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Hana Road Stops

The Best Stops on the Road to Hana for Your Itinerary

Home » DESTINATIONS » Pacific Islands » Maui » The Best Stops on the Road to Hana for Your Itinerary

Last Modified: April 4, 2022 //  by Anda //  16 Comments

Maui is a tropical paradise that stands out as unique, even when compared to the other Hawaiian islands. One of the most fun things to do in Maui is drive the legendary Road to Hana and stop along the way at the many scenic points of interest. So if you are planning a road trip to Hana and need a good itinerary, here is all you need to know.

plunging pool on the road to Hana
Plunging pool on the road to Hana

The Road to Hana is one of the most scenic drives in the world, winding deep into the tropical jungle past roaring waterfalls, botanical gardens, quaint beaches, and spectacular scenery. The 52 mile road passes through a very rustic and rugged part of the island, navigating around 617 scary curves, 56 one-lane bridges and steep cliff drops.

This is an exhausting drive that may be intimidating for some people. But whether you do this drive yourself or book a guided tour, make sure you don’t miss the many attractive stops that make the road to Hana so famous.

Tips for Driving the Road to Hana

We drove the road to Hana many times over the years, but before I tell you which are the best places to stop, let me share a few tips with you.

Cars on the Hana Road
Card on the Hana Road
  • Take it slow and enjoy the ride. The Road to Hana is all about the journey and the many gorgeous places you’ll encounter along the way. Consequently, you should plan to spend an entire day driving this loop. This road trip usually takes anywhere between 10 to 12 hours, depending on the number of stops.
  • Go clockwise from Paia, which is where Hana Highway begins. Going in this direction is better for several reasons. One is that the sun will not be in your eyes. Also, the passenger side will be on the mountainside, which is safer. And another reason is that on the return trip the last part of the road will be straighter, allowing you to drive faster.
  • Download the Road to Hana Maui Gypsy Guide which tells you where to stop and where the best views are. But the best thing about this app is that it works even if you don’t have service. Above all, remember there is no internet/Wi-Fi/cell phone service on Hana Road. So make sure you download it while you are still in your hotel room.
  • Leave as early as you can, or plan to spend one night in Hana. This drive is not exactly a piece of cake. You’ll encounter steep curves, falling rocks, and even some confusing mile markers that reset. Also, for the best experience, try timing your trip for weekdays.
  • Eat breakfast before you leave, especially if you have the tendency of getting car sick. Contrary to popular belief, having some food in your stomach will actually keep you from getting car sickness. Just but be careful not to eat too much.
  • Wear comfortable clothes and good walking shoes. Sandals or flip-flops are not ideal for this kind of trails which are most of the time muddy and slippery. Bring swimsuits, towels, sunscreen, hats and sunglasses.
  • Take plenty of water (much more than you think you may need!) and some food. Many of the food stands on the Road to Hana close early or run out of food around 2:30 p.m.
  • Take enough cash with you as the small business on this side of the island don’t accept credit or debit cards.
Food truck on the road to Hana
Food truck on the road to Hana

18 Best Places to Stop on the Road to Hana

There are so many beautiful places to stop along the Road to Hana, that you don’t know what to choose first. We rove this road so many times over the years, and still discover something new every time we return. The scenery is varied and out-of-the-world beautiful!

So here are my top picks in the order in which you’ll reach them on the road.

1. Paia Town (Mile Marker #1)

Your Road to Hana itinerary begins in Paia, but before you start your drive, make sure you fill up your gas tank! While gas in Paia is expensive, this is your last chance to buy gas until you get to Hana. You can also have breakfast in Paia, or pick up some snacks for the road.

Paia, the starting point of the road Hana itinerary
Paia Town, the starting point of the Hana Highway

The former plantation village of Paia was once a thriving sugar-mill town. Today, chic eateries and trendy shops line the town’s main street. If you have time to stop, you’ll find many shopping opportunities here: swimwear boutiques, jewelry stores, restaurants and cafés.

2. Twin Falls (Mile Marker #2)

Twin Falls are the first of the many waterfalls along the Road to Hana, so almost everybody stops here. These picturesque waterfalls form a large pool where you can swim. 

view of the Twin Falls, the second stop on the Road to Hana itinerary
Twin Falls, one of the best stops on the Road to Hana

Twin Falls are located on Wailele Farm, a family owned and operated farm that provides free access to the falls and also conducts tours. Access to the falls is really easy.

Stop on the road to Hana
Hiking to the waterfall

3. Hookipa Beach (Mile Marker #9)

Just a little farther down Hana Highway you’ll come across the breath-taking white sand beach of Ho’okipa. This is Maui’s most popular surfing beach, boasting some of the best waves on the entire coastline.

view of the surf on Hookipa Beach
Hookipa Beach

The beach is also famous for turtle watching. Every day in the afternoon, the Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles (Honu) start coming up to shore to rest and enjoy the sunset.

Turtle resting on Hookipa Beach
Turtle resting on Hookipa Beach

4. Waikamoi Ridge Trail (Mile Marker #9.5)

Just past mile marker #9 is Waikamoi Ridge Trail, an often unnoticed attraction on the Hana Road. This is a beautiful hike with 2 loops. One takes about 10 minutes and the other takes about half an hour. The trail can be muddy, but it’s a really pretty hike through the trees.

Waikamoi Ridge Trail stop on the Road to Hana
Waikamoi Ridge Trail

5. Garden of Eden Arboretum (Mile Marker #10)

This botanical garden should be included in any itinerary, as it’s one of the most rewarding stops along the Hana Road. It’s worth paying the $15/person fee that allows you access to this beautiful paradise.

Garden of Eden Arboretum, one of the best stops on the Hana Road
Garden of Eden Arboretum

Plan to spend at least 45 minutes walking around the immaculate grounds. There are fantastic views of the Pacific, secret coves, waterfalls and even an 100 year-old mango tree.

6. Rainbow Eucalyptus Grove (Mile Marker #16)

This gorgeous grove is actually half-mile beyond mile marker 16 on Hana Highway. Keep an eye on the mountain side of the road and you’ll see a sign marking the entrance to Ke’anae Arboretum.

Eucalyptus Grove
Rainbow Eucalyptus Grove

This is a great place to see not only the rainbow eucalyptus trees, which are fantastic, but also a wide variety of other interesting trees. And the best part about this arboretum is that it’s free!

7. Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread (mile marker #16)

Also in Ke’anae you’ll find the best place to buy banana bread on the entire island. After visiting the Eucalyptus Grove, make sure you stop at Aunty Sandy’s Bakery which is off the Hana Highway, on Ke’anae Road.

Sign for Aunty Sandy's Bakery in Ke'anae Peninsula
Sign for Aunty Sandy’s Bakery

8. Wailua Overlook (Mile Marker #18)

This is a great place to stop and take in the views of both Wailua Valley and the Ko’olau Gap in the mountains. Most visitors breeze right by it and never even realize it’s there.

Wailua Overlook
Wailua Overlook

The area holds many ancient taro patches, a plant deeply embedded in the Hawaiian legends. The folk tales say that taro is the older brother of all Hawaiians.

9. Pua’a Kaa Water Falls (Mile Marker #22.5)

On the Hana Road there are waterfalls around every corner. Some are more impressive than others and some are better photo ops than others.

People swimming in the Pua'a Kaa falls
Pua’a Kaa Falls

This particular waterfall located in the Pua’a Kaa State Park is very pretty. You can swim in the big pool that forms at its base, if you choose to. The park has bathrooms as well and a picnic area. A great place to stop to stretch your legs and use the restrooms (which are not very many on the Road to Hana!)

10. Hana Lava Tube (Mile Marker #31)

This is a fun adventure that you shouldn’t miss on the Road to Hana. Hana Lava Tube is the largest lava cavern formed on the Hawaiian Islands. It’s even bigger and more impressive than the one we’ve seen on the Kilawea Iki Trail, on the Big Island.

entrance to the Hana Lava Tube
Hana Lava Tube

To reach the Lava Tube, turn left on ‘Ula’ino Road and drive for about 1/2 a mile. This is a self-guided tour that takes approximately 40 minutes. You’ll need good grip shoes and a flashlight. The cost is $11.95 per person, but it’s worth every penny. I strongly recommend stopping here on the Road to Hana.

Visiting the Lava Tube, one of the best stops on the Road to Hana
The Lava Tube, one of the best stops on the Road to Hana

11. Pa’iloa Beach Black Sand Beach (Mile Marker #32)

Located in the Wai’anapanapa State Park, Papilla is one of Maui’s most famous black sand beaches and therefore a very popular attraction on the Road to Hana. I am not particularly fond of black sand beaches, but this one is truly picturesque. Just bring good shoes because the black pebbles are really tough on the feet.

Pa'iloa Beach Black Sand Beach
Pa’iloa Beach Black Sand Beach

NOTE: The Park requires advanced reservations for park and entrance. The attendants are strict about seeing your QR code, so please go to https://www.gowaianapanapa.com/ to reserve your spot.

12. Wai`anapanapa Caves Loop (Mile Marker #33)

While you are still in this area, don’t miss the fresh water cave located within Wai’anapanapa State Park. You won’t see this place included in many itineraries mostly because not many tourists driving the Hana Road know about it. To reach the cave, you’ll have to go on a loop trail that passes through a grove.

View of Wai‘anapanapa Cave

According to an old Hawaiian legend, a beautiful princess was killed here by her jealous husband. Therefore, every spring tiny red shrimp appear in the pool turning the water red – a symbol of the slain princess’ blood.

13. Hana Town (Mile Marker #34)

The small, sleepy town of Hana is often overlooked by those who travel the famous road bearing its name, which is truly unfair. Hana is deeply rooted in the Hawaiian culture and history – a place that remained almost unchanged, when compared to the rapid development of the rest of Hawaii.

Farm on the Road to Hana
Farm next to Hana Town

So don’t just drive through it without stopping. Ideally, you should spend the night here and do the rest of the trip next day. You’ll find beautiful churches, art galleries and the quaint Hana Bay.

READ NEXT: Maui vs the Big Island: an Unbiased Comparison

14. Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach (Mile Marker #35)

The Red Sand Beach at Kaihalulu is a dramatic and beautiful hidden cove unlike any other, which is also known as the “Secret Beach.” What’s actually a “secret” is the tricky access to the beach, which is why many people leave it out of their Hana Road itinerary.

To get to the beach you’ll have to make a left on Hauoli Road from the Hana Highway, then walk across the Hana Community Center. There is a 10 minute walk to the cove, on a very slippery path on which many people get injured.

Red Sand Beach, a great stop on the Road to Hana
The Red Sand Beach on the Road to Hana

Kaihalulu Beach is quite beautiful and truly deserves a stop on your road trip to Hana. The red rock around the beach is somewhat reminiscent of the red landscape of Sedona, Arizona.

The cove is protected by a wall of lava rock which breaks the big waves before they reach the sand. For this reason, the beach is good for swimming and snorkeling.

Note: The Mile Markers on the Road to Hana go up to 35 after which they jump to 51 and then go down the rest of the road.

15. Koki and Hamoa Beaches (Mile Marker #50)

Just It’s hard to miss the stunning, crescent-shaped Hamoa Beach. As you drive the Hana Highway, you’ll surely catch a glimpse of it from the car.

view of Hamoa Beach
Hamoa Beach

Koki and Hamoa are two more beaches on the Hana Road that are worth a quick stop. Neither were busy when we were there. You can drive a loop along the coast to them both then reconnect to the main road.

16. Wailua Falls (Mile Marker #45)

This tall waterfall (85 foot tall) is right next to the road, so you can’t miss it. As a result, you don’t even need to get out of your car to see it! But if you want to stop and take a quick swim in the beautiful pool underneath the falls, there are places to park right after the bridge.

View of the Wailua Falls from the Road to Hana
View of the Wailua Falls from the Road to Hana

You don’t need more than 30 minutes here. However, since this will be towards the end of your day, you might choose to stop just for a quick photo. Although not as tall as some of the waterfalls on the Big Island, the falls on the Road to Hana are still very impressive and worth exploring.

17. The Seven Sacred Pools (Mile Marker #42)

This is perhaps the most popular place to stop on the Road to Hana, which you should definitely include in your itinerary. The Seven Sacred Pools are a chain of waterfalls that cascade from one to the other, surrounded by lush vegetation. The falls go far beyond what the eye can see, forming large pools of water.

view of the Seven Sacred Pools on the Road to Hana
The Seven Sacred Pools

Access to the pools is really easy, through a 0.6 mile loop trail. As a result, there is always heavy traffic on this trail, which also often closes in wet weather.

The falls are part of the Haleakala National Park, which charges $30/vehicle since January, 2020. However, the ticket is valid for 3 days. So, if you plan to watch the sunrise at Haleakala Crater, you can go up with the same ticket.

18. Pipiwai Trail

Just above the Seven Sacred Pools you find one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Maui: the Pipiwai Trail. The path passes through very diverse scenery and culminates at the base of the spectacular Makahiku waterfall.

Pipiwai Trail
Pipiwai Trail

The 2-mile long trail is safe and well maintained. However, the first half mile or so is quite steep and may be slippery when wet.

The Back Road to Hana

From the moment you venture on the Road to Hana you realize this is not an easy drive. But beyond the Seven Sacred Pools the road becomes even narrower and more terrifying than in the northern part. Consequently, many visitors turn around at Oheo Gulch and head back to their hotels the same way they came.

Truth is that the back side of the Hana Road is really crazy. Even the rental car companies will tell you that if you drive here and get in trouble, you’ll be on your own. However, if you are a good driver (and like challenges), you’ll manage all right. There are short portions of the road that are unpaved and can be really bumpy, but they are perfectly navigable for any type of vehicle.

The Back Side of the Road to Hana
The backside of the road to Hana

The back side of the Road to Hana is straighter and offers less opportunities to stop, but some people prefer to do this itinerary in reverse. The road circles tight around the mountain, revealing a very different side of this tropical paradise. Leaving behind the abundant green vegetation, you move to a more barren landscape with dry grasslands, exposed rock and wide views of the Pacific Ocean.

Back road to Hana
The back road to hana

There are some nice places to stop here, but nothing as dramatic as on the first part of the road to Hana. One year we did the loop in reverse and we stopped to visit Charles Lindbergh‘s grave (around Mile Marker #41) and some beautiful black sand beaches.

A Final Word

So what’s the best way to tackle the Road to Hana for a perfect itinerary? Obviously the one that makes you feel in control. My husband is an adventure-seeker and an experienced driver, therefore we always do the full ‘loop.’ However, be advised that venturing back side of the road to Hana requires good driving skills and nerves of steel. Much like driving in Sicily!

Best Stops on Hana Road

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Category: DESTINATIONS, Maui, Pacific IslandsTag: Destination Guides, Travel Tips, Unique Places Around the World

About Anda

Anda is an award winning travel writer, avid globetrotter and passionate photographer. She is the voice behind "Travel Notes & Beyond," a collection of stories and travel impressions from her wanderings around the world. When she is not busy writing, traveling, or editing photographs, you can find her hiking in the foothills behind her house together with her husband and their dog.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Trendc

    May 21, 2022 at 8:16 pm

    Hello I booked a two night stay in Hana Bay and before that am staying right near Mamas Fish House near Paia in a condo. I feel like this will give me ample time on the road to Hana to take a leisurely pace. Knowing that I have time which sites should I visit after I get to Hana or on the reverse what can I visit from paia easily. Thank you! I plan to take the back road out!

    Reply
    • Anda

      May 27, 2022 at 11:34 am

      Very wise decision to stay in Paia. I’m sure it will give you more time to explore this beautiful part of Maui. Have fun!

      Reply
  2. Elizabeth

    May 2, 2022 at 11:15 am

    I really like the detail and tips in your post. I’m a little uncertain about how to proceed though becasue I think I’d like to do Hookipa beach in the afternoon so that I can watch the sea turtles. Do you think it would be best to A) use this itinerary as it is and then turn back about half way through to go back the way we came or B) start the itinerary in reverse. If B) where would we start? Thanks!!

    Reply
    • Anda

      May 2, 2022 at 9:17 pm

      My advice is to do the tour as it is and return on another day to see the turtles. Hookipa beach is really beautiful and you could easily spend a day there. If you want to do the tour in reverse, it’s better to start in Hana, but that would require spending a night there. However, if you do that you’ll have more time for these attractions.

      Reply
  3. Clarice

    October 13, 2021 at 11:57 am

    Wow! This is indeed beautiful. I haven’t been to Maui but it has been in our plans since my best friend resides there. Thank you for sharing these tips. We can’t wait to see and enjoy the view especially the Hookipa Beach. Will keep in mind to spend a night in Hana.

    Reply
    • Anda

      October 13, 2021 at 5:56 pm

      You have no excuse not to go to Maui if your friend lives there, Clarice.

      Reply
  4. Ami Bhat

    October 11, 2021 at 7:22 am

    I love this drive – it has everything. From forests to caves to mountains, waterfalls and even the lovely beaches. The best of nature on one trail. I am super curious abt rainbow eucalyptus. Something I have not seen before and I would love to see now that you have given me a glimpse. Loved this post and your click of that turtle.

    Reply
    • Anda

      October 11, 2021 at 5:34 pm

      Thank you, Ami. The road to Hana is a must, if you are in Maui.

      Reply
  5. Pamela Mukherjee

    October 10, 2021 at 10:13 pm

    Maui looks perfect like a perfect destination to visit. All the 18 places are so thrilling, especially the Pipiwai Trail and Rainbow Eucalyptus Grove. I would love to see all these places.

    Reply
  6. Agnes

    October 10, 2021 at 7:29 am

    Driving the Road to Hana was a marvelous and unforgettable experience for me as well. I love this nature on the way. But I agree that it is worth preparing for this trip, as it’s not easy to drive. I appreciate your tips. All places mentioned by you are worth a stop. My favorites are Hookipa Beach, Pua’a Kaa Water Falls, Hana Town, Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach, and Seven Secrets Pool.

    Reply
  7. Linda (LD Holland)

    October 9, 2021 at 12:40 pm

    On the travel wish list! Would love to visit Maui. I know we will have a long list of things to see and do when we finally get there. And we definitely would not miss one of the most scenic drives in the world along Hana Road. We would absolutely want to do the drive on our own at our pace. We have the driving skills and never to do it! Good idea to download the guide in advance. I am sure it would take us a long time with all these great stops along the way.

    Reply
  8. Jan

    October 9, 2021 at 5:11 am

    Hana looks like a great drive with interesting stops. It’s a great tip to have breakfast before leaving as having some food in your stomach makes you less prone to be car sick. The plunge pools, waterfalls and Hookipa beach look so inviting. I love their vibrant colors. I am bookmarking this blog for my future reference. 🙂

    Reply
  9. Puloma Bhattacharya

    October 8, 2021 at 10:20 am

    The different stops over the Hana road are beautiful. Hawaii has so many island clusters with diverse landscape rich in Flora and fauna. The pics of the waterfalls, Red sand beach and the botanical garden are a treat to watch.

    Reply
  10. Raksha

    October 8, 2021 at 9:14 am

    This post shows how little of Hawaiian islands I have seen. I have never been to Maui but it is definitely on my list for next time. I would love to see those waterfalls, the twin waterfalls look stunning. Also, I have seen one of the black sand beaches in Hawaii but not this one. Thanks for this list, I am adding all these to my list as well.

    Reply
  11. Natascha

    October 7, 2021 at 1:13 am

    I have not yet been to Maui yet – but it is on the list. Although I do not like road trips very much, I can see myself enjoying the Hana Road on Maui. Ther white, black and red beaches look amazing. Good to know, that there are also some hiking possibilities along the way! Great pictures!

    Reply
    • Anda

      October 7, 2021 at 8:01 am

      Hope you’ll make it to Maui someday. It’s really beautiful.

      Reply

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