Red Sand Beach
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Red Sand Beach (also known as Kaihalulu) is a pocket beach on the island of Maui, Hawaii. It lies on the side of Ka'uiki Hill, which is a cindercone hill just south of Hana Bay, on the eastern half of the island. [1]
Red Sand Beach is partially shielded from the rough open ocean by an offshore reef. The result is a natural sea wall that protects the bay from large waves. [2]
Kaihalulu is one of the few red sand beaches in the world, and it boasts picturesque scenery. The sand is a deep red-black, which contrasts with the blue water, the black sea wall, and the green ironwood trees. The cindercone behind the beach erodes constantly, which continually largens the cove. [3] This hill is rich in iron, and is the reason why the beach's sand is such a deep red.
Kaihalulu is extremely isolated and requires a fairly short, yet perilous hike to reach. The trail to the beach crosses over private property and follows a ridge high above the ocean below. The path is rather steep and narrow, and is quite slippery due to the loose and crumbling cinder as well as needles from nearby ironwood trees. The trail also passes by an ancient Japanese cemetery. Because of the beach's isolation and difficult access, some visitors consider it to be clothing-optional.
[edit] References
- ^ Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach, Maui. Retrieved on April 10, 2007.
- ^ Hawaii - Maui's Secret Beaches: Red Sand Beach. Retrieved on April 10, 2007.
- ^ Red Sand Beach, the best beach in Hana, on the east end of Maui. Retrieved on April 10, 2007.
