Olivine Pools

Olivine Pools are a beautiful collection of pools atop a lava shelf standing above the pounding surf on Maui's northwest side.

At low tide, the water remains generally still and it is possible to see tide pool life in the rocks just beneath the water's surface. At high tide, waves crash dramatically along the outer edge of the pools, splashing high into the air and filling the pools which then wash out over the far edge of the lava shelf. 

The area is beautiful, dramatic, and unique. It is also a popular spot for visitors to enter the water or pose for pictures along the rocks. And it needs to be absolutely emphasized that if waves are reaching over the edge of the lava shelf, this can be an absolutely and unpredictably hazardous place to be. People have died here being swept over of the edge. 

The hike to reach the pools from the parking area is relatively short - about 4/10 of a mile - however is down a steep slippery surface of jagged rocks. For this reason, the hike is rated as difficult. 

Overall, Olivine Pools is an epically beautiful place, however approach the area with safety, and ignore others who may be entering the pools during anything but low tide.

There are no amenities of any kind at the pools or parking area. Parking is in an unsigned dirt pullout immediately west of MM14 along the road. This is also a popular known break in spot for tourist vehicles, so be smart about visiting and leaving your car.