Visit The Humble Hawaiian Village Nestled On Top Of A Peninsula Made From Lava
By Megan Shute|Published January 16, 2019
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Megan Shute
Author
With more than 10 years of experience as a professional writer, Megan holds a degree in Mass Media from her home state of Minnesota. After college, she chose to trade in her winter boots for slippahs and moved to the beautiful island of Oahu, where she has been living for more than five years. She lives on the west side but is constantly taking mini-road trips across the island and visits the neighboring islands whenever she can getaway. She loves hiking, snorkeling, locally-grown coffee, and finding the best acai bowl on Oahu.
With approximately 750 miles of coastline, the Hawaiian Islands are home to incredible beaches, beautiful inlets, breathtaking bays, and jaw-dropping peninsulas like the one we’re sharing with you today. Nestled on Maui’s southeastern shore near the famous Hana Highway is a picturesque peninsula where you will find jaw-dropping panoramic views and plenty of history.
A dramatic, half-mile-long massive finger of newer lava rock sticking out from the cliff line, Keanae Peninsula is a place of immense natural beauty. The stark contrast between the bright green hala trees, the black of the rugged, lava shoreline, and the vibrant blue waters of the Pacific Ocean is truly a sight to behold.
Well before reaching the turnout that leads to Keanae, you will have ogled this striking peninsula from many lookout points along the highway, but there’s nothing quite like visiting this spot yourself.
Created from an immense lava flow originating from Haleakala Crater, this peninsula was once home to a traditional taro-producing Hawaiian village, and much of the land is is taro lo’i today. Rumor has it that the dirt was brought down here basket-by-basket, though we can’t be sure.
The once-thriving community was almost completely destroyed by the April Fools tsunami of 1946, generated by an 8.6 magnitude earthquake off the coast of Alaska. The tiny, low-lying village tragically lost twenty children and four teachers to the massive, 35-foot waves.
The only building left standing was the Lanakila Ihiihi O Iehova O na Kaua Church — translating to English as the Sacredness, Success of Jehova, the Son of God. Built in 1856, this picturesque church is now known simply as the Keanae Congregational Church.
Today, this picturesque area attracts fishermen and photographers from across the world looking to capture the famous waves that crash along the rugged coastline.
While the views you’ll find across the Keanae Peninsula, the ocean is rugged and dangerous here, so swimming is not advised. Even though you shouldn't jump in the ocean here, it's impossible to deny that Keanae Peninsula is a magical spot to stop and stretch your legs along Maui's Hana Highway — just don't forget your camera!
You’ll find Keanae Peninsula just past the Keanae Arboretum between mile markers 16 and 17. The turn is located at the bend of a hairpin curve, so drive slowly — you don’t want to miss this turn!
Have you ever experienced Keanae Peninsula’s unique natural beauty? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below, then click here to discover one of our favorite Hawaiian bays.
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