Check out my Road to Hana journey on Youtube.
Hawai’i is one of the most beautiful and diverse set of islands in any archipelago in the world. Alike the other islands, Maui stands out on it’s own as the Valley Isle, full of lush green forests, gorgeous shorelines, white sand beaches, the heavens of Haleakala, & some of the best drives on this side of the world. The Road to Hana is one of the most unique drives in Hawai’i, the US of A & even the world.
How Long Is this trip?
Hana & Back: 5-6 hours with stops (food, pics, etc.)
Full Loop: Approx. 9 hours with stops (food, pics, etc)
DISCLAIMER from later on in this post: If you are sensitive to road sickness, reconsider taking this trip. Let’s just say lots of left, right, ups and downs… not in any particular order 😉
Pa’ia: Where the adventure begins!
Coming from West Maui, my step dad and I made it to the small, cute town of Paia. Here you will find shave ice, brew pubs, and maybe one too many tourist shops & if that’s your kind of thing, this is worth a stop. But if you’re ready to hit the road, just keep on going.
A quick glance at north Maui before you hit the road.
From outside of Paia heading west slowly begins the start of a long and windy journey so DISCLAMER if you’re not sensitive to possible road sickness, you’re going to love this. (I should have put the disclaimer at the top…nope not too late!)
Twin Falls
Bridge crossings: There are so many it’s so hard not to stop
(Warning: Do not stop if there are many cars. Residents do also use this route.)
Bamboo Forest with a sprinkle of falls
Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees
Although not native to Hawai’i, these beautiful and colorful tree reign from the Philipines and can be spotted along Mile marker 7 and a few spots along the way to Hana. But this one is unique and conveniently right on the side of the road with great views of the sea.
A Lunch stopoff with a view!
Woah, this view!!! (This is where I realized, each and every turn delivers a new & equally beautiful view)
Ke’anae Peninsula
Halfway to Hana
(Pics below) Wailua Valley State Wayside
More waterfalls!!!
DON”T FORGET TO SUPPORT LOCAL!!!
Hana Town!!!…we made it…halfwayish!
….The adventure continues
Haleakalā National Park (but along the coast)
Woah what happened to the road?
This is what most visitors don’t get to see. Either because of time, road conditions for their rental, or because they want to make it back to the hotel for happy hour. Either way, if time allows, you can manage the potholes and can save your mai tai for the next day (or late at night 😉 ), you DO NOT want to miss this.
Kahikinui Ahupua’a
Because it was easier to describe this part of Maui with Hawai’i’s ancient regional naming system. Here is where the rugged crazy road comes back to manageable and over one bend, you’re in a completely new world.
Concluding the trip in time for sunset
Total travel time: 9 hours from sunrise to sunset (Kaanapali to sunset)
That was one hell of an amazing trip!
Having seen and experienced so much, there were still many beautiful and significant stops we missed. From beaches, to heiaus, & historic sites.
Here is what we missed (in driving order):
- Garden of Eden Arboretum
- Wailua Iki Trail
- Kahanu Garden, National Tropical Garden
- Hana Lava Tube
- Wai’anapanapa State Park & Sea Arch
- Koki Beach Park – Hana
- Waimoku Falls – Haleakala Natl Park
- Charles Lindbergh’s Grave
- Alele Falls Viewpoint
- Huialoha Church
- Popiwi Heaiau
That’s all guys! If you are planning. to visit Maui, looking to take an adventure like this, and need some insight and feedback, please don’t hesitate to comment below.
Other than that, a hui hou & aloha!
