Aloha and welcome to Hawaii Travel Made Easy. I'm Marcie your go-to guide for planning a stress-free unforgettable Hawaii vacation. If this is your first time listening, welcome. I've been to Hawaii more than 40 times and I love helping families and first time visitors plan incredible trips without the stress.
Today we're talking about one of the most famous road trips in the world, the Road To Hana on Maui. Some people absolutely love it and others aren't sure if it's worth the time. So in this episode, I'm breaking down everything you need to know to decide if this is the right adventure for you. We'll cover the best stops, which ones to skip, how long the trip takes, whether to drive yourself or book a tour, what to pack, where to eat, and whether or not you should drive the backside of the Road to Hana.
I also want to include a shameless plug for joining our Patreon community. We have levels starting at just $5 a month, and they give you access to all kinds of planning materials. Plus, it's an easy way to support this podcast so I can continue to provide Hawaii content. So if you're debating whether to do this drive or you just wanna make sure to do it right, keep listening.
There are so many stops along the road to Hana, but let's be honest, you won't have time for all of them. The entire drive is packed with scenic views, waterfalls hikes, and roadside stands. And while it's tempting to stop at every turnout, that's a fast way to turn an epic day into a super stressful one.
So here are the absolute best stops that I recommend prioritizing. If you wanna get the most out of your adventure. The Garden of Eden, which is at mile marker 10. This is one of the first major attractions and it's a beautiful botanical garden filled with tropical flowers, bamboo groves, and incredible ocean views.
It's super kid friendly and a great way to stretch your legs early in the drive. You'll also get a chance to see where parts of Jurassic Park were filmed, which is a fun bonus for movie fans. There is an admission fee, but I think it is totally worth it. Next is the Keanae Peninsula at Mile marker 17. This detour is 100% worth it.
You'll get a front row seat to crashing waves against jagged lava rock, and the landscape here is just breathtaking. The real star, though is Aunty Sandy's banana bread, hot, fresh, and totally legendary. Trust me, it's the kind of roadside snack you'll remember forever. Next is the Waianapanapa State Park, which is at mile marker 32.
This is the famous Black sand beach that you've probably seen all over Instagram, and yes, it really does live up to the hype. The black sand, bright blue water and surrounding lava tubes make this a stunning spot to explore. Just be aware that reservations are now required, so plan ahead or you won't be able to enter this park.
If you have kids. They'll love running on the beach and exploring the caves. Finally, I've got Pipiwai Trail, which is that mile Marker 42, and is technically inside Haleakala National Park. This is one of the best hikes on Maui and a true highlight of the road to Hana, especially if you've made it all the way to the Kipahulu district.
The four mile round trip trail takes you through lush rainforest, past enormous banyan trees, and into an unworldly bamboo forest that's perfect for photos. The grand finale is Waimoku Falls, a towering 400 foot waterfall that feels like something out of a movie. The hike is moderate and totally doable for active families.
Though I recommend wearing proper footwear and bringing water and bug spray, it's a great way to burn off some energy after a long drive in the car and connect with the natural beauty of the island in a deeper way. Just remember, there's a park entrance fee, so have your credit card or park pass ready.
Now, as much as I love the road to Hana, not every stop is worth your limited time, especially if you're doing the full round trip in a single day. So here are a couple of stops, I think are a bit overrated. Twin Falls, which is at mile marker two. I know it's popular, but honestly it gets super crowded early in the day, so parking can be almost impossible.
The height can be muddy and there are better waterfalls further down the road. If you're tight on time or just getting started, I'd recommend skipping it. There's also Pua'a Ka'a State Wayside Park, which is at mile marker 22. This one has restrooms, which can be handy, especially with kids. But the waterfalls here are pretty underwhelming compared to the other ones on the route.
It's not a must stop unless you really need a bathroom break or picnic area. My pro tip is if you're short on time or traveling with kids, I suggest picking just four or five key stops and focusing on those trying to squeeze in everything will leave you exhausted and likely missing out on the magic of just enjoying the drive itself.
It's not just about the destinations. The winding roads, lush jungle views and spontaneous roadside snack stands are all part of the experience. Another tip, start early. The earlier you leave, the fewer cars you'll deal with on the road and the more relaxed your pace will be. Also, don't forget to bring water snacks in Dramamine.
If anyone in your group is prone to motion sickness, those curves are no joke. Another tip is to wear those motion sickness glasses or use one earplug. It really helps my kids who have motion sickness. The road to Hana isn't about checking off a list, it's about finding a few places that really speak to you and making memories along the way, whether it's a quiet waterfall, a scenic overlook, or a moment of silence in the rainforest.
This drive has something truly special to offer every family. Okay, so how long does the road to Hana actually take? The road to Hana is not just a quick drive. Technically, if you drove straight from Kahului to Hana without stopping, it would take you about two and a half to three hours. But let's be real.
You're gonna wanna stop. There are so many waterfalls, scenic lookouts, roadside stands and hidden gems along the way That is near the impossible not to pull over at least a few times. If you plan to make four to five major stops like the Garden of Eden, Keanae Peninsula. Waianapanapa State Park, and the Pipiwai trail, you should budget around 10 to 12 hours round trip.
That's not including time for lunch, bathroom breaks or spontaneous shave ice detours. It's truly a full day experience, and you wanna build in time to soak it all in without feeling rushed. If you're traveling with young kids or just wanna take it slow, I highly recommend considering an overnight stay in Hana.
There are a few small Hotels, vacation rentals, and even camping options that let you split up the journey and explore the backside of Haleakala the next day. It gives you more time to hike, relax, and enjoy the peaceful vibe of Hana. Without watching the clock. My pro tip is to leave early, like six or 7:00 AM to beat the crowds, especially if you're doing the drive in one day.
The earlier you start, the more likely you are to find parking at popular stops and avoid getting stuck behind Tour vans. Plus you'll be driving back before it gets dark, which is much safer given all the twists and turns. The road to Hana is all about the journey, not just the destination. So give yourself plenty of time to enjoy it.
Okay, so should you drive yourself or book a tour? This is one of the biggest questions people ask when planning a road to Hana Excursion. And honestly, both options have their pros and cons depending on your travel style, comfort level, and who you're traveling with. If you're someone who likes to explore at your own pace, driving yourself gives you full flexibility.
You can stop wherever you want, skip the places that don't interest you and take spontaneous detours for banana bread or waterfalls. It's also generally the more budget friendly option, especially if you're traveling with a group or already have a rental car. But let's talk about the cons. The Road to Hana is narrow.
Curvy and often one lane in each direction with lots of blind turns and one lane bridges. It can be stressful, especially for the driver who will likely miss a lot of the beautiful scenery because they're so focused on the road. If you're not a confident driver or you're prone to fatigue on long drives, this route can be mentally exhausting, and if your rental agreement doesn't cover the backside of the island, you may be limited on where you can go.
Now if you wanna sit back, relax, and soak in the scenery without worrying about driving, a guided tour is an awesome option. Tour guides often share fascinating stories about the history, culture, and legends of the area that you'd probably never hear otherwise. Some even include access to private stops that aren't open to the general public, which can make your trip feel a bit more exclusive.
The trade off is that you're on a schedule. You may not get to linger at a stop You love or skip one that doesn't interest you. And if you're traveling with young kids, the long hours on a bus might be a challenge, unless they're great at napping or entertaining themselves. So my pro tip is if you're prone to motion sickness, don't love driving on narrow mountain roads, or just want a more laid back day, a guided tour might be your best bet.
On the flip side, if your family likes to go at your own pace and you're comfortable navigating twisty roads, driving yourself can be an unforgettable and empowering experience. Either way, the journey is part of the adventure. All right? The Road to Hana is an all day adventure, so you wanna pack smart to make sure you're comfortable, prepared, and able to enjoy every stop along the way.
Here are my essentials. First is food and snacks. While there's some amazing roadside stands like Aunty Sandy's banana bread, or fresh coconut stalls, they can be spread out in some clothes early. Bringing your own snacks, especially for kids, is a great way to avoid hunger related meltdowns. Number two, water and electrolytes.
Hydration is key, especially if you're planning to hike or spend time in the sun. Pack plenty of water and consider electrolyte drinks or tablets to stay refreshed. Number three, motion sickness remedies. The road Ohana has more than 600 curves and tons of one lane bridges. If anyone in your group is prone to car sickness, bring Dramamine, motion sickness bands or ginger shoes, it can really make or break the experience.
Number four, cash. Some of the best roadside stops are cash only, including fruit stands, small food shacks, and even a few restrooms or parking spots. Small bills are best. Number five, swimwear and towels. You never know when the urge will strike To jump into a waterfall pool or take a dip at the Black Sand Beach pack a towel, a dry change of clothes, and maybe even water.
Shoes for rocky shorelines six sunscreen and bug spray. You'll be outside a lot, whether you're hiking through bamboo forests or lounging on a beach. Reef-safe Sunscreen is a must and bug spray will help keep the mosquitoes at bay, especially near waterfalls. Also consider packing a small first aid kit, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and a plastic bag for wet clothes or trash.
These little things make a big difference on a long day trip. My pro tip is to download an offline map or a road to Hana audio guide before you go. There's no cell service for most of the drive and GPS can be unreliable. Apps like Shaka Guide or Gypsy Guide are great for commentary and directions, especially if you're driving yourself.
And don't forget to fill up on gas before you leave. Kahului gas stations are few and far between. Once you hit the road, packing thoughtfully ensures you can focus on the beauty and adventure of the drive, not scrambling to find bug spray or snacks. A little prep goes a long way on the rot to Hana. All right, let's talk about where to eat.
There aren't a ton of places to eat along the way, but the ones you do find are often run by locals and serve up some seriously delicious food. It's part of what makes the rothan so special. Grabbing fresh island style eats from roadside stands surrounded by jungle or ocean views.
First is Aunty Sandy's Banana bread at Mile Marker 17. This place is legendary and for good reason. The banana bread is warm, soft, and slightly crispy on the outside, and it makes a perfect mid-morning snack. It's especially tasty if you get it right out of the oven. They also sell drinks and a few other snacks, so it's worth a pit stop even if you're not a huge banana bread fan.
Next is Hana Farms at Mile Marker 31. This is more of a destination in itself. They offer fresh fish plates, colorful salads, and some of the best homemade baked goods on the island. The farm setting is beautiful and relaxing. We shaded picnic tables where you can sit and enjoy your meal. It's a great place to fuel up before or after visit to Yana State Park.
And then my personal favorite Bruddah Hutts near Hana town. This food truck is a true hidden gem located just past HA town, they serve up flavorful Hawaiian barbecue, think grilled chicken, juicy ribs, and generous plate lunches. It's hardy, affordable and super satisfying after a long day of driving and adventuring.
If you plan to do the drive early, especially for a sunrise departure, make sure to bring breakfast with you. Most stands won't open until mid-morning, and it's a long stretch between the food options. Packing some pastries, fruit, or even breakfast sandwiches or spam. Musabi can go a long way. My pro tip is to always carry snacks and drinks in the car just in case your chosen food stop is closed or out of what you wanted.
They often sell out or close early, depending on the day. And don't forget to bring cash for those small local vendors. Some don't accept cards or may lose service due to spotty signal in remote areas. Eating along the road to Hana isn't just about filling up. It's a delicious way to connect with the local community and enjoy homemade Hawaiian flavors you won't find anywhere else.
So here's something a lot of people don't realize. The journey doesn't have to end in Hana. The road actually keeps going and loops around the southern side of Maui, which locals and visitors often call the backside of the rotana. It's a totally different vibe down there. Fewer crowds, wide open views, and a shift from lush jungle to dry, almost desert light landscapes.
It can feel like you stepped onto another island. I've done it before and it was a really cool experience, but the backside isn't for everyone. Parts of it are unpaved narrow, and there are a few sections with steep drop-offs and no guardrails. It's definitely not your average Sunday drive. Some rental car companies don't allow you to take their vehicles on the stretch, so you wanna double check your agreement. Breaking the rules could mean you're on the hook for any damage. And here's the biggest thing to keep in mind. The backside road is sometimes closed due to landslides or road repairs. So even if you're up for the adventure and your rental car is good to go, it might not be an option during your visit.
That's why it's super important to check the current road conditions before you set out. Don't assume it'll be open just because it was last time someone went. If everything lines up and you're comfortable with some rugged driving. It can be an incredibly rewarding experience. However, I'm not encouraging people to do it.
Safety comes first. Know your limits and don't push it just for the bragging rights. This part of Maui is raw and beautiful, but it's also remote, so make sure you're prepared. So one of the most common questions I get is, should we spend the night in Hana? And honestly, it depends on your travel style and how you wanna experience the road of Hana.
If you're trying to do the full drive round trip in one day. You'll be looking at 10 to 12 hours on the road depending on how many stops you make. That's a long day, especially if you're traveling with kids or people who get car sick. By the time you get to Hana, you might be too tired to really enjoy it, and then you still have to drive all the way back.
Spending the night in Hana can totally change the vibe of your trip. It lets you slow down, take your time at the stops, and really soak in the beauty without constantly checking the clock. You can visit Yana State Park in the morning before the crowds arrive. Hike the Pipiwai trail in the afternoon, or even just enjoy the quiet remote charm of Hana town itself.
There are a few small hotels, bed and breakfast and vacation rentals in the area besides the Hyatt Hana Maui Resort. They're not fancy resort style accommodations, but they offer a cozy off the grid feel that some people absolutely love. That said, options are limited and tend to book up quickly. So if you're thinking about it, plan ahead.
If you're looking for a more relaxed, immersive experience and don't wanna rush through everything in one day, spending the night in Hana is 100% worth it. But if your schedule is tight or you're just not up for switching accommodations for a night, a well-planned day trip with few key stops can be amazing.
I also wanna point out that if you're only visiting Maui for a short time, like five days or less, I'd recommend making this a day trip so you're not rushing around too much. My pro tip is if you do spend the night pack, what you need ahead of time, restaurants and stores and hauk close early and options are limited.
Bring your own snacks, water, and maybe even breakfast for the next morning. Think of it as a little escape from the hustle and bustle and a chance to experience a quieter site of Maui. So can you just drive part of the road, HANA? Absolutely. I often recommend that families with small children just do the first part and turn around at the halfway to Hana stand.
That way they can still enjoy some gorgeous stops and grab some banana bread without tiring out their family with a long car ride the road to hana's. Stunning. But let's be real. It's also narrow curvy and can get pretty busy, especially during peak travel hours. It's important to go into it with the right mindset, not just for your safety, but out of respect for the local community and other travelers.
One of the biggest things to keep in mind is to pull over for faster drivers. Many locals use this road daily and are very comfortable driving it quickly. If you're taking your time, and most visitors are, use the designated pullouts to let others pass. It keeps the flow moving and avoids building up traffic behind you.
Never stop in the middle of the road, no matter how beautiful the view is. I know it's tempting when you spot a waterfall or rainbow, but there are often blind corners and stopping suddenly can be dangerous. Always wait for a safe turnout. Also, respect private property. A lot of waterfalls and hiking spots are on or adjacent to private land.
Trespassing, not only disrespects local residents, but can lead to safety issues or areas being permanently closed to visitors. There are plenty of clearly marked turnouts and scenic lookouts where you can pull over for photos or a snack. Use those instead of creating your own spot on the shoulder, which might not be stable or visible to other drivers.
Be alert for pedestrians and animals, especially near fruit stands, trailhead or food trucks where people tend to cross without warning. Chickens, pigs, and even cows can appear on the road, particularly on the backside of the route. Another key tip, use your horn when approaching blind corners or one lane bridges to alert oncoming traffic.
It's common courtesy and helps prevent surprises. Drive slow and steady, not just for safety, but to truly enjoy the views. There's no rush. You're on island time. Give yourself permission to go at a comfortable pace. Just be sure to pull over if there's a lot of traffic behind you.
If you're not confident driving on narrow winding roads, consider taking a guided tour. It takes the stress off your plate and lets you just enjoy the ride. I'll drop my favorite tours in the show notes. My pro tip is to download an offline guide like Shaka Guide or Gypsy Guide before your trip.
Not only will it give you turn by turn directions, but also shares interesting stories and tips along the way, helping you stay safe and informed. I always download one, even though I've driven the road to Hana multiple times. So when's the best time of year to do the drive? The Road to Hana is gorgeous, no matter when you go, but depending on the season, your experience could be different.
It's important to consider both weather and crowds when planning your drive. Winter months from November to March tend to be Rainier, especially on the east side of the island where Hana is located. While that can mean lush green scenery and roaring waterfalls, it can also lead to muddy trails, slippery paths, and even temporary road closures due to landslides or flash flooding.
If you're visiting during this time, check road conditions before heading out summer and early fall, especially July through September. Typically bring drier weather. That means more reliable hiking conditions, easier access to beaches and fewer rain related surprises. It's a great time to hike the Pipiwai trail or hang out at Waianapanapa State Park without worrying about soggy shoes.
That said, summer is also one of the busiest travel times in Hawaii, especially for families. Expect more traffic on the road and limited parking at the more popular stops unless you leave early in the morning. If possible, try to avoid holidays and weekends regardless of the season. That's when both visitors and locals tend to do the drive and things can get pretty congested.
Weekdays are your best bet for a more relaxed and spacious experience. Spring and fall are great shoulder seasons. You get more predictable weather than winter, but fewer crowds and summer plus accommodations and rental cars tend to be more affordable during these off peak times. Another factor to consider is daylight hours in winter.
The sunsets earlier, which shortens the window for sightseeing and makes it riskier to drive back in the dark. Especially for first timers. My pro tip is no matter when you go start early, ideally by six or 7:00 AM not only will you beat the crowds, but you'll also have more time to explore and enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.
And don't forget to check for any updated road conditions or weather alerts before heading out. The Road to Hana is all about the journey, so timing it right can be really magical. All right, that's a wrap on today's episode. Hopefully, you now know exactly how to plan your road to Hana adventure. To recap, prioritize the best stops and skip the overrated ones.
Plan for a full day trip or stay overnight in Hana. Decide if you want to drive or book a tour. Pack smart motion sickness, meds, food and map are essential. Think carefully before driving the backside. Okay, I'd love to hear from you. Are you planning to drive the road Hana? Send me a DM on Instagram at Hawaii, travel with Kids, or visit my blog for even more tips.
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