Road to Hana | Maui

The Road to Hana is one of the most scenic and iconic drives in Hawaii, located on the island of Maui. This famous highway, also known as Hana Highway or HI-360, stretches for about 64.4 miles along the island’s northeastern coastline, from Kahului to the town of Hana. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, lush rainforests, waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and ocean views, the Road to Hana is a must-do adventure for visitors looking to experience the natural beauty of Maui.

Overview of the Road to Hana

1. Scenic Drive

• The Road to Hana is famous for its winding curves and hairpin turns, offering stunning vistas at every corner. The road passes through lush tropical rainforests, alongside waterfalls, and along the coastline with views of the Pacific Ocean.
• The drive is often described as a journey through paradise, with each mile offering something new and spectacular to behold, from dramatic cliffs to serene beaches.
• The highway has over 600 curves and 54 bridges, many of which are one-lane, adding to the adventure of the drive. Drivers should be prepared for a slow but picturesque journey.

2. Duration

• The entire drive takes around 2.5 to 3 hours one way without stops. However, most visitors choose to take their time, stopping frequently to enjoy the views, waterfalls, hiking trails, and other attractions along the way.
• It's recommended to allow a full day (approximately 8-12 hours) for the round trip, as there is much to see and explore.

Key Attractions Along the Road to Hana

1. Twin Falls

• Location: Near the beginning of the drive, just past Paia.
• Features: Twin Falls is a popular stop for those looking to see their first waterfall along the Road to Hana. It's an easy hike to the falls, where visitors can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and even take a dip in the cool pool below.

2. Garden of Eden Arboretum

• Location: Mile marker 10.
• Features: This private botanical garden offers beautiful walking paths through lush gardens with views of waterfalls, the Ke'anae Peninsula, and the ocean. The arboretum showcases a wide variety of tropical plants and flowers.

3. Ke'anae Peninsula

• Location: Mile marker 16.
• Features: The Ke'anae Peninsula is a picturesque area with rugged lava coastline, traditional Hawaiian taro farms, and sweeping ocean views. A stop here provides a glimpse into the old Hawaiian way of life and the island's natural beauty.

4. Wailua Valley State Wayside

• Location: Mile marker 19.
• Features: This viewpoint offers a stunning panoramic view of the Wailua Valley, with lush green landscapes, taro fields, and the Wailua River. It's a perfect spot for photos.

5. Hana Lava Tube

• Location: Mile marker 31.
• Features: This natural cave, created by a volcanic eruption, is an interesting stop to explore. The tube is illuminated for easy exploration, and visitors can walk through the passageways to see unique rock formations.

6. Waimoku Falls

• Location: Near the end of the Road to Hana, in the Kīpahulu Area.
• Features: This is one of Maui’s most stunning waterfalls, standing at 400 feet tall. It's reached via the Pīpīwai Trail, a 4-mile round-trip hike through bamboo forests and lush tropical terrain, making it an adventurous stop for hikers.

7. Pools of ʻOheʻo (Seven Sacred Pools)

• Location: Near the end of the Road to Hana, in the Kīpahulu Area.
• Features: This series of cascading waterfalls and natural pools is one of the most popular spots on the Road to Hana. Visitors can hike to the falls, take a refreshing swim, or simply enjoy the serene beauty of the area.

8. Hana Town

• Location: End of the Road to Hana.
• Features: After traveling the road, you’ll reach the quaint town of Hana, which offers a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere. Here, you can explore local shops, enjoy Hawaiian food at local eateries, and visit the Hana Bay area, a tranquil spot for swimming or picnicking.

Other Highlights and Tips

1. Beaches

• The Road to Hana passes by several stunning beaches, including:
  • Hamoa Beach (mile marker 49): A beautiful crescent-shaped beach surrounded by lush vegetation.
  • Koki Beach (mile marker 49): Known for its red sand, Koki Beach is a unique and peaceful spot to visit.

2. Hiking Trails

• There are several trails along the Road to Hana, including:
  • Pīpīwai Trail: A hike through a bamboo forest that leads to Waimoku Falls.
  • Hanawi Falls: A quick stop to view the falls, visible from the road.

3. Local Food and Snacks

• Along the way, you’ll find food stands offering fresh fruit, coconut candy, banana bread, and other delicious treats. Make sure to stop and sample some of Maui’s local offerings.

4. Respect the Drive

• The Road to Hana is not for the faint of heart. The narrow, winding roads can be challenging to navigate, especially if you're not accustomed to driving in such conditions. Make sure to drive cautiously, stay alert for one-lane bridges, and pull over to let faster cars pass when necessary.
• Rental Cars: If you're renting a car, ensure that you have a vehicle suitable for the drive (many rental companies have restrictions on cars driven along the Road to Hana).

Safety and Planning

• Weather: The weather along the Road to Hana can be unpredictable, especially in the tropical rainforest areas. Be prepared for rain, and carry rain gear or an umbrella.
• Early Start: The drive can be long, and there are many places to explore along the way. Starting early in the day will help you make the most of your time.
• Fuel: There are limited gas stations along the route, so it’s a good idea to fill up your tank before starting the drive in Kahului.
• Limited Cell Service: Cell service can be spotty on the Road to Hana, so make sure to have a map or download offline navigation apps to help you along the way.

Why Visit the Road to Hana?

The Road to Hana offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the natural beauty of Maui. From lush rainforests and waterfalls to black sand beaches and stunning ocean views, the drive provides a diverse range of landscapes that are unlike any other. It’s a journey that invites visitors to slow down, take in the sights, and connect with the raw beauty of the island. Whether you’re an adventurer, a photographer, or someone looking to relax in paradise, the Road to Hana is a must-see experience on your visit to Maui.