Planning on driving the famous Road to Hana on Maui? This Maui day trip is one of the top things to do in Maui because of all the amazing stops. Scroll down to find out all the best Road to Hana tips!
This Road to Hana guide was written by Hawaii travel expert Marcie Cheung and contains affiliate links which means if you purchase something from one of my affiliate links, I may earn a small commission that goes back into maintaining this blog.
Planning to drive the Road to Hana? Smart move.
It’s hands down one of the best things you can do on Maui, but it takes some planning to do it right.
After driving it multiple times with my family, I’ve learned a thing or two about making this epic day trip actually work.
What is the Road to Hana?
The Road to Hana is a super windy coastal road that runs from Paia (on Maui’s North Shore) all the way to the tiny town of Hana on the East Shore.
It’s 620 curves, 59 bridges, hairpin turns, and some seriously jaw-dropping scenery.
This is typically a full-day adventure, though some people stretch it into 2-3 days if they really want to explore all the best Road to Hana stops.
You’ll pass incredible Maui waterfalls, amazing hiking spots, and views that’ll make you pull over every five minutes.
The journey itself is the main attraction here. Yeah, Hana is a cute little town, but most people are here for the drive. There’s a reason you see t-shirts that say “I Survived the Road to Hana!”
Want to skip all the planning? I’ve put together a detailed Maui travel guide for families with daily schedules, kid-friendly activities, and all my best tips.
How Long Does the Road to Hana Take?
Here’s the honest answer: it depends on how many stops you make.
The Road to Hana is about 52 miles from Kahului. If you drove straight through without stopping (which would be crazy, honestly), it would take 2-4 hours depending on traffic and weather.
For most people making several stops along the way, plan on a 12-14 hour day from start to finish if you’re staying in Lahaina or Kihei.
That’s why some families choose to spend the night in Hana instead of cramming everything into one day.
Fill Up Your Gas Tank
This is non-negotiable. There are NO gas stations along the Road to Hana until you actually reach Hana town. The last thing you want is to stress about running out of gas when you’re 30 miles from civilization.
If you have a Costco membership, the Costco in Kahului has the cheapest gas on the island. Otherwise, fill up in Paia before you start the drive.
Bring Cash
Most of the cute roadside fruit stands and banana bread stands only take cash. Trust me, you’ll be bummed if you can’t grab some fresh banana bread because you only have your credit card.
The Halfway to Hana stand has an ATM if you forget, but it’s easier to just bring cash from the start.
Rental Car Tips
I know a convertible sounds romantic for this drive, but don’t do it. You’re driving through rainforest, and there’s a good chance it’ll rain on you at some point.
Plus, there are low-hanging trees and branches everywhere.
More importantly, if you’re planning to stop for swimming or hiking, you don’t want your stuff exposed in an open vehicle. Car break-ins do happen.
Also, check your rental car contract. Some companies specifically say you can’t take their cars on the back road past Hana to Wailea. Good to know before you plan your route.
When Should You Drive the Road to Hana?
Always check the weather before you go. Driving in heavy rain is not fun and can actually be dangerous. Winter months tend to be rainier, so keep that in mind.
Start early. Most people hit the road between 7-10am to make it back before dark. You do NOT want to be driving this road after sunset. It gets pitch black and the stress level goes way up.
The best days to go? Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday are typically less crowded than weekends. You’ll have a much better experience without fighting for parking at every stop.
Bring Anti-Nausea Medicine
If you or your kids get motion sick, bring some Dramamine. All those twists and turns can really mess with your stomach.
My kids did fine, but I’ve heard from plenty of parents whose little ones felt pretty queasy, especially if they’re rear-facing in car seats. Better safe than sorry.
And stay hydrated! There are bathrooms at various stops along the way.
Use a Road to Hana Guide
With so many possible stops, you need some kind of guide to help you figure out what’s worth your time. Here are the two best options:
The Shaka App
The Shaka App is by far the most popular choice, and for good reason.
Download it to your phone before you leave, and it’ll give you a history lesson about Maui while telling you which stops to hit and which ones to skip. It’s like having a local guide in your car.
This is what I recommend to everyone. The app uses GPS to know where you are and automatically plays audio as you drive. Super easy. Check out the latest prices here.
Maui Revealed Book
Another solid option is the Maui Revealed guidebook. Just know that some of their recommendations might be on private property, so pay attention to any “No Trespassing” signs. Check it out on Amazon.
Should You Drive the Road to Hana in Reverse?
If your rental car contract doesn’t prohibit it, driving the Road to Hana in reverse is actually pretty smart.
You’ll start from Haleakala National Park and work your way back, which means you’re going against most of the traffic and hitting stops before the crowds arrive.
This can be a great option if you’re worried about time or if you want to do the Road to Hana for a second time on your trip.
The Shaka App has a reverse guide that’s really helpful for this.
Pick Your Stops in Advance
Because there are SO many possible stops, you need to decide ahead of time which ones are must-sees for your family.
Everyone’s different. Some families love waterfalls, others want beaches, and some just want the scenic viewpoints.
Read reviews, check out blog posts (like mine!), and make a game plan. And here’s my advice as a professional tourist: tell yourself you’ll come back to Maui and do this drive again someday.
That way you won’t feel like you’re missing out if you don’t hit every single stop.
Food Options on the Road to Hana
The food situation is pretty limited out here, so if you need to eat every few hours, pack a cooler with sandwiches and snacks. That said, here are a few spots worth checking out:
Huelo Lookout Fruit Stand (between Mile Markers 4 and 5)
They make amazing organic fruit smoothies with freshly squeezed sugar cane juice. So good.
Halfway to Hana Stand (Mile Marker 17)
This place is hard to miss with all the signs. My kids loved getting banana bread here. They sell lunch items like hot dogs and noodles, plus lots of snacks.
Their world-famous banana bread is a must-try. We grabbed some on our last trip and ate it warm while taking in the views.
Coconut Glen’s (Mile Marker 27.5)
Famous vegan ice cream. Even if you’re not vegan, this stuff is delicious. The stand itself is super photo-worthy too.
Up in Smoke BBQ
Great place for kalua pork tacos if you’re craving something more substantial.
Is the Road to Hana Dangerous?
The road itself isn’t dangerous if you pay attention and drive carefully. The danger comes from distracted drivers who are looking at the scenery instead of the road.
Here’s my advice: switch drivers every hour or two. That way someone can enjoy the views while the other person focuses on driving.
Pull over to let locals pass. Remember, people actually live along this road and they have places to be. Don’t be that tourist with a line of cars behind you.
And please, PLEASE do not stop in the middle of the road to take photos. I can’t believe I have to say this, but it happens all the time.
People will literally stand in the middle of the highway for that perfect Instagram shot. Don’t be that person. It’s dangerous and super inconsiderate.
Can You Just Do Half of the Road to Hana?
Absolutely. In fact, if you’re traveling with young kids or you’re short on time, I actually think the first half is the best part anyway.
Start in Paia, stop at the Garden of Eden, check out a few waterfalls, and end at the Halfway to Hana stand. Grab lunch and banana bread there, take some photos, and then head back.
Easy day, less exhausting, and you still get the Road to Hana experience.
This worked great for us when my kids were younger and I didn’t want to commit to a full 13-hour day.
Top Road to Hana Stops (In Order by Mile Marker)
Okay, here are the nine stops that I think are most worth your time:
1. Paia Town (Starting Point)
This adorable little town is where the Road to Hana officially starts. It’s got a hippy/artsy vibe with cute shops, restaurants, and a gas station (last chance to fill up!).
Stop at Mana Foods if you need to grab drinks and snacks for the road.
2. Twin Falls (Mile Marker 2)
Twin Falls is an easy stop with a short hike to a waterfall. Great for families with kids.
That said, there are bigger and better waterfalls later in the drive. If you got a late start or you’re pressed for time, you can skip this one. But it’s a nice first stop if you want to stretch your legs early.
3. Ho’okipa Beach Park (Mile Marker 9)
This beach is famous for windsurfers and kitesurfers because it gets pretty windy. You can also come back here on your way home around sunset to see sea turtles making their way to the beach. Super cool.
4. Garden of Eden (Mile Marker 10.5)
My kids LOVED this stop. It’s a gorgeous botanical garden with ocean views, an enchanted forest feel, and tons of photo ops. There’s even a 100-year-old mango tree that’s pretty impressive.
The Garden of Eden is $20 for adults (16+), $10 for kids 5-16, and free for kids under 5. It’s open daily from 8am to 4pm. Read my full Garden of Eden guide here.
Honestly, my family thought this was way more interesting than the free Ke’anae Arboretum you’ll see later. The Garden of Eden has better views and more variety. Worth the admission price.
Want to explore Maui with less planning? Check out my Maui travel guide for families.
5. Halfway to Hana Stand (Mile Marker 17)
Whether you’re hungry or just need to stretch your legs, this is a great spot. There’s a little parking lot, so it’s easy to pull off.
My family always gets banana bread here (it’s famous for a reason), and the kids love taking photos with the Halfway to Hana sign.
They sell lunch items, ice cream, shave ice, and lots of snacks. Perfect mid-journey stop.
6. Coconut Glen’s (Mile Marker 27.5)
Even if you’re not vegan, you need to try this coconut milk ice cream. It’s ridiculously good, and the colorful bus is super Instagram-worthy. They only take cash, so plan ahead.
7. Hana Lava Tube (Mile Marker 31)
Also called Ka’eleku Caverns, this is one of the coolest stops on the whole drive. It’s a self-guided tour through a massive lava tube with handrails and flashlights provided.
The whole thing takes less than an hour, and kids think it’s amazing. $15 per person, free for kids 5 and under. Open daily from 10:30am to 4pm.
My kids still talk about walking through the cave. It’s different from everything else on the drive, which makes it feel special.
8. Waianapanapa State Park (Mile Marker 32)
This is the famous black sand beach with sea caves and hiking trails. Absolutely stunning.
Important: You MUST make reservations in advance to visit this park. Non-residents need to book ahead at gostateparks.hawaii.gov/waianapanapa. It’s $10 for parking and $5 per person for entry. Hawaii residents get in free.
Reservations open 30 days in advance at midnight Hawaiian time. They fill up fast, so don’t wait until the last minute.
Read my full guide to Waianapanapa State Park here.
9. Hana Town (Mile Marker 34)
This is where a lot of people turn around and head back.
Hana is a cute little town where you can hang out at Hana Beach Park, check out Hasegawa General Store, grab food at Ka’uiki Restaurant, or explore the Hana Cultural Center.
There are plenty of things to do in Hana if you want to spend more time here. Some people even stay overnight in Hana to avoid rushing.
10. Seven Sacred Pools/Ohe’o Gulch (Mile Marker 42)
If you keep going past Hana, you’ll reach the Seven Sacred Pools (officially called Ohe’o Gulch) in Haleakala National Park.
Update for 2025-2026: Swimming is currently NOT allowed in the pools due to safety concerns.
You can still hike down to view them from the Kuloa Point Trail, and the area is still beautiful. The famous Pipiwai Trail hike (which leads to a 400-foot waterfall through a bamboo forest) is still open and totally worth doing.
Check the National Park Service website before you go to make sure the area is open. Sometimes they close it due to flooding or other safety issues.
Best Road to Hana Tours
If you’d rather not drive yourself (totally understandable), booking a tour is a great option. You can sit back, enjoy the views, and let someone else handle those hairpin turns.
Here are some solid options:
Book Road to Hana tours through Viator or Get Your Guide.
Most tours include breakfast, lunch, and stops at the best viewpoints and attractions. They typically run 8-10 hours and pick you up from your hotel.
What to Pack for the Road to Hana
Here’s what you absolutely need to bring:
Camera or Phone: The scenery is incredible. If you’re planning to hike to waterfalls or go swimming, bring a waterproof phone case or a GoPro.
Drinks: Pack a small cooler with plenty of water and other drinks. Pro tip: freeze some water bottles and use them as ice packs. As they melt, you’ll have ice-cold water all day. Find coolers on Amazon.
Snacks: Sandwiches, granola bars, fruit. Whatever keeps you from getting hangry.
Hiking Shoes: Do not hike in flip-flops. The trails can be muddy and slippery. You need actual hiking shoes with good traction.
Bug Spray: Some stops are super buggy. Bring bug repellent or use essential oils if you prefer. Check prices on Amazon.
Sunscreen: Even if you think you’ll be in the car or under tree cover, wear reef-safe sunscreen and reapply often. The sun in Maui is no joke.
Swimsuit: If you’re planning to check out any waterfalls or beaches, wear your swimsuit under your clothes for easy changes.
Extra Clothes: Bring dry clothes for the car ride home. Sitting in wet swimsuits is miserable.
Phone Charger: You’ll be taking tons of photos and videos. Bring a portable battery pack so your phone doesn’t die halfway through the day. Find them on Amazon.
Backpack: A waterproof backpack is perfect for carrying towels, snacks, water bottles, and extra clothes when you explore stops. Check prices here.
Want to make sure you don’t forget anything? I’ve got a complete Maui travel guide for families with packing lists and daily itineraries.
Where to Stay on the Road to Hana
If you want to spend the night instead of doing this all in one day, here are your options:
Waianapanapa State Park: You can camp here if you snag a permit ahead of time. It’s a gorgeous spot right on the black sand beach. More info on Waianapanapa camping here.
YMCA Camp Ke’anae: They have tent camping and cabins available. Book well in advance because they don’t take same-day reservations.
Hana Kai Condos: If camping isn’t your thing, these condos have ocean views and are only 8 miles from the Seven Sacred Pools. Check prices on Expedia.
Hana-Maui Resort: This is the fancy option. Rustic but chic, perfect for honeymoons or a splurge. See availability on Booking.com.
FAQs
Where is the Road to Hana?
The Road to Hana is on Maui’s eastern coast. It starts in Paia on the North Shore and ends in Hana on the East Shore. The drive is about 52 miles and can take anywhere from a few hours to a full day depending on how many stops you make.
Is the Road to Hana worth it?
Yes, absolutely. It’s one of the top things to do in Maui. The waterfalls, beaches, and scenery are incredible. Just make sure you plan ahead so you can enjoy it without feeling stressed.
Need More Help Planning Your Maui Trip?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, I’ve got you covered. Check out my Maui travel guide for families for complete daily itineraries, or take my free 7-day email course on planning a trip to Maui.
As a Hawaii travel expert who’s been to the islands over 40 times, I can help you plan the perfect trip. And if you want personalized help, I offer Hawaii travel consultations where we can chat about your specific needs.
You might also like listening to my podcast, Hawaii Travel Made Easy. I’ve got episodes on what you need to know about the Road to Hana and how to plan a trip to Maui.
Looking for a Maui Photographer?
Want professional photos from your Road to Hana adventure? I love using Flytographer for family photos in Hawaii. T
hey’ll meet you at your chosen spot and take amazing shots while you just enjoy the experience. Save $20 when you book through my link.
Don’t Forget Your Car Rental
You’ll need a reliable car for this drive. I always book through Discount Hawaii Car Rental because they have the best rates and great customer service. Book your car here with my referral code.
More Maui Adventures
The Road to Hana is just one of many incredible things to do on Maui. You’ve also got snorkeling, whale watching, exploring Molokini Crater, hiking, ATV tours, and so much more.
Want more Hawaii trip planning help? Check out my other guides:
- Oahu travel guide for families
- Kauai travel guide for families
- Big Island travel guide for families
- Hawaii island hopping guide
Have an amazing time on the Road to Hana! Start early, bring snacks, and soak it all in. This is the kind of day you’ll remember forever.
