Hawaii’s Hana Highway, also known as the 2-Day Road Trip Road to Hana, is a well-known 83-kilometer route that runs along Maui’s northeastern coast and is a section of Hawaii State Routes 36 and 360. The motto here is “less is more.” The beautifully isolated, rustic village of Hana, which was originally the location of a thriving sugar cane plantation and mill, is where the route finishes. It starts in the major town of Kahului. The road is a breathtaking drive among cliffs, beaches, and waterfalls with more than 600 abrupt turns and bends and 59 bridges (46 of which are one-lane). You are rewarded with a lush, expansive drive amid tropical jungles and high cliffs overlooking the turquoise and emerald Pacific Ocean, despite its innumerable winding turns.
The route winds past kukui trees, Hawaii’s state tree, which thrives along the mountain’s slopes. There aren’t any terrible views in sight. Period. Every turn exposes breathtaking views, plentiful waterfalls, floral gardens, famous surf places, black sand beaches, and green taro food crop fields. Check out the top stops on the Road to Hana during your vacation and plan a perfect 2-day road trip to Hana with us
Refuel at Paia
Your journey begins in Paia, a lovely community on Maui’s North Shore and the last gas station before Hana. Mama’s Fish House is a popular beachfront restaurant for a leisurely lunch. Otherwise, pick up some picnic supplies at Paia Fish Market or Tina’s Garden Gourmet Café (notice that the only food options along the road are various fruit vendors).
Stretch Your Legs in Huelo
At mile marker 2, Twin Falls offers stunning cascades and excellent swimming opportunities. Huelo is a peaceful rural village with two churches. Stop here to trek along the Waikamoi Nature Trail (markers 9 and 10), which is a great location to stretch your legs while taking in the grandeur of the bamboo forest and the lovely aroma of ginger.
Hike to Twin Falls
The hike to Twin Falls is unique and spectacular. These gorgeous waterfalls provide ample swimming opportunities. Consider sticking to the closest falls along the path (lower falls) to save time on your tour, and be especially cautious of flash floods! Cars are always stopped here since it is one of the first waterfalls on the Road to Hana that is easily accessible. At the entryway, there is a farm stand that sells excellent smoothies and other delights.
Connect with the Natural World Close to Keanae
The remainder of the route includes numerous scenic pauses. The brightly colorful botanical flowers of Garden of Eden Arboretum are sure to impress. Further along the road, the Keanae Arboretum offers a strenuous woodland climb, while the majestic Waikani Falls provide a stunning backdrop for photographs. Continue down the road to explore the Hana Lava Tube, a large cave formed by lava flows. If you prefer to keep your experience above ground, Pailoa Beach’s gorgeous black sand is an excellent choice.
Admire the OheO Gulch scenery
Waianapanapa State Park is a 49-hectare park that includes a beautiful black sand beach and spring-fed freshwater caves. At the end of the route, you will come upon OheO Gulch, also known as the “Seven Sacred Pools.” This is one of East Maui’s most popular swimming and cliff jumping locations.
Banana Bread
The Road to Hana offers a wide variety of freshly baked banana bread alternatives. We’ve probably tried them all. Additionally, we believe that this bread is the best, even though we have never been let down by any of the breads that are sold. They also sell other foods and beverages.
Arrive in Hana- end your 2 day road trip
Driving just past OheO Gulch brings you to Hana, a charming and tranquil village hidden in an emerald rain forest. Keep the windows closed to enjoy the fresh sea air blended with a seductive scent of white ginger and sweet guava. You’ve reached the end of the road, ready to turn back and restart the breathtaking journey. Alternatively, you can extend your relaxing vacation by staying at the charming resorts, where you can surf or horseback ride before returning. Following this journey, one can proudly display the classic bumper sticker, “I Survived the Road to Hana.”
Nahiku MarketPlace for Shopping in Hana
This is a fun place to shop for gifts and enjoy delicious food. They provide some of the best kalua pork tacos we’ve ever had.
Some guidebooks recommend that you travel down Nahiku Road. We believe it is just as lovely as Hana Highway. Furthermore, much of it is private property, so please move on with respect.
