Embarking on a road trip along the famous Road to Hana in Maui is an unparalleled experience. Stretched 64 miles along the picturesque coastline, this route weaves through dense rainforests, unveils enchanting waterfalls, showcases vibrant tropical flora, and reveals stunning beaches. Here, we’ve summed up the details of this awe-inspiring journey, offering insights and recommendations to help you plan an unforgettable adventure along the Road to Hana.
The Best Time to Drive
The road to Hana tends to be less crowded between Monday morning and Thursday afternoon, making it easier to navigate and enjoy the scenic vistas at your own pace. Additionally, visiting between December and March can minimize the chance of encountering passing showers, ensuring clearer skies for your exploration.
Tips and Safety Considerations
Driving along the Road to Hana requires careful attention and preparation. The roads can be crowded, and unexpected traffic backups may occur, emphasizing the need for cautious driving. It is crucial to park in designated areas to prevent traffic problems and ensure the safety of yourself and other drivers. Plan your stops and activities beforehand, considering appropriate gear such as hiking footwear and bug spray. Since there may be a significant gap between food stands or restaurants, packing food and water, including a picnic, is advisable. As the weather can be unpredictable, carrying towels is recommended to stay dry during rain showers.
Best Accommodations
Although Hana is a small town, various accommodations are available there for those who wish to extend their stay. The Hana-Maui Resort, a Destination by Hyatt Hotel, offers luxurious amenities, while Hana Kai Maui provides oceanfront condos for a serene retreat. For a more intimate experience, The Bamboo Inn on Hana Bay offers three rooms with stunning ocean views.
Top Food and Drink Stops
Along the Road to Hana, culinary delights await eager travelers. Begin your journey in Paia Town, where popular restaurants like Mama’s Fish House, Cafe Des Amis, and Paia Fish Market offer mouthwatering meals. The Halfway to Hana Stand is a favored spot for its treats, offering not only fresh homemade banana bread but also sandwiches and shaved ice. Further down the road, Nahiku Marketplace provides a variety of food options, including delicious pork tacos.
Must-See Sights and Attractions
The Road to Hana boasts a plethora of captivating sights and attractions that will leave you in awe. Twin Falls offers picturesque waterfalls accessible via a 1.8-mile hike. Ho’okipa Beach Park is a paradise for experienced surfers. The Waikamoi Ridge Trail, just past Ho’okipa, is a hidden gem featuring a leisurely hike through a lush old-growth forest. The Maui Garden of Eden Arboretum & Botanical Garden showcases exquisite gardens and scenic lookouts, including the iconic Keopuka Rock featured in Jurassic Park. Explore the Hana Lava Tube, a natural cave formed during volcanic activity. Finally, in Hana Town, take a moment to visit Hana Tropicals Flower Farm or spend a relaxing day on the picturesque beach. Just beyond Hana lies the remote Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park. Here, you can embark on the scenic four-mile Pipiwai Trail, leading to the breathtaking Ohe’o Gulch or the Seven Sacred Pools and the majestic Waimoku Falls.