa “the most perfect crescent beach in the pacific.”