The Road to Hana is a legendary journey along Maui’s rugged coastline, winding through lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking ocean views.
The Road to Hana is a legendary journey along Maui’s rugged coastline, winding through lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking ocean views. This scenic drive offers an immersive experience in Hawaii’s natural beauty, with stops at black sand beaches, hidden caves, and tropical gardens. Each curve reveals something magical, from local fruit stands to serene picnic spots. More than just a road, the journey to Hana is an adventure that captures the spirit and wonder of Maui.
What is the Road to Hana?
Let’s talk about the most undisputed attraction when coming to Maui: the Road to Hana. From ancient footpaths to world-renowned scenic, curvy roads along the coastline of East Maui, this isn’t just a drive; it’s an adventure through some of Maui’s most breathtaking landscapes. Lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and winding cliffside roads make this journey unforgettable. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time visitor, the Road to Hana promises a journey as memorable as the destination itself.
The Hana Highway (Highway 360 and Highway 36) connects the town of Hana in East Maui to Kahului in central Maui. We stayed at the Castle Kama’ole Sands Resort, our commute to the end was a little over 3 hours.
Why is the Road to Hana So Popular?
The Road to Hana is famous for its stunning rainforests, beautiful landscapes, and unique stops along the way. From delicious banana bread stands to scenic waterfalls, there’s something for everyone. Popular stops include the bamboo forest on the Pipiwai Trail and the black sand beach at Waiʻānapanapa State Park (reservations required).
Beyond its natural beauty, the road is also known for its challenging driving conditions. During our visit, we encountered heavy rain, which added to the road’s difficulty. The journey includes many one-lane bridges where you’ll need to yield to oncoming traffic, but the reward at the end is well worth it.
Note: Much of the roadside is private property, so avoid parking in prohibited areas for your safety and to respect locals’ privacy.
Stops Along The Way
Pipiwai Trail & Waimoku Falls
Mile Marker 42
(National Park Pass Required – Pay at gate $30)
This was our favorite part of the Road to Hana. Take your time on this hike and soak in the scenery! About one mile in, you’ll encounter the majestic Banyan Tree, estimated to be around 100 years old. It’s the perfect spot for a breather and some photos before continuing the next mile to a stunning 400-foot waterfall.
The first falls you’ll see are the Makahiku Falls, around 200 feet tall, with an excellent view from twin bridges above. As you continue, the bamboo forest thickens, forming natural tunnels overhead—an incredible sight. You’ll need to cross a few streams, so be cautious, especially after rainfall, as some can be challenging to navigate. At the top, you’ll reach Waimoku Falls, visible from a vista point. A gate with a warning sign prevents visitors from approaching the base.
Tip: The pass for Haleakalā National Park is valid for up to three days and can be used interchangeably for both park sections, including the Kipahulu District along the Road to Hana. This allows you to explore both areas without buying a separate pass!
Town of Hana
Mile Marker 34
Hana is a small, quaint town about 52 miles from Kahului, with just a few souvenir shops but a warm, welcoming vibe. It’s often considered one of the last unspoiled Hawaiian frontiers, offering a peaceful escape from the busier parts of Maui. The town spans around 4,500 acres, land that once thrived with sugarcane plantations in its early days. Today, you can enjoy a bite at one of Hana’s three charming restaurants, soak in the relaxed atmosphere, and take in the untouched beauty of this historic area. If time permits, continue your journey towards Oheo Gulch for more adventure, or turn back to revisit some of the smaller sights along the route.
Black Sand Beach in Wai’anapanapa State Park
Mile Marker 32
(Reservations Required – done online)
One of the most iconic stops on the Road to Hana, Waiʻānapanapa State Park features a black sand beach, lava tubes, sea arches, a blowhole, and even camping sites. We know you’d want to rush through things to have time to see everything, but we encourage and recommend to spend some time at this spot and take it all in.
To reserve your spot, visit the Waiʻānapanapa State Park reservations page. Keep in mind they’re strict about arrival times—latecomers won’t be admitted.
Hana Airport – Maui Hang Gliding
Mile Marker 31
This was hands-down our favourite experience on our trip! Soaring above the clouds with Maui Hang Gliding was incredible—seeing hidden waterfalls and remote landscapes that most people never see. Our skilled pilot Armin made us feel safe throughout the journey, guiding every step of the way. It’s truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Check out our full blog on it here.
Nahiku Marketplace
Mile Marker 29
Located about six miles before Hana Town, the Nahiku Marketplace is a charming spot to refuel. We picked up treats like banana bread, pineapple coconut bread, and coffees, all of which were delicious! We also found a fun Hawaiian license plate souvenir here. If you’re low on snacks, this is the perfect place to stop, though parking can be limited.
Ke’anae Peninsula
Mile Marker 16 (Just past this marker)
Here, you’ll find Aunty Sandy’s famous banana bread—a must-try! While you’re there, take a walk and enjoy the vibrant Rainbow Eucalyptus trees in the Ke’anae Arboretum.
Peʻahi (Jaws)
Mile Marker 13 & 14
Known as “Jaws,” Peʻahi is world-famous for its massive winter waves, drawing elite surfers from around the globe. When conditions align, waves here can tower up to 60 feet, creating a breathtaking spectacle for thrill-seekers and surf enthusiasts. These extreme swells typically arrive a few times a year between November and March. Today, Jaws is celebrated internationally as one of the world’s premier big wave surfing destinations—if not the very best, depending on who you ask. Surfers from all over the world will drop everything and catch the next flight to Maui when the forecast shows Jaws is about to go off. Despite its fame today, Jaws remained relatively untouched and unknown for decades.
Garden of Eden Arboretum
Mile Marker 10.5
(Entrance fee required – no reservation required)
Nestled along Maui’s scenic coastline, this beautiful 26-acre botanical garden offers a lush paradise of diverse plant species and stunning landscapes. Within the Garden of Eden, visitors can marvel at highlights like Keopuka Rock (featured in the opening scenes of Jurassic Park), a peaceful duck pond, a 100-year-old mango tree, the enchanting forest, a banana patch, waterfalls, and a local art gallery. With over 700 labeled botanical plants, this garden provides an immersive experience through 2.5 miles of trails (that’s a lot!).
Tips for Road to Hana
- Little to no services on the route—bring essentials like water, sunscreen, and if you’re a female, toilet paper (restrooms are scarce).
- Pack motion sickness patches; the winding road can cause even experienced travelers to feel queasy.
- Top up on fuel before you leave; gas stations are limited.
- If driving at night, use high beams or honk at one-lane bridges to alert oncoming traffic.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Drive the Road to Hana in One Day?
Yes, it’s possible to drive the Road to Hana in one day. It’s best to start early (around 5:30 a.m.) to allow plenty of time for stops and ensure you return before dark. The trip can take 6 to 10 hours depending on how long you linger at each stop (so, do not stop at EVERY single area). Prepare for a full day on the road.
What is the Backside of the Road to Hana?
The “Backside” of the Road to Hana refers to the road past the Kipahulu Visitor Center, where the Hana Highway becomes the Piilani Highway. This route loops around Maui’s remote southern coast. While scenic, it’s largely undeveloped and can be rough. Most rental car companies discourage this route due to challenging conditions and high towing costs, so proceed cautiously if you choose to explore. If you do decide to be adventurous and take the backside back to central Maui, we do recommend you take a capable 4×4 vehicle and get the full insurance package as that will enable you to trek these areas.
Where Does the Road to Hana Start?
The Road to Hana officially begins in Kahului, Central Maui. However, Paia Town is often considered the unofficial starting point, as it’s the first notable stop. The drive from Paia to Hana takes about 2.5 hours without stops, but plan to take the day to enjoy each stop along the way.
Do You Need Reservations?
Driving the Road to Hana doesn’t require reservations, as it’s open to the public. However, certain stops, like Waiʻānapanapa State Park (home of the black sand beach), do require advance reservations. Start early to avoid traffic and secure parking at popular spots.
Is the Road to Hana Dangerous?
The Road to Hana has some challenging sections, especially narrow one-lane bridges and sharp turns. However, with clear weather and cautious driving, it’s manageable. If unsure, consider a guided tour. For one-lane bridges, let the first car cross, and if you’re in a moving line, don’t stop to keep traffic flowing. Allow locals to pass if they’re driving faster, as many commute or run errands on this route. Additionally, we have ran across big flatbed trucks hauling a car or two, they are scary to run across, be careful and make room.
What Kind of Vehicle Do I Need?
A standard car is usually sufficient for the main route, but an SUV or 4×4 offers better handling, especially if you plan to explore the backside on the Piilani Highway. Extra traction and ground clearance can be useful on rougher sections. Check with your rental company, as some restrict vehicles from the Piilani Highway. We strongly encourage to book a vehicle through Discount Hawaii Car Rental as they have really good deals and will save you money rather than booking directly.
Where to Stay in Hana
If you’re planning to stay in Hana overnight, here are our recommendations:
Hana-Maui Resort by Hyatt
This upscale resort offers ocean views, lush gardens, and a serene atmosphere, ideal for unwinding after the long drive.
