Road to Hana Guide
There is no doubt about it— one of Maui’s most famous attractions is the Road to Hana. This paved scenic drive is over 50 miles long, over 600 curves, and packed with jaw-dropping waterfalls, cliff jumping spots, bamboo forests, red sand beaches, black sand beaches, and mouthwatering banana bread stands!
While it’s a beautiful drive regardless, we understand that planning your trip and navigating where to stop can be quite overwhelming. Let us here at Howzit break it down for ya!
TIME IT RIGHT
Nobody wants to be rushed. Be prepared to leave early to give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the journey, which is exactly what this day is all about. The main highlights of Hana are doable in a day, but if you have the option to split it up and stay on the east side of the island, it certainly will award you with more time to explore. Most people leave early in the morning and make stops all along the way heading East to Hana, though you could always wake up earlier and drive straight to Hana/O’heo Gulch to hike the Pipiwai Trail and then make your way back. If you opt for the first option, (stopping along the way to Hana first, then driving straight back) make sure to leave Hana no later than early evening (depending on the season and when the sun sets) unless you want to navigate winding roads in the dark.
STOCK UP
Before you pass Paia, you’ll want to fill up for gas, as it’s the last stop and a cheaper option than Hana. While you’re at the gas station, stock up on snacks and water. There are food trucks and fruit stands along your route, but it’s always better to have these handy just in case. Nobody is happy when they’re hungry, and dehydration on this trip will definitely put a damper on your day.
We’d also recommend the following:
-bathing suit
-water shoes / sandals (& hiking shoes/boots if you plan on hiking!)
-towel
-change of clothes
-portable charger
-camera
-sunscreen
-sunglasses
-motion sickness medicine (as needed)
PLAN AHEAD
While it’s possible to do Hana in a day, you’ll want to be cognizant of your time and plan ahead what stops you want to make. Many waterfalls can be seen from the road and don't necessarily require a stop. What do you really want to see? Check the conditions beforehand and always be aware of road closures and flash floods that can occur. Read blogs, do your research, and mark everything on your map beforehand, as you won’t have much service along the road. The Shaka app is also helpful in planning your travels. Bring comfortable shoes, your swimsuit, towels, portable chargers, and your camera. And as with traveling anywhere, do not leave valuables visible from your vehicle.
*Pro Tip- Download the Shaka app before heading out, as this works great as a guide!
RESPECT
Kapu means sacred or forbidden. Please respect any private property signs, and the land you’re on. Ever heard the saying, “Take only memories, leave only footprints”? This certainly applies here. Hawai’i is a natural gem, and as such, please be respectful of the nature surrounding you. (No trash or littering, no vandalism, and no taking rocks/sand/etc.) Please also be mindful of parking in authorized spots only, unless you want ticketed or towed.
Now that we have the major tips out of the way, here is a guide of where to stop along your route, complete with mile marker numbers!
WHERE TO STOP
Stops: Mile Marker:
Twin Falls 2
Huelo Lookout 4.5
Bamboo Forest* 6.5
Rope Swing/Waterfall* 10
Garden of Eden $20/person 10.5
Ke’Anae Arboretum 16.5
Ke’Anae Peninsula 16.7
Wailua Valley Lookout 19
Wayside Overlook Point 17
Upper Waikani Falls 19.5
Pua’a Kaa Falls 22.5
Hana Farms Roadside Stand 31
Waianapanapa (black sand) *Reservation needed* 32.2
Kaihalulu Beach (Red Sand)* 35
Haleakala National Park* 42
-Pipiwai Trail
-Pools at Ohe’o (seven sacred pools)
Wailua Falls 45
Hamoa Beach (black sand)* 52
*= Hostel favorites!
We can’t wait to have you experience Maui for yourself!
Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram(@howzithostel) in all your photos so we can follow your adventure :)
Looking for a little more guidance? Feel free to stop by the Howzit Hostel reception desk. Our staff can provide more customized tips to help you make the most of your Maui vacation.