3 years later.....I can’t believe I didn’t review this magical beach yet. This place is amazing, I didn’t get to take pictures because I’m clumsy, already broke 3 phones in 2 weeks, and might as well enjoy the moment while we’re here. But hubby was able to take a few photos for memories. One of the pool is pretty deep, so deep that people can jump. I’m not that much of a risk taker, kudos to them that can do it.

This place is beautiful, but can be dangerous, so go with someone who knows when its safe, and stay away from the edge, especially if there is a North swell. Great place for photoshoots, and a unique and beautiful site all around. Take a picnic and go out for the day.

Between October - April, you need to be very careful...visit during low tides only. Rouge waves can be very dangerous. The trail down is adventurous for sure, especially if it has rained recently. Wonderful spot, and a must visit if in the general area for sure.

Gorgeous, but at times incredibly dangerous. The hike down to the pools is precarious, with loose rocks and sharp lava formations. The pools themselves are gorgeous, but unsafe much of the time owing to the large waves adjacent to the pools. Rogue waves can easily wash tourists out to sea. Still, this place is worth visiting And viewing even if you don’t get in the pools.

This place is COOL! Went on a very dramatic-weather day but that only made it more exciting. Huge waves crashing against the rocks and launching upward. The geology is cool as well - small specks of olivine (green crystals formed from lava cooling slowly) are all over, embedded in the rocky shoreline.Walls of clay (for lack of better terminology) can also be found in color-stratified layers. No idea what causes this but it is beautiful.DISCLAIMER: This is NOT a good place to swim. There are no lifeguards and people have lost their lives here.

Beautiful experience, If you are out visiting the blowhole than make sure to take some time and stop by here.

Go with the right hiking shoes! Be safe and watch for high waves! Its gorgeous and a lifetime experience.

A calm day is different from windy day by a great magnitude. It was angry when I saw it. It is the in between days that are probably most dangerous because you think it is alright.

Easy hike for non-hikers! Fun for all levels. This was a great little break in driving! We did not swim in the pools. Please take care and pay attention to the tide while exploring!

Disappointing as we visited 10 years ago and the pools were much more beautiful then. The ocean and the spot are still incredibly breathtaking, just be prepared to hike down a slippery sandy and rocky hillside down to the ocean. Wear sneakers!

As a life time resident of Maui, this is one of the MOST dangerous places to go on the entire island!! Enjoy the view from a safe distance! Do not take your kids or loved ones into these pools! You should NEVER turn your back to the ocean, but that is just not enough for this place. There is ZERO time to get out of the pools to save yourself or your loved ones from a rouge wave. As there is no cell service, it will be a long time for rescue to arrive. This is just far too risky to gamble your life or the lives of your family, even on a calm, low tide day. Whether you live on Maui or are a tourist, stay safe so that you can go home again. Enjoy the great views, take your awesome photos & then go swimming on any of Mauis beautiful beaches. Aloha.

Medically or Physically Challenged then might not be easy to get to. I pushed myself after being in bed 7days with divercultitis and I did it because I needed my Bethesda Healing Pools Experience. I can assure you this will be one of the more difficult hikes on Maui; however so worth the Reward when you get there. See for yourself

This is a really cool stop off the side of the road in West Maui.Its a short walk off of the side of the road. Its a little steep and definitely rocky. There are signs warning you not to go any further way earlier than it actually gets unsafe.People swim in the pools which is said to be dangerous due to changing tides and waves.The pools are very pretty even if you dont swim (which we didnt). Its fun to watch the waves splash in as well.It can be a quick stop and is worth doing if youre in the area.

A great experience and its really worth the walk down and hike back up. Just take your time and be careful as other readers have stated. There is something amazing about swimming in these pools that are peaceful ocean raging just a few feet away from you. You want to wear shoes on the hike as the footing can be a tough in sandals. In addition, water shoes are a good call down by the pools and the rocks can be sharp. It is a beautiful place to visit.

Put on your hiking shoes and explore. Summertime is humid. Be careful on the lava rocks, they are pointed and sharp. Beautiful turquoise ocean and many tidepools all around.

With a stark danger sign at the very entrance down the tricky rock cliff, the pools are quite lovely once you get down there. The ocean is crashing violently on three sides and it is easy to understand why there is a danger sign. Occasionally the waves come so ferociously that they form temporary water falls down the cliff sides. The walkway down is not man-made, you have to navigate solid and loose rocks. Anybody with modest ability can make it down there if they take their time and watch their footing. Not many people do, it looks much more intimidating than it really is, but it is certainly worth note of caution to be very careful and do it at your own risk.

Very cool lookout. The guided trail officially ends kind of high, but there are a few pathways and rocks to climb down/up but BE CAREFUL. And BE CONSCIOUS of the nature around you. Enjoy & leave it how you found it

Small hike but worth it. We went and almost no one was there. Drive was easy and really quick compared to my drive to hana

Its raw nature, so there is a non-trivial amount of risk to see them. The hike down is unblazed trail through large rocks with some steep slopes. The pools themselves are over topped by the surf which could be very dangerous. Exercise common sense and restraint the closer to the water you get.

I came on a day that was a bit windy so did not enter pools. But the hike down is definitely much easier than nakalele blow hole. Do wear shoes as terrain is very rocky. Hike down is doable with children, just please please keep a close hold on them as waters can be very dangerous.

My favorite place. It was unreal this experience. I highly highly suggest you visit

Its a small steep rocky hike. The drive is a little windy but with good views.

The hike is more extreme than the hike down to the Blowhole. BRING SHOES OR BOOTS! Slippers aka sandals are not recommended.

Beautiful! Dangerous-we hiked, but not all the way to the pools. People have been swept out to sea from the pools. Need calm weather and low tide. Afterwards, we started to drive further around the island East and found the shoulder-less, one- lane road very intimidating. We only drove a mile, encountered other vehicles who were kind enough to back up so we could get past. Be careful!! There is a food truck about a mile in. Thats where I turned around and asked my hubby to drive back. Beautiful views!!

It is a beautiful place to see, yet deceptively dangerous. We did not find out until after the fact that several people have been washed off the rocks. Go on a calm day, when you do go watch the waves for a bit before trekking closer to the pools. It is certainly worth going to see, even if from the top of the hill.

View was ok, the drive there was horrible. Small, twisty road

Great natural formation of pools, a must visit place. Be sure not to get into water as you might be swept away by wave breaking in and around the pool. It is safer in summer but winter, waters could be very rough.

Beautiful spot! The hike down can be a bit difficult but it is definitely worth it. The pockets of water at the bottom are great to swim in and the water is incredibly clear. Watch out for waves hitting the rocks and blowing up water when walking around.

Beautiful place, definitely need good shoes as hike down is pretty dangerous. I made it down there but did not get in the water as it is mostly stagnant and did not look all that clean in my opinion. The cross that is mounted on the rocks down there also makes it feel earie.

Warnings:The drive past this point is very sketchy, turn back if you are not up to it. Also, hike down not advisable for families / little ones.That said, beautiful part of the island.

Pretty cool spot. It was too windy/ocean too aggressive to enjoy the pools but we got some cool photos. I can imagine its be a nice spot on a beautiful day. Also be aware, if it rained the trail is extremely muddy, good luck cleaning your shoes off before getting into the car

Really cool place! You need to be a bit of a hiker or have a need for adventure to fully appreciate this place. We navigated our way into some pretty secluded spots and the waves were really intense at times. Definitely work a stop.

The tour books describe these as a beautiful place to swim in tide pools. While indeed quite beautiful, with the tide at high tide it is quite dangerous. The waves were breaking into the pools. Someone died earlier this year and was never found, do to the waves. Go and see, but Id recommend staying out.

Amazing place one of a kindEasy - Medium level climbingBreathe taking viewRecomend comfortable shoes for better experience sunscreen and water !Lots of sea creatures:)

I had a disaster of a visit to these pools and it was 100% due to my lack of preparation. I went down to the pools in flip flops, and then while in them slipped and probably broke two or three toes. Im at the ER right now. I had hiking boots and water shoes but they were still at my hotel. I will simply say that this is an amazing place to visit but bring proper footwear! Measure every step. Take your time and be wary of the rocks as you do the little hike down. The rocks are all volcanic and really sharp.Lastly I cannot stress enough that if waters are not calm water can blow right into the pools and take you out to sea, you are probably dead if this happens. Many have died because they failed to read the water. Take 10 mins and watch the water and think about the wind before you go into the water. If youre scared or unsure you can still go down but stay where its dry.

If you are good at hiking and climbing you can swim in the pools. However be careful waves have crashed over the pools and pushed people into rocks.

This place was dope! Be cautious tho. If you fall you’ll definitely get messed up bad. The pools are nice and deep, clear and there are loads of fish and crabs.

What a beautiful place. It was so refreshing to swim in the fresh ocean pool.

Deceptively beautiful. Beware of rogue waves. All was peaceful in the pools until two back to back rogue waves dumped into the pool and swept away two people. They had lacerations all over and broken bones and dislocated shoulder. EMT has trouble reaching down.

Accessible for the physically active only. Wear hiking shoes or hiking sandals. The drive is fun and similar to the road to Hana. Great spot for the active enthusiasts.

Not sure what it is like to swim in. I didnt go down to the pools, because the sign said not to. But it looked like a step climb down, that I watched a family with small children do and they made it.

Great views. Incredible pools and pounding surf. Did not go down to the pools. No need to become a statisic. It is a short, easy hike from the road.

The pools are really beautiful, but do require you to traverse some slightly gravely/hilly areas. If you have small kids, I dont think Id try to take them down. Do be mindful of the waves crashing around the pools though as they can come unexpectedly.

Beautiful rock formations along the coastline. Stay away from the lower tide pools if you know what’s good for you. Respect the plaque that is posted. He is not the first or the last to pass away in the rapids outside the pools. The unforgiving Pacific reigns.

This was pretty cool.  May be washed out during your time of the year.  But it was a nice walk down and some good exploring.  If you have gotten this far you just need to go all the way around the North road.  And you must get some banana bread from Julia’s little stand.  It really is the best you will ever taste! NOTE:  the North road is crazier than the road to Hana.  It won’t make you as sick because you go slower...less traffic and you have to go slower because it is a little bit dangerous!  Don’t worry though, just drive slow and you will be just fine!

Its neat from a distance, dangerous up close. People die here. From up on the bluff you can see a beautiful view without being in real danger.

Absolutely beautiful. But be careful about big waves near the edge of pool. Watched three people almost get washed away and one of them ended up with a broken arm.

Great place to take a swim and one of the most beautiful places on Maui

Very clear pools, with an elevated saltcontent, which makes for easy floating. But be careful on high tide and big waves, which might just throw you out in the ocean. People have died there. Watch the waves for a while before climbing down to the pools.

Nice views. Did not hike down all the way.

Wear good shoes and be careful

Stunning scenery, different side of Maui

Pretty cool area to explore. Wear good shoes as it can be very slippery and rocky. Be wary of ocean conditions, try to visit during low tide to reduce the risk. Waves can break over the wall and sweep people away to their death. Very scenic, the pools are amazing and have lots of fish waiting to be swept back out to sea. Well worth a visit if you are in moderate physical shape. The approach is similar to the Nakalele Blowhole. The area around the pools is very, very slippery.

Super fun. A significant hike down and up. No man made steps/paths.

Truly magical place

We didnt go swimming because of the uncertainty and the man that lost his life just a couple months ago. It does make for some great photos though! RIP Steven Espinoza

Its a step hike but the pools are worth seeing!

The hills are a bit terrifying for flip flops but the view was absolutely amazing and well worth the effort!!!!!

Says its dangerous to go there but if you dont go down to where the water is, it is 100% safe. Do not go swimming in the pools.

Stayed up high on the rocks and got some amazing pictures. Watched waves come in that would have taken you to sea. Didnt die! Would do again!

Extremely beautiful. However dont expect to make it down to the pools without a certain amount of danger. Before you even get to the pools a sign tells you to turn around and that many people have died in the area due to high waves.

Use common sense when checking out this area and youll be fine. Dont get too close to the edge and avoid all together if there is high surf. Its a fairly difficult hike down to the pools and its not much easier getting out but its absolutely worth it.

NOT SAFE! The place looks really beautiful but it’s not safe, people had died in there and there is signs saying for you don’t go. Don’t risk your life for a picture, there is a lot of incredible places in Maui for an incredible picture and views! Keep yourself safe.

Short hike, a little tricky at times but you can get to the pools within a few minutes. Its beautiful and worth it.

This is a great gem. Takes a short hike down to the pools. Need to have good shoes and access to both hands to navigate the hike to the pools. If you take the road from the west to the pools it is narrow and windy and some rental car places will not allow you to go on that road.

A beautiful but very dangerous place if you dont follow the rules of not approaching the pools. Theyre spectacular but the ocean can take your life in a matter of seconds.

Very cool. No easy way to get there.

Very slippery. Also a little sketch to get down to but worth the efforts. Cool spot and good for a little soak. Definitely wear water shoes with good grip because the rocks are very slippery.Worth stopping.

Beautiful, I wouldnt walk down to the pools though. Stand back and watch; youll see how big the waves can be. If caught up in one it could be deadly. Its beautiful, but not worth dying for.

Really beautiful pools. Very treacherous climb down and an even more treacherous climb back up. I wouldnt do it if its raining. Adventure at your own peril!

Gorgeous part of Maui

Incredible 360 degree views.

Very cool place to hike around the rock but but cautious tondo is during a clear day and also be careful in the water pools!

Very beautiful area. Not recomended for the less athletic types. Lots of sharp rocks on the way down.

The polls are peaceful and relaxing at low tide.

A great day hike. We were careful to watch the tide! Beautiful!

Refreshing and Fun!This is one of our favorite spots on Maui. The drive there is not bad, well paved but a bit winding. Road conditions are nowhere near the unpaved portion of the Road to Hana (coming from the southern end). Once you start hiking from the parking lot, the climb down can be steep. Little kids can get there, just need to take it slow and watch them closely.By the pool area, some rocks can be quite slippery, best if you have those water sandals or shoes. There are two main pools that you can swim in. The one closest to the shore can get new water by big waves. If you see that happening, I recommend that you dont swim in it. It can be dangerous. The other pool is blocked by tall rocks so you only get the spray.There are shallow water about knee-deep and deep pools for swimming. The shallow water can be fun for little ones and the pools are for those who know how to swim. My kids are 9, 12 and 15 and they all swam in these pools. There are lots of fish too.The day we went was hot so swimming in these pools was refreshing. The return hike to the car can be quite exhausting so plan to reserve energy for that!Overall, my whole family really enjoyed these pools when we visited in late July 2019. Use common sense and be safe.

Absolutely magical! Be aware of your surroundings. The waves are beautiful and fierce.

Beautiful but dangerous!!Be careful with the kids here.The pools are nice. You’ll see a lot of fish.Be careful near the edges though. The surf is big and powerful here.Watch my vids to see!The hike is long and a little steep. You basically walk up and down an unmarked area of rocks. Think Stairclimber!You don’t need to spend much time here to see what you came for.We stopped here on a West Mountain Driving Loop that included: The Olivine Pools, Nakalele Blowhole, snorkeling at Honolua Bay and dinner in Lahaina.

Pretty scenery. Bumpy parking. Nothing amazing at dusk

Amazing place.... hard to find must look for the dirth path. Work the hike

My favorite peaceful and beautiful spot on Maui

Five stars for beauty and general awesomeness. One star for safety. If you are a tourist stay away. Weve lost 8 of you in the last 2 weeks. Our local chamber of commerce is beside themselves trying to figure out how to cover up all the bad press.The road to get there is treacherous. The climb down and back will kill the unprepared by impaling them on sharp lava rocks after a mere slip and fatal fall. Soaking in the pools will have you swept out to sea in a flash. And, finally, the critters in the pools will eat you. Phone reception is non-existent and rescue services dont exist here. If you are a tourist avoid the place.If you are a family with small kids be prepared to make more. The police will believe you if you say junior got swept away. Of course this could be a solution to that troublesome child.If you are a tourist go see Burger in Paradise or an art gallery in Lahaina instead.

Very scenic point. Well worth the treacherous, counterclockwise drive on the edge of the cliffs. This drive was way more taxing than the Road to Hana.

Amazing views from the top... a rare experience to enjoy the calm waters of the pools while the ocean roars a few meters away...

Some people might like this sort of climb and excitement. It was cool to see though!

Views like youve never seen. Relax in one of the pools with fish swimming around your feet. Be careful though, dont go at high tides, it can be a very dangerous place.

Beautiful!!!! Its a small hike down and a little bit of rock climbing. Warning wear appropriate shoes while on these trails. Do not attempt it with flip flops or slippery tennis shoes. Take your time going down. Enjoy the pools with caution. Tons of pools created by mother nature. The waves are extremely unpredictable so please please use caution and common sense while enjoying the pools. There have been a couple deaths from people who were washed away by rogue waves that come up the cliff. One moment the pools are calm and then a huge wave will hit you out of no where. Always have a spotter for waves.When we went it was nice and calm and my husband was in the pools and the next moment a spotter yelled big wave and he held on with all his strength to the volcanic cliff on the side of the pool. For one second I thought I lost him to the sea. He got washed off the rock and dragged deep into the pools. He was fine just a cut on his hand but could have been a lot worst. Please please use caution and never go alone and if you do make friends with the people around you so there is some one to watch your back.

So pretty. Thought we could get to the pools to swim but it was a pretty steep hike down there. Some people were able to do it but we didnt want to risk it. Would I do this drive again? Probably not. The roads on the north side of the island are insane. Lots of one lane roads and lots of yielding to oncoming traffic. Very nerve wracking and I wasnt even driving.

Dont go for a swim like a dummy. It may seem safe but the waves can surprise you. Watch from several feet behind and above. Its a fun hike and the pools are nice to look at.

Must stop but be careful

Sweet spot to hangout. Make sure you dont turn your back on the ocean.

Lovely and scenic place. Respect your life and dont swim in the tide pools. Heed to the posted warnings.

Secluded, we went toward the end of day and only one other couple was there. Bit of a hike (especially in sandles) but completely worth it.

Tide pools notable for olivene, a compound found on the moon, Mars, and meteors! Be aware that this area can be quite dangerous so be cautious. I looked on at the tide pools from a ledge above and didnt get a chance to swim in them.

Amazing and beautiful but please be careful. Its very easy to see why there is such a grave warning at the start of the trail.

Sadly, these tide pools arent really accessible. We drove dangerous roads to make it here only to find that we couldnt actually get down to the ocean safely. Still, it was nice to see the views on the way.

Pretty difficult walk to the bottom but a beautiful site to see. We considered the olivine pools as one of the highlights of our trip.

Photos dont really do it justice. This was on our drive from Wailuku to Lahaina. If you dont have all day, this is a great alternative to taking the more famous road to Hana.Be very careful; the rocks can be both sharp and slippery.

Five stars for awesomeness, but so hazardous, dont go there. So one star.