Lumahai Beach

Lumahai Beach

Lumahai Beach became famous in 1958 when Mitzi Gaynor filmed the "I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outa My Hair" scene from South Pacific here. The setting has not changed much since. Lush green mountains drop down to a wide crescent of white sand, framed by black lava rock. It looks like a movie set because it was one.

A Look-Only Beach

Do not swim here. Lumahai has no reef protection. Waves break directly onto steep sand, creating a heavy shore break that can slam you into the bottom without warning. Strong rip currents pull offshore. There is no lifeguard.

People drown at Lumahai. The beach looks inviting from the trail above, but the water is deceptively violent. Stay on the sand. Take photos. Wade ankle-deep at most if conditions are dead calm, but know that sets vary in size and a rogue wave can sweep in fast.

Stay off wet lava rocks at either end of the beach. If the rocks are wet, waves reach that high. People have been swept off these shelves and killed.

Two Sections

The eastern end, sometimes called Kahalahala Beach, is the famous filming location. Visitors call it "Tourist Lumahai." The western end, where the Lumahai River meets the sea, is where locals hang out. The river side has more shade and fewer mosquitoes. Families play in the river here when conditions are safe, but watch for ocean surge pushing up the river mouth during high surf.

Getting There

Take Highway 560 west from Hanalei toward Ha'ena. Just before mile marker 5, a lookout on the right side of the road marks the trailhead. A short, steep trail drops down to the eastern section of the beach through lush tropical vegetation. You can also drive a bit further and park at the Lumahai River bridge to access the western end directly.

What to Bring

Sunscreen, water, a camera, and a shade umbrella if you plan to stay at the eastern end. The sand there contains volcanic glass (olivine) and gets extremely hot on sunny days. Mosquitoes can be aggressive near the tree line, so bug spray is worth packing.