Imagine swimming in a pool filled with fresh water from cascading waterfalls as you are surrounded by a lush tropical rainforest.
Then, as you look around to the left, you can see the ocean waves crashing onto the rocks at the shore.
Sounds amazing?
This is what it is like swimming at Seven Sacred Pools in Maui! So if you ever dreamed of swimming in a pool next to a waterfall, put Seven Sacred Pools in Maui on your list of places you have to visit!
Seven Sacred Pools
The Seven Sacred Pools is also known as the Oheo Gulch and despite the name, there are actually dozens of swimming holes instead of seven.
The pools can be reached by a short half-mile hike from the entrance of Haleakala National Park in Maui.
How To Reach Seven Sacred Pools
This destination is popular for those driving the Road to Hana. At the entrance of Haleakala National Park, there will be clear signs of how to reach to pools.
The “Lower Pools” are easiest to access with a walking trail of half a mile.
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Along the walking trail, you will see Banyan trees and other beautiful tropical foliage. The Seven Sacred Pools will be easily found at the end of the path and marked by signs.
This video will give you a good idea of what this beautiful place looks like! A picture is worth a thousand words and a video… even more!
https://youtu.be/FAxmXvHjYtE
The Seven Sacred Pools connects directly with the ocean as the freshwater from the waterfalls flow into the ocean. The ocean’s waves crash upon jagged rocks so the ocean is not accessible from the pools.
You may want to continue a hike along the coastline to see the Hawaiian blue waters contrast with the lush green rainforest. It is quite a sight!
The above picture shows the Coastline View above Seven Sacred Pools. Amazing isn’t it?
If you are looking for more waterfalls, you can continue the adventure with other hiking trails in Haleakala National Park.
There are several trails that lead higher into the mountains to view more waterfalls. A popular hike is the Pipiwai Trail which is 2 miles and leads through bamboo forests on the way to waterfalls.
Tips For Visiting the Seven Sacred Pools
The Seven Sacred Pools are located 10 miles past the town of Hana.
I suggest first driving to the end of the Road of Hana and then take your time driving back and stop at your desired sites. This will allow you more time to hike, explore and spend time at the pools in Haleakala National Park.
There are plenty of sites to see on the Road to Hana and you will be tempted to stop at every waterfall, but resist the urge! Expect to run into some crowds and tour buses at the vista points.
Want to know a tip to avoid the crowds?
Leave early, beat the crowds and feel less rushed by going to the end of Road to Hana and then, take your time as you drive back.
The Road to Hana has sharp curves, one lane roads and is dark at night so you will definitely want to make sure you are done with your drive before nightfall.
How much is it to enter?
Parking at Haleakala National Park is $20. You can use your pass for three days at any national park in Maui and it also is valid for visiting the Haleakala Crater. If you plan to watch the sunset or sunrise at the crater, plan to go within three days so that you may use the same pass.
Safety Tips
1) Make sure to check weather conditions and the Haleakala National Park alerts prior to your arrival. They sometimes close some trails and even the pools for safety reasons such as flash flood warnings or heavy rain.
The pools are sometimes closed if the currents are very strong and could possibly put people in danger who may be in the lower swimming pools.
The day I arrived, there were some trails that had flash flood warnings preventing me from taking the longer trails to the upper waterfalls. Instead, I opted for the safest and shortest trail of half a mile to the lower pools and it was a blast!
2. Bring water shoes since you will need to walk across rocks in the water to get to the lower waterfall. Your feet will thank you!
Taking the Road To Hana? WATCH THIS VIDEO BELOW
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