Road to Hana, a world-renowned route from Kahului, Hawaii, to the town of Hana, is one of the most common day trips to take in Maui. Its overwhelming popularity is due in part to the numerous attractions it passes by and the gorgeous scenery that can be seen along the way. With around 600 curves and 59 bridges, Road to Hana is one of the most extraordinary ways to explore Maui! Keep reading to discover some of the best stops to see on the route.
Garden of Eden Arboretum
Containing a breathtaking botanical garden, a peaceful forest, a local art gallery, and a 100-year-old mango tree, this arboretum has it all! It stays open from 8 am to 4 pm every day and is a great place to take pictures or check out stunning views of the ocean! Plus, it’s only about 10 miles into the route.
Nahiku Marketplace
Around 29 miles on the Road to Hana, you may encounter a marketplace called Nahiku, which can be a perfect lunch option if you are hungry. Here, local food trucks serve everything from pork tacos to noodles. There are also many vendors that still beautiful handmade jewelry, art, clothes, and much more.
Lava Tube
Not too far past the Nahiku Marketplace is the Hana Lava Tube, commonly referred to as Ka’Eleku Caverns. The caverns have self-guided tours, which typically last about 40 minutes and can be a fun activity for the whole family. There are handrails inside the caves to keep everyone safe, and the cooler temperatures can be a nice break from the hot sun.
Wai’anapanapa State Park
One of the most frequently-visited stops along Road to Hana, Wai’anapanapa State Park is a large park with lots to do. From hiking trails to a unique black sand beach to sea caves, it may be hard to get bored here!
Wailua Falls
Known as a prime photo location, Wailua Falls contains an 80-foot waterfall that flows down the side of a jungle. Besides its picturesque appearance, the falls are also one of the most accessible waterfalls on the island. You can even swim beneath the waterfall if you plan to make your stop a little bit longer.
There are a couple of ways to explore the Road to Hana. If you’d rather keep your eyes out for waterfalls instead of the curves and cars ahead of you, book a guided tour. The tour will hit the Road to Hana highlights while you sit back and relax.
If you want to be on your own schedule and decide which places to stop at, drive it yourself. (For an extra fun adventure, rent a jeep for the day and drive it with the top off. It will be unforgettable!)
If you do it on your own, there are a few guides you can use to steer you to the good spots.
HELPFUL GUIDES - EXPLORE ON YOUR OWN
Maui Tours | Shaka Guide- ($) using GPS, they give you turn-by-turn directions and authentic Hawaiian storytelling to guide you to all the great spots on the Road to Hana,
The Road to Hana : Audio Guide (ther2h.com)- available in digital download form for iphone or CD + roadmap.
A FEW TIPS FOR YOUR DRIVE
Start your trip early in the day! Get to Paia town by 7 A.M. to beat the crowds to the major sights.
There are no gas stations until you get to Hana, so make sure you start your journey with a full tank of gas. The best place to fill up? Costco in Kahului.
Don't have your trip planned yet? We'd love to help you plan! Get started here: https://www.wheretogotravelco.com/contact