From cascading waterfalls found within lush rainforests and pristine beaches in a variety of colors to incredible rock formations, magnificent caves, and the magical spot where flowing lava enters the ocean, the Hawaiian Islands are home to countless incredible natural attractions. With nearly 11,000 acres of natural beauty to uncover, we could write about a thousand fantastic natural attractions found across the Hawaiian Islands, but we’ve neglected to mention one of the coolest natural oases in the Aloha State… until now, that is.

Nestled along the northeastern coast of Maui just north of Kahului, the Waihee Coastal Dunes and Wetlands Refuge is one of the prettiest, untouched destinations in all of Hawaii.

Alan Yoshioka/Google

Measuring in at 277 acres, this sprawling wildlife refuge was taken over by the Hawaiian Island Land Trust in 2004, and active restoration efforts have aided in the returning health of the ecosystem.

Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr

Here, you will find coastal dunes covered in vegetation…

Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr This 103-acre area of dunes that is nestled at the base of the West Maui Mountains is one of the last remaining habitats like this on the island of Maui.

…as well as 7,000 feet of rugged and wild marine shoreline.

Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr An extensive reef off the coast is one of the longest and widest on Maui. This reef system once provided excellent fishing in ancient times, and is, in fact, still a favorite among local fishermen.

In recent years, five different endangered species have taken up residence here and the area is home to many native Hawaiian plant and bird species.

Alan Yoshioka/Google The pristine, secluded coastline also serves as a retreat for Hawaiian monk seals and nesting green sea turtles.

The Waihee Refuge is also among the most significant archaeological and cultural sites in the state.

Michael Erhardt/Google It was once populated with two thriving ancient Hawaiian villages, an extensive inland fishpond, and several heiaus. The sense of history you’ll discover here is outstanding.

If you’re looking to get away from it all and experience a slice of Hawaiian coastline that has been untouched by development, this is it.

Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr Don’t forget your camera!

While you can visit for yourself, one of the best ways to visit this coastal gem is with a volunteer trip to remove invasive plant species, helping to restore a critical native wildlife habitat.

Jim Gove/Google Though the refuge is open to the public, you will have to leave your furry friends at home, since no pets, particularly dogs, are allowed within the preserve in an attempt to protect conservation and the native wildlife and habitats you’ll find here.

Address: Halewaiu Road, Wailuku, HI 96793

Alan Yoshioka/Google

Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr

This 103-acre area of dunes that is nestled at the base of the West Maui Mountains is one of the last remaining habitats like this on the island of Maui.

An extensive reef off the coast is one of the longest and widest on Maui. This reef system once provided excellent fishing in ancient times, and is, in fact, still a favorite among local fishermen.

The pristine, secluded coastline also serves as a retreat for Hawaiian monk seals and nesting green sea turtles.

Michael Erhardt/Google

It was once populated with two thriving ancient Hawaiian villages, an extensive inland fishpond, and several heiaus. The sense of history you’ll discover here is outstanding.

Don’t forget your camera!

Jim Gove/Google

Though the refuge is open to the public, you will have to leave your furry friends at home, since no pets, particularly dogs, are allowed within the preserve in an attempt to protect conservation and the native wildlife and habitats you’ll find here.

Have you ever been to the positively enchanting Waihee Coastal Dunes and Wetlands Refuge? Share your experiences and opinions in the comments below, then join our Hawaii Nature Lovers Facebook group to share photos of this natural oasis and all of the others you’ll find across the islands.

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