The Ultimate Guide - Driving the Hawaii Road to Hana
The Ultimate Guide - Driving the Hawaii Road to Hana
14 of the Most Epic Road to Hana Stops
The Road to Hana is the most popular day trip on Maui, Hawaii. It features over 600 curves, 59 bridges, and countless attractions along the way. Winding through Maui’s lush, tropical rainforest, you’ll see everything from black sand beaches and waterfalls. Check out some of the best spots I've gathered to explore Maui on the world's most famous day trip.
Why I Chose to Drive the Hawaii Road to Hana
I've always been captivated by the beauty and awesomely good vibes of our 50th state, Hawaii. And looking back now, I'm pretty sure Elvis, the Brady Bunch, Saved by the Bell, Magnum P.I., any other movie or tv special filmed in paradise contributed to my low-key obsession with Hawaii!
So when I got the chance to travel to Maui with my best friend, we knew that driving Maui's Road to Hana was an absolute can't miss and a must-do.
About The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Hawaii Road to Hana
Are you looking for an unforgettable trip to Maui? If so, then this blog post is just what you need! The Ultimate Guide to Driving the Hawaii Road to Hana will guide you on your journey from start to finish. Get ready for some of the most breathtaking views in all of Hawaii and explore everything that this beautiful destination has in store for you.
This blog post mentions information such as where to eat, tips for driving along the Road to Hana, places not to miss when visiting Maui's roadside attractions and should be read by every traveler headed their way.
My hope is that you fall in love with Maui's north shore as much as I have (if not more).
Looking for beautiful places to take pictures? Be sure to put these places on your list: 40+ Places in Oklahoma City, OK, 50+ Instagrammable Places in Houston, TX, and 20+ Cool Places in San Antonio, TX too!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Road to Hana
What is the Road to Hana?
Hana, a small town nestled in the tropical mountains of Maui is famous for its great scenic views and picturesque beaches. But one of Hana's best-kept secrets may be "The Road" (aka. Hana Highway or Divorce Highway), which leads you to-and-from Kahului to this tiny little slice of paradise on earth.
Why is the Road to Hana Famous?
Without question, driving this famous road is an absolute "must-do" when visiting Hawaii's island of Maui. The drive to Hana town is breathtakingly gorgeous. Along the way, you'll see the tropical beauty of waterfalls, bamboo forests, black sand beaches, and more.
How Many Turns are on Hana Highway?
There are approximately 620 curves and 59 (mostly one-lane) bridges twisting and turning up and down through the lush tropical rainforest and mountainous terrain. So to say the Road to Hana is a bit curvy is an understatement.
How Long is Hana Highway?
The Road to Hana is only 52 miles long but...
How Long Does it Take to Drive the Road to Hana?
It will take you about 2-3 hours to drive straight through with no stops.
What is the Speed Limit on Hana Highway?
The average speed limit on the Road to Hana is 25 mph or less for the vast majority of the drive. Honestly, at times, 25 mph felt a bit swift.
Is the Hana Highway Dangerous?
While traveling at this slow pace sounds overwhelming, you must consider that navigating through countless blind curves and one-lane bridges while winding up, down, and around mountains can be dangerous if drivers are going too fast.
The Secret to Beating Traffic When Driving the Road to Hana
Because the Road to Hana is such a popular drive, gridlocked traffic from other travelers randomly stopping, tour buses, and local drivers is a big issue.
If being stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic for a few hours causes you anxiety, rest assured I've got some tips for you to successfully beat the traffic.
Start your journey early!!!! - It's true, the early bird always gets the worm. This is by far my best piece of advice when sightseeing anywhere and especially when driving to Hana town. Find out what time the sun rises (you can find this via any smartphone or watch) then base your departure around this. By leaving early, your arrival at all of these sights will be unobstructed by other tourists and you'll be able to capture unbeatable pictures during "golden hour."
Start at the furthest destination (aka reverse road to Hana) - This is so important!!! It might sound counterintuitive but our instinct is usually to head for what's closest first which leads us into tons of traffic and congestion. So go against that grain and what most visitors will do by going here first: the furthest site on your itinerary. Then work your way back towards where you started. By doing this, you have a good chance of avoiding most traffic delays altogether!
More of My Favorite Maui Vacation Travel Tips & Tricks:
If you are headed to Maui, make sure to check out these posts too!
‼️ 10 Things You Need to Know Before Driving the Road to Hana in Maui
Driving Hana Highway: My Complete Itinerary
Best Way To Do the Road to Hana
The road to Hana is more than just a great drive through a beautiful area of Maui. In order to experience Hana, it helps to know more about the history and legends of the area. Do your due diligence beforehand, decide on a few locations that look the most intriguing, and take your time at each location. You may find out that there are legendary stories associated with each spot where Gods have left their mark and historic battles have been fought.
To be able to travel at your own pace and avoid traffic, you'll need to make sure to break this drive down into at least 2 separate day trips.
Because cell phone reception is pretty spotty when driving the Road to Hana, I would strongly suggest using the GPS coordinates provided or taking a screenshot of the route maps.
Why You Should Not Rely on the Mile Markers on Hana Highway
One of the more frustrating aspects of driving the Road to Hana is that mile markers don't seem to be consistent. They randomly start over somewhere around marker #16 and continue going backward, while also jumping from one number range into another with no visible pattern whatsoever.
To make sure you don't get lost, I strongly suggest following the interactive Google maps and GPS coordinates that are included in this blog post for the best results.
DAY 1 Itinerary: Hawaii Road to Hana
Day 1 Map: http://bit.ly/2G8RPPt
Start Here: Kahului, HI
Map Stop: A
Rise and shine! Each day we began our Hana tour in the town of Kahului and then ventured down the northeast coast.
Nahiku Marketplace
Map Stop: B | Mile marker #29 | GPS: 20.7941° N, 156.0520° W
Nahiku Marketplace is a cute little roadside village of local vendors. Stop by for a cup of Hawaiian coffee, delicious locally grown fresh fruit, or spit-roasted chicken - it's your chance to take in some island culture from this enchanting farm stand.
Pro Tip: There is a public restroom available at Nahiku Marketplace, but it's just port-a-potties. So keep hand sanitizer and bathroom tissue nearby if you need to use the facilities!
Wailua Falls
Map Stop: C | Mile Marker (none) | GPS: 20.6834° N, 156.0305° W
You know you've found this beautiful waterfall when the view of it can be seen from the road. It's easy to see why this waterfall is one of the most photographed in all existence, as a few parking spaces can be found across the street from the bridge and waterfall.
How to Access Wailua Falls Waterfall and Freshwater Pool
This waterfall is a sight to see, but finding the entrance can be tough. If you want to get up close and personal with it as I did - find the yellow street sign and head down the dirt path. Make sure you wear shoes that have good traction because if things start getting muddy down there-you're in for an adventure!
On the short hike down to the waterfall, make sure to stop and take a few snapshots with the tropical foliage too!
Photo Tips for Wailua Falls
To get this exact shot with one of the most picturesque waterfalls, stand on the bridge with the waterfall in the background.
Hamoa Beach
Map Stop: D | Mile Marker (none) | GPS: 20.7195° N, 155.9876° W
Just a little bit past Koki Beach is Hamoa Beach, an interesting and popular beach that has been selected as one of "Maui's Best Beaches". The sand here is mixed with salt and pepper colors which only adds to its beauty.
Koki Beach
Map Stop: E | Mile Marker #51 | GPS: 20.7284° N, 155.9858° W
Have you seen a red sand beach before?
This beach is a few miles past Hana and it's truly one of the most uniquely beautiful beaches I've ever seen because of its vibrant, bright red color. It was a first for me to see such vivid colors in nature; imagine Oklahoma or Arizona's reddish dirt in a whole new form! Crazy right?!
As beautiful as this red sand beach is, do not swim here. The rip tides are no joke. And if you need further confirmation, there are several signs posted warning visitors and local surfers not to swim here as well.
The Legend of 'Ālau Island
As you look out to the horizon, a mountain-like island with palm trees in view can be seen. This is called 'Ālau Island and according to legend it was created when the gods pulled islands from beneath Hawaii's surface as they were creating our beautiful state of Hawai'i and the Hawaiian islands.
Photo Tips for Koki Beach and 'Ālau Island
Besides the unique red sand beach, there are so many places to take pictures here. Here's how to find 2 of my favorite spots:
In the parking lot (facing the beach), head right and go up a grassy knoll for great shots with 'Ālau Island in the background. For more scenic backlighting-filled photos, short hike downstream off track from the parking lot--looks like a creek but you'll have good luck getting some epic backlight shooting into it (depending upon the time of day)!
Hana Town
Map Stop: F | Mile Marker (none) | GPS: 20.7575° N, 155.9884° W
Hana Also known as "Heavenly Hana". You've made it to the town of Hana. Now check your gas tank and get some gas (if needed). Sit a spell, grab lunch, enjoy a local beer, and just feel the breeze. But don't get too comfortable because there's one more stop on our journey today to see.
Wai'anapanapa State Park
Map Stop: G | Mile Marker #32 | GPS: 20.7865° N, 156.0027° W
The black sand at Wai'anapnapa beach is unlike any other I have seen before. The glistening, jet-black grains are simply mesmerizing. Just make sure to wear flip-flops or some sort of shoe because the heat from this hot black sand beach attracts heat and gets hot!
Parking is a little far from this stunning black sand beach but trust me, you will not regret making that scenic walk down to the water.
Photo Tips for Wai'anapnapa State Park
The walk to the beach: On your way to the black sand beach from the parking lot, don't forget to stop in awe. Take a panoramic picture of that breathtaking ocean views and put it on Instagram or Facebook to show everyone what they are missing.
On the beach: When you get down to the beach level, there is a cave/hole which appears as an entrance into nothingness. Don't be afraid - this will lead you on one of the most awe-inspiring adventures of your life! Entering inside reveals that it's not really a hole at all but a rather large space with a magical skylight and an incredible ocean view. Just make sure the tide is low before you explore.
On top of the cliffs: On the beach and to the left, is a walking path. This walking path will take you to the top of the cliff for a vantage point worth seeing. A walk through this trail is an easy and scenic way to get away from it all. Once you reach the top, the ocean views are absolutely stunning.
DAY 2 Itinerary: Hawaii Road to Hana
Day 2 Map: http://bit.ly/2S72hgO
Start Here: Kahului, HI
Map Stop: A
Let's Go! Fill up on gas and don't forget to bring your appetite because today we are gonna eat!!!
Mana Foods Paia Town
Map Stop: B | GPS: 20.9155° N, 156.3800° W | Address: 49 Baldwin Ave, Paia, HI 96779
The first stop on our day trip is Mana Foods in Paia, HI. Let's eat! Grab some great local foods and enjoy a meal and a smoothie at Mana before your journey starts to get you energized for the day ahead of you. I had a bowl of homemade organic chicken chili which was both healthy and filling - a perfect way to start my day.
Pua'a Ka'a Falls
Map Stop: C | Mile Marker #22 | GPS: 20.8167° N, 156.1258° W
Pua'a Ka'a Falls is visible from the road and at first glance looks like a tame version of your favorite amusement park rollercoaster compared to the other massive waterfalls on our Hana tour. But looks are deceiving and boy was I wrong. In fact, Pua’Ka falls are my favorite waterfalls (both upper and lower) on this incredible road to frolic in.
How to Access the Upper Falls
The upper falls are a little tricky to get across than the lower ones, but if you make it over there's an awesome pool at the base of the waterfall is waiting for you. Take note, a little bit of balance and careful foot placement will be needed to get across the stream.
Do you want to jump from the top of this waterfall? There's a path that'll take you up there and starts as soon as you cross over the stream.
Photo Tip for Pua'a Ka'a Falls
Beyond the upper falls, there are 2 great places to snap a picture in the lower falls of Pua'a Ka'a State Park. You'll be able to see the lower waterfall and lagoon in a whole new way. Follow the path leading left towards the lagoon for an opportunity to get up close and personal with these natural wonders. There will be visible rocks underwater that you can use for a pathway - just watch your step!
Halfway to Hana
Map Stop: D | Mile Marker (none) | GPS: 20.8536° N, 156.1424° W
Let's eat again! Halfway to Hana is a cute little stand offering snacks, hotdogs, batteries, and Hawaiian shaved ice. That's fine and all but don't get distracted from the real MVP: the delicious banana bread and the banana bread sundae. It's pretty much life-changing and I know you'll thank me later.
Pro Tip: As of writing this, Halfway to Hana doesn't take cards; however, there is an onsite ATM if needed.
Ke'anae Arboretum
Map Stop: E | Mile Marker #17 | GPS: 20.8575° N, 156.1493° W
Entering the Ke'anae Arboretum is a truly awe-inspiring experience. The lush beauty of an eerie yet magical forest lines the path as you enter. Be prepared for a bamboo forest and tall rainbow bark eucalyptus trees with leaves as vibrant as rainbows themselves; they're an unbelievable sight to see if you catch them at just the right time of year.
How to Find Ke'anae Arboretum
Finding the entrance to the Ke'anae Arboretum was an adventure. There are no signs that let you know when exactly the entrance to this beautiful place begins. Please use the GPS coordinates and mile markers listed - if you want some help in finding something so hidden away from society. When I first arrived, I thought we were possibly trespassing because of how difficult it was locating the entrance: just a farm-looking gate and a small sign across from 4-6 parking spots.
When you find the entrance (and I believe in you and know you can), you'll be greeted by a long tree lined pathway. Once you've entered the arboretum, be prepared to see blocks of bamboo, a beautiful stream and tall unbelievable rainbow bark eucalyptus trees. If you can catch the rainbow eucalyptus trees at the right time, here's how amazing they can look.
Pro Tips: DO NOT forget to apply bug spray before leaving your car. DO NOT forget to lock your car and hide all of your belongings. Unfortunately, this is the site where we witnessed an unfortunate fellow traveler who had their rental car broken into.
Ke'anae Peninsula
Map Stop: F | Mile Marker #16 | GPS: 20.8647° N, 156.1489° W
Keanae Peninsula is a great destination for those looking to see the more traditional side of Hawaii. Beautiful blue ocean waters, lava rock, and taro fields are just some of what one can expect as they explore this small village that includes a stone church.
Garden Of Eden Arboretum & Puohokamoa Falls
Mile Marker #10.5 | Address: 10600 Hana Highway (Highway 360)
Imagine walking through an exotic garden of color and beauty. Imagine the sweet smell of tropical flowers, rare trees in bloom, the sound of running water from hidden falls around every corner- all this combined with a view that is like no other you will see anywhere else on earth you'll only find at the Garden of Eden Arboretum. The Upper Fall of Puohokamoa National Park was once a popular stop on Road to Hana long ago but closed its gates making it difficult for tourists like you or me who visit here today. But don't worry because we still have access from the nearby garden's vantage point so take your camera out now.
Huelo Lookout
Map Stop: G | Mile Marker #4 & 5 (between) | GPS: 20.9003° N, 156.2208° W
Friendly Remember: Calories don't count on vacation. You'll find this rest stop oasis sweetly nestled in a curve on this world famous road. Grab a few things at Huelo lookout like fresh coconut juice (they use the machete to open the coconut) and best of all, their homemade coconut candy. Which I ate all of it before taking a picture. #notembarrassed
Thank You!
The Road to Hana is a beautiful drive on Maui, and it’s well worth the trip. It’s easily one of the best drives on the island and something you should do at least once if you are lucky enough to find yourself there! But it can also be hard to know what stops are worth making, where to eat, or how long your drive will take without doing some research ahead of time. That's why we created this handy guide. I hope this post has been helpful! If you have any other questions or comments about driving in Hawaii please leave them below - I love hearing from my readers! And I promise I don't bite (as long as I'm properly fed.)
-XOXO (as always)
Mel D.
Photography by: Jake Palenske (yup, that's my bestie) & Me
Have you driven the Hawaii Road to Hana?
Let me know what made your favorite stops and how long it took for you to complete in the comments section below.
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*Originally published in March 2019, this post has been updated by Mel Drake to add new sections that weren't included in the original post: "14 of the Most Epic Road to Hana Stops", "Frequently Asked Questions About the Road to Hana", a video, and other sections and headings. Additional images and locations were added. The post was also updated with structural and grammatical changes as well.
Get ready to Rumble and yell “Thunder Up!”