The Pools Of Oheo Gulch

The Pools at Oheo are certainly one of Haleakala National Park’s many standout attractions. They’re found on the eastern side of Maui, about 40 minutes past Hana. Formed by Pipiwai Stream, this series of pools and waterfalls begins high above the lower pools we will see and experience. There are many pools at Oheo and, when weather conditions are favorable, it’s a great spot for a walk to see waterfalls framed with a bridge! And, although the pools are the main attraction, there are some unusual trees and other unique flora too.

We have always stopped in the Kipahulu section of Haleakalā National Park on our Road to Hāna Tour and now there is even more value in taking this incredible journey with Valley Isle Excursions, swimming at the famed Pools of Oheo. We have made stops for guests at other pools to swim but there is nothing like this spot, safe, accessible and very beautiful.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Dec 04/2018: The Pools of Oheo in Haleakala National park will reopen for swimming opportunities on Dec. 6th, 2018. We encourage guests to bring their suits as there may be an opportunity to swim safely depending on conditions. Changing opportunities are available so you wonʻt be stuck in wet clothes for the rest of your day.

VIE’s tour is unique because nearly all the other tour companies miss this incredible stop on their road to Hana tours because they’ve wasted all of their “fun time” at the more crowded stops and restaurants along the way. On nice days, our guides like to stop here for an hour or more so you can enjoy Kipahulu and the lower Oheo Gulch walks, historical treasures and interpretive center.

Extra time really is needed to enjoy the Pools at Oheo. You’ll see why when you start exploring. We know you’ll definitely want to come back again. Maybe on your next Maui vacation you’ll spend a few days to thoroughly explore Haleakala National Park. Why? Well, it boasts treasures like:

• painted eucalyptus trees
• bamboo forests
• 200ft + waterfalls (Makahiki & Waimoku falls)
• numerous waterfall pools
• bird watching
• Haleakala crater (Not accessible from Kipahulu)

The Lower Oheo Gulch walk takes you right next to the ocean and up the gulch with beautiful views the entire way. The trail is very accessible too, so everyone can enjoy this walk.

We know that when you come to Maui, you come with an impressive bucket list. You definitely want to check off as many of your tropical dream experiences as possible. Perhaps visiting the rainforest and enjoying a swim under a beautiful waterfall is on your list?

The Pools at Oheo Gulch was a swimming spot within Haleakala National Park where visitors could swim in natural pools of fresh, cool and clean water. Closed to the public due to landslides and dangers from flash floods by the National Park Service. Demand for this experience has caused other road to Hana tour companies and visitors driving themselves to go elsewhere for the experience. Illegal and increased use of smaller, secluded pools have resulted in numerous injuries, spread of invasive species and environmental degradation as well as community conflicts. Everything we don’t want to contribute to.

We strive to provide you with your “very best day on Maui” even if we can’t help you cross off the swim in a waterfall pool off your bucket list. We can provide an experience that you never would have thought you needed to see, smell or hear. Come enjoy Maui and Hana with us.

Hana and the surrounding area is impressive on a grand scale, but in a natural way. There are no big hotel chains or box stores to compete with the smaller Hawaiian businesses that depend on tourism. A repeat visit is necessary what with so many unique and fascinating niches all in one place! Unless you decide to return to Hana during your stay, you won’t be able to see everything the Kipahulu area of Haleakala National Park has to offer on a single day trip. It’s just too big, with too much to dazzle and distract you.

Let’s face it, even if you do return to Hana during your stay, it probably still won’t be enough time to get to everything! Perhaps this is just another reason why people keep coming back to Maui? Valley Isle Excursions offers a great introduction to Hana’s culture, attractions and beauty in one full, but incredibly fun, day.