Maui’s famous 64.4-mile Hana Highway, that stretches from Kahului to Hana, is home to approximately 59 bridges, 620 curves through the lush jungle, and countless panoramic vistas - as well as countless incredible waterfalls and natural swimming holes. While there are countless spots to be seen along the famous highway, there is one spot so quintessentially Hawaiian that it’s where all the locals hang out. Also known as the Blue Sapphire Pools, Ching’s Pond is certainly a sight to behold.
Located approximately 0.9 miles after Mile Marker 16 on the Hana Highway, you won’t see Ching’s Pond while driving, but if you pull off just before the bridge, you’ll find a series of deep sapphire blue pools beneath.
Access to Ching’s Pond is via two trails on the makai side of the bridge before you cross it. Instead of taking the incredibly steep and difficult trail directly adjacent to the bridge, head to the large tree you’ll find just 50 feet away and take this significantly easier trail to reach the pools.
The sapphire pools are fed by the Palauhulu stream, which empties into the Ke'anae Peninsula below.
The waters are susceptible to flash flooding, so be cautious and don’t head into the water if it’s been raining a lot - rumor has it that murky water can also indicate the possibility of a flash flood. Please also always refrain from diving into the pools, as the depth can change frequently.
With beautiful crystalline blue pools, and superb cliff jumping, there is no wonder as to why this place is a local favorite.
Some guidebooks argue that Ching’s Pond isn’t worth a stop, and that if you aren’t a local, you likely won’t feel welcome stopping here pau hana (after work) or on a weekend, though we are unable to back up this claim.
Either way, the sapphire blue hue of these picturesque pools and short waterfall against the old bridge in the background make for quite the photo opportunity, and we believe Ching’s Pond is worth a visit - if you’re planning to stay overnight once you reach Hana, and have decided to tackle Maui’s Road to Hana in more than one day, that is.
If you're obsessed with waterfalls, be sure to check out our Ultimate Maui Waterfalls Road Trip that stops at nine incredible waterfalls along the famous Road to Hana.
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