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Top 5 Road to Hana Tours

The top 5 road to hana tours.

A serpentine route that parallels one of the most spectacular coastlines in the world. Waterfalls galore. Plunging freshwater pools. Beaches comprised of black sand, gray sand, white sand, and even red. Tropical rainforests; radical seascapes. Is it any wonder why the Road to Hana is considered a leading attraction not just on Maui but also on Earth? Allow us to help you narrow down your options when it comes to the top Road to Hana tours.

• Complete Hana Tour – Best Price, Best Experience, Run by Locals!
• Full Loop Tour – Private/Exclusive
• Halfway Hana Tour – Less Road Time
• Road to Hana Tour – Experience
• Hana Jungle Tour – Customizable

For those who choose to eschew a self-driven exploration of Maui’s remote eastern coast, the question becomes which tour they should select. With this in mind, we’ve pulled together our picks for the top Road to Hana tours —and given you a rundown of each option.

Complete Hana Tour

This 9.5-hour Complete Hana Tour takes the stress out of navigating the 64.4-mile route to Hana—a trek that, while endlessly stunning, includes hairpin turns and the need to pay careful, constant attention to the road. On this tour—as well as the others included here—you’ll be able to sit back, relax, and absorb the copious beauty all around you, from acres of land teeming with lush crops to waterfalls crashing from killer heights. Along the way, you’ll stop at a number of the Road to Hana’s greatest highlights. Chief among them? Waiʻanapanapa State Park —a 122-acre oasis that boasts a hala forest, a natural sea arch, blowholes, and an underwater grotto steeped in ancient myths—and the largest perennial stream on Maui, Palikea. Frequently praised for their fun adventures and informative team of guides, your Complete Hana Tour provides entertainment and education in equal measure.

Know Before You Go:

• Complete Hana Tours include a choice of sub sandwich or veggie wrap as well as snacks, water, and soft drinks. The first stop on the tour has coffee and breakfast items for sale.  Occasionally vegetarian and gluten-free options are offered, but those with dietary restrictions should inquire before being picked up for your tour.
• Consider yourself an early riser? Good! The Complete Hana Tour starts early (with hotel pick-up offered between 6 and 7 a.m.).
• Given the range of spots at which you’ll be stopping, wear appropriate footwear—and dress for adventure (swimsuits, water shoes, reef-safe-sunscreen, hat, etc.)

Hana Waterfall & Beach Full Loop Tour

Few trips journey into the real heart of Hawaii like the Road to Hana—especially when you’re on board with the Hana Full Loop Tour. This 8-12-hour expedition has several factors that make it stand out from the rest. First off? This Tour is the brainchild of Kellen Ferguson, who was born and raised on Maui and knows the island like the back of his hand. His deep knowledge of the land informs his tours, which brim with insider’s insights—and stops at special spots that other tour companies typically drive past. What’s more, each of these Local Maui Tours’ journeys is custom-designed, allowing you to set the pace and determine the action (with weather and safety considerations in mind, of course).

With options ranging from tours of lava tubes, ocean blowholes, and ancient lava formations to hikes that’ll take you to some of Maui’s most astonishing waterfalls , you’re bound to settle on an itinerary that will leave you more than satisfied. Further, while most rental companies disallow vehicles to travel to Maui’s “backside”—the barren and beautiful swath of land between Hana and Kula, which includes blind curves and washboard sections—the Hana Waterfall & Beach Full Loop Tour provides guests with the chance to do so (and safely at that). This will bring you into close contact with a stretch of Maui few see—and a glimpse into old Hawaii.

• While these local tours do not supply meals, the Hana Waterfall & Beach Full Loop Tour allows you to sample some of East Maui’s signature eats (from food trucks, roadside stands, and more), including Kalua pork tacos, plate lunch from Braddah Huts, Huli Huli Chicken, and melt-in-your-mouth homemade coconut ice cream.
• Should you choose to do the full loop—and if time allows—you may be able to taste some of the delectable wines at Ulupalakua’s Maui Wine.
• Have small keiki on hand? Be sure to pack your own car seat ( see updated Hawaii car seat laws .)

Halfway to Hana Tour

Unable to devote an entire day to seeing Maui’s secluded eastern coast? The Halfway to Hana Tour may be just the trip for you. Roughly 7 – 8 hours in length, this trip may be abbreviated, but it’s still huge on spectacular activities. While the tour itinerary depends upon your wishes—as well as stream flow rate, water quality, and rainfall—some of the sights you may see include Honomanu Bay (an isolated beach located at the base of sea cliffs that ascend 300 feet into the sky) and Waikani Falls, a photogenic trio of cascades that are surrounded by Hana’s iconic, verdant rainforest. What’s more, the Halfway to Hana Tour caps off with seven guests, which gives you a chance to have an intimate, chill experience.

• While the Halfway to Hana Tour affords guests the chance to take moderate to strenuous hikes, there’s no need to be a fitness buff: Again, each tour is custom-designed and can be tailored according to your and your group’s athleticism.
• That being said, be sure to pack water shoes and a swimsuit. The Road to Hana is synonymous with getting wet.

Road to Hana Tour

This Road to Hana adventure is certain to be an unforgettable Maui experience and it’s no wonder it makes our list of the top Road to Hana tours.  Fully customizable and private, this tour will only include your party (max: 6 passengers). Have your adventure tailored to fit your needs, interests, and fitness level while enjoying the rich history and culture of the East Maui region.  Friendly and knowledgeable guides take you through the twists and turns of the Hana Highway while stopping to enjoy secluded waterfalls, historical sites, and eateries along the way. From cliff-jumping to banana bread, this Road to Hana tour will reflect your style so that you can enjoy the experience to the fullest. Popular stops include waterfalls, bamboo forests, historical and cultural sites, a black sand beach, farm stands, food trucks, and stops to see unbelievable views of Maui. Get off the beaten path with this Road To Hana experience.

• Customizable, luxurious, private tour with your choice of three to four excursions along the way.
• Water, snacks & lunch are included, with options to purchase banana bread and other delights as you make your way to Hana Town.
• Waiʻanapanapa reservations are included should you choose to stop at the Black Sand Beach.
• Make sure to bring swimsuits, water shoes, and reef-safe sunscreen!

Hana Jungle Tour

As an alternative to the Hana Full Loop tour, you can choose to spend more time in the nature of the Road to Hana with the Hana Jungle, Waterfall, & Beach Tour. With approximately 8.5 hours to spend along the North Shore’s famed Road to Hana, you can hike deeper into the jungle to find even more waterfalls and private swimming holes. See extensive lava tubes, ocean blowholes, and multi-colored sand beaches.  There are many roadside food stops along the way giving you plenty of opportunity to enjoy local cuisine like kalua pork tacos, coconut ice cream, huli-huli chicken, and freshly baked banana bread. Some of the sites you may encounter are the storied Hana Bay , Puaʻa Kaʻa State Park, Keanae, a bamboo forest, the heart-shaped rock (Jurassic Park), Twin Falls, and more! These are just a few of the spots you’ll savor on this one-of-a-kind trip where you choose your own adventure.

• Meet your guide at 8:00 a.m. at Safeway in Kahului at 1090 Hoʻokele St, Kahului, HI 96732.
• The tour will conclude around 4:30 p.m.
• Hotel pick-up is available for a fee.
• Make sure to bring water, swimsuits, water shoes, a towel, cash for tips and roadside stands, and reef-safe sunscreen!

Still can’t decide?

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Join the discussion 11 Comments

How much is the half loop Hanna tour ?

Prices change seasonally. Once things are open again, you can check future dates for booking and pricing.

This Road to Hana Tour guide is incredibly helpful. You’ve really thought through everything you need to know before planning a trip. Thank you for this helpful resource. Saving this guide for later!

I went on the Hana Beyond Tour and it was exceptional. I would recommend it to anyone looking to experience the “real Hawaii” that doesn’t exist at the resorts.

I’m travelling with a senior who can’t do hikes, but would enjoy the scenic drive. Let me know if this tour would work for her.

Mihalo, Carolyn

Same question for us – were you able to get an answer?

All of these tours can be enjoyed without getting out and hiking. You can stop and explore more if you like, but most pop out, get some banana bread, walk, pop in, pop out to look at the black sand beach, pop back in, etc…

Which would be a good tour for my husband and I – where my husband has recently had shoulder surgery and cannot do any hiking – but we still want to see and experience the tour?

Hi! We are interested in taking one of your tours. We are going to be on a Cruise. Do you offer to pick up at the port?

Do u stop in Hana. There is a little store there that is worth stopping for. I am looking for a tour that stops there

It depends on what the group wants to do and if there’s time for it. Which store are you referring to?

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The Ultimate 3-Day Road to Hana Itinerary

quickwhittravel

Updated July 1, 2021.

Are you ready to road trip one of the most scenic, small, and curvy roads in the world? Well, buckle up because here we go! Most visitors to Maui choose to drive the whole Road to Hana and back all in one day. But for those of us who don’t necessarily love to drive, do love to hike, and who are visiting Maui to relax, spending a night or two in or around Hana is a great option! We chose to do just that, and now we’re sharing our itinerary with you.

The first day was our busiest. I almost wish we had taken our time even more so we could have done a couple more hikes! But it was quite a rainy morning, and we were warned that a couple of the trails were treacherous even on a dry day. Use your discretion, and stay safe! If you get injured on the Road to Hana, it could be a while until help arrives.

Also, we got started about half an hour after we planned due to a small snafu with the car rental company, but we were on the road by 6:30am, which was just fine. I suggest you start early, too!

Stop 1: Ho’okipa Beach

This is the first stop just outside Paia, and it is worth getting out to take it all in! You’ll see some large waves, especially if you’re here in the winter. We visited in late April, so the waves were good-sized, but not huge. Even before 7:00am, there were swimmers and surfers in the water to enjoy the surf! The parking area and lookout point are just past the beach, and there are port-a-potties here for your convenience. Use them!

Keep reading: What to Know Before You Drive the Road to Hana

Stop 2: twin falls.

This is one to skip if you’re starting late because it’s a short hike, and the correct waterfalls are a little difficult to find. There had been so much rain recently and while we were there, that I think there were more waterfalls than usual! Stop here if you are starting early, but if you’re starting after 8:00am, go ahead and skip it so you can get a jump on the people who are stopping here.

If you do stop here, there is a food stand that serves a variety of beverages and fresh fruits. There are also port-a-potties here, so be sure to use them if you didn’t at Ho’okipa Beach, as the next toilet opportunity is several miles away. Also, please read the signs:

Keep reading: The Ultimate List of Hiking Tips

Stop 3: huelo church.

Because you’re taking three days instead of one to do the Road to Hana, you will definitely have time to venture down the tiny road to this tiny church! I love rustic churches in beautiful settings, and even on a cloudy day, this was one of my favorite finds. There is no restroom, but you won’t be here long, just look to the left for the green bus stop covering and the two rows of mailboxes to find where to turn to get to the church.

Keep reading: Hawaii for History Lovers

Stop 4: waikamoi ridge trail.

This is one we wish we had skipped in favor of another hike, perhaps the Na’ili’ili-haele waterfall hike we skipped before stopping at this one. Waikamoi Ridge Trail is very lush and pretty, but it is so full of vegetation, there really were no views. You can hear the waterfall below, but you can’t see it. There are no bathrooms here, and it is muddy most of the time because it’s in the rain forest, and the sun cannot get through the vegetation enough to really dry it up. That said, it was a nice hike!

Read on: Hiking Hawaii: Maui

Waikamoi Falls is just around the bend when you get back on the Road, but we did not stop because the road was very congested with people doing the wrong thing–stopping in the middle of the road to take pictures and blocking the bridge. So we just looked out the window and drove off as soon as we could. There are plenty of roadside waterfalls, so missing one is not the end of the world!

Stop 5: Kaumahina State Wayside Park

I can’t tell you how glad I was for the restroom facilities here! You will find plenty of parking here as well. There is a small trail behind the bathrooms, but it was blocked by some fallen trees when we visited. There is also a nice lookout over the ocean and a peninsula.

More here: Romantic Things to Do on Maui

Stop 6: halfway to hana food stand.

This was such a great find! Not only do you have plenty of food options (sandwiches, fruit, smoothies, banana bread, cookies, preserves, etc.), you also have port-a-potties and some fun photo ops! Bring cash as credit cards are not accepted.

Get more: Where to Eat on Maui

Stop 7: wailua overlook.

This is one that’s easy to miss if you don’t know it’s here, but there is a large lookout point with some space to park and enjoy the view. The little church down below is nicknamed the “Miracle Church” because of its miraculous construction. It’s made of coral, which was very cumbersome to harvest. A freak storm came up one day and deposited more than enough coral for the construction of the church, and when they were finished building, another freak storm came and took the remaining coral away!

Keep reading: Top 10 Road to Hana Sites

Stop 8: waikani falls (three bears falls).

This set of falls is famous for looking like Papa Bear, Mama Bear, and Baby Bear! It was definitely worthwhile to stop at the appropriate parking lot just up the hill from the falls and walk back down for a photo. You can also hike down to the bottom of the falls and swim there if you like!

Read on: 10 Reasons to Stay in Hana

Stop 9: pua’a ka’a state wayside park.

This is my favorite Wayside Park of the entire journey! Not only are there restrooms and plenty of parking, you’ll also enjoy not one, but two sets of waterfalls! You can also swim here if you’ve brought your bathing suit and water shoes (those rocks are sharp!). We saw a local doing some cliff jumping, but we would never recommend doing that unless you are absolutely certain of the depth and that there are no jagged rocks below.

Read on: The Ultimate Maui Bucket List

Stop 10: hanawi falls.

Just a couple of miles down the road, you’ll come upon beautiful Hanawi Falls, visible from the Road. There is room to park along the road and get photos. If it’s been raining, it’ll be a beautiful photo opportunity and a great spot to swim if you like. If it’s been dry, it may only be a trickle, but it would still be a refreshing place to swim.

Keep reading: What to Know Before You Visit Maui

Step 11: pi’ilanihale heiau.

Hopefully you’ll have better luck with this one than we did! I was very interested in this site because  heiau means “temple” or sacred Hawaiian site. Unfortunately, there had been so much rain recently that the road to get there was closed. Better luck next time!

Stop 12: Waianapanapana State Park

If you need to be convinced further to take more than just one day for the Road to Hana, this state park is the best reason. The picnic area and black sand beach near the parking lot were nice, but the blowhole everyone was standing around watching was not blowing at that time of day–only at high tide.

However, that’s all the day trippers had time to see and do. We, on the other hand, had the luxury of time on our side. So we took the Waianapanapana Coastal Trail to the right as you look at the ocean. Not only was the dramatic landscape stunning, not only did we get to see the biggest waves we’ve ever seen, we also had it all to ourselves! We got our own private blowhole that spouted with each and every wave! It was romantic, beautiful, peaceful, and an experience we will never forget.

Bonus: there are a large restroom and an outdoor shower near the parking lot!

More here: Epic Landscapes of the World

Stop 13: hana town.

While the Road to Hana journey is not really about Hana itself, it’s a cute little town that you will only reach if you take the tiny, winding Road to Hana! There are plenty food trucks and a couple of sit-down restaurants to take a break and get some lunch or an early dinner, but most businesses there close around 4:00pm because that’s the latest that day trippers should stay before turning back to return to their accommodations elsewhere on the island. We did not spend much time here, since we knew we’d be back the next day.

More here: What to Know Before You Visit the Hawaiian Islands

Stop 14 and 15: koki beach and hamoa beach.

Many people choose to make Hana their turn-around point, or they are more interested in hiking through the Pipiwai Trail and Bamboo Forest than they are in stopping at these beaches just beyond Hana. That works in your favor, since you have plenty of time! Koki Beach is picturesque, but strong currents do not make it good for swimming. Hamoa Beach is better for swimming, has port-a-potties available, and has picnic tables available if you’s like a seaside meal.

Read on: Books to Read Before Your Trip to Hawaii

Stop 16: check in to vacation rental.

We got all of that accomplished before 3:00pm, when we could check into our vacation rental! We stayed at the Hana Harvest House, about 7 miles before Hana. We were surprised to find out how much we accomplished between 6:30am and 3:15pm, but we were so glad to be able to settle in a little after 3:00 and enjoy a relaxing evening before heading out to explore the rest of the infamous Road to Hana the next day. There are a couple of hotel options in Hana, but there are even more vacation rental options both in Hana and in the surrounding areas as well.

More here: Your Ultimate Guide to Vacation Rentals

We intentionally started our second day on the Road to Hana at the very end: Charles Lindbergh’s gravesite. It took about an hour to get there from our vacation rental, and we knew that getting there at the beginning of the day would ensure we had it, and the subsequent Bamboo Forest hike, all to ourselves. The section of the road from Hana to the Lindbergh grave gets a little rough and considerably narrower, so we had to be a little more patient.

Stop 1: Wailua Falls

We stopped here because we just couldn’t  not stop! The waterfall is right next to the road, and there was all kinds of space for parking on the side of the road. We figured if we waited until we drive back past it again on our way back to the vacation rental, there could be several more cars and several more people lingering. So we took our opportunity! No restrooms, but there are some at Stop 3!

Related: How to Savor Your Travels

Stop 2: charles a. lindbergh gravesite, palapala ho’omau church.

Originally from Michigan, Charles Lindbergh was an airmail carrier before his famous flight from New York to Paris in the roaring 20s! His life continued to make news when his twenty-month-old son was kidnapped in 1932, but he strove to stay out of the headlines thereafter. He ended up here on remote Maui to live out his final years before his death of lymphoma in 1974. As an avid traveler and incredibly frequent flyer, I wanted to make sure we found his gravesite, since we would be so near.

It’s on the grounds fo the Palapala Ho’omau Church, and a photo of his gravestone is below. It’s just one mile past the Haleakala National Park entrance, so be on the lookout for the small sign for the church down a tiny road to the left if you choose to go. (FYI, no restrooms.)

Read more: Hawaii for History Lovers

Stop 3: waimoku falls and bamboo forest at haleakala national park (kipahulu entrance), $25 park entrance fee per car parking opens at 8:00am; visitor center opens at 9:00pm; closes at 4:30pm.

So, if we could have gotten out of paying the $25, we would have done. Perhaps you can find a way! The road is far too narrow to park on either side, but that fee is good for all of Haleakala National Park for three full days, and that includes Haleakala Crater, accessed around the other side of the mountain and crater itself. Keep your receipt, especially if you plan to take in the sunrise at Haleakala Crater one of the next two mornings. There are restroom facilities and water available here included with your park fee as well.

Fees aside, this was  the highlight of the Road to Hana for me. Not only do you get an incredible (but not too difficult) 5-mile round-trip hike here, the hike takes you a mile through the fantastic Bamboo Forest and ends with a stunning 400 foot waterfall! The trail is always muddy, so wear hiking shoes that you don’t mind getting a little squishy!

More here: 5 Things You Forgot to Pack for Hawaii

I would not pass this hike up for anything! Both Steve and I rate it very high on our list of the best things about the Road to Hana. The smaller trails near the parking lot below that lead along the coast and to O’heo Gulch (aka the Seven Sacred Pools) are probably very nice most of the time, but portions had been washed out and were blocked off due to recent rains, so we did not get to see much there. Hopefully you will have better luck!

More here: Hawaii’s Best Souvenirs

Stop 4: hana for lunch at the ranch.

By this time, we were getting quite hungry, so we made our way back to Hana Town for lunch. Feel free to stop at Hamoa Beach and Koki Beach if you like, especially if you did not venture there on Day 1.

There are several food options in Hana, most of them food stands or food trucks. Huli huli chicken is a traditional Maui meal, but there are also Thai, Mexican, Filipino, and more food options. The Ranch is a nice spot with a stunning view from a hill overlooking the ocean, so we chose that. While you’re in town, check out the local shops and use the ATM at the General Store if you’re running low on cash.

Still hungry? Where to Eat on Each Hawaiian Island

Stop 5: hana bay.

There is some public parking at Hana Bay, so take advantage of it. There are some places to park around Hana and near the trailhead for the Red Sand Beach, but it filled up quickly! Hana Bay has a black sand beach and is good for swimming if you like, and it’s pretty central to the next couple of stops, so we chose to park ourselves there and walk to the rest of our destinations. You will also find picnic areas here if you want a seaside spot for lunch! There are also restrooms here.

Read next: What to Do on Your Last Day on Hawaii

Stop 6: red sand beach.

So, you may have read that the Red Sand Beach is on private property. That’s sort of true, but you really don’t have to worry about trespassing. The beach itself, like all beaches in Hawaii, is 100% public. The trail is on private property, but this signage absolves the owner of liability, so walk the trail at your own risk. But let’s be honest: this was the easiest trail we took all day, even with the loose gravel!

The hike to the Red Sand Beach is stunning. It just is. You will be walking along a short cliff, so do be careful not to fall onto the lava rocks below. That aside, the trail is a rusty-red color all the way, and the loose gravel is not too bad. And the view when you get within sight of the beach is absolutely breathtaking!

Why is the sand red? There was iron in the volcano that formed it! You will find public restrooms a block from the trail head at the corner of Haouli Road and Uakea Road. Also, be aware that this a clothing optional beach! We did not see anyone participating in nude beach-style activities, however, so don’t worry about that too much!

Keep reading: Hawaii’s Best Adventures

Stop 7: hana cultural center and court house.

Well, this one was a bust! Everything I saw online said the Hana Cultural Center and Court House were open Monday-Friday from 10:00am-4:00pm, but when we arrived, that was not the case! There was a white board up with a calendar, and written on it were the opening dates for the month. Perhaps a call before visiting would have been a good idea if you’re interested in going yourself!

Stop 8: Pick Up Food and Back to the Vacation Rental

We were all hiked out and walked out for the day after all that, so we headed back “home” for the evening! We knew the cafe near our vacation rental had pizza available, so that was our plan for supper. We slept well that night in anticipation of our last day driving the Road to Hana.

Day 3 was mostly about getting photos with no people in them. We had already seen everything on the way in, but this morning would be something special because we could have some of the sites to ourselves!

Stop 1: Nahiku Road

This small, winding off-shoot of the Road to Hana promised large mansions of the rich and famous… but they must have been beyond the “Road Closed” sign because we did not see them! I would recommend skipping it, especially since the road looked like it was permanently closed beyond a certain point (or perhaps the residents beyond the sign have decided to put it up to keep tourists like us away!).

Stop 2: Hanawi Falls

We stopped back by Hanawi Falls to get a few more pictures and enjoy this peaceful scene by ourselves. I love that there are at least 6 waterfalls in sight, plus a babbling brook! What a beautiful way to start our morning–secluded with waterfalls in the jungle and ocean breezes to boot!

More here: Surviving the Flight to Hawaii

Stop 3: pua kai state wayside park.

This is a little gem I was truly looking forward to enjoying alone with my Love! It’s just so quintessential Hawaiian, and let’s face it, I wanted to make sure we had a bathroom stop soon, too!

Read on: How to Spend 8 Days on Maui

Stop 4: wailua overlook.

I know we stopped here on the way down the Road on Day 1, but it’s such a spectacular view, we had to stop again. The sun was starting to break through the clouds, I was able to get a different angle with no people in the way also looking over, and the “miracle church” was still there, standing proud off in the distance!

Stop 5: Half Way to Hana

By the time we got back to the Half Way to Hana roadside stand, I realized I hadn’t had any coffee yet! So we stopped for a coffee, and I noticed their pushpin board. I put one in for us from Washington, D.C.!

Stop 6: Keanae Peninsula

This is an experience we missed somehow on the way to Hana, so I’m glad we had another chance to explore it on the way back! This peninsula is home to a small village, including a church that is the only structure still standing after the 1946 tsunami that wiped out everything else here. There’s a great little stand called Aunty Sandy’s, and you can get sandwiches, beverages, banana bread, etc. here if you need. We parked by the bay and walked down to the end of the peninsula. There are restrooms both at Aunty Sandy’s and over by the shoreline at the end of the peninsula as well.

More here: 10 Reasons to Visit Maui

Stop 7: finishing up at hookipa beach.

We thought we’d stop at the Rainbow Forest since we drove past it on the way in, and then at Na’ili’ili-haele for the hike we missed due to rainy conditions on Day 1, but by the time we got there, both sites were far too crowded! Let this be a reminder of the importance of starting early, my friends! But never fear, we treated ourselves to more big wave views at the Hookipa Beach Overlook. We also stopped periodically along the road’s many unmarked pull-off areas to take in some scenic vistas.

Stop 8: Paia and Lunch at Paia Fish Market

Our last stop was where we first began: Paia! We rolled back into this laid-back surfer town and were truly shocked at how quickly we felt out of place. Even Paia was too busy after two and a half days of the relaxing Road to Hana experience! But it was a gentle re-entry to society for which we were grateful.

Lunchtime! We both chose a fish dish from the Paia Fish Market. We got there just a few minutes before opening (11:00am), and there was already a line forming to order. We knew we’d found just the right place!

Still hungry? Check out my World Foods Page !

Are you ready to drive the famous Road to Hana yourself? Check out What to Know Before You Drive the Road to Hana ! Think you’d prefer a one-day trip instead? Comment below! More from Hana and the rest of our trip to Maui is on the way! And visit my Hawaiian Islands Page for all things Hawaii!

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13 responses to “the ultimate 3-day road to hana itinerary”.

Thanks for sharing! Three Bear Falls looks amazing!

You’re welcome! And yes, it’s a beautiful one!

Ooh! I did the road to Hana last July and it was just spectacular! It is lovely and nostalgic to read through your experience and see the pictures. 🙂 Did you happen to hike Waihee Ridge Trail? That was by far my favorite part of Maui.

I’m so glad it brought back wonderful memories! I don’t think we did the Waihee Ridge Trail. Do you remember where it was?

It was on the west side of Maui–a steep, muddy climb up through the clouds, with views of the ocean on one side and dense forests on the other. Worth checking out if you ever go back. :))

For sure! Maui is officially my husband’s favorite Hawaiian island, so we will be back! Thanks for the tip!

Also, make note to check out Cafe Ole’i in Kihei. I was overall disappointed in the food throughout Maui, but that place was incredible….the togarashi ahi tuna, daily specials, calamari, and kona coffee creme brulee. Yum!

[…] to know more? Check out What to Know Before Driving the Road to Hana, 3-Day Road to Hana Itinerary, and my Top 10 Sites on the Road to […]

[…] a few days to see and do it all! Most people try to fit it all into one day, but our unique three-day itinerary allowed us not to miss a […]

[…] out our 3-Day Road to Hana Itinerary for all the details, and What to Know Before Driving the Road to Hana to be as prepared as […]

[…] More here: 3-day Road to Hana Itinerary […]

[…] to know more? Check out What to Know Before Driving the Road to Hana, 3-Day Road to Hana Itinerary, and my Top 10 Sites on the Road to Hana! And visit my Hawaiian Islands Page for all my Maui […]

[…] More here: Your 3-day Road to Hana Itinerary […]

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The Road to Hana: a 2-day itinerary

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• Road to Hana itinerary

Planning on driving the Road to Hana? Stay overnight at Hana-Maui Resort in Hana.

When visiting Maui, The Road to Hana is usually at the top of everyone’s list. It’s a beautiful scenic drive with a huge amount to see. 

Unfortunately, most visitors only plan to spend one day on this adventure and end up being rushed and missing many of the sights. If you are lucky enough to have a bit of spare time in your Maui itinerary, I highly recommend making this a two-day excursion! 

Below you will find the ultimate two-day itinerary for the Road To Hana, along with interesting historical, cultural, and fun facts about each stop! 

Day 1 on the Road to Hana

Twin falls (mile marker 2) .

Plan on arriving at Twin Falls right at or before 8:00 am. There are only 55 parking spots available and they fill up quickly! Parking does cost 10 dollars per car. 

After parking, you’ll see the trailhead just to the left of the fruit stand. The trail is a short 1.8-mile (round trip) trek to the famous Twin Falls. Spend some time admiring the falls or take a dip in the pool below (at your own risk).

Before leaving, grab some breakfast from the Wailele Farm Stand. 

History lesson! The Wailele Farm was first purchased by six shareholders in 1996. Over the years, they slowly began planting more and more species of plants (350+ species)  and making small improvements to the farm, trail, and parking lot.

What started as a small family-run farm has blossomed into a great tourist attraction for visitors to experience the beauty of Maui. It is still run by the children of the original purchasers. Today, the farm sees anywhere from 300-1500+ visitors each day.

Pua'a Ka'a State Wayside Park (Mile Marker 22)

Nestled within a 5-acre State Park , you’ll find a picturesque waterfall and swimming hole. The falls are just a short hike from the (extremely small) parking lot. 

If you do not find a parking spot right away, be patient as most people do not stay here too long. It is free to park and there are picnic tables and restrooms available. 

Hanawi Falls (Mile Marker 24) 

Less than 2 miles from Pua’a Ka’a State Park, you’ll find another amazing roadside waterfall. You can view Hanawi Falls right from the bridge. It’s a great stop for a couple of quick photos! 

Fun Fact ! The water at these falls comes from the spring-fed Hanawi Stream which runs 9 miles down the mountainside to the remote village of Nahiku. George Harrison (former Beatles member) called this village home at one point. 

Hana Farms Roadside Stand (Mile Marker 31) 

After all your morning adventures, you’ve likely worked up an appetite. Luckily for you, Hana Farms is stocked full of delicious fresh foods! 

Situated on a 7-acre farm, you’ll find a roadside stand, a bakery, and a restaurant. 

History lesson! The land was first purchased in 1999 by two friends. What started as a simple roadside stand (just a white tent selling banana bread) has grown into a thriving business.

The founders strive to treat the sacred land with respect by building healthy soil and maximizing the potential to grow local produce. They want to give back to the town of Hana as much as possible.  

Wai’anapanapa State Park (Mile Marker 32) 

After you have filled your bellies, head to your final stop of the day, Wai’anapanapa State Park. Plan to spend more time at this stop as it is a true gem. 

The highlight of this state park is without a doubt the pristine black sand beach. Spend time taking in the view (the contrast of the black sand next to the vibrant green plants is out of this world) or splashing around in the water. 

In addition to the beach itself, the state park has over 120 acres to explore. Throughout the park, you’ll find natural arches, blowholes, caves, and Anchialine Pools. There are several hiking trails in the park that will take you past these natural wonders. 

Reservations are now required for this park and can be made online up to 30 days in advance (but no less than one day before your visit). 

Cultural Significance: Not only is Wai’anapanapa State Park breathtakingly beautiful, but it is also regarded as sacred to native Hawaiians.

It is said that Princess Popo’alaea hid out in the caves until she was murdered by her husband, Chief Ka’akea. Legend has it that the waters here appear to turn blood red each year on the anniversary of her death. 

Where to Stay: Town of Hana (Mile Marker 34) 

I know it’s called the “Road to Hana”, but there’s actually not a whole lot to do in the town of Hana. It’s more about the journey to get here. Anyway, it’s a great stopping point for the night to rest with several cute stays to choose from. 

Spend the night watching the sunset from your hotel and relaxing as you’ll have another busy day tomorrow! 

Hana-Maui Resort: A luxurious option with oceanfront views.

Bamboo Inn : This bed and breakfast has 3 cozy oceanfront suites to choose from. 

Day 2 on the Road to Hana:

After your restful night in Hana, get up bright and early (again) and start making your way back to Pai’a. Below are the recommended stops on Day 2! 

Mile Marker Side note: After the town of Hana, the mile markers jump to 51 and then go backwards. 

Pipiwai Trail (12 miles past Hana) 

This stop is actually 12 miles past Hana but is 100 percent worth it. One of the main benefits of spending the night in Hana ensures you will be one of the first visitors to the trail leading to a much more enjoyable and less crowded visit! 

Anyways, the Pipiwai trail is located inside the Kīpahulu District of Haleakala National Park. It’s an epic 3.8-mile hike that leads you to the base of the massive 400-ft Waimoku Falls. Throughout the hike, you’ll even get to trek through the famous bamboo forest! 

After your hike, be sure to stop and check out the nearby  Pools of ʻOheʻo along a quick .6-mile loop. 

Cultural Significance: The Kīpahulu District protects multiple intact ahupua'a or native Hawaiian land divisions. Native Hawaiians have lived on the land for over 1,000 years.

The Kipahulu District was actually home to many of the first Polynesian voyagers and the battleground between the chiefs of Maui and the chiefs of Hawaiʻi island. While hiking the Pipiwai Trail, you’ll even be able to see evidence of the Kīpahulu coastal village.

Wailua Falls (Mile Marker 45)

Another fun roadside waterfall to add to this Road To Hana bucket list! Wailua Falls is an amazing 80-ft waterfall with a swimming hole. You can see the falls from the road, or you can make the trek down to the bottom. It can be slippery, though, so be sure you are going slow, and you have the right footwear! 

Side note: If you didn’t pick up picnic foods in Hana, be sure to grab some snacks from the vendors at these falls! 

Hamoa Beach (Mile Marker 51)

Take the next hour or so to relax on this beautiful crescent-shaped beach. There are public bathrooms and showers available here. It is important to note that the walk down to the beach is short but steep. 

Maui’s Garden of Eden (Mile Marker 10) 

You’re almost back to the starting point, but not without one last stop at Maui’s Garden of Eden! 

The garden is a family-owned 26-acre haven for outdoor lovers. While visiting, you can stroll the 2.5-mile walking trail while you admire colorful collections of tropical flowers and trees. 

Although you do not need to make reservations, there is a $20 per person admission fee that can be paid upon arrival. 

If you are up for more of an adventure, you can even rappel down the waterfall in the garden. This does require an advanced reservation and can be done so here! 

Fun fact! The opening scene of Jurassic Park was filmed here. 

Dinner at Mama’s Fish House 

You’ve survived the twists and turns of the epic Road To Hana! Now time for a delicious dinner to celebrate! Head to the famous Mama’s Fish House in the town of Paia to indulge in some fresh seafood and a delicious tropical drink. 

Important! This restaurant is extremely popular (for a good reason), and books up months in advance! Be sure to make your reservation as early as possible! 

Sunset at Hookipa Beach

If you have any energy left after your two days of adventure, you can end with an amazing sunset at Hookipa Beach. It’s just 1-mile from Mama’s Fish House and a great place to relax, hang out with the resident sea turtles, and enjoy the beauty of Maui! 

Tip! Due to its close proximity to Mama’s Fish House, feel free to switch the two around to work around your reservation time at the restaurant.

Wow! What an adventure! I hope you found this Road to Hana itinerary extremely helpful in planning your road trip. 

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Author - Jordan

Jordan is a former elementary teacher turned freelance travel writer and the founder and editor of the USA travel blog, The Homebody Tourist. She is an avid planner, road-tripper, dog-lover, hiker, and adventurer. Jordan strives to plan and share adventurous USA road trips, weekend getaways, and dog-friendly itineraries that are jam-packed with all of the best things to do with (or without) your furry best friend! 

Last Updated 6 September 2023

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Full-Day Maui Heavenly Road to Hana Tour with Lunch - Roberts Hawaii

10 - 12.5 hour(s) incl. transportation

Available sun, mon, tue, pick-up available, not accessible, what to expect, why do travelers choose this tour.

• Safer experience - Enjoy the amazing scenery without being distracted by driving responsibility. You can feel safe knowing that the experienced local driver is well-acquainted with the roads and potential hazards and will provide a secure transportation experience for you.
• Guide knowledge - Get insight into the local culture, flora, fauna, and history of the area from an experienced guide who will share informative stories about Hawaiian culture, history, flora & fauna.
• Early morning start - To avoid the crowds, it's recommended to start early. The tour leaves at 7 a.m. and comes back around 6:30 p.m.

Local expert tips

• Remember to pack a light breakfast, some snacks, and water for the trip.
• The journey to Hana can be bumpy due to the uneven surfaces and approximately 600 curves. If you are susceptible to motion sickness, we recommend taking motion sickness medication before the tour to prevent discomfort.
• During the tour, we will be walking moderate distances at some of our stops. To ensure your comfort, please wear comfortable walking shoes and dress appropriately.
• The routes are subject to changes based on advisories from national and state parks.
• Please be aware that cell phone signal may be infrequent due to the rugged and remote landscapes you will be exploring. We recommend planning accordingly.
• This tour may not be suitable for guests with mobility limitations or those using a wheelchair, as many of the stops involve walking over rock, gravel, and sand.

Enjoy stunning vistas of Maui's rugged and windward coastline, with its lush tropical rainforest.

Drive past stunning waterfalls, vibrant foliage, and peaceful natural pools.

From this lookout, you can witness the stunning diversity of Maui's landscape. Admire the contrasting beauty of the rocky black lava coast and the lush green of the Hawaiian taro fields.

Drive by the famous “3 Bears Falls” with three parallel waterfalls dropping from as high as 1000 feet!

This exquisite black sand beach is surrounded by vibrant tropical vegetation, streams of fresh water, stunning caverns with shimmering pools, and amazing opportunities for capturing breathtaking photographs. It's definitely worth a stop.

Discover the rustic and charming town of Hana, home of the island's largest Heiau, exotic flowers, fascinating history, and a renowned general store, among other attractions.

Take a scenic drive alongside Maui's largest perennial stream.

Transportation add-ons

Pick-up/check-in time & location.

Drop-off/Check-out Time & Location

07:00-08:15, 18:00-19:15, important activity information, restrictions.

• This activity is not wheelchair accessible.
• If less than 6 participants are booked, the activity may not operate.
• Children 4 years old and above can participate in this activity.

Additional notes

• The activity schedule is subject to change or cancellation due to weather or traffic conditions.
• Gratuity is not included in the price.
• The Road to Hāna has stretches with uneven surfaces which at times may produce a rough ride.
• Locations/Routes may be modified due to National Park and State Park advisories.

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• Bottled water
• Wear comfortable walking shoes. A light sweater or jacket is recommended.

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Vip Private Road To Hana Tour With Pickup

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 8-10 hours
• User Ages: All ages

VIP Private Road to Hana Tour with Pickup

This full-day private tour allows you to immerse yourself in the lush tropical rain forests, cascading waterfalls, and beauty of the Road to Hana tailored to your preferences and desired pace. Whether you prefer to take it slow, basking in the scenery of uniquely colorful beaches and rainbow eucalyptus trees or crave an adrenaline-pumping, cliff jumping adventure, our experienced guides will ensure an exceptional and personalized experience.

More Information

Please note start times are flexible and can be adjusted. Simply choose your desired pickup location when making the booking, whether it’s your hotel lobby, cruise port, or a specific address, and we’ll take care of the rest.

What to bring/Included:

• Refreshments
• Private transportation
• Knowledgeable Guide
• Personal Photographer

What to bring:

• Comfortable Shoes
• Reef-safe sunscreen
• Swim Wear (Optional)
• Change of Clothes (Optional)
• Medicine (if you get car sick easily)
• Cash (For stops at roadside stands)