Get ready for the ultimate tropical adventure! The legendary Road to Hana is more than just a drive—it is an unforgettable journey through Maui’s most breathtaking, untouched landscapes. Winding along dramatic sea cliffs, cascading waterfalls, lush rainforests, and black sand beaches, this iconic route offers a window into the raw, natural beauty of Hawaii.
To help you make the most of every mile, this curated itinerary is packed with the best scenic lookouts, hidden gems, local culinary stops, and essential tips—ensuring you experience the absolute magic of the journey while traveling smart and safe.
Buckle up, roll the windows down, and let the adventure begin!
Pack smart for a full day of exploration! Here is a quick checklist to ensure you stay comfortable, charged up, and ready for everything from waterfall swims to roadside farm stands.
⏳ Estimated time: 30 minutes
Start your day smoothly by getting picked up right from your hotel. Make sure you have all your essentials packed—including swimwear, towels, sunscreen, bug spray, motion sickness bands, snacks, and cash for roadside stands—before stepping into your vehicle for the adventure ahead.
⏳ Estimated time: 30 minutes
Your Hana adventure begins in the charming, beachside village of Pa’ia—widely considered the gateway to the Hana Highway. It’s the perfect place to fuel up for the long drive ahead. Swing by the Hana Picnic Lunch Company to grab some coffee, breakfast, and freshly made sandwiches to pack for the road. They also offer clean restrooms, which you’ll definitely want to use before heading out!
⏳ Estimated time: 10 minutes
Famous for its steady winds and excellent waves, Ho’okipa is a mecca for windsurfers and kiteboarders. Pull into the upper parking lot for a fantastic vantage point to watch the action on the water. If you’re lucky, you might also spot Hawaiian green sea turtles resting on the sand below. Remember, state law requires you to keep a respectful distance and never touch the turtles.
⏳ Estimated time: 10 minutes
Reaching this iconic big-wave surfing spot requires a 4WD vehicle to navigate a rugged dirt trail. During the winter swells (December to March), Jaws can churn out monstrous 70-foot waves, drawing elite surfers from across the globe. However, if you are visiting outside of winter or when the swell is small, the ocean here is usually flat. Unless you know the waves are firing, it’s best to skip this stop and continue your drive.
⏳ Estimated time: 30 minutes
If you want to swim beneath a waterfall today, Twin Falls is your first great opportunity. The area actually features three distinct falls: Twin Falls, Rope Swing, and Caves. A short hike leads you to these picturesque swimming holes. Be sure to check out the local farm stand for fresh tropical fruit and banana bread.
Note: Parking is $10 per vehicle and fills up fast. Street parking is strictly prohibited, so if the lot is full, plan to try again on another day.
⏳ Estimated time: 30 minutes
Since you’ll be spending a lot of time in the car, this quick 0.75-mile loop is an excellent way to get some fresh air. The family-friendly walking trail winds through a quiet, shaded forest filled with towering mahogany and eucalyptus trees.
⏳ Estimated time: 1 hour
This beautifully maintained botanical garden showcases exotic rainforest plants from all over the world. Beyond the lush flora, the garden offers incredible coastal viewpoints. Look out for Keopuka Rock rising from the ocean—you might recognize it from the opening helicopter sequence in Jurassic Park!
Note: This is a paid attraction.
⏳ Estimated time: 10 minutes
This wayside park serves as a decent spot to stretch your legs and use the public restrooms, though be aware that the facilities here are fairly basic. If you have a strong bladder, you might prefer to hold out for the Ke’anae Peninsula.
⏳ Estimated time: 5 minutes
Keep an eye out for a roadside pull-out where you can park and look down over Honomanu Bay. If the parking area is congested, don’t stress—you can always try to catch this view on your return trip before the sun sets.
⏳ Estimated time: 5 minutes
A quick pull-over stop that rewards you with dramatic views of sheer sea cliffs and powerful waves crashing into Nua’ailua Bay.
⏳ Estimated time: 30 minutes
If you’ve been hoping to see Maui’s famous rainbow eucalyptus trees—whose bark looks like it was painted in vibrant streaks of color—this is the place to do it. The arboretum requires a short walk along a paved path, but admission is completely free.
⏳ Estimated time: 10 minutes
Take the short detour off the main highway down to the Ke’anae Peninsula. The contrast of the deep blue ocean violently crashing against the jagged, black lava rocks is absolutely mesmerizing. There are also public restrooms available here.
⏳ Estimated time: 15 minutes
As you head back up from the peninsula, you won’t be able to miss Aunty Sandy’s on your left. Serving up warm, freshly baked banana bread daily, this is an absolute must-do culinary stop. By this point in the drive, a warm snack will hit the spot perfectly.
⏳ Estimated time: 5 minutes
Shortly after getting back on the highway, pull into the wide shoulder on the left for a sprawling, bird’s-eye view of the Ke’anae Peninsula you just explored. You’ll clearly see the patchwork of traditional taro fields blanketing the landscape below.
⏳ Estimated time: 20 minutes
Despite the name, this popular snack shack actually sits just before the geographical halfway point. It’s a fantastic place to grab burgers, sandwiches, shave ice, and more banana bread.
Pro-Tip: If you started your day late or are traveling with restless kids, this is the most logical place to turn around for a condensed, “mini” Hana road trip.
⏳ Estimated time: 15 minutes
More of a scenic overlook than a park, this stop offers sweeping views of the tiny Wailua village and its historic “Coral Miracle Church.” If you turn around, you’ll see the slopes of Haleakala Volcano looming behind you, often with distant waterfalls trickling down the mountainside.
⏳ Estimated time: Drive-by only
Nicknamed the “Three Bears Falls” because the three cascading streams descend in tall, medium, and short heights (just like Papa, Mama, and Baby Bear), this is a beautiful sight.
Note: Do not attempt to stop here, as there is zero parking available. Enjoy the view safely from your moving vehicle.
⏳ Estimated time: 15 minutes
Hidden just off the side of the road is a fascinating natural cave formed by ancient volcanic activity. As the outer layer of a lava flow cooled and hardened, the molten rock inside continued to drain away, leaving a hollow tube behind. The entrance is a bit cramped and jagged, but it quickly opens up inside.
Note: The larger, paid “Hana Lava Tube” attraction is closed until further notice as of April 2026.
⏳ Estimated time: 1 minute
This waterfall is entirely unique because the Hana Highway drives directly over it! Cross the bridge, park safely on the shoulder, and walk back to look down at the water cascading into the beautiful pool below. While it can dry up during the summer months, it’s a spectacular sight when flowing.
⏳ Estimated time: 45 minutes
This National Tropical Botanical Garden focuses on plants that were culturally significant to ancient Polynesians. The highlight of the property is the Pi’ilanihale Heiau—a massive, sacred structure that is believed to be the largest ancient temple in all of Polynesia.
Note: There is an admission fee to explore the grounds.
⏳ Estimated time: 45 minutes
This is easily one of the most striking stops on the entire journey. Formed over millennia as hot lava met the freezing ocean and shattered, the stark black sand is unforgettable. Take time to explore the sea arches, the freshwater cave, and the natural blowhole.
Important: You cannot simply drive up to this park. Advanced reservations are strictly required for both parking ($10/vehicle) and entry ($5/person). No same-day bookings are accepted, and you must arrive and leave within your designated time slot.
⏳ Estimated time: 1 hour
You did it! You’ve successfully navigated the twisting highway to reach the isolated town of Hana. Now is the perfect time to grab a proper meal, as there are several great food trucks and restaurants here. Keep in mind that food options dry up quickly after 5:00 PM.
Note: Please skip the Red Sand Beach. Years of heavy foot traffic have eroded the steep cliffside trails, making it incredibly dangerous to access.
⏳ Estimated time: 5 minutes
Operating since 1910, this family-owned staple is packed with everything from road trip snacks to quirky souvenirs. It’s an excellent place to grab a cold drink. The town’s only gas station is conveniently located right next door if you need to top off the tank.
⏳ Estimated time: 30 minutes
Take a breather and watch the waves at Koki Beach. The towering red hill next to the sand is known as Ka Iwi o Pele (“the bones of Pele”). It’s actually an ancient volcanic cinder cone from Haleakala’s final active days.
⏳ Estimated time: 30 minutes
Just down the road from Koki is Hamoa Beach, a beautiful crescent cove perfect for families. The large sandy area is great for sunbathing, and when the ocean is calm, the left side of the cove offers some solid snorkeling. Access the beach via the staircase from the roadside parking area.
⏳ Estimated time: Drive-by only
As you continue past Hana toward the national park, keep your eyes peeled for Wailua Falls. Plunging 80 feet, it is one of the most massive waterfalls on the entire route. The best view is out your right window just past the bridge. There is no parking, so just admire it as you cruise by.
⏳ Estimated time: 2 hours
Once you reach the Kipahulu district of Haleakala National Park, the 3.5-mile Pipiwai Trail awaits. This moderately challenging hike takes you through an incredible, echoing bamboo forest and past several stunning waterfalls, including Makahiku Falls. If you don’t have two hours to spare, hiking just the first section to the lookout is still highly rewarding.
Note: Entry requires a $30 National Park pass per vehicle. If you paid to see the Haleakala Summit within the last 3 days, keep your receipt—it grants you free entry here.
⏳ Estimated time: 1+ hours
Located in the same national park area, the Pools of ‘Ohe’o are a gorgeous chain of terraced waterfalls and plunge pools spilling toward the ocean. It is the perfect place to reflect on the immense natural beauty you’ve witnessed all day.
Update: Swimming in the pools is currently prohibited due to safety hazards, but the viewing trails remain fully open.
