Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve
South of Makena State Park, the road fades away into a vast territory of black-lava flows, the result of Haleakala's last eruption and now a place for exploration. The road passes through the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve, an excellent place for morning snorkel adventures. All wildlife, vegetation, coral, lava rock formations, and archaeological sites are highly protected under state law, which means that removing or disturbing items is prohibited, as is fishing. Two miles of coastline and the interior of the reserve are closed so that endangered species have an undisturbed area. You can visit one mile of the reserve's coastline for a ½-mile hike or snorkeling, from 5:30 am to 7:30 pm. To snorkel Ahihi Bay, park at the reserve's main lot and follow signage. Be sure to wear mineral sunblocks instead of chemical sunscreens, which kill corals—other sunscreens are now banned in Hawaii. Adjacent to Ahihi-Kinau is the Keoneoio archaeological district, where the start of the Hoapili Trail can be found. Limited cell phone service exists at the reserve.
