Imagine winding through lush, tropical landscapes, the salty breeze of the Pacific Ocean teasing your senses as you navigate a road that feels like it’s been plucked from a dream. The Road to Hana road trip, a legendary 64-mile stretch along Maui’s northeastern coast, is a journey unlike any other. With over 600 hairpin turns and 59 one-lane bridges, this isn’t just a drive—it’s an adventure. Ranked among the top 10 scenic drives in the world, it’s a rollercoaster of breathtaking views, cascading waterfalls, and rugged coastlines that will leave you in awe at every mile marker. Buckle up, because this is one road trip you’ll never forget.
Where It All Begins
The Road to Hana starts in the charming town of Paia, on the opposite side of Maui from the bustling resort areas of Wailea and Kaanapali. This means you’ll need to plan ahead—especially since the drive’s popularity has skyrocketed in recent years. To beat the crowds (and trust me, you’ll want to), an early start is essential. The parking lots at the viewpoints and trailheads are tiny and fill up fast, so aim to hit the road by 7 a.m. For our trip, we stayed at an incredible Airbnb in Haiku-Pauwela, just minutes from the starting point. It was the perfect launchpad—quiet, surrounded by greenery, and close enough to roll out of bed and onto the road before the sun was fully up.
What to Know Before You Go
This isn’t a race; it’s a savor-the-moment kind of experience. The full journey, with all its stops, takes about 8 to 10 hours, so give yourself permission to take it slow. One of our best decisions was downloading the Shaka Guide App—a GPS audio tour that became our virtual storyteller. It shares the history of the stops, points out hidden gems, and even warns you when a pull-off is coming up. Pre-travel tip: pack a cooler with snacks and water, wear comfy shoes for impromptu hikes, and bring a swimsuit and towel—you’ll want to dip into a waterfall or two. Also, fill up your gas tank in Paia; fuel stops are scarce along the way.
Stops to Plan in Advance
Some of the Road to Hana’s treasures require a little prep. One standout is Waiʻānapanapa State Park, home to a stunning black sand beach framed by volcanic cliffs and turquoise waves. You’ll need to secure timed entry tickets online in advance (pro tip: book early, as slots fill up weeks ahead). Another heads-up: cell service is spotty, so download maps or screenshot directions before you leave. Planning ahead ensures you won’t miss out on the magic.
Fueling Up: Food Stops Along the Way
The Road to Hana isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s a culinary adventure too. First up, Aunt Sandy’s Banana Bread, a roadside legend. The loaves are massive (easily enough for two), warm, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious. Further along, Coconut Glen’s vegan ice cream stole my heart—vegan or not, the creamy coconut flavor in a jungle setting is pure bliss. For lunch, don’t miss Max Bullah BBQ at Nahiku Marketplace. You’ll see the smoke curling into the air and catch the irresistible aroma of BBQ chicken before you even park. It’s tender, smoky perfection. Once you reach Hana, food options thin out, but the food truck park is a highlight—fresh, local flavors served up with small-town charm.
Must-Do Stops on a Road to Hana road trip
Road to Hana Mile Marker 0: The official start in Paia—snap a photo and let the adventure begin!
Haipua’ena Falls: A short walk from a small roadside parking area leads to a waterfall where you can swim. When we visited, there was even a rope swing—talk about a thrill!
Ke’anae Arboretum: This free stop is a hidden gem with Rainbow Eucalyptus trees that look like living paintings, their bark streaked with vibrant colors.
Hana Lava Tube: A cool (literally) underground experience—bring a flashlight and keep an eye out for the rare blind cricket.
Pipiwai Trail in Haleakalā National Park: Just past Hana, this 4-mile round-trip hike is a must. You’ll pass a massive Banyan tree, wander through a bamboo forest that feels like a fairy tale, and arrive at the jaw-dropping 400-foot Waimoku Falls.
Charles Lindbergh’s Gravesite: A secret find just beyond Hana, this peaceful spot overlooking the
Our One Regret (and How to Fix It)
Here’s where we went wrong: we didn’t book a place to stay in Hana. After a full day of exploring, we had to drive back to our Airbnb in Haiku-Pauwela—a long, dark return trip we could’ve avoided. Looking back, the Hana-Maui Resort by Hyatt would’ve been the dream stay. This historic property, nestled in Hana’s serene beauty, offers oceanfront cottages, a spa, and a true taste of old Hawaii. Bonus: you can book it using Chase Ultimate Rewards points transferred to Hyatt, making it an affordable luxury. Next time, we’re staying put and soaking in Hana’s tranquility.
Overall Impression
The Road to Hana was such a highlight of our Maui trip that we did it twice during our stay—each time revealing new wonders. From the thrill of the drive to the serenity of its hidden waterfalls, it’s a journey that captures the heart of Hawaii. Want us to craft your own unforgettable Hawaii vacation? Head to our Plan Your Trip page and fill out the form to get started. Mahalo, and happy exploring!
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