MAHA'AULEPU HERITAGE TRAIL

January 08, 2016

MAHA'AULEPU HERITAGE TRAIL
After the Waialeale Blue hole trail I had some time to go to the south section of the island to check out the ritzy side where burgers were almost 20 dollars and happy hour meant that the drink specials were 10 dollars instead of 15 or 20 dollars.  Who, in their right mind has money to spend like that?
MAHA'AULEPU HERITAGE TRAIL

The south east corner of Shipwreck Beach in Keonela Bay has sand-dune cliffs, Kiawe trees, limestone formations and rocky inlets that provide an occasional safe haven for marine life.  There is also the only limestone cave in Hawaii just off shore which is worth the visit if you are bored of the blue waters, dry conditions, and beautiful beaches.  You might also be getting spoiled by the island but whatever the reason, the cave is worth a visit.

MAHA'AULEPU HERITAGE TRAIL
The cliffs provide a safe haven for monk seals and sea turtles which can be found from time to time depending on how the waves are and where you look on the coast. I was able to catch one sea turtle relaxing in a cove away from the rip currents.
MAHA'AULEPU HERITAGE TRAIL
I was really tempted to jump in as the water looked clear and I could see the bottom from where I was standing.  I could climb back up and out of the water but I just decided that risking a rip current and having no mask would put a damper on my self elected risk vs. reward situation that I would put myself in.
MAHA'AULEPU HERITAGE TRAIL
The plants that live in this area were busting out some flowers which gave the seashore a little more pizzaz but other than the pines and the jade tree shrubbery surrounding the hinterland, the lava and basalt prevailed.
MAHA'AULEPU HERITAGE TRAIL
The cliffs got pretty tall but they also had some remote beaches around the coves so as you walk down the trail you might be able to find a beach to yourself.  
MAHA'AULEPU HERITAGE TRAIL
The trail stretches off pretty far down the coast so if you have a desire to discontinue bumming on the beach and gaining some exercise, this is one of the best trails to tackle. The history of the trail is also interesting to read about and Captain Cooks landing is not to far away from this place too.
MAHA'AULEPU HERITAGE TRAIL
Just down the road from shipwreck beach and in between the fancy hotels is a nice cove where snorkelers, divers, and swimmers can go catch a glimpse of what's underwater near Poipu.  Tangs, Parrot Fish, Angel fish, urchins, and a sea turtle were all spotted in the dive location. I recommend at least a half day here to swim around.
MAHA'AULEPU HERITAGE TRAIL
Lovely place and a great break form the rain forest if you are looking to enjoy some sun and dry pastures after multiple days in the bush.
MAHA'AULEPU HERITAGE TRAIL

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