ʀᴏᴀᴅ ᴛᴏ ʜᴀɴᴀ: ᴍᴀᴜɪ’ꜱ ᴍᴏꜱᴛ ᴍᴀɢɪᴄᴀʟ ᴊᴏᴜʀɴᴇʏ
If you’re looking to infuse your Maui honeymoon (or any trip) with adventure, beauty, and unforgettable memories, then the Road to Hana is an absolute must. This legendary drive isn’t just about the destination — it’s about the journey itself: a winding ribbon of road that takes you through rainforests, past waterfalls, and alongside some of the most breathtaking coastal views in Hawaii.
ᴡʜᴀᴛ ɪꜱ ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏᴀᴅ ᴛᴏ ʜᴀɴᴀ?
The Road to Hana is a 64-mile stretch of the Hana Highway (Highway 36 and 360) that connects the town of Kahului to the remote village of Hana on Maui’s eastern coast. With over 600 curves and nearly 60 one-lane bridges, it’s a true adventure — but one that rewards you with hidden gems around every turn.
ᴛᴏᴘ ꜱᴛᴏᴘꜱ ᴀʟᴏɴɢ ᴛʜᴇ ᴡᴀʏ: ʜᴇʀᴇ ᴀʀᴇ ᴊᴜꜱᴛ ᴀ ꜰᴇᴡ ᴏꜰ ᴛʜᴇ ᴍᴜꜱᴛ-ꜱᴇᴇ ꜱᴘᴏᴛꜱ ʏᴏᴜ ᴄᴀɴ ᴇxᴘʟᴏʀᴇ ᴅᴜʀɪɴɢ ʏᴏᴜʀ ᴅʀɪᴠᴇ
1. Ho'okipa Beach Park, located at Mile Marker 9 along Maui's Hana Highway, is a renowned destination celebrated for its exceptional windsurfing and surfing conditions. The name "Ho'okipa" means "hospitality" in Hawaiian, reflecting the welcoming spirit of this coastal gem. While Ho'okipa is a haven for water sports, swimming conditions can be hazardous due to strong currents and rocky reefs. It's advisable for swimmers to exercise caution and consult with lifeguards about current conditions. Beyond its surf culture, Ho'okipa is a sanctuary for Hawaiian green sea turtles (honu). In the late afternoon and early evening, visitors can often observe these majestic creatures basking on the beach. It's a serene experience that underscores the park's natural beauty. Whether you're an avid surfer, a nature enthusiast, or someone seeking the tranquility of Maui's north shore, Ho'okipa Beach Park offers a memorable experience that encapsulates the island's vibrant coastal culture.
2. Garden of Eden – Mile Marker 10.5, a botanical garden with panoramic views, lush flora, and the famous waterfall filmed in Jurassic Park.
3. Three Bears Falls – A Road to Hana Favorite: Located around Mile Marker 19, Three Bears Falls (officially Upper Waikani Falls) is one of the most photographed stops on the Road to Hana. This stunning trio of waterfalls—big, medium, and small—earned its nickname for obvious (and adorable) reasons. Surrounded by lush rainforest, it's a perfect quick stop for photos. If conditions are safe, you can even hike down for a closer look and a refreshing splash!
Three Bears Falls
📸 Pro tip: Get there early to beat the crowds and snap that postcard-perfect shot.
4. Hana Hawaiian BBQ, nestled at Mile Marker 29. This roadside gem is renowned for its mouthwatering BBQ chicken and ribs, offering travelers a delectable taste of Hawaiian cuisine amidst the island's lush landscapes. Whether you're seeking a hearty meal or a quick snack, Hana Hawaiian BBQ provides a delightful culinary experience that complements the scenic drive.
The aroma of sizzling meats wafts through the air, enticing passersby to stop and indulge.
5. ☕ Nahiku Café – A Must-Stop on the Road to Hana: Tucked inside the Nahiku Marketplace (Mile Marker 29), Nahiku Café serves up rich Maui-grown coffee, tropical smoothies, and warm banana bread—perfect for a mid-drive pick-me-up.
RAOD TO HANA, MAUI
DON’T MISS THIER FAMOUS MACADAMIA NUT LATTE AND BANANA BREAD!
NAHIKU CAFE, ROAD TO HANA
6. Wai’anapanapa State Park – Mile Marker 32, home to the famous black sand beach at Pa’iloa Bay, sea caves, and lava tubes. A can’t-miss stop — and a great picnic spot.
BLACK SAND BEACH
WAI’ANAPANAPA STATE PARK, BLACK SAND BEACH
7. Hana Town – The peaceful town at the end of the road where you can explore local shops, grab a bite, and soak in authentic Hawaiian culture.
ᴘʀᴏ ᴛɪᴘꜱ ꜰᴏʀ ᴛʜᴇ ᴅʀɪᴠᴇ
Start Early: Aim to leave before 7:00 a.m. to beat the crowds and give yourself plenty of time.
Pack Snacks & Water: There are limited food options along the route, though you’ll find a few roadside stands with banana bread, coconuts, and local treats.
Download an Offline Guide: Cell service is spotty. Apps like GyPSy Guide or Shaka Guide provide audio commentary based on your GPS location — no signal needed.
Drive Carefully: Take your time, share the road, and pull over only at designated spots. It’s a long, curvy ride, and safety comes first.
Stay Overnight (Optional): Consider spending the night in Hana for a more relaxed experience and the chance to explore nearby gems like the Pools of ‘Ohe‘o (Seven Sacred Pools) and the Pipiwai Trail in Haleakalā National Park.
✅ ʀᴏᴀᴅ ᴛᴏ ʜᴀɴᴀ ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋʟɪꜱᴛ
🚗 ʙᴇꜰᴏʀᴇ ʏᴏᴜ ɢᴏ
Check the Weather: East Maui is known for its frequent rain. Heavy downpours can make the road dangerous, leading to flash floods and landslides. If severe weather is forecasted, consider postponing your trip.
Fill Up on Gas: The only gas stations along the route are in Paia and Hana. Ensure your tank is full before departing, as running out of fuel can be problematic
Charge Your Devices: Cell service is limited along the highway. Fully charge your phone and consider bringing a portable charger. Also, download offline maps or guides in case of connectivity issues.
Start Early: Begin your journey early in the morning to avoid traffic and to have ample time to explore the sights without feeling rushed.
🧳 ᴡʜᴀᴛ ᴛᴏ ᴘᴀᴄᴋ
Comfortable Footwear: Bring sturdy shoes for hiking and sandals for beach stops
Swimwear and Towel: You'll encounter natural pools and beaches perfect for a swim.
Light Jacket: The weather can change rapidly; a light jacket will keep you comfortable.
Snacks and Water: Pack enough food and drinks for the day, as services along the route are limited.
Cash: Some local vendors and attractions may not accept cards.
Camera: The scenery is stunning—don't forget to capture the moments.
🚧 ᴏɴ ᴛʜᴇ ʀᴏᴀᴅ
Drive Cautiously: The Hana Highway is narrow, winding, and often wet. Drive slowly and be prepared for one-lane bridges and sharp turns.
Yield Appropriately: Yield signs indicate one-lane sections. Be courteous and allow other vehicles to pass when necessary.
Respect Local Rules: Do not stop on bridges, park in no-parking zones, or block traffic. Always pull over safely to enjoy views or take photos.
Stay on the Road: Avoid venturing onto private property or restricted areas. Respect signs and local regulations.
🕒 ᴛɪᴍɪɴɢ ᴀɴᴅ ʀᴇᴛᴜʀɴ
Plan Your Return: The drive back can be just as challenging. Aim to leave Hana by mid-afternoon to ensure you return before dark. Driving at night on this road can be hazardous.
