Road to Hana is often listed as the best place to explore on Maui. It is a Scenic driveway that attracts hundreds of visitors regularly. But is it worth your visit? Want to know what the hype is all about? Let’s check it out.
What is the Road to Hana?
It is a 64-mile stretch of road that starts in Kahului and ends at Kipahulu. Along this road, there are 620 curves (I don’t know who counted these, the one that did deserve an award) because this scenic Road to Hana driveway has lush green forests, and multiple waterfalls come along the way. Okay! Let’s come back to the topic. There are 59 bridges, 49 of which are one-lane.
Throughout the whole drive, there are no straight sections. You will find curves around the corners. It can almost take 3 hours to drive from Kahului to Hana without any stops.
Stardust Hawaii: Your ticket to the best Hana Guided Tours
Stardust Hawaii is known for its best-guided tours throughout the breathtaking landscapes of Hana. Moreover, you can choose their waterfalls & lunch road to Hana Tour. As it promises you an enriching experience like no other. You will be traveling with expert drivers as they will take you through 620 curves and 54 one-lane bridges safely.
Moreover, you are our VIP guest on this Maui Road trip. Famous Road to Hana Waterfalls & Lunch includes stops at enchanting waterfalls, leisurely strolls along the sandy beaches, and a refreshing swim at the world-famous black sand beach in Wainapanapa State Park. For lunch, our driver will select a picnic spot for you to have a pleasant and comfortable experience.
This Tour offers numerous highlights, including a light breakfast with pastries and bottled water, a small group setting for a more intimate experience, knowledgeable and professional staff, well-maintained bathroom stops, and opportunities to capture the best photos of waterfalls, historical sites, cultural landmarks, and the island’s rich biodiversity. Snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are provided onboard, and there’s even a stop at a renowned Banana Bread stand. Weather permitting, you’ll also have the chance to swim at the iconic Black sand beach and explore Pua’a Ka’a Hana waterfalls. This Tour is your ticket to an extraordinary Hana adventure.
Interesting places you may see during Famous Road to Hana tour:
PAIA Town:
This is the first historical plantation town that will come your way. It is a small, laid-back place that is located on the Northshore of Maui. This is a great place to visit anytime during your Maui vacation. You can check out many of the cute restaurants, swimwear, and souvenir shops, most of them well-known as “moms and pops” in Paia to choose from.
Ho’okipa Beach Park:
Ho’okipa is a famous destination for windsurfing and surfing that is located on the north shore of Maui. Its golden sands and powerful waves often attract water sports enthusiasts. Moreover, competitions for professional windsurfing are also held here. If you’re lucky, you should see many sea turtles sunbathing on Hookipa beach during your stop.
Twin Falls:
Twin Falls is one of the easiest and shortest waterfall hikes that you will find in east Maui. It is also the first of a series of waterfalls that you are going to encounter on the Road to Hana. It is also the most enchanting waterfall that is covered with lush green rainforest.
Waikamoi falls:
It is located on the right side of the road, just past mile marker 9. If you are a hiking lover, then come back because you will love this trail since it’s one of the best Hana hikes. It is a quick trail that gives you a few decent views, but the large, beautiful trees you find along the path are worth the hike.
Ke’anae Peninsula:
Ke’anae peninsula is a dramatic half-mile-long massive peninsula that offers you a serene escape. Where visitors can watch the relentless waves crashing against the rugged volcanic coastline, it’s a mesmerizing sight and a perfect spot for reflection and photography.
Aunty Sandy’s Banana bread:
Aunty Sandy started her banana bread business in 1983 in Ke’anae, Maui. In 2003, her daughter Tammy joined the business to create an authentic family-owned and operated food stand on the Ke’anae peninsula. Since then, Aunty Sandy has become a one-stop destination for hot, fresh-baked banana bread, chili bowl, Saimin noodle soup, 100% beef hotdogs, fresh fruit smoothie, ice cream and many other yummy specialties.
Pua’a Ka’a Falls:
It is a hidden gem on the Maui road trip. Famous waterfalls for easy access and comfortable swimming or even jumping if you’re brave enough to do so. You can sit down on one of the benches covered by a roof, enjoy your coffee or banana bread you previously purchased at Auntie Sandy’s place. It is also a small back half trail near Hana. It is considered an easy route that takes an average of 11 min to complete. This trail is great for hiking and walking. This is open year-round and is beautiful to visit anytime.
Hana Town:
Of course, we can’t miss Hana town on the Tour. Hana is a charming, quiet Maui Town. Although it is not much in size, strolling around the town, you will find almost 100-year-old Hasegawa general store, Hana Ranch restaurant and gas station that never advertise gas prices. There are also a handful of food trucks in this town for you to visit if you’re a fan of street food. But it does end here. There is also a very well-hidden red sand beach nearby this town.
Wailua Valley Lookout:
A brief stop at the Wailua Valley lookout rewards travelers with a breathtaking view of Wailua village.
Keanae Lookout:
The Keanae Lookout offers you a breathtaking view of the Keanae Peninsula, and You can also feel the crashing waves that surround it.
Honomanu Lookout:
Honomanu Lookout provides travelers with a scenic view of the rugged coastline and lush greenery that characterizes this part of Maui.
Essential Tips for Road to Hana Travelers:
Pack Essentials:
- A cash for local shopping and tips to your guide
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- First-aid kit
Comfortable Clothing:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing
- Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
- Layers for changing weather conditions
Sturdy Footwear:
- Closed-toe, comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots
- Sandals with good grip for beach visits
Electronics:
- Fully charged cell phone
- Car charger and power bank
- Camera or smartphone for capturing scenic beauty
Safety and Comfort:
- Blanket or beach towel
- Rain poncho for daily showers
- Motion sickness medication if prone to car sickness
- Travel pillow for added comfort during the journey
- A bag for wet or sandy items
Personal Identification:
- Driver’s license, passport, or ID
- Health insurance card and emergency contact information
- Copies of important documents in case of loss or theft
In a Nutshell:
There is no doubt that the Maui road trip is a must-visit destination whether you are planning a Maui road trip with friends or family. Is this place worth the hype? You will know once you visit this heaven-like tourist destination. This 64-mile scenic drive will take you through lush green forests, captivating stops, and waterfalls on the road to Hana. Moreover, if you want to have the best experience of your life, it is best to prepare beforehand. The first step is to book a guided tour with Stardust Hawaii to have a relaxing experience of this scenic driveway that is filled with nature attractions, such as picturesque towns like Paia and Hana, serene beaches, and breathtaking natural wonders like Twin Falls or Waikomoi Falls. Secondly, don’t forget to pack the essential items that are mentioned above. This is all you need to make this whole journey memorable and exciting.
If you’re vacationing on Maui with kids, don’t forget to introduce them to Maui nature when having fun. Reserve Jungle Treasure Hunt for your whole family at the Stardust Hawaii website.
