The Road to Hana is one of Maui’s most iconic drives, a winding journey through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and along breathtaking coastal cliffs. But beyond the stunning scenery, this 64-mile stretch of Hana Highway offers some of the best food on the Road to Hana, turning the trip into a culinary adventure. From vegan ice cream to smoky BBQ and legendary banana bread, here’s your guide to the top eats along the way—perfect for fueling your exploration.
Coconut Glen’s: A Sweet, Vegan Delight
No trip along the Road to Hana is complete without a stop at Coconut Glen’s, a quirky yellow ice cream van parked near Mile Marker 27.5. This isn’t your average ice cream stop—Glen Simkins, the man behind the scoop, is on a mission to “change the world one scoop at a time” with his small-batch, vegan ice cream. Made with fresh, local coconuts, this dairy-free treat comes in flavors like original coconut, Hawaiian passion fruit, and chocolate chipotle. It’s creamy, refreshing, and the perfect pick-me-up after a morning of hiking or swimming. Bring cash (no cards accepted), and if you miss the stand, keep an eye out for their food truck in Hana town. One scoop is delightful, but two might just make your day.
Aunt Sandy’s Banana Bread: A Shareable Classic
Banana bread is practically a religion on the Road to Hana, and Aunt Sandy’s Famous Banana Bread at Keanae Peninsula (just past Mile Marker 16) is the high priestess of this tradition. For over 30 years, Aunty Sandy and her crew have been baking these loaves fresh every morning, and the result is a warm, buttery, moist masterpiece that’s earned a cult following. The loaves are large—big enough for two to share with plenty left over to stash in your bag for later. Whether you’re picnicking by the black lava beaches nearby or saving it for a snack further down the road, this is a must-try. Pro tip: Get there early (before 2:30 or 3 p.m.) as they often sell out, and bring cash if you’re just grabbing one loaf (credit cards have a $10 minimum).
Max Bullah BBQ at Nahiku Marketplace: Smoky Perfection
As you wind your way toward Mile Marker 29, the Nahiku Marketplace emerges as a foodie oasis, and Max Bullah BBQ is its smoky crown jewel. You’ll know you’re close when you round the curve and catch sight—and scent—of plumes of smoke rising from the grill. This is where the magic happens: tender, juicy BBQ chicken slow-cooked over an open flame, infused with that irresistible smoky flavor. It’s a don’t-miss dish that captures the essence of Hawaiian roadside cuisine. Pair it with rice and steamed veggies for a hearty meal, and don’t be shy about asking for their rub recipe—it’s a souvenir you can take home. The marketplace itself offers a laid-back vibe with picnic tables, making it a great spot to stretch your legs and refuel.
Hana’s Food Truck Park: A Tasty Finale
Once you reach Hana town, the food options multiply, and the food truck park near the ball field is a standout. This cluster of trucks serves up some of the best casual eats on the route, offering a taste of local flavor in an unfussy setting. Braddah Hutts BBQ Grill is a fan favorite here, dishing out mouthwatering Huli Huli chicken and pork ribs grilled over an open fire—perfectly tender with a smoky char. You might also find Thai Food by Pranee for a spicy twist, or I Lava Tacos for a Mexican-inspired bite. The vibe is relaxed, the portions are generous, and it’s a fantastic way to cap your Road to Hana journey. Grab a plate, find a spot to sit, and soak in the small-town charm before heading back or continuing to the Pools of Oheo.
Bonus Stops to Savor
While these are the heavy hitters, the Road to Hana has a few more gems worth mentioning. Halfway to Hana (Mile Marker 17) is a convenient stop for another take on banana bread—moist and packed with local apple bananas—plus shaved ice to cool off on a hot day. Closer to Hana, Hana Farms Roadside Stand (Mile Marker 34) tempts with wood-fired pizzas, tropical sodas like lilikoi (passion fruit), and yet more banana bread varieties (try the macadamia nut!). Each stop adds its own flavor to the journey, so pack some cash, an appetite, and a sense of adventure.
The Road to Hana isn’t just a drive—it’s a feast for the senses with some of the best food on the Road to Hana. From the creamy scoops at Coconut Glen’s to the smoky allure of Max Bullah BBQ, the shareable loaves of Aunt Sandy’s, and the vibrant food truck scene in Hana, these stops make every mile deliciously memorable. So, hit the road, take it slow, and let your taste buds guide the way. For more travel inspiration, check out our YouTube channel, and let us plan your perfect trip—visit our Plan Your Trip page today! Aloha and happy eating!
Leave a Reply