A Visit to Poli Poli on Your Maui Vacation

Poli Poli Spring State Recreation Area is a beautiful ten-acre swath of conifer forest in the fog belt of the Kula Forest Reserve. It is situated at a 6,200 foot elevation in the southern region of Haleakala. It's a long drive to get to this park and the trek is easier with four wheel drive, but the journey is incredibly scenic with absolutely stunning views of the island.

If you're familiar with the cold temperatures of Haleakala Crater, don't worry. The Crater is nearly 4,000 feet higher than Poli Poli, so if you're going on a day trip, just bring a jacket in case it's cool. If you plan to camp there, however, keep in mind that on winter nights, Poli Poli can dip down below zero. The best way to know how cold it's going to be is to figure out what the sea level temperature is like and then subtract 20 degrees. No, conditions aren't balmy like they are at our sea-level condos and vacation rental homes. And unlike the jungle areas of Maui, you will enjoy a mosquito-free experience in Poli Poli as they cannot survive at such a high elevation. Also, you should know that there is no drinkable water at this park, so be sure to bring your own.

When you arrive, you will notice that the abundant redwood trees make Poli Poli look more like, say, northern California than Maui. The area is surrounded with towering trees and you'll often see dynamic mists rolling in through the treetops. The pervasive silence of the area makes it a good place for birdwatching. If you are very lucky, you may spot the endangered Maui "Creeper" or Maui Alauahio. There is also a trail leading to a small cave in the middle of the park, so don't forget to bring flashlights.

You'll find a camping area in a small clearing near the parking lot, but if you don't have camping gear, there is also a single cabin that sleeps ten and can be rented if you book ahead of time. Check out the Hawaii State Parks page for more information. If you are staying at one of our vacation condo rentals the 46 mile drive will take you around two hours, so be sure to fill up on gas along the way.

If you have any questions, be sure to contact us at the information we've provided at the bottom of the page. Mahalo for reading this week!