Road to Hana Maui — The Ultimate Guide to Hawaii’s Most Scenic Drive

What Is the Road to Hana Maui?

The Road to Hana, Maui, is an approximately 64-mile drive on the Hana Highway. The highway travels through lush rainforests, waterfalls, and ocean views. Although it is called a highway, it would hardly be considered a highway by mainlanders. Much of the road is one lane in each direction with sharp curves and one-lane bridges.

The road begins in Kahului and ends at the remote town of Hana, Hawaii, in the northeast corner of the island.

Although the Road to Hana is only 64 miles, it can take 2.5 hours of uninterrupted time to drive to the end. However, stopping along the way to see the sights is part of the fun that makes this a full-day event. There are approximately 59 bridges, many of them one-lane. There are also 620 curves, including sharp curves with limited visibility.

The Hana Highway was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2001.

Technically, the Road to Hana consists of Hawaii Routes 36 and 360. Route 36 begins in Kahului. Much of this stretch of road is a four-lane divided highway, and then it turns into a two-lane highway. I think the unofficial beginning stop in the town of Paia is what is considered the start of this road.

The Road to Hana, Maui, is probably one of the top activities that visitors to Maui want to do.  For that reason, it is essential to observe the code of conduct.  Be respectful of locals. 

• Please respect the aina (land): place trash in a proper receptacle, stay on the paths, respect the wildlife and plants, and practice safe procedures.
• Visit State parks and County rest facilities
• Enjoy the various farms, botanical gardens, and fruit stands along the way.
• Avoid sites located on or beyond private properties and areas that lack visitor-welcoming signage.
• Park in designated parking stalls. Vehicles protruding onto the highway are subject to being towed.
• Do not enter streams during heavy rains and flash flooding conditions.
  

Driving the Road to Hana in Maui offers stunning views and unforgettable experiences.

How to Prepare for the Road to Hana

When is the best time to start the Road to Hana?  It depends on what you want to do.  There are several popular options, including:

• Booking a small group tour
• Starting early (6 am or earlier)
• Driving all the way to Hana without stopping, then making stops on the return route
• Starting later in the day (staying overnight in Hana)
• Driving the full loop and returning on the backside of Haleakala

A small group tour is a good option if no one has done the Road to Hana because it allows everyone to take in the beautiful scenery. These tours are generally in small vans (6-8 passengers maximum). It is beneficial because it reduces the number of cars on the road and minimizes the inconvenience to locals. You will also get some local commentary, a driver experienced in driving this windy road, and you won’t miss important stops.

Another option is to start very early in the morning when hopefully the route is less crowded. This can be beneficial if you want to make a lot of stops and do some hiking and swimming that might take more time.

A third option is to drive all the way to Hana and then make stops on the return route. This could be beneficial in that the stops towards Hana will be less crowded, but you will also encounter a lot of cars going the other way. So there may be more difficulty when coming to one-lane areas of the road.

Some people like to book an overnight stay in Hana and drive the road in a leisurely way, knowing that they won’t have to return all the way to their hotel or condo. There are limited accommodations in Hana, but this is definitely a possibility if you book it in advance.

The last option is somewhat controversial, as many people claim that driving the backside of Haleakala will void your rental car contract. This is somewhat of a gray area. Rental car contracts prohibit driving on unpaved surfaces. Some areas of the backside are gravel. The bigger issue may be if you run into problems and are without cell phone service in this remote area. This area of the road was closed for several years, from 2024 to 2025, due to storm damage. If you want to drive this route, a Four Wheel Drive vehicle or booking with a local company that drives the full loop is your best bet.

Packing for the Road to Hana is the same as for any other excursion. If you are planning on stopping to hike and swim, you will need swimwear and hiking shoes or water shoes. It is possible that you will want to purchase food at places that are cash only, so make sure you have cash on hand. If you think the drive is going to bother you, it may be worth it to pack some medication for motion sickness. Pack food and water for a long day.

Must-See Stops on the Road to Hana

Paia Town: The Gateway to the Road to Hana

Paia is a cool little town and deserves a visit.  Paia was once a booming plantation town when the sugar cane industry was prominent in Maui.      Now it is known as a boho surfer community.  Located on the North Shore of Maui, about four miles from Kahului, it is a town filled with art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.  

Hoʻokipa Beach is known as the windsurfing capital of the world.  Baldwin Beach Park is also a popular beach here.  The ocean conditions here are extremely hazardous in the winter months.  

For today’s purposes, this is a place to stop and get some lunch and snacks to bring on your drive.  We always top at Mana Foods.  They are open at 8 am.  When you walk in, directly on the left is a nice made-to-order spot for smoothies, coffee, and some baked goods.  You can get breakfast here and bring it to go to start your Road to Hana journey. 

There is also a deli and grab-and-go wraps and sandwiches that are pre-made.  We got some nice options, including a vegetarian wrap.  We also got a small soft-sided cooler bag to keep everything.  It is a nice souvenir that you can fold up and bring home with you to use in the future. 

If you need gas, this is the place to do it as well.  There will not be any gas stations on the Road to Hana, so make sure you have enough fuel for the day before you begin.  

Turtle and Surf Watching at Ho’okipa Beach

The first stop is at Ho’okipa Beach (mile marker 8.8 on the Hana Highway).  Note:  these mile markers will reset to 0 before your next stop.

Hoʻokipa Beach is known as the windsurfing capital of the world.  There is a parking lot here, so it is an easy stop to check out the ocean conditions.  This spot has consistent winds, so on many days, you will see pros on their boards here.  This is also known as a spot for Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (honu).  You may mistake them for boulders from a distance because they often bask in the sand here.  Remember that it is against the law to touch them.  Be respectful and admire them from a distance.   

Twin Falls: Accessible waterfalls on the Road to Hana

Your next stop is Twin Falls (mile marker 2.1 on the Hana Highway). Note:  The intersection of 36 and 360, two miles before this, is when the miles reset to 0.  

First note is that parking here is limited.  There is a fee to park which is $10 per vehicle.  However, if the lots are full, you are not allowed to park on the road and walk.  You will need to either come early or try again on your return trip.  

The Twin Falls farmstand has smoothies and banana bread for purchase.  It is right by the parking lot.  You may not want anything now since you already stopped in Paia, but they have baked goods and other snacks that you could save for later.   

There are actually three waterfalls here.  Each waterfall requires a short hike to get there.  The first waterfall is a relatively short hike from the parking lot.  This is “Twin Falls”.  The second waterfall is another trek further up the gravel road.  The last waterfall is called “Caveman Falls” and is another mile or so.  There is a more difficult path to get here, and it can be rocky and slippery.  This once had a rope swing that you may see in pictures, but it has since been removed. 

Be respectful in this area.  You may pass driveways and other trails.  Some people live in this area.  Do not go onto people’s property. 

Waikamoi Ridge Trail: An easy, short stop

Located just beyond mile marker 9 is the Waikamoi Ridge Trail. 

There is a broad shoulder here that serves as the parking lot.  The entrance to the trail has a wooden sign that says “Quiet, trees at work”! 

This is a well-maintained trail with some wide steps.  I would consider this a short walk with some benches and overlooks.  It’s a perfect spot to get out and stretch your legs for 20 minutes or so. While it isn’t spectacular and there are no waterfalls here, it’s an easier path than some and will probably be less crowded because it is often overlooked.  

Garden of Eden Arboretum: Maui’s scenic wonderland

The Garden of Eden Arboretum is located near mile marker 10.5 on the Hana Highway.

This stop requires an entrance fee, which is $20 per person for adults, $10 for children aged 5-16, and is free for children 5 and under.  They are open from 8 am to 4 pm daily.  There are a few parking lots here and a paved road that goes through the 26-acre property.   

There are well-maintained trails here where you can view waterfalls, forests, exotic and native plants, and ocean views.  There is an art gallery here full of local artisans’ work.  There are also picnic areas and a food truck.  

Kaumahina State Wayside Park

Kaumahina State Wayside Park is located near mile marker 12 on the Hana Highway.  

This is a scenic spot with a parking lot and restrooms.  There are views of the Ke’anae Peninsula from the short trail along the parking lot.  Kaumahina State Wayside Park has picnic tables as well. It’s a convenient stop to stretch and use the bathroom, and is also a quick stop along the route.  

Ke‘anae Peninsula: Dramatic views and banana bread

Keanae Peninsula Road turns off the Hana Highway at mile marker 16.8.  

This old Hawaiian village actually sits on a dramatic finger of lava.  This was once a taro-producing village.  Back in 1946, it was hit by a giant tsunami that originated all the way in Alaska.  In fact, Keanae Point is the northernmost point of the island of Maui.  From Keanae Peninsula Overlook, you can see fields of taro below.  

One of the most famous spots on the Road to Hana is located here:  Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread.  They are open Monday through Saturday from 8:30 am to 2:30 pm.  The banana bread is baked fresh every day.  Please note that they will sell out, so if you plan to drive down later in the day, you may miss out.  

Wai‘anapanapa State Park: Maui’s Black Sand Beach

At mile marker 32, you will find the Wai’anapanapa State Park.  

Wai’anapanapa State Park features a famous black sand beach on Maui – in fact, the only black sand beach on Maui created from the Haleakala volcano.  This black sand is created from volcanic rock that shattered over time to create sand.  The beach itself is called Honokalani Beach.  The park contains not only the beach but lava caves, blow holes, and a heiau (sacred temple).  

The most important thing to note about this park is that you need to make a reservation in advance!  Don’t wait to book a reservation while you are on the Road to Hana because chances are, you will not have Wifi service.  Back in 2021, this new system was created to prevent overcrowding here.  Reservations are for an interval of time, so it does not have to be exact, but if you are reserving parking, you must arrive within 30 minutes of your reservation start time.   

To reserve a slot, go to the state park website.  You can reserve up to 30 days in advance.  The fees are $10 per vehicle and $5 per person.  The park hours are 7 am to 6 pm, but you will be reserving an interval (eg, 7 am – 10 am, 10 am – 12:30 pm, etc).  I found out the hard way the last time I visited here, and I did not know about this new system.  Even if it’s not crowded, they will not allow you to just purchase a ticket on entry.       

Wai’ānapanapa means “glistening waters”.  The contrast of the black sand against the turquoise blue water is stunning.  While there, you can walk on the black sand beach, swim (only on calm days), and hike some trails.  The famous blowhole here is created from a partially submerged cave underneath.  The waves rising and falling force the water through the hole.  Exercise caution in this area as the blowhole can emit powerful spurts of water at any time.  

Hana Town:  The land of the low-lying clouds

Hana is generally referred to as “real Hawaii”.   A Hawaii that has remained relatively unchanged over time. It is a peaceful town with an authentic Maui vibe.  The residents here have worked hard to keep development at bay, so it looks and feels completely different from other areas of Maui.    

You have made it to Hana, and there is still plenty to do and see.  Stop in the Hana Cultural Center & Museum to get a peek at traditional life in Hawaii.  This museum has been curated by elders (kupuna) to preserve Hana’s past.  You can view ancient artifacts, visit the Hana Courthouse, and shop for souvenirs here. 

Hana also has art galleries and farmers’ markets to browse and shop at.  You can see art and jewelry at Hana Coast Gallery, which is open daily.  Stop in the Hasegawa General Store for souvenirs like t-shirts, mugs, coffee, and snacks for the rest of your journey.    

The Kahanu Garden features the Piʻilanihale Heiau, which is believed to be the largest ancient structure in Polynesia.  You can book a self-guided tour to observe the grounds at your own pace or a guided tour, in which they recommend advance reservations.  

Koki Beach & Hamoa Beach: Beautiful beaches for relaxing

Beaches on this side can be quite dangerous, especially in the winter months.  They are beautiful places to observe from the sand, but note that if people are not in the water, it is probably for a good reason. 

Koki Beach is quite sandy in the summer months, but much of that is pulled out to the ocean in the winter because of dangerous conditions.  From the beach, you can view “the bones of Pele”, a large volcanic cinder hill.  

Hamoa Beach is a crescent-shaped beach with soft sand and blue water.  This beach also has public restrooms.  This beach is also known for having sizable waves and strong currents.  There are shaded picnic tables here, which make it a great spot to stop and eat the picnic lunch you purchased back in Paia Town.    

Wailua Falls: An 80-foot-tall waterfall on the Road to Hana

This waterfall is located at mile marker 44.8 on the Hana Highway.

This picture-perfect roadside waterfall near Hana is impossible to miss, as you can see it right next to the road.  There is a parking lot here, so it is also an easier place to stop.  

This waterfall is 80 feet tall, one of the largest on the Road to Hana.  It is right by a bridge on the road, so you cannot miss it, as there will probably be people standing there taking pictures.  There is a small trail to a pool of water below the falls that some people even swim in.  But for most, it’s a pretty short stop for some pictures and to admire the view before continuing on your journey.

Haleakala National Park – Visit ‘Ohe‘o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) and Pipiwai Trail to Waimoku Falls

Continuing past Hana town for about 10 miles, you will be at the backside of Haleakala – Kipahulu District.  The cost to enter is $30; however, if you visited the Haleakala National Park within 3 days, you can bring your receipt to enter again for free. 

The Oheo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) is a series of waterfalls that lead to a pool of water.  The pool of water is currently not open to swimming, but it is a beautiful trail worth visiting to view the waterfalls and pool.  

Pipiwai Trail is 3.5 miles and is considered a moderate trail.  You can also do a shorter version of this trail and turn around.  Pipiwai Trail goes through a bamboo forest and features a massive banyan tree.  At the end of the trail is Waimoku Falls, an impressive 400-foot-tall waterfall.  

Where to Eat on the Road to Hana

There are many small roadside stands that you can stop at for baked treats, fruit, and smoothies. Some of the favorites include:

• Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread (210 Keanae Rd, Haiku). Aunty Sandy’s is famous for her banana bread, but they also sell drinks and lunch items like hot dogs and Kalua pork. They used to have a veggie burger here as well for vegetarians.
• Coconut Glen’s (1200 Hana Hwy, Haiku). Dairy-free coconut vegan ice cream in many delicious flavors like coconut, lilikoi, chocolate macadamia nut, and pineapple banana.
• Hana Farms Roadside Stand (2910 Hana Highway, Hana – located just after the “Welcome to Hana” sign). They have pizzas, salads, and more. Plus a cute shop for local products that you can bring home.

There are also options for a sit-down lunch or outdoor food truck eateries in Hana.  

• Hana Ranch Restaurant (at the Hyatt Hana-Maui). Locally sourced products are featured heavily in their menu. They have casual options like salads and sandwiches.
• Hana Harvest Cafe (2800 Hana Highway). The cafe has outdoor seating under pavilions or in the garden. They use fresh local ingredients in their menu of smoothies, sandwiches, and baked goods.

Where to Stay Near Hana

Options in Hana are limited, so if you are planning on doing a leisurely drive to Hana and staying overnight, it will require some advance planning.  

• Hana-Maui Resort by Hyatt is a small boutique hotel with a restaurant, rooms and villas, pool, spa, and fitness center.  
• Hana Kai is a resort of oceanfront condos of different sizes for up to 5-6 people. These units have full kitchens and there are shared outdoor grill areas.
• Bamboo Inn is a bed and breakfast in Hana. These are oceanfront suites with a simple continental breakfast.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Road to Hana Experience

Remember the advice I gave at the beginning of this article.  Plan out your start time to make the most of your day (or two if you decide to split this tour into two days).  If you are staying in West Maui (Lahaina and Kaanapali), the drive to the start of this route is about 45 minutes.  Also, keep in mind what time the sun is going to set (which varies depending on the time of year) to ensure your drive back is not in the dark.  

Remember to bring cash with you for farm stands and food vendors.  Make sure you have gas in your tank before you leave, as this is a remote road.  

You may want to download an offline map before you go.  This is not a huge problem if you are using Apple or Google maps, but there may be spots on the road that the map is searching because it has lost access to your location.  

Consider purchasing an audio tour to help learn more about the route and find spots along the way.  

Is the Road to Hana Worth It?

I would say the Road to Hana is worth it.  I have driven it three times over the years.  It seems like each time you discover something new along the way.  One thing to note is that even though there are a lot of recommendations here, you may not get to stop everywhere.  A parking lot may be full when you pass by, or you may miss a mile marker.  There is so much beautiful scenery, plenty of waterfalls, and food stops.  Think of it as an adventure and don’t try to plan too much.  After all, it’s all about the journey and not the destination, right?

Is the back road from Hana open and safe?

First of all, check with your rental car company about this road, or rent a Four Wheel Drive vehicle.  There is a lot of information online stating that you will void your rental car contract if you drive it.  I have driven this road, and it was not anything like people describe it online.  There are gravel sections of the road where you have to drive slower, so a lot of people discourage it, but it is not bad, and those sections are relatively short.  Also, there are tour operators that do this whole loop in small vans. 

The back part of the road from Hana was closed from part of 2024 through 2025 because of damage due to a storm, but it has since reopened. It is best to check local conditions if you are considering doing this route.  Also, ensure you have enough time as part of this road will be slower due to the condition of the road.  

Final Thoughts on the Road to Hana Maui

This road is considered one of the most beautiful road trips in America and is a must for both young and old. Enjoy the day away from your phones and technology, and appreciate this lovely place and its slower pace of life. If you are looking for a full Maui travel guide, check out my previous post here: Ultimate Maui 5 Day Itinerary. Remember to save this guide for your next Maui adventure!