Driving the Road to Hana, also known as the Hana Highway, is one of the best things to do in Maui. This 600ish-turn, 64.4-mile route takes you through some of the most beautiful scenery on the island. It is loaded with hundreds of hairpin turns, cascading waterfalls, a bamboo forest and dozens of beautiful things to see.
While it is possible to drive the whole thing in less than 3 hours without any stops, you’ll miss out on lots of experiences that keep tourists like me coming back for more. You know what they say, the journey is sometimes more important than the destination.
Let’s check out 35 of my favorite stops on this scenic route, from the best photo opportunities to hiking trails to the best eats on the road and so much more that will surely make for a fun driving tour..
Maui’s Best Road to Hana Stops for a Fun Driving Tour
Mile Marker 0 — Paia Town
What better way to start your journey to Hana than at the unofficial starting place, the city of Paia? This once sugar-mill town is now a renowned laid-back windsurfing destination, with popular windsurfing spots like Ho’okipa and Spreckelsville attracting people the world over. It is also sometimes called the “Windsurfing Capital of the World.”
Trendy boutiques, restaurants, surf shops, and local art galleries, such as Nuage Bleu, Cafe Mambo, and Maui Hands, call the place their home. As this is the last town you’ll come across on your way to Hana, it’s also a great place to stock up on gas (which can get quite expensive here), snacks, toiletries, and whatnot.
Mile Marker 2 — Hana Highway (360) — Twin Falls
Hawaii is known for some of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls, and Maui is no exception. The first of many Road to Hana stops, the Twin Falls is situated in the Ho’olawa Valley. While the area around the falls is inside private property (Wailele Farm), it is easily accessible to the public. There are also different food stands where you can get some refreshing smoothies and snacks. Since this is a popular stop for many tourists and locals, parking space can fill up quickly, so make sure to adjust your schedule to work around peak times (10AM to 2PM).
There are two waterfalls along the moderately challenging 1.8-mile trail leading to Twin Falls. The first one is relatively close to the parking lot, where you’ll see a small waterfall and a natural pool you can dip into. The second one (the one often seen on pictures of Twin Falls) requires a bit of hiking but is definitely well worth it. As there are many slippery (and sometimes dangerous) spots along the way, be sure to bring appropriate footwear, like water shoes.
P.S. Don’t leave any valuables in your car, as (sadly) theft is frequently reported in the area.
Mile Marker 3.5 — Kaulanapueo Church
Kaulanapueo Church was built in 1853. At 8:45 in the morning, we were the only ones there, besides the spirits buried in the quaint cemetery, some dating back to 1940. The Protestant churches doors were locked, but the stop was worth a peak around the grounds.
Mile Marker 4.5 — Huelo Lookout
Early on the Road to Hana drive we decided that a fruit smoothie would be in order and one of the first stands was Huelo Lookout. I ordered a banana bliss smoothie, which was made with fresh papaya, coconut and bananas—if those ingredients don’t say Hawaii, I’m not sure what does.
Mile Marker 6.7 — Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees
The Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees are one of Maui’s most famous sights. While these massive trees are found in different parts of the island, the most popular spot is around mile marker 7, where you’ll see the “painted forest” along the slopes of Haleakala towards the ocean. The trees get their name from the rainbow-like inner bark that forms when the outer bark peels away (which happens several times a year).
Mile Marker 9 — Ho’okipa Beach Park/Ho’okipa Lookout
One of the best locations in Maui for recreational ocean activities is Ho’okipa Beach Park at Mile Marker 9, which includes Ho’okipa Lookout.
This breathtaking white sand beach offers some of the best windsurfing experiences on Maui’s coast, and it’s not uncommon to see the pros brave the strong winds and waves. And let’s not forget the lookout, which offers sweeping views of the adjacent coastline and an up-close look at the powerful waves that crash against the rocky shore.
Mile Marker 9.5 — Waikamoi Nature Trail
The Waikamoi Nature Trail is an easy loop hike filled with ferns, tall trees and scenic overlooks. There are two hiking options; the long route and the short. With our limited time on the Hana Highway we took the shorter of the two which was just under a mile.
Mile Marker 10.2 — Ka Haku Smoke Shack
Ka Haku Smoke Shack is one of the funkiest food huts along the way to Hana and the ten buck chicken plate comes with a free coconut. Don’t bother with the canned corn and rice sides that come with it. But the chicken, that is grilled right in front of you, is tender and flavorful. The fresh coconut juice washed it all down nicely.
Mile Marker 10.6 — Garden of Eden
The Garden of Eden is one of those pricey, touristy arboretums that I would typically pass up, but it is a great stop for identifying all the local plants that you will see during your Hawaiian travels. Plus, they have a couple of waterfall lookouts.
Mile Marker 12 — Kaumahina State Wayside Park
Coming in at around mile marker 12 is the scenic Kaumahina State Wayside Park. This 7.8-acre woodland/viewpoint is a great place to rest and enjoy some grub, with picnic tables and restrooms available for visitors. Breathtaking views of the northeast Maui coastline and Ke’anae Peninsula are a treat for the eyes, with tons of great photo opportunities from one of the spots on the lookout. There are also several (albeit unmaintained) loop routes going uphill, where you’ll see numerous native and exotic trees and plants.
Mile Marker 14 — Honomanu Bay Lookout
Honomanu Bay is situated between mile markers 13 and 14 of Hana Highway, on Maui’s North Shore. And what better way to take in the bay’s greatest views than at the Honomanu Bay Lookout? This pullout, which is situated just past Kaumahina State Wayside Park, offers a broad panorama of the bay and is also a popular photography spot. So whether you’re looking to take in the natural beauty of Maui or capture some amazing photos, the Honomanu Bay Lookout is definitely worth a visit.
Mile Marker 16.7 — Ke’anae Arboretum
Located past mile marker 16 on the Hana Highway alongside the Piinaau Stream is the Ke’anae Arboretum. What really sells this one to tourists and locals are the beautiful tropical plants, flowers, and trees that grow here (they have around 150 different species!) These include hibiscus, taro varieties, and the famed Rainbow eucalyptus. Entrance is free, and visitors can enjoy a nice, easy stroll along the paved paths while taking in the breathtaking beauty of the flora.
Mile Marker 16.8 — Ching’s Pond
Ching’s Pond is a popular swimming hole that many people pass by without even knowing it is there. The brave locals cliff dive from the bridge, a 25 foot drop. The less adventurous leap from the lower portions or simply watch from the sidelines. Jumping is absolutely, positively not recommended, but at that time not taking the leap was also one of my Road to Hana regrets. Not sure I’d be so brave today!
Mile Marker 17 — Keanae Peninsula and Village
Just past the Ke’anae Arboretum and mile marker 16 is a road leading to Ke’anae, a small but beautiful peninsula formed by the lava that flowed down Haleakala Crater and the soil brought by ancestral Hawaiians centuries ago.
Today, it is known for its ancient Hawaiian town, taro farms, and stunning land and seascape. With different viewpoints/lookouts in the area, you’ll always find something new to see. Plus, it’s also a great way to take plenty of photos! Be sure to check out the rugged lava-rock-filled shorelines, the historic church, and a taste of some delicious banana bread (Aunty Sandy’s).
Mile Marker 17 1/3 — Halfway to Hana
The Halfway to Hana snack shop is certainly one of those places popular due to its name and it will probably not be the best banana bread along the way, but worth the stop just to say you’ve been.
Mile Marker 18.8 — Wailua Valley State Wayside
A place to stretch your legs and get a killer view! We took the stairs on the right of Wailua Valley State Wayside to the top and were treated to a view of Ke‘anae Valley, Ko‘olau Gap and the village of Wailua. It will be a quick stop, but worth the perfect Hawaiian view.
Mile Marker 19.5ish — Upper Waikani Falls
The Upper Waikani Falls, also known as Three Bear Falls, is one of the most popular waterfalls of all the Road to Hana stops. It got its name from the three separate side-by-side falls of varying sizes, reminiscent of the original bear trio from Goldilocks and the Three Bears. It’s also a relatively quick hike to the falls right on the side of the road.
Mile Marker 22 — Pua’a Ka’a Falls/Pua’a Kaa State Wayside Park
Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Park is located farther down the Hana Highway, around half a mile past milepost 22, and is a great place to stretch your legs and enjoy the beauty of Maui. Visitors can take a short hike through the forest to see some of the birds and plants up close. There is also a waterfall on the property (Pua’a Ka’a Falls), which makes for a refreshing swim on a hot day.
Mile Marker 24 — Hanawi Falls
The Hanawi Falls is one of Maui’s most beautiful and photographed waterfalls, located just around mile marker 24. Continuously fed by the waters of the Hanawi Stream and surrounded by dense rainforest, the waterfalls are separated into two parts: the upper and lower falls.
The upper waterfall is a 30-foot cascade that plunges into a small natural pool found just near the bridge/roadside (which is a fantastic spot for viewing it). The lower waterfall is a 200-foot cascade accessible via a trail from the Nahiku village. Unfortunately, some parts of the trail are under private property, which prohibits any hiking.
Mile Marker 27. 5 — Coconut Glens Ice Cream
It’s not just the sights that make Road to Hana a trip worth remembering, but also the little sweet treats we get to taste along the way. And when it comes to eating ice cream, you’ll want to stop at the funky bus at mile marker 27 1/2.
Made from locally sourced ingredients, Coconut Glen’s organic vegan ice cream prides itself as the best there is in Maui, and it may definitely be the case once you get a taste yourself. With different flavors such as mint chocolate, lemongrass, and their signature coconut flavor (and more), your trip will surely be a whole lot sweeter!
Mile Marker 28.8 — Nahiku Marketplace
Nahiku Marketplace is a Hana shopping center, which consists of a tiny handful of Hawaiian product shops. This is where I discovered one of my absolute favorite Maui treats, coconut candy. The coconut is hand cut, sprinkled with brown sugar and slow baked. And it is delicious!
Mile Marker 31 — Hana Farms Roadside Stand
The Hana Farms Roadside Stand is a popular stop for travelers along the road to Hana. It is a neighborhood market where you can buy a wide variety of goods made in Hana and the farm itself, such as hot sauces, spreads, skincare products, and more.
Be sure to check out their bakery for some freshly-made breads, bagels, desserts, and their signature banana bread (comes in 4 different flavors.) If you’re looking for something heavier, you can enjoy an open-air dining while munching on their wood-fired pizzas, pupus (a type of Hawaiian appetizer), harvest salads, and more.
Mile Marker 31 — Hana Lava Tube
Located past mile marker 31, the Hana Lava Tube is one of the many natural wonders you can find on the Road to Hana. This giant tube is made from solidified lava formed when the molten rocks cooled and hardened and is big enough to walk through.
Visitors can take the self-guided tour, which takes them inside the underground lava tube. Different rock formations like stalagmites and stalactites fill the walls and ceilings, and rare ones like the Chocolate Corridor and Chockstone are definitely a must-see. If you fancy something above ground, you can instead explore and ‘get lost’ in their Red Ti Botanical Garden Maze.
Mile Marker 32 — Luana Spa Retreat
After indulging in too much coconut candy, we made a quick stop at Luana Spa Retreat to get a tour of a yurt. Why? Because I had no idea what the heck a yurt was either. Turns out it’s a fancy-smancy collapsible tent commonly used in Mongolia. But, you can sleep (or, even better, get a spa treatment) in one at Luana.
Mile Marker 32 — Nutcharee’s Thai food
Right next to Luana Spa Retreat is Nutcharee’s, a delicious and authentic outdoor Thai restaurant. Even though it is off the beaten path of the Hana Highway, this place sometimes gets so busy it has to turn away guests. Yep, it’s that good.
Mile Marker 32 — Pa’iloa Beach Black Sand Beach at Wai’anapanapa State Park
The Pa’iloa or Wai’anapanapa Black Sand Beach in Wai’anapanapa State Park (mile marker 32) was my favorite stop along the Road to Hana. Because of its distinctive black sand and beautiful tropical surroundings, this short stretch is a definite Instagrammable spot.
A short, steep path led us to the beach, which started with a large coal-colored rock, followed by shiny black sand with descending sizes of pebbles. Conditions-permitting (as it can often get dangerous), you can go swimming in the water, but even just the sight of it is worth the trip. There are also neighboring lava caves with freshwater lakes if you like exploring for a bit. Beautiful!
Mile Market 33 — Hana Tropicals
Hana Tropicals is a exotic tropical flower farm and orchid nursery located in the charming town of Hana in East Maui. The farm is an homage to one of nature’s most beautiful and distinct signatures around the island of Maui. The grounds are nestled away in a lush ethereal jungle, teeming with organic beauty.
They offer a free guided tour of their farm, provided by one of their passionate volunteer workers, or you may choose to explore the property at your own pace and interest.
Mile Marker 34 — Hana Town
Here at mile marker 34 lies the small town of Hana, where the whole trip is named after. It was once home to the first sugarcane plantations on the island, which paved the way to the creation of the roads coming to and from Hana.
Although it is a quiet, sleepy town, Hana’s charm lies in its rich history and the things you’ll discover once you know it a bit better. Lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and delicious eats are just some of the many things awaiting the weary traveler, and is definitely the ideal place to pause and rejuvenate. Some must-see places include the Hana Cultural Center and Museum and Hana Bay Beach Park.
Mile Marker 35 — Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach
The red sand beach of Maui, also known as Kaihalulu Beach, is arguably one of the most stunning and scenic beaches in the entire world. The beach gets its red color from the iron-rich hill found in the area, which beautifully contrasts the ocean’s blue waters.
Something to keep in mind is that the access trail crosses private property, which is why the locals shy away from going to the beach and why you may opt out too. You may find it disrespectful if one trespasses. The hike is relatively short, but the path is steep, narrow, and dangerous, especially if you’re not wearing proper footwear. Use your best judgment if you’re planning to visit here, or if you’ll opt for other attractions instead.
Mile Marker 41 — Lindbergh’s Grave
Tying in with our previous entry, the Palapala Ho’omau Church also serves as the final resting place of aviator Charles Lindbergh, who is best known for being the first person to fly a monoplane nonstop and solo across the Atlantic Ocean. He spent his last years in Maui until he died of lymphoma on August 26, 1974 (age 72.)
His grave can be found under the shade of a plum tree and is also one of the reasons people visit the church.
Mile Marker 41 — Palapala Ho’omau Church
The Palapala Ho’omau Church is a beautiful church located just past mile marker 41 (eight miles south of Hana). In 1864, Christian missionaries built the church out of limestone coral and lava rock. Over the next century, it served as a place of worship and a center of activity for the locals. At some point, however, it was abandoned until it was restored in 1964 by Sam Pryor and famed aviator Charles Lindbergh.
Today, it attracts visitors worldwide with its stunning gardens, scenery, and seaside vistas. Add to that the peace and quiet one feels within church grounds, making it a great stop after a long drive.
Mile Marker 42 — Ohe’o Gulch — Seven Sacred Pools
Our last stop on the Road to Hana loop was the Ohe’o Gulch, also known as the Seven Sacred Pools. There are several falls that flow through Ohe’o Gulch and they are popular. By the time we got there, around 2:30pm, it was loaded with tourists.
Mile Marker 42 — Pipiwai Trail
Moving on to Haleakala National Park at mile marker 42 is one of the best (if not the best) trails in Maui: Pipiwai Trail. This 4-mile, moderately challenging route takes you to some of its highlights, such as the 200-foot tall Makahiku Falls, a massive 137-year-old Banyan tree, Maui’s most picturesque bamboo forest, and ending with the magnificent 400-foot tall Waimoku Falls.
Be sure to wear appropriate footwear as some parts of the trail can get muddy and slippery, bring lots of water, some bug repellants, and of course, leave no trace behind.
Mile Marker 45 — Wailua Falls
Wailua Falls, described as Maui’s “most photographed waterfall,” is situated right after mile marker 45 along the Honolewa Stream. This is undoubtedly one of Maui’s most accessible and magnificent waterfalls, cascading around 80 feet down the side of a lush jungle cliff into an impressive plunge pool. What’s more, you don’t even need to go on a hike to see it!
Mile Marker 50 — Hamoa Beach
After passing the town of Hana, we made a quick stop at Hamoa Beach, a beautiful, crescent public beach. This golden white sand beach is one of the best surf breaks on the island (along with Koki Beach), with the waters changing from mellow to fierce in a snap (be sure to watch your kids!)
During the calmer times, especially in the morning, you can enjoy other water activities such as snorkeling and bodysurfing. We just took a peek, but we would have spent more time sunbathing if we didn’t have to get back to Paia by dinner.
Mile Marker 51 — Koki Beach
Koki Beach is a red sand beach located on the island of Maui in Hawaii and is one of the two well-known Hana surf breaks loved by local surfers (the other one being Hamoa Beach). The neighboring Ka Iwi O Pele, or “Bones of Pele” cinder cone hill, is responsible for the dark red sand at Koki Beach.
As the waters can get pretty rough around the beach, it is not an ideal spot for swimming. However, it is a fantastic spot to relax and have a picnic while taking in the views of the surfers and the sea.
It’s undeniable that Road to Hana is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Maui. From lush rainforests and magnificent waterfalls to red and black sand beaches to delicious eats, there is so much this part of the island has to offer. While it may take some time to get through these great stops, just remember to enjoy and make the most out of your journey!
ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR VISITING MAUI AND THE ROAD TO HANA
Getting There: Kahului Airport is a major hub and most airlines will fly into it. It is the only airport in Maui that accommodates direct flights from the U.S. mainland. You can easily check for the best fare deals at Skyscanner, which also has the option to choose ‘cheapest month’ as the departure to find the lowest priced dates to fly to your destination. Although there is an airport in Hana, there aren’t taxis, shuttle services, or car rentals at the Hana Airport, so fly into Kahului Airport and pick up your rental car, take a taxi, Uber, Lyft or a shuttle to your hotel.
Where to Stay in Maui: It’s best to stay near the airport in Kahului, close to the start of the Hana Highway. The Napili Sunset Beach Front Resort (moderate) is a great choice in Lahaina. For something a little closer, the Old Wailuku Inn at Ulupono will save you some travel time on the way to the Road to Hana. For something on the less expensive side, try the Kihei Kai Oceanfront Condos or the Banyan Tree Bed and Breakfast Retreat. For a hotel with a little more extravagance, book a room at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa. Or search some great deals on hotels of your choice at Booking.com. If you’re looking for more of a home atmosphere (or are traveling with a group of people), head over to VRBO that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range.
Getting Around: Renting a car in Maui is the best to really experience the Road to Hana and RentalCars.com has some great deals. If you are not renting a car, there are plenty of options. Taxis, Lyft and Uber are available all over Maui, plus most of the top attractions can be accessed with the Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley, the Hula Hula Hopper. If you are not renting a car but would like to experience the Road to Hana, check out some of the best tours that offer pick-up services from your hotel or condo below in the ‘Best Tours in Maui and the Road to Hana’ section.
City Transportation Passes: The Hula Hula Hopper Trolley offers a 2-Day all inclusive pass for $48 that allows access to all 4 Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley lines.
Best Tours in Maui and the Road to Hana: You can find some of the top tours at Get Your Guide or Viator, and here are some of the top ones:
- Small Group Road to Hāna Sightseeing Tour
- 5-Hour Waterfall & Rainforest Hike with Picnic Lunch
- Road to Hana Full-Day Tour with Lunch and Transfer
- Road to Hana Adventure with Breakfast & Lunch
- 75-Minute Hana Rainforest Helicopter Tour
- 3 Hour Rainforest & Waterfall Adventure for Families
- Road to Hana Full-Day Tour with Lunch and Transfer
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through my links, I earn a commission that helps to keep this blog running—at no extra cost to you. For more information read my full disclosure.
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That's beautiful! I gotta visit Maui even more now!
Another island (or series of islands) that's on my bucket list is Vanuatu, it looks so good on all the pictures, I just have to go there!
I have never even heard of Vanuatu. I need to Google!
Wonderful photos, they make me want to go back so badly! I lost all our photos from our trip to Maui when my computers hard drive failed. I need to go back and retrace our steps (and make several of these stops you mention that we didn't do!) We're thinking of going this fall.
Did you happen to see the ice cream hut that served homemade coconut ice cream served in a half coconut shell? It was somewhere between the banana bread place and the black sand beach. I hope it's still there!
I did not see the ice cream served in a coconut! And now I’m mad, because that is something I would have loved.
I am always so overly paranoid about losing all my photos, what a bummer that must have been. But, a perfect reason to go back :)
Five years later (2018), the coconut place is still there. It is north of Ka’anapali, on the way to Honolua Bay. They are on the left (ocean) side of the highway.
Wow! This post is a wealth of information. I'm motivated to make it all the way to Hana now. I've always attempted to go, but less than halfway there, we always decide to just go back. Inevitably someone's car sick. I'll keep all this in mind for my next trip to the island.
It was worth doing the whole way around, but next time I’d stay the night in Hana.
Great article and such detail!! Thank you!!
Gorgeous photos! I could easily spend a week….a month…..here!
Thanks! I definitely could have used one more day.
Gorgeous photos! I didn't know that there was so much to do Maui other than beaches. Thanks for sharing this!
The beaches are definitely a draw to Maui, but there is so much more!
Wow this post is absolutely incredible!!!
Thank you! I love writing posts like this because it allows me to relive my wonderful experience :)
Ah, I can never get enough of Hawaii!!!
thats a great pic of you in the bamboo- coffee mug!
Thanks! But, I would not be able to stand looking at my mug on a mug everyday :)
Haha, I'm trying to create a life list wall of photos, it's hard to keep up with it and the frames I like are expensive….expensive when you are buying about 50 of them! I only have 1 pic up so far but one day I think it'll look quite nice!
That’s a GREAT idea! I have always wanted to do a wall of framed maps from the places I have been.
Send me a picture when you are done!
Wow, loving all the waterfalls :)
The waterfalls are a highlight to the Road to Hana!
I am definitely sending this to my friends so we can plan our road to hana trip. Amazing photos, makes me want to go there NOW.
thanks so much for sharing! I am going to Maui in July and most definitely doing the road to Hana. Thanks for including your stops- I'm having a hard time deciding which ones to stop at and your pictures definitely helped me narrow down a few!
There are so many Road to Hana stops to choose from, it was really hard for me to decide too! Have a great time and enjoy.
My mom and I are revisiting this trip as part of a cruise stop over. We missed so many things the first time. Thank you for your suggestions. I am looking forward to seeing all of these wonderful gems in just a few weeks!
Have a wonderful time! I am jealous because the weather should be amazing and I am in 40 degree weather right now!
Going in April, thanks for the information.
Have a wonderful time and eat some coconut candy for me!
There is a Thai food hut at mile 28.8 now next to the Hut that sells the Coconut candy.
I’m not sure if it is the same owner as the one at 32 which I did not see but her food was INCREDIBLE!
Thanks for the tip!
I am here in Maui now and we’re planning on doing the Road to Hana tomorrow! Let’s do this! Thanks for the tips!
Have a great time and eat some coconut candy for me!!
If you didn’t do the red sand beach, it’s a must stop on your next trip. A bit difficult to climb down to but one of the most beautiful beaches I’ve ever seen!
No, I didn’t make make it to the Red Beach. Now I need to go back :)
Road to hana is one of the most beautiful places in the world with amazing waterfalls views
Hoping you can help me/us. I have always been under the impression that the famous part of the road to Hana was the East coast and the unlaced part ran along the north side of the island. We are going in June and booked two nights in Hana (!) because we wanna see the island. Not the hotels and tourists. Could you advise us? And also, have heard there are rainbow ecalptus along the road somewhere. Know anything about that? Thank you SO much!
Hello,
I had not heard of the rainbow ecalyptus! But, it looks like they are in the Painted Forest right before mile marker 7 on the left side of the road. They are on private property and parking is tough, so be careful! Most of the stops are located to the North & East and a little to the southwest of Hana. There are some sporadic stops further west and looping back north, but not as often as the other areas.
Maui Revealed is a great book to help you out with your trip! Have a GREAT time!
It is people like you and comments like this that are the bane of our existence. Number one. NO TRESPASSING MEANS NO TRESPASSING!! Respect these signs. As do No Parking Any Time. There is a place to park above Waikani Falls and you can walk down to take all the pics you want. Half-way to Hana does have the best banana bread and their beef jerky is the WORLDʻs BEST!!! The signs are there for your protection. Flash floods come without warning and an illegal entry means no liability. Itʻs a bumpy ride down to the Pacific Ocean and you might never be found. Annette White Maui revealed is a terrible book that causes visitors to violate sacred sites, put themselves and others in danger and trespass and you wonder why the local people resent the visitors.
Thanks for your input. You are obviously very passionate about Maui and I can understand why, it is truly an amazing place. I certainly was not trying to be the “bane of your existence” by trying to highlight all of its wonderful qualities in this post.
I can agree with you about the liability of trespassing and would love to add into my post the alternative parking above Waikani Falls. Though, I’m sticking with my personal opinion that Halfway to Hana does not have the best banana bread. Judged by the amount of traffic they get, I’m sure that you are not the only one that disagrees with me.
We drove our own vehicle. It rained buckets as we started the journey but we were still able to enjoy the beauty of the trip. Once we continued on the sun came out and more beauty unfolded before our eyes. It was the most peaceful trip ever. We were celebrating our 30th Wedding Anniversary. This day was amazing!
What an amazing way to spend your 30th Wedding Anniversary!!
Couldn’t have picked a more perfect destination :)
We are planning to visit Maui in a month and, like you, we would like to drive the entire loop around the eastern portion of the island. We plan to rent an economy vehicle. Can we do the entire loop – especially the unpaved and bumpy portions along the southern end? Any advice would be much appreciated!
You will need to check with your car rental company—some are not a fan of you taking the car on the unpaved sections.
wonderful! killer views and waterfalls, such an imaging destination for tourist. Your photos and description make it all perfect. Hana is an amazing place. To know about more such a place you can see blog post of brave women travel.
Planning a road to hana for an upcoming trip. Everyone says leave early and don’t miss the 7 Sacred Pools and Wailua Falls, both right after Hana. I’m not planning to leave at a crazy hour, probably between 7am-8. Does it make sense, to avoid as many tourists as possible, to drive straight through to the pools and falls mentioned above, go there when it’s still quiet and hit the other “must haves” on the drive back? That way, I’ll be going against traffic, from all of the people who stopped along the way? Maybe I’m overthinking this…
We are going to Maui in a few weeks and we plan to take the drive! Looking forward to this. Thanks for the pointers!
Have a great time!
Awesome information Thank you so much. I really enjoyed all your wrote. I have one question. At the end of the road to hana you mentioned most people turn around and go back the same way. How did you get back to Paia Town? Thank you so much in advance!
You can do a complete loop from Paia to Paia, which is what we did. Some of the road past Hana is not paved and a little sketchy, that’s why most people turn around at Hana and head back the same direction.
Having literally just driven the complete loop today from 8-8 (Kihei to Kihei) I DO NOT recommend the eastern portion of the road past Hana in the “winter” months. An SUV is honestly too big for the main road to Hana. But the Optima we drove severely struggled on the VERY long and treacherous dirt road sections past Hana. Also- we drove the last two and a half hours in the dark on one lane, extremely steep and curvy dirt roads with no guard rails- IN THE DARK! The black sand beach is beautiful- but honestly not worth the risk. Covid has also closed a good number of the restaurants, cafes, and farm stands. Halfway to Hana is still open. There additional stops- like twin falls. Past 1/3 way to Hana there is a rest stop on the left and park on the right. Park at the rest stop and walk over to the park. There is a beautiful falls and pool. The seven sacred pools DO NOT have an access site nor a parking pull-off. By 6:30pm today I was literally cursing Ms White. Please, safe yourself some stress and strain- especially in the winter months- and either plan on staying in Hana or start at sunrise and turn around at Hana.
Just be careful with that first stop at the church. We were accosted by a local in a truck when leaving who looked like a meth head and screamed vulgarities at us. He was very threatening and nobody else was around so it was a bit scary. Seemed like he lives somewhere along that road to the church. Good times!
Oh my! Would take note of that
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Nice to read your post. The post is very interesting to read 51 miles drive. In the post, a lot of small stops at different very interesting places have been shared. I was feeling boredom but your post refreshed me. Thanks for creating such refreshing content. Moreover, the pictures used in the post are very beautiful.