TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Halfway to Hana Itinerary
• Where is the Halfway Point?
• Best Stops on a Halfway Route
• Where to Eat after my Halfway to Hana Adventure
• Tips for Driving Halfway to Hana
• Parking Tips
• Safety Consideration
• What to Bring

Halfway to Hana Itinerary

Ah, the Road to Hana. You’ve probably heard about this iconic coastal drive through lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and dramatic waterfalls.

Maybe it’s on your Maui vacation bucket list. But let’s be honest. Driving the entire highway in one day is a BIG commitment.

A 10-hour journey that includes driving 65 miles around 600 curves (and back) can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you have little ones, or you simply want to savor the experience without feeling rushed.

The good news is that you can drive the first half of the highway and still experience the scenic beauty and natural wonders that the Road to Hana offers.

In this guide, we’ll highlight some of the very best stops on the first half of the Road to Hana.

We’ll include brief descriptions, important info, mile markers, and a simple cost guide so you can decide which stops are right for you and your budget.

• $ - Budget-friendly
• $$ - Splurge a little 
• $$$ - Splurge a lot

Where is the Halfway Point? 

Halfway Road to Hana Maui

Most folks driving the Road to Hana begin in Pa’ia Town and typically turn around in Hana or at Haleakala National Park in Kipahulu.

However, for this shorter route, we’ll turn around at the halfway point, appropriately named Halfway to Hana. 

This suggested itinerary begins in Pa’ia and takes about 5 hours to complete.

Along the way, you’ll discover breathtaking views, local eats, and plenty of spots to explore at your own pace. 

RELATED: Road to Hana Map with Mile Markers

Best Stops on a Halfway Route 

1. Explore Pa’ia Town – Start Your Journey 

Pa'ia in Maui is the official start of the Road to Hana; Tor Johnson; via Hawaii Tourism Authority (HTA)

• Mile Marker 7 (Route 36) 

The official start of the Road to Hana is in Pa’ia Town, a beachy neighborhood with quaint shops and some excellent restaurants where you can grab a bite for breakfast or a picnic lunch for the road. Pa’ia is also the last place to fill up on gas.

• Public parking is located on the right as you enter town
• Restaurants, coffee shops, gelato & shave ice
• Art galleries & gift shops
• Gas station 

2. Visit Ho’okipa Beach for Turtle Watching and Surf Views 

• Mile Marker 8.8 (Highway 36) - FREE 

Stop by this beautiful white sand beach to catch surfers in action! The strong winds and good waves make Ho’okipa Beach Park a popular spot for ocean sports, like:

• surfing
• windsurfing
• kite surfing

In fact, it’s been nicknamed the “home of contemporary surfing” and hosts a number of events and competitions. 

Depending on the time of day, you may get lucky and find sea turtles napping on the beach. If you do, remember to admire them from a distance. It's against Hawai'i law to touch a sea turtle.

• Scenic lookout on the right overlooking the beach
• Covered pavilions with picnic tables
• Public restrooms & outdoor showers
• Lifeguards on duty from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

3. Swim Next to a Waterfall at Twin Falls 

• Mile Marker 2.1 (Highway 360) - $

If swimming in a freshwater pool next to a waterfall is on your vacation bucket list, then you won’t want to miss Twin Falls!

Tucked away in the Hana rainforest, Twin Falls at Wailele Farm includes three picture-perfect waterfalls—each accessible via a short hike.

• Swimming & hiking trails
• Farmstand with tropical fruits and banana bread
• $10 per vehicle parking fee
• Gates open at 7:10 a.m. & close at 6 p.m. Last entry is at 5 p.m.
• Closed the first Saturday of the month

*This is a privately-owned farm–not a state park. Twin Falls asks that visitors please treat their employees and nearby residences with respect and aloha!

4. Walk the Waikomoi Ridge Trail for Rainforest Views 

Waikamoi Ridge Trail, a family-friendly hike on the Road to Hana; Allie_Caulfield, CC BY 2.0 via Flickr 

• Mile Marker 9.5 - FREE

This easy trail is a short, three-quarter-mile loop that takes you through a forest of giant eucalyptus and mahogany trees. Stop here if you need to stretch your legs and want to get in a quick walk.

5. Stroll Through the Garden of Eden Arboretum 

• Mile Marker 10.5 - $

The Garden of Eden is a family-friendly attraction. Walk and explore the beautiful trails through this 26-acre arboretum, featuring tropical flowers, rare trees, breathtaking ocean views, and Keopuka Rock, which was featured in the opening scene of Jurassic Park.

• Educational visitor center with restrooms
• Picnic pavilions
• No reservations required
• Admission fee
• Open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

6. Bathroom Break at Kaumahina State Wayside Park 

• Mile Marker 12.2 - FREE

This well-maintained park is a great place to stretch your legs and use the restroom. Walk the short path along the cliff for dramatic views of the coastline. From here, you can see the Ke’anae Peninsula.

• Scenic viewpoint
• Picnic tables
• Restrooms

7. See Rainbow Trees and Native Plants at the Ke’anae Arboretum  

• Mile Marker 16.7 - FREE

Hoping to see the colorful rainbow eucalyptus trees? This is the spot! The Ke’anae Arboretum is a botanical garden nestled in a rainforest along the Pi’inau’au Stream.

A half-mile paved path takes you through 150 varieties of tropical plants from Hawaii and around the world.

• Open daily
• No facilities or amenities
• Bring mosquito repellent, and please do NOT pick the plants or flowers.

8. Explore Ke’anae Peninsula 

Ke’anae Peninsula; Navin75, CC BY SA 2.0, via Flickr

• Mile Marker 16.8 - FREE

The Ke’anae Peninsula is a short detour off of Hana Highway just past the arboretum, but it’s well worth the drive. Enjoy spectacular views of the rugged lava rock coastline, vibrant blue sea, and green taro patches. 

• Scenic viewpoints at Ke’anae Lookout are located across from the Ke’anae park
• Public restrooms at Ke’anae Park near the softball field 

9. Try Aunty Sandy’s Famous Banana Bread 

• Mile Marker 16.8 - $

As you’re leaving the Ke'anae Peninsula, you’ll spot Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread on the left side of the road.

This is one of our favorite local treats! Baked fresh daily, Aunty’s famous banana bread has been featured in Gordon Ramsey’s “Unchartered” TV series on the National Geographic channel.

But don’t wait too long to grab your loaf of delicious, warm banana bread. This popular item sells out quickly!

• Open Monday to Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Closed Sundays.

10. Halfway to Hana 

Halfway to Hana Food Stand, stop for some snacks for the rest of the trip; dronepicr, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

• Mile Marker 17 - $

Halfway to Hana is the perfect place to grab a snack and stretch your legs before the drive back.

This popular roadside stand offers fresh banana bread, shave ice, ice cream, smoothies, fresh fruit, and lunch items like burgers and sandwiches.

• Free parking 
• ATM onsite
• No restrooms
• Open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The Drive Back

Congratulations! You made it to the end of our Halfway to Hana tour. Turn around here and begin your journey back. Feel free to stop at any of the places you missed or want to see again.

Where to Eat after my Halfway to Hana Adventure

If you’re looking for dining options at the end of your journey, here are some excellent local spots in and around Pa’ia that you might enjoy:

Aloha Aina BBQ 

• 2250 Hana Hwy, Haiku

This popular spot serves up ono (delicious) Hawaiian-style BBQ that some folks say is the best BBQ they’ve had!

Choose from huli huli chicken, kiawe pork belly, kalua pork, or baby back pork ribs. They also offer burgers and other local dishes.

Look for the black Aloha ‘Aina food truck on the left side of the road, less than 15 minutes past Twin Falls as you head back toward Pa’ia.

Flatbread Company

• 89 Hana Hwy, Pa’ia

Hungry for some incredible tasting pizza? Look no further than the Flatbread Company in Pa’ia.

Guests rave about the great food and atmosphere, and kids love it, too! Their wood-fired, organic pizzas include dairy-free and vegan options.

Waikomo Shave Ice 

• 43 Hana Hwy, Pa’ia

Head into Pa’ia for a taste of one of Hawaii’s most iconic desserts—shave ice! At Waikomo Shave Ice, you can enjoy all-natural Hawaiian shave ice with no artificial colors or flavors.

Each serving comes with fresh-cut fruit, house-made coconut cream, and a drizzle of local honey.

You’ll find Waikomo Shave on the right side of the highway at the far end of Pa’ia, close to the Pa’ia Town Public Parking lot. 

Hana Picnic Lunch Company

• 99 Hana Hwy, Pa’ia

The Hana Picnic Lunch Company specializes in crafting the perfect lunch for your Hana adventure! Whether you’re picking up something for the road, to take back to the hotel, or to bring on the plane ride home, you won’t be disappointed.

Picnic lunches include a sandwich, chips, and a freshly baked chocolate chip cookie. They also serve breakfast and smoothies.

Pa’ia Fish Market

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A post shared by Paia Fish Market (@paiafishmarket)

• 100 Hana Hwy, Pa’ia

Pa’ia Fish Market serves up a selection of fresh fish like ahi, ono, snapper, and mahimahi that comes charbroiled, cajun style, or sauteed.

They also offer great charbroiled burgers and fish or chicken tacos.

Mama’s Fish House Restaurant

• 799 Poho Pl, Pa’ia

For fine dining with incredible views, Mama’s Fish House Restaurant is the place! Located right next to the ocean, this local landmark features fresh seafood and locally sourced produce.

Mama’s is a great place for a special night out, so dress up and be prepared to pay more for this gourmet island dining experience.

Reservations are required, so be sure to book in advance on their website.

Tips for Driving Halfway to Hana

Even though you’re not traveling the entire 65-mile highway, you’ll still encounter plenty of curves, one-way bridges, and locals wanting to pass.

To help you navigate this tricky road, we’ve put together some helpful tips.

Timing & Planning Advice

If you want to avoid the crowds, the best time to visit each spot is before it gets busy. This means waking up early and hitting the road before they do!

We recommend starting in Pa’ia no later than 8 a.m. The earlier the better.

If you prefer a more relaxed pace, another option is to head out around lunch and arrive at popular destinations when most folks have moved on.  

Parking Tips

Finding a parking spot at some of these destinations can be a little tricky and may require some patience and flexibility.

Here are a few reminders:

• Always park in designated parking lots or pull-outs.
• Avoid blocking driveways. 
• Avoid parking where there are “No Parking” signs posted. Illegal parking will cost you $$!
• Lock your vehicle and take your valuables with you.

Be a Good Guest

Hana and the surrounding communities are home to thousands of residents who must drive this road every day. You might be on vacation, but their daily lives are greatly impacted by tourism. 

Here are some ways visitors can show respect for the road and the ‘aina (land):  

• Let locals pass. Do not hold up vehicles behind you.
• Slow down and take turns at one-lane bridges.
• Respect private property. (Avoid visiting places with “No Trespassing" signs.)
• Avoid honking your horn. (This is considered rude in Hawaii.)
• Pick up your trash.
• Respect the wildlife and plants. (Remember it is illegal to touch sea turtles.)
• Do NOT stack rocks or take rocks or sand home.

Safety Considerations

The Road to Hana has hundreds of twists and turns. Driving the road can be daunting once the sun goes down.

To avoid driving in the dark, turn around at Halfway to Hana no later than 4 p.m.

This way, you can enjoy a relaxing return drive with the possibility of stopping at a few places that you might have missed earlier.

Here are other ways to stay safe on your trip:

• Follow all posted signs about flash floods, dangerous waterfalls, and strong currents. 
• Do not enter streams or pools during heavy rains or flash flood conditions. Drownings have occurred.
• Stay on designated trails and behind designated fences and barriers.
• If there are “No Swimming” signs posted, do NOT swim. (Hawaii’s fresh water streams and pools can be deadly due to flash floods, falling rocks, and bacteria.) 
• Pull over to safely take pictures. (Do not stop in the middle of the road or take pictures while driving.)

What to Bring

Here’s a suggested packing list for this tour. What you bring depends on the activities you choose to do for the day.

• Plenty of Water!
• Snacks and/or a Picnic Lunch
• Hiking Shoes or Sandals - Some trails can be rocky or muddy
• Hiking Clothes
• Bug Spray
• Swimsuit, Towel & Change of Clothes
• Reef-safe Sunscreen
• Sun Glasses and/or Hat
• Layers and a light jacket, depending on the weather
• Cash - Many stops along the way are cash-only
• Shaka Guide’s Classic Road to Hana Tour - Downloaded ahead of time
• Car Charger & Phone Mount - Essential if you are using the Shaka Guide app!

Explore the Road to Hana with Shaka Guide

If navigating this highway still seems overwhelming to you, let Shaka Guide help! We’ve done all the research and planning, so all you have to do is drive.

Our popular Classic Road to Hana Tour includes all the stops listed in this Halfway to Hana itinerary. 

Using GPS, our audio driving tour app guides you along the way, providing turn-by-turn directions, pointing out the sights, and entertaining you with history, stories, and music.

No matter how far along the highway you decide to travel, we’ll help make your journey an unforgettable experience!

Want to know what you’ll be missing if you only go halfway to Hana? Check out our Classic Road to Hana Tour complete itinerary.

Learn about these exciting stops on the second half of the highway:

• Lava Tube Cave
• Wai’anapanapa Black Sand Beach
• Hana Town
• Koki & Hamoa Beaches
• Wailua Falls, 
• And stunning waterfalls and rainforest trails at Haleakala National Park at Kipahulu.

You may just decide to go for it and drive the whole highway in one day! Or you can come back another day to catch these stops.

Either way, we’ve got you covered! Our tours do not expire, and you can pick up the audio wherever you leave off!

Have a few more days on Maui? Check out our Maui Tour Bundle featuring 6 tours, including 3 Road to Hana Tours!

Final Thoughts

The Road to Hana is more than just a scenic drive—it's a journey through some of Maui’s most stunning and culturally rich landscapes.

From the beachy town of Pa’ia and the epic surf at Ho’okipa Beach to hidden gems like Twin Falls and the Ke’ane Arboretum, each stop offers a unique glimpse into the natural beauty of the island. 

Whether you're chasing waterfalls, tasting fresh banana bread, or hiking in the rainforest, you’ll find something unforgettable around every bend. 

Just remember: you don’t have to do it all, and that’s okay! Plan your route based on your time and interests.

Start early, and allow plenty of time to explore your favorite spots without rushing.

With a little preparation, a lot of flexibility, and a spirit of adventure, driving Halfway to Hana could be the highlight of your Maui vacation.

Safe travels and happy exploring! 

Take the Classic Road to Hana Audio Tour with Shaka Guide and explore at your own pace with stories, directions, and must-see stops along the way.

Still planning? Check out our Classic Road to Hana Itinerary and Know Before You Go guide to prep for an epic day.

Need help? Email us anytime at aloha@shakaguide.com!

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