Red Sand Beach

Red Sand Beach, or Kaihalulu Beach, lies on Kaihalulu Bay at Kaʻuiki Head on Maui’s eastern coast near Hana Bay. One of the world’s few red sand beaches, it takes its deep red-black color from the iron-rich cinder cone above it, which continues to erode and replenish the sand. Though the cove appears sheltered, it faces the open ocean and is only partly protected by an offshore reef. Kaʻuiki Head was also a place of major Hawaiian history, with a fortress, a heiau, battles against invaders from Hawaiʻi island, and as the birthplace of Queen Kaʻahumanu. Its hazardous access has helped preserve its secluded character.

Hana, Hawaii · United States