The Road to Hana on Maui gives drivers a scenic journey through lush rainforests, coastal cliffs, and hidden waterfalls. The Hana Highway stretches about 65 miles and winds through more than 600 curves and dozens of one-lane bridges.
Enjoy the journey at a relaxed pace, stopping to explore along the way.
Many travelers plan their trip carefully to make the most of the day. Knowing where to pull over for the best views and where to stop for food helps make the experience smoother.
Resources like this complete Road to Hana guide map out the route and highlight worthwhile stops.
From black sand beaches to roadside fruit stands, the drive combines natural beauty and local culture. You can swim under waterfalls, walk through gardens, and enjoy fresh island flavors.
Each stop adds something new, making the Road to Hana more than just a drive. It becomes a full-day exploration of Maui’s unique charm.
Planning Your Road to Hana Adventure
Most travelers begin this scenic drive in Kahului and spend a full day exploring. The route includes winding roads, waterfalls, and coastal views.
Preparation helps make the trip safer and more enjoyable.
When to Go and How to Prepare
Most visitors start early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic and have more time for stops. Leaving Kahului before 7 a.m. gives a calmer start and better parking at popular spots.
Weather can change quickly in Maui’s rainforest areas. Drivers should plan for light rain and wet roads.
Download offline maps before the trip because cell service is limited along Hawaii Routes 36 and 360. Many use GPS-based audio guides that work without the internet, such as the Shaka Guide Road to Hana tour.
Check local road conditions before leaving to avoid closures or delays. The trip can take 10–12 hours with several stops, so planning rest breaks is wise.
Choosing the Right Vehicle and Reservations
Most drivers use a standard rental car, but a smaller vehicle is easier on tight curves and narrow bridges. If you don’t like mountain driving, consider a guided Maui tour where someone else handles navigation.
Convertible cars give open views but little shade during long drives. SUVs have more space for gear and passengers, but they can be harder to park in small pullouts.
Some rental companies do not allow driving on certain unpaved sections past Hana. Confirm policies before booking.
Guided tours often include stops beyond Hana, such as Kipahulu, without needing extra permits or parking.
For busy travel seasons, book vehicles or tours weeks in advance for better availability and pricing.
Packing Essentials and Safety Tips
Packing light and smart makes your day easier. Bring:
- Water and snacks for long stretches without restaurants
- Light rain jacket for sudden showers
- Comfortable shoes for short hikes
- Sunscreen and hat for outdoor stops
Keep both hands on the wheel and avoid distractions because the road has over 600 curves and many one-lane bridges.
Park only in marked areas to protect roadside vegetation and avoid fines. Carry some cash for roadside fruit stands or small entrance fees.
A small first-aid kit and flashlight are helpful for minor injuries or delays after dark.
Navigating the Hana Highway
Drivers encounter winding roads, narrow one-lane bridges, and many scenic stops. The drive passes through rainforests, past rainbow eucalyptus trees, and alongside waterfalls.
Driving Tips and Road Conditions
The Hana Highway runs about 52 miles from Kahului to Hana. It has over 600 curves and more than 50 one-lane bridges.
Expect slow speeds and frequent pull-offs. Use mile markers to locate stops and track progress.
Paia is at Mile Marker 0, and Twin Falls is near Mile Marker 2. Many travelers reset their odometer at the start to make navigation easier.
Pull over only in designated areas to let faster cars pass. Locals often commute this route, so keep traffic moving.
A small vehicle is easier to drive around tight curves and narrow bridges. Large vans or RVs can be hard to handle here.
For detailed navigation, use a mile marker map of the Road to Hana.
Respecting Local Culture and Environment
The Hana Highway passes through communities where people live and work. Avoid blocking driveways, private roads, or access to homes.
Stay on marked trails when exploring waterfalls or rainforest paths to protect plants. Do not carve into rainbow eucalyptus trees or trample roots.
Keep noise low in residential areas. Only honk if needed for safety.
Pack out all trash. Many areas have no public bins, and littering harms wildlife and scenery.
Buying snacks or fruit from roadside stands supports local farmers and the rural economy.
Weather Hazards and Precautions
Heavy rain can cause flash flooding, slippery roads, and falling rocks. Wet conditions are common, especially in the afternoon.
Check weather forecasts before starting. If a tropical storm or heavy rain is expected, postpone your trip.
Fog can reduce visibility, especially in higher sections. Use headlights and slow down to stay safe.
Sometimes, landslides close parts of the road. Local radio stations and Maui County alerts give updates on closures or hazards.
Road shoulders can be soft or unstable after rain. Always park fully off the road to avoid accidents.
Must-See Stops and Attractions
The Road to Hana features coastal views, lush forests, and historic landmarks. Travelers see scenic waterfalls, volcanic beaches, and trails through bamboo groves and tropical gardens.
Many stops offer safe spots for swimming, short hikes, and exploring rock formations.
Waterfalls and Swimming Spots
Waterfalls are a highlight along the drive. Twin Falls is an early stop with small pools for a quick dip.
Upper Waikani Falls, or Three Bears Falls, shows three cascades visible from the road.
Farther along, Wailua Falls drops near Hana Town and is easy to photograph from the roadside.
Inside Haleakala National Park, the Seven Sacred Pools at Ohe’o have tiered waterfalls and calm swimming areas when safe.
Some falls, like Waimoku Falls, require a hike. This 400-foot drop is at the end of the Pipiwai Trail and is one of Maui’s tallest.
Check water conditions before swimming. Flash floods can happen quickly.
Beaches and Coastal Wonders
The coastline changes often along the route. Hamoa Beach has soft sand and gentle waves, making it good for relaxing or bodyboarding.
Near Hana, the black sand beach at Waianapanapa State Park stands out for its volcanic sand and sea caves.
This park also has lava arches, blowholes, and coastal trails with views of cliffs. Explore tide pools during low tide but watch for strong waves.
Some smaller beaches appear in hidden coves. Many are safe for walking and photos, but not all are good for swimming due to strong currents.
Hiking Trails and Nature Walks
There are hikes for all skill levels. The Pipiwai Trail in Haleakala National Park is a 4-mile round trip passing a giant banyan tree, a bamboo forest, and ending at Waimoku Falls.
The Waikamoi Ridge Trail is a shorter loop through native forest with picnic areas near the start. The Garden of Eden Arboretum has paved paths, labeled plants, and coastal views, making it a good family stop.
Trails can be muddy after rain, so wear sturdy shoes. Some have steep sections, but most reward you with waterfall or ocean views.
Unique Natural Formations
You will find volcanic and geological sites along the road. The Hana Lava Tube is a large underground tunnel formed by ancient lava flows.
Visitors can walk inside with flashlights to see unique rock textures.
At Waianapanapa State Park, sea caves and lava arches show how waves and volcanic rock interact. The dark cliffs contrast with bright blue water for dramatic scenery.
Near Ke’anae, jagged lava formations line the coast where waves crash against sharp rock. View these areas from a safe distance, as the surf can be strong.
Dining and Local Experiences
Travelers find casual roadside stands and small-town eateries along the Road to Hana. Many spots serve fresh, locally grown ingredients, and some offer traditional Hawaiian dishes.
You can also meet residents who run these small businesses.
Where to Eat Along the Road
Food options are limited, so plan ahead. In Paia, before the trip, stock up on snacks, coffee, and baked goods.
Along the way, roadside stands sell banana bread, fresh fruit, and smoothies. Popular stops include Halfway to Hana for warm bread and Coconut Glen’s for dairy-free ice cream.
In Hana Town, you’ll find sit-down dining. The Hana Ranch Restaurant offers burgers, salads, and fresh fish with ocean views.
Nearby food trucks serve plate lunches, poke bowls, and tacos at outdoor tables.
| Location | Specialty | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Halfway to Hana | Banana bread | Roadside stand |
| Coconut Glen’s | Coconut ice cream | Roadside stand |
| Hana Ranch Restaurant | Fresh fish, burgers | Sit-down |
| Hana food trucks | Poke, tacos | Casual outdoor |
Supporting Local Businesses and Communities
Visitors provide income for small businesses along the Hana Highway. Local vendors rely on these sales to keep their family-run spots open.
Travelers can eat at independent restaurants instead of chains. They can shop for handmade crafts or locally grown produce at roadside stalls.
Guests should respect property boundaries and follow parking rules. Many stands sit on private land, and owners welcome visitors who treat the area with care.
Spending money locally helps the community’s economy. It also preserves the unique character of Hana and nearby villages.
