Ultimate Road to Hana Guide: Best Stops, Tips & What to Expect in Maui
The Road to Hana isn’t just a drive—it’s one of Maui’s most iconic adventures. With over 600 curves, lush rainforests, hidden waterfalls, and jaw-dropping coastal views, this scenic route along the Hana Highway is a must for anyone visiting the island. But to truly enjoy the experience (and not just survive the twists and turns), it helps to go in with a solid plan. My husband and I recently visited Maui and drove the Road to Hana. It was one of the most memorable activities from our trip and I’m here to share everything we learned.
In this ultimate Road to Hana guide, you’ll find the best stops, insider tips, what to pack, and everything you need to know before hitting the road. Whether you’re driving it yourself or joining a tour, this post will help you make the most of the journey—one unforgettable mile at a time.
Note: This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase through a link, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Good News? I only recommend experiences that I think are 100% worth it.
Planning Your Road to Hana Trip
When I was planning our first visit to Maui, everyone was saying “you have to drive the Road to Hana”. As someone who is a type A planner (and tends to get car sick) I knew I had to have every detail of the drive mapped out.
We used an app called Shaka Guide for our trip. It was so helpful and is my #1 TIP if you’re driving the Road to Hana. We listened to the guide like you would listen to a podcast in your car. This app gave details about where to stop, where to get food, where the best bathrooms are and more!
Rise and Shine! You will want to get an early start. To truly enjoy the Road to Hana, you will want to plan about 10 hours. The road is small and curvy so starting out early enough that you aren’t driving back in the dark is a must. We were on the road about 7am and it worked out great!
You can either drive yourself or book a guided tour. Driving gives you more flexibility and freedom to stop where you like, but a tour can be a great option if you’d prefer to sit back and enjoy the views without worrying about narrow roads or parking. If you’re not up for driving back the same day, consider staying overnight in Hana for a more relaxed itinerary. There are a few charming boutique hotels and vacation rentals in the area, and waking up in Hana lets you explore more without rushing. Whether you drive it in a day or stretch it across two, a little prep ensures your Road to Hana adventure is unforgettable—in the best way.
What to Expect on the Drive
The Road to Hana is approximately 64 miles long with over 600 turns and more than 45 one lane bridges. This drive is not for the faint of heart! It winds along the cliffside through lush mountains and tropics.
You’ll want to drive at a slow speed and free from any distractions. There are multiple pull-offs so watch out for other tourists as they are entering and exiting the road.
While this is an unfamiliar and sometimes uncomfortable drive for tourists, there are many locals who drive this road daily. Be kind and allow the locals to pass as they typically will take the twists and turns at a much higher speed.
Tip: If you are prone to car sickness (me!) be sure to pack some medication or ginger chews. We had a cooler stocked with some ginger ale to help when I started to feel sick.
What to Pack for the Road to Hana
Packing smart can make your Road to Hana adventure much more comfortable and enjoyable.
Be sure to bring plenty of water, snacks, and a backpack or bag to carry everything hands-free. You’ll want to wear comfortable clothes and sturdy sandals or sneakers for short hikes and waterfall stops, and don’t forget a swimsuit, towel, and change of clothes if you plan to swim or get wet at any of the waterfalls or beaches.
A light rain jacket can come in handy, especially in the wetter regions near Hana.
Since cell service is limited along the route, it’s crucial to download offline maps or a Road to Hana audio guide app (like Shaka Guide – highly recommend) before you leave. This was perfect as it still gave turn by turn directions even when we didn’t have any service.
Also, pack reef-safe sunscreen, bug spray, a phone charger, and cash, as some roadside stands and parks don’t accept cards. A small cooler can also be helpful if you’re packing lunch or want to keep drinks cold.
Finally, be sure to pack a little patience and a sense of adventure—this journey is all about soaking up the experience at your own pace.
Where to Stop on the Road to Hana
Driving the Road to Hana is an experience designed with multiple stops along the way. It truly is about the journey rather than the destination.
Below you will find the must stop locations on your route.
1. Paia Town
Your Road to Hana adventure will start in Paia town. I don’t recommend spending much time here but rather using it as a gas fill up and bathroom break stop.
You can always return to Pai’a town on the way home, or another day to explore this charming town.
We grabbed a few snacks here for the trip and took out some cash from an ATM to use at stands along the route.
2. Ho’okipa Beach Park and Lookout
The adventure begins with the first stop at Ho’okipa Beach Park just a short way up the road from Paia Town. This beach is a very popular spot for surfers and the overlook has amazing views of the ocean and surrounding area.
This is a great spot to take pictures and you are almost guaranteed to spot the giant sea turtles that enjoy resting on this beach!
3. Twin Falls
The next stop, Twin Falls, comes shortly after passing the Mile Marker 0 sign, indicating the official beginning of the Road to Hana.
Twin Falls is an accessible waterfall, swimming and hiking stop. This waterfall is on private property so there is a fee for parking and only space for about 30 cars. This is one of the few spots where swimming is encouraged so definitely pull off if you’re hoping to swim during your Road to Hana trip.
When we arrived, all spots were already taken so we continued on to the next stop.
4. Kaumahina State Wayside Park (Overlook and Restrooms)
At this point in the trip you have definitely begun to experience the twists and turns of the Road to Hana.
This stop at Kaumahina State Wayside Park is a great place to take a break, stretch your legs and check out the views of the ocean and Ke’anae Peninsula. There is a short path to walk to check out the scenery and space for a photo op.
There are limited restrooms along the Road to Hana so I recommend taking advantage of this one. Shortly after this stop, we got stuck in standstill traffic for 45 minutes due to some construction work so I am SO glad we had stopped here.
5. Ke’anae Peninsula
The Ke’anae Peninsula is a great place to stop and stretch your legs. There is plenty of parking so I suggest taking your time to appreciate the views, snap a few photos and of course….get some Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread.
Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread is a family owned business in Keanae right after mile marker 16 on the Road to Hana.
Their fresh baked banana bread is made new each day and sells out. Definitely prioritize this stop on the way to Hana because the delicious treat may be all gone by the time you drive back.
This was the perfect pick me up and gave us something to snack on the rest of the afternoon!
6. Wailua Falls
Looking for some more waterfalls? Wailua Falls is one of the most picturesque waterfalls in Maui and very accessible from the Road to Hana. This is located just past mile marker #45 on Honolewa Stream.
Good News? There is no hiking required to visit these falls.
Not wanting to make a stop? Wailua Falls is also visible from the car and you can snag a picture as you drive by.
7. Waiʻānapanapa State Park
This was one of our favorite stops on the Road to Hana. Waiʻānapanapa State Park is where you can find a beautiful black sand beach.
We spent a little over an hour at this stop. It is a great place to hike and swim in the ocean.
Keep in mind, you DO need a reservation in advance and there is a small entrance and parking fee.
Pro Tip: Plan out your drive accordingly so you don’t miss your reservation time slot. Have an early morning time slot? Drive straight through to Hana and then make your stops on the way home.
8. Hana Town
You finally made it to Hana! Take some time here to explore. Hana may seem like a quiet sleepy town, but many still consider it to be the “real Hawaii” as it hasn’t been developed like the rest of the Island.
We took some time to walk around downtown and browsed through the general store. Stopping earlier in the day? Grab lunch at the Hana Ranch Restaurant.
If you’re breaking up your Road to Hana experience into two days, I recommend staying at the Hana-Maui Resort. Take your time on the drive and relax at this secluded hotel.
9. Haleakalā National Park at Kipahulu
Haleakala National Park has so much to explore!
The Pipiwai Trail is a popular hike on the Road to Hana located in this National Park. It is a 4 mile hike that winds you through a stunning bamboo forest. This is often considered the last stop on the Road to Hana.
On this trail, you will get to see Waimoku Falls – a 400 foot waterfall!
Pro Tip: Plan your day accordingly so that you have enough time for this hike. It is recommended to allot about 2.5 hours for this experience. Unfortunately, this was a stop we had to leave off of our Road to Hana itinerary because our Waiʻānapanapa State Park reservation wasn’t until later in the afternoon.
Other Places To Stop
- Oheo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) – This was closed on our most recent trip so it is definitely on the list for next time!
- Roadside Lava Tube Cave – There aren’t any official signs for this but keep your eyes peeled just after mile marker 23! There is a small pulloff across from the entrance where you can park. We had a car picnic for lunch and explored the cave. Bring a flashlight! (or use the one on your phone) and watch your head!
- Coconut Glen’s Vegan Ice Cream – I voted this the most delicious stop on the Road to Hana. There are many different ice cream flavors to try as well as fresh coconuts and other snacks!
Spending more time in Maui? Check out some of my favorite activities!
Watch the sunrise at Haleakala National Park
Insider Tips for a Better Road to Hana Experience
There are a few things to remember to make the most of your Road to Hana experience.
- Start your Drive Early! It is going to be a long day. If you aren’t planning to spend the night in Hana, you definitely don’t want to be driving the windy roads home in the dark. We left about 7:00 AM and found that we had plenty of time to stop at all the spots we wanted to see.
- Bring snacks, water, and a picnic lunch. Food options along the route can be limited, especially for picky eaters. Don’t forget the ginger ale if you have anyone prone to car sickness!
- Download an offline map or guide app before you go, since cell service is unreliable in many areas. We loved Shaka Guide and would highly recommend using it to plan your day.
- Be prepared to pull off the road to let locals pass. They are familiar with the drive and are usually not stopping to see the sights.
- It’s about the journey! Take your time and enjoy the trip. While it’s true that you are driving to Hana, what you see along the way is the most important!
Frequently Asked Questions About the Road to Hana
How long does it take to drive the Road to Hana?
The nonstop drive takes about 2.5 hours, but most adventurers make a full-day trip (8–10 hours) to explore waterfalls, beaches, and scenic stops along the way. We left our rental in Kihei about 7:00 AM and returned about 6:30PM.
Should I drive the Road to Hana myself or take a tour?
Driving yourself offers flexibility to stop wherever you like. Guided tours, meanwhile, let you relax while a knowledgeable driver handles the winding roads and reveals hidden gems.
Do I need a 4×4 to drive the Road to Hana?
No—it’s fully paved and passable with a standard rental car. A 4×4 is only needed if you’re planning to venture onto unpaved backroads or off-the-beaten-path side trips. Be sure to double check your rental car agreement as many prohibit driving off-road.
Is the Road to Hana dangerous?
Not necessarily, as long as you drive slowly and stay alert. The highway features hundreds of curves and several one-lane bridges—so patience and focus are essential for a safe drive. I’d also recommend not driving in the dark.
Am I better off doing the loop drive rather than returning the same way?
Many visitors wonder whether to complete the full circle via the Piʻilani Highway. While it creates a scenic loop, parts of that route are rough, with limited services and rugged terrain—so most recommend turning around unless you’re well-prepared and comfortable driving on remote roads.
Can I find food along the road, or should I bring my own?
Roadside stands and food trucks pop up—but their hours and availability can be unpredictable. A safe bet? Pack a lunch or snacks for a scenic picnic. We snacked in the car at several of the roadside pulloffs
So… is the Road to Hana Worth It?
The Road to Hana is truly one of the most unforgettable adventures you can have in Maui. This iconic scenic drive winds through lush rainforests, past waterfalls, black sand beaches, and hidden hiking trails—every curve feels like a postcard come to life. Whether you’re driving yourself or taking a guided Road to Hana tour, the magic is in slowing down and enjoying each stop along the way.
As a 28 year old traveler who’s obsessed with finding those “wow” moments, my top picks are Waiʻānapanapa State Park’s black sand beach, and Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread. But honestly? The best part is letting the day unfold—don’t stress about seeing it all in one trip.
Pack plenty of snacks, water, and download an offline Maui map, and get ready for a day full of jaw-dropping views. If you’re planning your own trip to Maui, check out the posts below so you can feel totally prepared for your adventure.
Is Maui Worth Visiting in the Off-Season? What to Expect in the Fall and Spring,
Oahu vs. Maui for Your Honeymoon: Which Hawaiian Island Is Right for You?
5 Perfect Days In Maui, Hawaii
Have you driven the Road to Hana before? Share your favorite stops in the comments so we can inspire each other’s next trip!
