Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve

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Last Updated: December 7, 2025

The Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve is a protected marine area located on the island of Maui in the state of Hawaii.


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Summary

It covers approximately 2,000 acres of land and ocean, and is home to a diverse range of marine life, including Hawaiian green sea turtles, spinner dolphins, and colorful tropical fish.

There are many good reasons to visit the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve, including snorkeling, swimming, and hiking. The reserve is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and stunning underwater scenery. Visitors can also explore the rugged coastline, which features lava formations and ancient Hawaiian cultural sites.

One of the most interesting facts about the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve is that it is home to the largest concentration of endangered Hawaiian green sea turtles in the state of Hawaii. These gentle creatures can often be seen basking on the shoreline or swimming in the shallow waters.

The best time of year to visit the Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve is during the summer months, when the weather is warm and the waters are calm. However, visitors should be aware that the reserve is closed for a portion of the year to protect the delicate ecosystem. It is important to check with local authorities before planning a visit to ensure that the reserve is open and accessible.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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