6 Beautiful Stops on The Road To Hana

The Road to Hana is without a doubt one of the most popular driving routes and for good reason. This road is full of history, stunning viewpoints, unique beaches, breathtaking waterfalls and good food. It is also well known for it’s never ending twists and turns. The Road to Hana has countless amazing stops along the way and it can be hard to decipher where to stop and what is legally open to hike.

This guide will share the top 6 must-do stops along the Road to Hana, tips for traveling and exploring this road and what to expect. Although this road is popular, there is a lot to know before you go. I hope this guide helps you feel prepared not only with the gear and clothing you bring but with what to expect and tips to make the most of you time.

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What is The Road to Hana?

First off, what exactly is the Road to Hana and why is it popular to drive? Up until the 14th century, Maui was divided into three regions, each ruled by their own ali’i. Hana was ruled by King Pi’ilani, who controlled Hana, which he assumed rule through marriage. King Pi’ilani began construction of The Kings Road, which is now the modern day Road to Hana. It was the first road of it’s kind, circling an entire Hawaiin island.

The Kings Highway was in use for 250 years, without bridges over it’s jagged terrain. Modern road construction began in 1870 due ot the construction of the Hämäkua Ditch, which helped bring rainforest water to the semi-arid central Maui and it’s sugarcane fields. All but one of the original bridges remain today. As you drive this road, be amazed at the feat that it was to travel this road prior to modern construction, which paves the way to you being able to enjoy it today.

Things to Know About The Road to Hana

• If you want to drive the Road to Hana, please respect the rules of the road! If the signs say no parking, do not park, even for two minutes, to get out and take a photo. When you approach a one lane section, be patient. Count the cars going through in front of you and alway stop within 8 cars passing to let oncoming traffic have a turn. Everyone wants to pass as much as you do and no ones time is more valuable than anyone else driving this road. Obeying these rules shows respect to those who live on The Road to Hana. When I was driving this road, we reached a one way section and stopped to let a single car pass. A few cars behind us felt entitled and quickly pulled out and attempted to drive past the 4 stopped cars ahead of them. They were quickly met with an oncoming car coming around the corner, putting them and everyone in danger. They had to back up and even lost their spot in the line. DO NOT drive past cars waiting in the road as they are most likely letting oncoming traffic pass.

• The Road to Hana is extremely narrow and windy. Matter of fact, there are 617 turns, many of which have blind corners. There are also 46 one-lane bridges making this quite the drive. Many people get sick or struggle with this drive due to the constant turns. If you get motion sickness easily, this road may be a difficult drive so plan accordingly. These hairpin turns also play into why it’s important to give plenty of time to explore the Road to Hana. There is no “going quickly” here.

• Sites like AllTrails are great at finding trails, but unfortunately they also show multiple trails that aren’t actually public trails. It is extremely important you properly research trails and do not go on private property. There are many people commenting on these trails stating its “okay to go even though it’s private property” or “as long as you don’t get caught.” Do not trespass. How would you feel if people purposely hiked through your backyard? Unfortunately it’s not always easy to tell if a specific trail is actually a public trail, so make a list of the trails you wish to complete and then search google if it is public or private property. If it is located on private land, it is not a hike you should be doing and it can come with a hefty fine.

• The Road to Hana technically can be driven as a loop, but is extremely rough and narrow past Haleakalā National Park. Rental car companies do not let their vehicles travel along this road so it can really only be done if you are a local, are with a local or are renting through a site like Turo and that specific renter allows it. I have seen blogs stating to just go for it with your rental but this is extremely irresponsible and inconsiderate to locals who would potentially have to come help you if you get stuck. If you really want to drive it as a loop, it would be best to use a site like Turo, but contact the car owners prior to renting to see their policy on this section of road.

• Trails can have seasonal closures due to heavy rain or flooding. Maui is a tropical island meaning it gets heavy tropical rains. As water from the mountain above work their way down, they pool together in the rivers and streams that make up the waterfalls below. This can cause flash flooding, even on a sunny day. Know the risk of entering a body of water, do not go during heavy rainfall and respect the closures when they are in place.

• It is extremely dangerous to swim under waterfalls. Swimming in the pools of the waterfalls is what many people seek to do while exploring the Road to Hana, but never go under the waterfall itself. The power of the water coming down can cause severe injury or drowning by pulling swimmers under. Enjoy the beauty of these falls but respect their strength and stay in the pools.

• If you enter the pools below waterfalls please be mindful that other visitors like to enjoy the waterfalls without strangers in the middle of their view. Try to swim off to the side and if you enter the middle or near the falls, don’t do so for long. Be aware of your surroundings so you know where you are in the pool as well as where others are standing to enjoy the views. Being a mindful hiker and visitor is important to allowing everyone to enjoy these beautiful spaces in a respectful manner.

• Never climb over a fence or bridge to reach a waterfall or viewpoint. They are put there to protect not only visitors but the surrounding vegetation and environment. If you arrive at a spot that has a fence, it is not a pool or viewpoint that is accessible, even if someone else has done it. Please be a responsible hiker and don’t travel where you shouldn’t be going.

Before You Visit Maui and Drive the Road to Hana

Be sure to know and follow the 7 Leave No Trace Principles on trail. It’s so important to help protect these beautiful places we love and enjoy. Make sure you know these principles before going out on a hike.

• Plan Ahead and Prepare: Always check for current weather updates and educate yourself on trail conditions prior to starting a hike. Look for recent reviews or call the local ranger station for up-to-date trail information like closures, recent wildlife and road conditions. 

• Travel and Camp on Durable Surfaces: Stick to the trail. Avoid going off trail unless it’s to go to the bathroom. You can capture amazing photos from the trail. Do not cut switchbacks. Stepping off trail can cause years of damage with just one simple step. Camp in exciting campsites rather than over vegetation.  

• Dispose of Waste Properly: Pack out all trash and food scraps. Never toss food items on the ground. It is harmful to the wildlife. Properly dispose of human waste by digging a cat hole at least 6 inches deep and burying human waste. Bring a wag back to pack it out in fragile alpine terrain. Never leave toilet paper or feminine hygiene products behind because they shouldn’t be disposed of on trail. Bring a bag and pack them out to dispose of properly. Same goes for dog poop. Properly bury it or pack it back out to dispose of. Do not leave dog poop bags on the side of the trail because they are easy to forget, animals can get into them and other hikers don’t want to see them. 

• Leave What You Find: Do not take objects like plant off trail with you. Preserve nature by not marking on rocks or harming any natural objects. Never write or carve into rocks. It is illegal and highly finable. Never pick wildflowers. It is illegal in many states.

• Minimize Campfire Impacts: Check and follow all local wildfire regulations. Use existing fire rings and keep fires small. Put fires out properly by dousing will multiple gallons of water. Coals should be cool to the touch before walking away. 

• Respect Wildlife: Never touch, feed or approach wildlife. Give a minimum of 25 yards to all wildlife and a minimum or 100 yard for predators and larger wildlife. Wildlife are not like house pets. They can spook easily or feel threatened. Stay in your car if wildlife is near the road. Do not feed them because our food is harmful to their digestive system.

• Be Considerate of Others: Respect other hikers by allowing those that hike faster to pass. Uphill hikers have the right of way, so safely step aside for them to pass, unless they offer to stop first. Limit noise and use headphones. Keep groups under eight. Say hello to a fellow hiker!

Tips for Driving the Road to Hana

The Road to Hana is a long winding road through rugged terrain that connects the city of Hana to the rest of Maui. It takes roughly two hours to drive from Kahului to Hana. Kahalui is the last major town before beginning the drive to Hana. Because it takes 2 hours of driving alone to reach Hana, it is extremely important to plan your drive accordingly. Below are three tips to help you make the drive and see everything you hope to see on your trip.

1. Consider staying a night or two in the town of Hana if you can. This will not only allow you more time to explore the trails since you won’t have to also make the entire drive back in one day, but you can also get to trailheads before the crowds. This is a great way to see more of the sites along the Road to Hana. It will allow you to spend more time exploring past Hana as well. Many visitors want to get to the Haleakalā National Park along the Road to Hana but it is an extra hour of driving round trip on top of stopping to enjoy the sites. This puts visitors at 5 hours of driving alone and the daylight hours are short in Hawaii. Staying in Hana means you can explore past the city without missing sights and added hours sitting in a car. If I ever return to drive the Road to Hana, I will definitely do this.
2. Start before sunrise. The beginning of the drive as you leave Kahalui or Paia is an easy stretch to drive in the dark. Getting an early start will allow you more daylight time to explore. A late start on this drive most likely means not seeing all you hope to see. By starting before sunrise you can hopefully begin your first hike around sunrise and have plenty of time throughout your day to not feel as rushed to get to it all. The road to Hana is so beautiful and something you want to be able to truly enjoy and take in rather than constantly rush from place to place.
3. If you are unable to stay in Hana for a night or two, consider breaking the drive up into two days. On one day, drive straight to the town of Hana and begin exploring the town of Hana and beyond. This will allow you to get past all the people and stops at the beginning of the road before the crowds reach Hana as well. The next day start at the beginning of the Road to Hana and explore all the stops on the way to Hana. You’ll still want to get an early start for both options as it allows you to get to these sights before other people begin arriving in troves.

The Road to Hana Location

The Road to Hana is located on the west side of Maui. The road encompasses the entire west side of the island and Haleakala. Although the road technically makes a full circle around this part of the island, very few people are able to drive it as rental cars don’t allow their vehicles past a certain point. Be sure to read the “Things to Know About The Road to Hana” section above to learn move about why if you haven’t already.

The beginning of the drive to Hana begins by starting in Kahului or Paia. From either of these towns, drive the Road to Hana until you reach Hana. There are countless amazing stops to take along the way, but there is not necessary turns off this road to reach Hana.

Best Time of Year to Drive the Road to Hana

Visiting Maui and driving The Road to Hana is amazing year round, but can differ depending on the time of year you go. This area is a rain forest, so there is always a chance of rain while you are visiting, but during July and August the island gets the least amount of rain. This means the waterfalls may be drier and not flowing as much. November through March are the islands rainy seasons, which will bring about flowing waterfalls. The down side to the rainy season is a higher chance of flash flooding or murky, muddy waterfalls. Visiting between rainy season and the dry months (April-May or September-November) is your best bet to have nice weather and less rain.

6 Beautiful Stops on the Road to Hana

Below are six amazing, and legal, stopping points on the Road to Hana that should be on everyones list. There are countless other must-see stops along the way, depending on your personal preferences, some of which I’ll share as a bonus. Always check that a stop you wish to take is in fact a public trail you can access. If you see signs stating private property of anything online stating so, despite others saying it’s okay to go anyways, do not trespass and hike on private land. Respect the locals and their homes.

1. Twin Falls Trail

Twin Falls is the first must-see stop along the Road to Hana. It is also located on private property, but the owners allow visitors for a fee to use the trails. There are three waterfalls to see along this hike as well as a garden jungle-like trail. Because this is located on private property is is important to stay on trail and not wander off. Be respectful of their property so it can stay open for years to come.

There are some outhouses just past the parking lot you can use before starting this hike. The first two waterfalls require a little bit of scrambling if you wish to see them from the base of the falls. Take you time as it is over loose rocks, tree roots and steep hills. The waterfalls are visible from above on the trail if climbing down is out of your comfort level.

As you approach twin falls, there is a shallow river crossing you must to in order to reach the falls. You feet will get wet here, so wearing hiking sandals is best, but you can remove your shoes and then dry your feet off after. The river crossing goes over a man made cement area so it is no more than ankle deep. It can be slick in spots, so be sure to watch your step and move carefully.

The trail goes a little farther before you have to walk through the shallow stream to reach the pool of Twin Falls. You can try to balance on rock to not get wet, but it’s easier to just walk through and not risk falling and getting your shoes wet anyways. Once you reach the pool, there are plenty of areas to move off the the side and put your belongings if you wish to swim.

2. Ke’Anae Point

Ke’Anae Point isn’t a hiking trail or a beach, but rather a unique peninsula with rocky coastal views and a must-stop spot for locally made banana bread and treats. This is a popular stopping point along the Road to Hana because of Aunt Sandy’s, a local bakery serving tasty treats and snacks. Aunt Sandy’s is open every day from 8:30-2:30, and getting there early when the banana bread is still warm and freshly bakes is a must!

Ke’Anae Point is also a great stop. to stop fro a bathroom break at the public restrooms, located just before the Ke’Anae Lookout and just around the corner from Sandy’s. The lookout is a great spot to take in the jagged lava rock and waves crashing into them. You can walk out onto the rocks and explore them and the tides pools as well.

3. Waiʻānapanapa State Park and Coastal Trail

Waiʻānapanapa State Park is famous for it’s Black Sand Beach, the only one on Maui. Most visitors here are coming to enjoy the beach or swim in the ocean here, but the coastal trail and cave next to the beach are a must see as well! The park is only open for day visitors from 7am to 6pm daily and there is a small campground for anyone wishing to camp here.

You must have a reservation to visit Waiʻānapanapa State Park, black sand beach or hike the Coastal Trail. Reservations and more information on the park itself can be found here. They are released on a 30-day window for day use and 90 days for camping. You cannot get a reservation the same day you wish to visit, so getting one in advance is the only way to visit the park. Reservations are for a two hour time slot, so if you wish to stay longer you must obtain a permit for a time slot before or after the one you get first. It is best to only get one time slot though as other wish to see this spot too.

There is a picnic are off the parking lot with restrooms. Its a great spot to enjoy a meal in the shade of the trees. You can view Black Sand Beach from viewpoints above, but in order to reach the Black Sand Beach, the cave or Coastal Trail you must be able to climb down a set of stairs. The cave is located just below the staircase to Black Sand Beach while the Coastal Trail can be reach by crossing the beach to the cliffs on the opposite side of the stairs.

The Coastal Beach requires some minor rock scrambling along the cliffs. There is a fair amount of space most of the time between the trail and the oceanside cliffs, but if you have a fear of heights it may be overwhelming. There are a lot of beautiful spots along the trail to watch the waves crash into the coastline and spray rainbows into the air. You can also look out for wildlife swimming nearby. I was able to spot a few turtles off shore!

4. Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach

Although this trail is very short, it is important to note it is steep and there are sections along cliffs edges. There is not parking lot but rather a dead end street across from the Hana Ball Park, off Uakea Road in Hana. Follow all parking signs and be respectful of where and how you park near people’s homes. There are no restrooms at the beach, but there is one located at the corner of the ball park you can use before going down.

The trailhead is located to the left at the end of Uakea Road. The trail begins through grass before entering the trees and starting a few short switchbacks before the first narrow section with a small drop off. You’ll have the first views of the ocean and the rocky coastline. The trail turns the corner where you will be wowed by the pure beauty.

Red Sand Beach sits in an alcove (known as a pocket beach) surrounded by red rock walls surrounding it. What makes this spot so unique though it the jagged rocks partially enclosing the beach from the ocean. The water here is a start blueish turquoise color, making for a stunning contrast with the mineral rich red rock. You can take in the views from above along the rocky cliffside before making your way down to the beach.

Getting down to the beach in this last stretch is definitely the steepest and most challenging part as you make your way over tree routes and down a steep, narrow cliff. Take your time and watch you footing. The beach itself is quite small and very rocky. Walking on the beach won’t be too comfortable without shoes here. There are a few places you can find shade under the trees, but it is definitely limited. Due to it’s small size, don’t expect much privacy here unless you are able to come early or later in the day.

5. Hamoa Beach

Hamoa Beach has bathrooms down below at the beach as well as a rinse off area next to the paved trail down. The beach can get busy as the day goes so if you can get there early or for sunset you can enjoy it with less people. Parking is on the side of the road, so make sure you car is fully out of the road.

6. Haleakalā National Park

Most people think of the volcano that towers above Maui when they think of Haleakalā National Park, but one of the most beautiful parts of the park is actually on the Road to Hana! The volcano above has dry barren ground while this section of the park is full of wet, lush rain forest. Honestly, this was my favourite spot along the road to Hana. Below are the two trails you can hike at this section of the park. There is also a visitor center to explore.

Seven Sacred Pool

The Seven Sacred Pools aren’t actually a sacred pools but got the name as a marketing gimmick. But it is still a beautiful spot to visit within the park and an easy hike for all skill levels. The trail is paved, although it does have some wear to it. It can be difficult if you are using anything with wheels. If you go clockwise around the loop, there is a steeper section on the trail as you enter the tree line.

The bushes in this area are quite large and can make areas of the pools difficult to view. There are viewpoints to look out at the waterfalls and pools below. Once you reach the falls, whether you go clockwise of counter clockwise, you can either continue on the trail or turn back the way you came.

Waimoku Falls Via Pipiwai Trail

The Pipiwai Trail is without a doubt one of the most popular hiking trails on all of Maui and rightfully so. The trail begins at the upper area of the visitor center parking lot, crosses the main road to the park and quickly begins gaining elevation. Most of this trail is build of rock stairs. When I went there was a lot of rain and sections of the trail was flooding, creating cascading waterfalls down the stairs. Having proper shoes for this trail will help you either keep you feet dry or embrace the wet.

A little under one third of the way up this trail you will come across a large Banyan Tree. The trail continues to climb before reaching the bamboo forest. This section is truly magical. Large bamboo plants will surround the trail as the trail itself turn into a raised boardwalk. Be sure to look up and listen to the sounds of the bamboo swing and marvel at the beauty.

About two thirds of the way up this trail are two short bridges. They cross the Pipiwai Stream below and then back again. There is a waterfall at the bridge. From the bridges the trail still climbs. As you near the end of this trail there is a stream crossing, although it may fluctuate with rainfall. It is possible to cross using the rocks and not get your feet wet. The trail ends very shortly after with a large sign stating “end of trail.” The trail does not reach the base of the waterfall as it is extremely dangerous to continue further. Do not continue past this sign. The views are stunning and perfectly enjoyable without trespassing further.

Bonus Stops Along the Road to Hana

Wailua Falls: This is a beautiful waterfall just off the road. There is a small parking lot just past the bridge that crosses the Honolewa Stream. The base of the falls was accessible when I traveled here, but has since be closed down due to safety. Please do not walk down to the base of the falls. The views from the bridge as equally, if not better. Seeing the falls with the lush jungle greenery from farther back was stunning compared to being up close.

Hana Farms Roadside Stand: This was such a cute and fun spot to stop along the Road to Hana! We had dinner here– amazing pizza. They also have a small store with souvenirs and treats. One of the reasons this stop is so special is because of the immaculate garden space surrounding it. There are paved trails around the property with a beautiful garden surrounding it all.

Shaka Pops Hana: This popsicle stand is a must-stop spot for a refreshing treat! Its just after you leave Hana and there are a handful of delicious, locally made fresh popsicles. They are made with real fruit and hit the spot on a hot tropical day of adventuring.

Pua’a Ka’a Falls: This is another great just off the side of the road waterfalls stop with paved trails and covered picnic areas as well as bathrooms. There are actually two waterfalls here, an upper and a lower. The upper falls is surrounded by fences, so I would deem it one you aren’t supposed to swim in since you need to climb the fence to get inside the pool. There were a lot of people doing just that though. The lower falls does not have a fence so it would be a great swimming spot and is way less crowded.

Garden of Eden Arboretum: I personally skipped this popular stop one, because I didn’t want to pay $20 to see it and two, I’m just not a garden person. If you love looking at beautiful gardens and the tropical plants that make up this beautiful island, it’s definitely a spot to consider stopping at though.

Eucalyptus Rainbow Trees: This is a quick stop on the side of the road. It is early on the drive and before reaching the Garden of Eden. There is no parking lot, so just past it on the map is space to safely park off the side of the road. You have to cross the road and walk on two blind corners, so be very cautious and aware of your surroundings as cars can come quickly. Once off the road there are two short areas to walk among the beautiful eucalyptus trees. Both are out and back so explore them as long as you wish and carefully return to you car.

Ke’anae Arboretum Trail: This is a 1 mile out and back trail that has eucalyptus trees as well that doesn’t require a road crossing on blind corners. I did not make this stop, but it would be a better one for families with kids or anyone wanting to see the eucalyptus tress in a safer way. The Eucalyptus Rainbow Trees mentioned above is just shorter, making it a quicker stop.

What to Bring

Below is everything you need to bring to comfortably and safely explore the Road to Hana. This is limited resources on the road so going prepared ahead of time is key to an enjoyable experience.

The 10 Essentials

No matter the length of difficulty of a hike, you should always carry a backpack with the 10 essentials. You can learn more about these item in my “The 10 Essentials” guide. This hike is a more difficult hike and if there were an emergency and you had to get help on trail you will want to have these items on hand. In addition, you can always help a fellow hiker in need.

Sun Protection

Preventing sun stroke and sunburns is important, so bring and use proper sun protection. I always pack sunscreen to reapply throughout the hike as needed. Bring a hat to help keep the sun off your face and neck. Wearing a sun shirt to help protect  skin from harmful UV rays will help prevent sunburns and heat stroke. Even on a cloudy day you can get a sunburn so always be prepared.

Bug Spray

Hiking in the jungle always comes with insects, so go prepared. Carry bug spray for your clothes and skin. If it’s early in the summer season, consider extra clothing layers to keep them off your skin and a bug net for you head. The snowfields are also a breeding ground for them. You can learn more about insect repellents and gear in my guide, here. 

Water and Electrolytes

It’s so important to stay hydrated hiking, no matter the time of the year. Plan to have one liter of water per 2 hours of hiking. I also bring electrolyte snacks on every hike I go on. I like using my bladder to make sure I’m consuming enough water since it’s easier to drink from. A large water bottle is a great option if you don’t like bladders. I always carry my water filter with me so I can resupply my water as needed. 

Backpack

Every person hiking should always have their own backpack with water and supplies. Never rely on someone else to carry your gear because if there is an emergency everyone should be individually prepared. I like to use one between 25-28L so I have plenty of room for food and layers. I have the Gregory Jade 28 and the REI Trail 25.

Maui Hiking Must-haves

Most people visiting the sites along the Road to Hana are hoping to dip their toes in the ocean and swim in the waterfall pools. Having a good pair of shoes is a must to navigate the trails and keep you feet safe while swimming in the pools. A good pair of chaco sandals is my go-to option because they have a sturdy sole for the trail and are meant for water adventures! If you wish to go swimmings, a lightweight quick-dry towel will help you hop from water fall to waterfall.

Reminders

• Be a responsible traveler. This means following closures and staying off trails that state private property. Be cautious of the dangers of enter water in a tropical setting that can have flash flooding, rock falls and other dangers.

• Obey the rules of the Road to Hana. If you chose to make this drive you are also committing to be respectful to those who call it home. This means respecting no parking signs. Take turns on the one way bridges. Drive cautiously and looks out for people, cars and wildlife along the road.

• Stop at local shops and restaurants along the way! This little step helps support their community and gives you an opportunity to get ot know the people who live along the Road to Hana. It is a simple and small way to support locals while also getting to try local treats and take home meaningful souvenirs.

• Research your desired stops and figure out the best way to tackle this road before booking any accommodations. You may decide it’s best to do the drive in two days or you may want to stay in Hana. Having a strong game plan will allow you to have the best plan of action and not miss anything important.

I hope this guide helps you with your adventure to the Road to Hana! It is truly a beautiful section of the island and worth the effort to see as much as you can. If you have any further questions or want to share your experience after, please leave a comment below!

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