Hawaii | Maui | United States
Road to Hana
In our opinion the Road to Hana is a must see. it is undeniably gorgeous. Waterfalls, jungle greenery, spectacular ocean vistas, and a view of “old Hawaii” await you. If you are not comfortable with driving winding roads, a variety of tour operators make the trip – a quick google search will give you a ton of options.
We have done this drive each time we’ve been here and have concluded that staying in Hana should be strongly considered to really enjoy the drive, soak up the east shore “vibe” and not feel rushed. If you decide to do it in one day watch your time. Leave early and allow at least 12 hours – leave Kahalui by 8am and expect to be back after dark.
To make the most of your trip, get the Maui Revealed guide book, GyPSy app, wear appropriate clothing (i.e. a swimsuit), and appropriate shoes (Tevas or tabis are ideal – flip flops not great) for walking on muddy slippery “trails”. For walking to the Waimoku Falls waterfall in Kīpahulu District some walking shoes are also not a bad idea.
As you head out the first thing you will arrive at is Pāʻia – a good place to stop for breakfast if you wish (45m drive from Lahaina).
The road gets progressively more winding and rural from here. If slow drivers, hairpin turns (617 of them), one lane bridges (59 of them), and 25 MPH are not your thing you could consider taking a day tour with a tour operator. We have always driven it ourselves and enjoyed it immensely. Since we have no experience with these tours you’re on your own to google and find one that fits your needs.
It is 2 – 2.5 hours miniumum straight driving – and you are not here for straight driving.
Day 1
Mile 2 – First stop is twin falls. There will be a lot of people parked here because it is the first falls (but not the best). Stop or pass – there are MANY more on the way.
Mile 9 – Next is Ho’okipa Lookout. Here you can watch surfers at Jaws. This may be better in the afternoon so consider this on the way back.
Mile 10 – Next possible stop is the Garden of Eden Arboretum – they charge for the tour here – not essential unless you have time (better for a two day trip).
Mile 12 – Next is Kaumahina state wayside, offering bathrooms and a couple of trail loops through bamboo forest to stretch your legs if you want.
Mile 16 – So far all of these stops are optional but one that is not is the Ke’anae Peninsula. This is a really scenic spot. There’s a roadside stand (aunt Sally’s) with drinks and great banana bread (though you can also try Halfway to Hana’s bread down the road). Just before the runoff for the peninsula on the right side is the Keanae arboretum. This is a nice, quick 0.5 mile hike through some nice forest with native plants. While not super well maintained (and watch for mosquitos), it’s a nice leg stretcher.
Just PAST the turnoff to Hana on the left there is a small parking area where you can look back down over the taro fields of the peninsula.
Mile 17 – Look for the store Halfway to Hana – with great banana bread, shave ice, and pineapple smoothies.
Mile 19 – It’s must see is Upper Waikani Falls (3 bears). Parking is up the hill past the falls.
Mile 22 – Time for a swim Pua’a Ka’a falls state wayside.
Mile 24 – Hanawi falls
Mile 29 – Hungry? Head to Nahiku marketplace food trucks
Mile 31 – Turn left on Ula’ino Road to see the Kahunu garden ( national tropical botanical garden) but also the biggest temple in all of Hawaii – 3 acres!
Mile 32 – Waiʻānapanapa State Park. A gorgeous black sand beach, sea arch, and great place for a picnic lunch.
Mile 34 – Congratulations, you’ve made it to Hana! There’s a red sand beach, and not a whole lot of town. Check out Hasegawa General Store.
Stay here. There are more food trucks in Hana or for a nice meal head to The Preserve. However, if doing one day push on (combining day 1 and 2).
Day 2
Even though this is the “Road to Hana” be sure and go PAST Hana – the jungle gets even MORE lush.
After leaving Hana the mile markers starts to count down from 51 (go figure). Between mile marker 51 and 50 watch for a left turn on Haneoo road for Hamoa beach (if you miss it you’ll have another chance just before mile marker 49). It should be marked for Hamoa beach. James Michener called it the most perfect beach in the South Pacific. It has the best body surfing on the Island if it’s not too rough. If surf is not up yet keep going to Kipahalu and come back later. If it is, stop now as later it might be too rough.
Continue on – the road narrows even more and becomes even more beautiful. You will lass several more waterfalls – the most impressive is Wailua falls past mile marker 45. You can see it from the bridge and usually park just past the bridge if you want a better look. Continue on until you finally arrive at the Ohe’o Gulch and Seven Sacred Pools, located in the Kīpahulu District, a finger of Haleakalā National Park that extends to the coast.
For great hiking take the Pīpīwai Trail (two miles one way) to the Waimoku Falls. This hike to this area gains 800 feet in elevation but is really worth it if you have time – or just take the short hike (0.5 mile return) and splash in the pools under the waterfall. Or do both.
Return to Hana and then Paia the way you came.
Be sure and stop at Mama’s Fish House for dinner (you’ll need reservations – I’d get them at least three weeks in advance).