RT Seven Sacred Pools

A series of cascading waterfalls and freshwater pools nestled in a rainforest gulch, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation.

General Information

Hours:

Open daily from 9am to 5pm
Kīpahulu Visitor Center open 9:30am to 4:30pm

Fees:

Included with Haleakalā National Park entrance fee:
Private vehicle: $30 (valid 3 days)
Motorcycle: $25
Individual (on foot or bicycle): $15

Pet Policy:

Pets are not allowed

Closest cities with hotels:

Hāna (15 mi)

Seasons:

All year; best from April to October

Location:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/3kz5Zz7XzZzq5z9A6

Website:

nps.gov

How to Get There

From Haleakalā Visitor Center (38 mi): Drive southeast on Crater Road to Highway 37, then take Highway 360 (Hāna Highway) to Highway 31; follow signs to the Kīpahulu Visitor Center and walk to the pools via the Kuola Point Trail.

Overview

The Seven Sacred Pools, also known as the Pools of ʻOheʻo, are a breathtaking series of waterfalls and pools located in the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park. Despite the name, there are more than seven pools, and they are not traditionally considered sacred by Native Hawaiians. The name was coined in the mid-20th century to attract visitors. These pools are carved by the Palikea Stream as it flows through a lush rainforest gulch and eventually into the Pacific Ocean. The area is rich in cultural history, with over 700 archaeological sites nearby, including ancient terraces and religious structures.

As of 2025, swimming in the pools is prohibited due to safety concerns including flash floods, slippery rocks, and falling debris. Visitors can still enjoy the views from the Kuola Point Trail and explore nearby hikes like the Pīpīwai Trail. The pools are one of the most photographed and visited natural attractions on the island, offering a serene and scenic stop along the Road to Hāna. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles and respect the cultural significance of the area.

This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official tourism pages for the Seven Sacred Pools, which are released under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share-Alike License 3.0.