Shaka Guide's Classic Road to Hana Itinerary

January 04, 2025

Shaka Guide

PLEASE NOTE: There is only one road into and out of Hana. Locals have to drive this road every day, and the thousands of daily drivers on this one-lane highway greatly impact their lives. Please be respectful — do not park illegally, pay attention to signs, drive responsibly, and pull over to let locals pass. Do not enter private property or visit sites that are unsafe. And, please remember to pick up your trash.

Key Takeaways:

The Classic Road to Hana covers 65 miles, with 25+ stops and takes 10–12 hours to complete.
The route starts in Kahului and ends past Hana at Kipahulu, returning on the same scenic highway.
Top stops include waterfalls, beaches, hikes, and food stands with banana bread, coconut candy, and tropical fruits.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

The Road to Hana is one of the most famous excursions in Maui. This 65-mile road trip along Hana Highway passes dozens of:

waterfalls
lush beaches
tropical forests
a lava cave, and
stunning scenic spots

You can swim by waterfalls, hike through rainforests, and try some local grinds (two words: banana bread) along the way.

With Shaka Guide, you’ll have the freedom to visit the stops you want, spend as much time as you’d like, and skip the ones you don’t.

Our Classic Road to Hana Tour is by far our most popular. With 142 narration points and over 25 stops, this tour takes between 10-12 hours to complete.

It begins in Kahului near the airport and ends just past Hana at Kipahulu (Haleakala National Park).

We'll guide you back towards Kahului the same way you came, along the Hana Highway.

We highly recommend you start your day early, by 8:00, if you’d like to explore all the awe-inspiring locations on this tour.

Important Information

If you’re staying in Lahaina or Ka'anapali in West Maui, the drive to the starting point for the Road to Hana is about 45 minutes away.

Don’t forget to include that extra time while you’re planning your day!

Also, if you want to avoid driving at night as much as possible, we suggest you begin your return trip around 4:00 p.m.

MORNING

We highly recommend you start the tour from Kahului by 8:00 a.m. If you don’t start early enough, there’s a chance you’ll be driving the road at night.

Pa'ia Town

Approximate time: 30 minutes

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

The official start of the Road to Hana is in Pa'ia Town, a beachy neighborhood with cute shops and some good restaurants to grab a bite for breakfast.

We recommend grabbing some coffee, breakfast, or delicious sandwiches to go from the Hana Picnic Lunch Company. They also have clean restrooms if you need one!

Check out the tour highlights in the app for additional restaurant recommendations.

Our next food stop will be in a few hours at the Garden of Eden Arboretum (a paid attraction) or even further down the road for some delicious, fresh-made banana bread.

If you’re not hungry, keep driving to the next stop!

RELATED: Pa'ia Travel Guide

Ho'okipa Beach

Approximate time: 10 minutes

The consistent strong winds and good waves make Ho’okipa a world-famous beach for windsurfing and kite surfing.

You can stop here briefly to check out the surfers! There is a great view from the parking lot above that overlooks the beach.

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.

Jaws

Approximate time: 10 minutes

To access this world-famous surf spot, you’ll need a four-wheel drive vehicle for a muddy dirt road.

During the months between December and March, when the wind and ocean conditions are just right, Jaws can produce waves as high as 70 feet!

There are many big wave competitions held here every year that attract the best surfers from around the world.

However, most of the time this beach has little to no waves. So unless it’s winter and you are sure that Jaws is “breaking,” we suggest you skip this beach and keep driving.

Twin Falls

Approximate time: 30 minutes

If swimming next to a waterfall is on your vacation bucket list, you won't want to miss Twin Falls! Unbeknownst to most, there are actually three falls in the area: Twin Falls--the most popular and most easily accessible--Rope Swing, and Caves.

Each waterfall requires a short hike and offers picture-perfect photo ops as well as a chance for a quick dip in a beautiful swimming hole.

You'll also find a farmstand selling fresh tropical fruits and banana bread.

This family-friendly activity is a must-do on your Road to Hana trip!

NOTE: Parking is limited, and there is a $10 per vehicle parking fee. There is no parking or walking allowed along the road. So if the lot is full, you can try again another time or come back another day.

Waikamoi Ridge Trail

Approximate time: 30 minutes

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

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 -- remember, you’ll be in the car for hours today!

Garden of Eden Arboretum

Approximate time: 1 hour

The Garden of Eden is a family-friendly spot with a variety of exotic plants from tropical rainforests throughout the world.

While you’re there, you’ll see stunning coastal views and catch a glimpse of the Keopuka Rock, which was featured in the opening scene of Jurassic Park.

NOTE: There is an admission fee to enter the Arboretum.

Bathroom Break at Kaumahina State Wayside Park

Approximate time: 10 minutes

This well-maintained park is a great place to stretch your legs and use the restroom. However, if we’re being honest, this isn’t always the cleanest rest stop.

If you can, wait until you get to the Ke’anae Peninsula. If you do hop out of the car, snap some photos of the peninsula which we will be visiting in a bit.

Honomanu Bay View

Approximate time: 5 minutes

Here is the pullout for Honomanu Bay where you can park your car and cross the street for a good view of the bay.

If there is no room to park, you can also stop by on the way back if there’s still daylight.

Nua'ailua View Point

Approximate time: 5 minutes

Pull over to view sheer cliffs and crashing surf at Nua’ailua Bay.

Ke’anae Arboretum

Approximate time: 30 minutes

Perhaps you’ve heard of the rainbow eucalyptus trees on the Road to Hana. If you’re looking to see these colorful trees up close, here’s the spot!

The Ke’anae Arboretum is free and open to the public. You can also visit this stop on the way back if there’s time.

We’ll mention it again on the return trip.

NOTE: There is a bit of a hike on a paved path to get to the arboretum.

Ke’anae Peninsula

Approximate time: 10 minutes

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

The Ke'anae Peninsula is a short detour off of Hana Highway, but it’s well worth the time for its stunning views of the ocean ripping through jagged lava rock.

There are also some public restrooms near the peninsula.

Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread

Approximate time: 15 minutes

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

Aunty Sandy’s serves up warm loaves of banana bread that are made fresh daily. We highly recommend you stop for a bite.

Plus, at this point, you’re probably starting to feel a bit hungry, and we still have a ways to go before we make it to the next major food stop.

Ke'anae Valley Overlook

Approximate time: 5 minutes

Now, pull over for an amazing overlook of the Ke’anae Peninsula that we drove down.

You will see a large shoulder on the left that you can pull in for a great bird's-eye view of the peninsula.

Notice the many taro patches that dot the landscape.

RELATED: Road to Hana Maps

Halfway to Hana Food Stand

Approximate time: 20 minutes

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

Looking to grab a snack for the road? Stop at Halfway to Hana Food Stand.

This snack shop also has tasty banana bread, shaved ice, lunch items like burgers and sandwiches, and small bites like fruits and chips.

FUN FACT! Halfway to Hana is actually just before the official halfway point.

PRO-TIP! If you are traveling with kids, got a late start, or are crunched for time, this place is a good place to turn around for a “mini” Road to Hana tour. You’ll hear lots of great stories on the return trip.

Wailua Valley State Wayside Park

Approximate time: 15 minutes

Wailua Valley State Wayside Park is not much of a park but more like an overlook.

Here you can get an excellent view of little Wailua Town and a famous church called the “Coral Miracle Church”.

When you get to the overlook, you will see the Haleakala Volcano behind you.

You may even get lucky and see a waterfall or two cascading down in the distance.

Uppper Waikani Falls (Three Bears)

Approximate time: N/A - just drive by

Waikani Falls is actually a series of three waterfalls, also known by its nickname -- the Three Bears Falls. Don’t worry, there are no bears in Hawai'i.

The falls likely got this nickname because the three falls have varying heights: short, medium, and tall, just like the family of bears in the children’s story Goldilocks and the Three Bears.

NOTE: Do not stop at the falls! There is no parking.

RELATED: Is the Road to Hana Dangerous?

AFTERNOON

Lava Tube Cave

Approximate time: 15 minutes

As we continue along Hana Highway, we’ll stop by a lava cave hidden on the side of the road.

This cave was formed when hot lava from an eruption cooled and hardened on the exterior, while it continued flowing in the inner core.

After the lava drained out, the hardened exterior shell remained, forming a cave.

Duck and watch your head as you enter the cave. The entrance is small with some jagged rocks, but it quickly opens up to where you can easily stand up.

NOTE: If you are interested in exploring a bigger lava tube cave complete with stalactites and stalagmites, then save some time to check out the Hana Lava Tubes. This paid attraction near Hana Town is one of Maui's great natural wonders!

Look Out for Makapipi Falls

Approximate time: 1 minute

This next waterfall is under a bridge!

Makapipi Falls is one of the most interesting falls on the tour. Not only does the highway cross over the cascades, but the water flows from a lava streambed into a beautiful pool below.

After you cross the bridge, you can park on the shoulder and walk back for a closer look.

Makapipi may be dry in the summertime, but when the water is flowing, it's worth the stop!

Kahanu Garden

Approximate time: 45 minutes

Kahanu Garden is a National Botanical Garden outside of Hana featuring native plants of value to Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders.

You’ll learn about the connection between the ancient Hawaiians and the land.

The garden is also a sacred cultural site--home to Pi'ilanihale Heiau, believed to be the largest ancient temple in all of Polynesia.

Note: There is an admission fee to enter the garden.

Wai'anapanapa Black Sand Beach

IMPORTANT: Reservations are required to visit Wai'anapanapa State Park. See more below.

Approximate time: 45 minutes

Wai'anapanapa Black Sand Beach, Maui

Visit one of Maui’s amazing black-sand beaches. Created when hot lava shattered in contact with the ocean, this beach is unlike any others on the Road to Hana.

While you’re there, look out for the freshwater cave that leads to the ocean, a blowhole that shoots water into the air, and a sea arch formed from erosion.

This is a great spot to spend some time stretching your legs, lying in the sun, and even having a picnic.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Reservations are required to visit Wai'anapanapa State Park. You can book a timed reservation up to 30 days in advance. NO SAME-DAY RESERVATIONS ARE ALLOWED. The price is $10 per vehicle to park AND $5 per person to enter. You need to have a parking reservation to enter the beach park, and you must arrive and depart within your alloted time slot.

Make your reservation here: www.gowaianapanapa.com. Learn more about how to plan your day based on your reservation time here.

RELATED: Wai'anapanapa State Park Travel Guide

Hana Town

Approximate time: 1 hour

Congratulations! You’ve made it to Hana. This is the moment you’ve been waiting for.

But don’t worry, the tour isn’t over -- some of the best stops are yet to come! We recommend you grab a bite to eat here in Hana. There are loads of options to choose from. Just note that many restaurants close at 5pm.

This is the last stop for food until you get back to Pa'ia Town.

NOTE: Visitors should not go to the Red Sand Beach. Many years of overuse have caused erosion resulting in a dangerous hike along steep cliffs to and from the beach.

RELATED: Hana's History

Hasegawa General Store

Approximate time: 5 minutes

This general store has been owned and operated by the same family since 1910. It has everything from snacks to souvenirs.

It’s a great place to stop to pick up food and drinks for the road. You can also skip it for now and visit on the way back.

PRO TIP! The only gas station in Hana is next door. Fuel up here if you need to.

Koki Beach

Approximate time: 30 minutes

You made it to Hana! Now, take a few minutes to lie down and relax at Koki Beach.

One interesting feature of this spot is the large hill beside it. Hawaiians have a name for this spot – it’s called Ka Iwi o Pele, which means "the bones of Pele."

Actually, this hill is a cinder cone that erupted lava just before Mount Haleakala went dormant.

Hamoa Beach

Approximate time: 30 minutes

This is a perfect family beach because of the protected cove and the large sandy area.

If the waves aren’t too strong, there is some pretty decent snorkeling on the far left side of the cove.

Park next to the road and access the beach by a set of stairs.

Look out for Wailua Falls

Approximate time: N/A - just drive by

As you continue driving towards Kipahulu (Haleakala National Park), look out for Wailua Falls along the road.

Up to this point you have already seen a ton of waterfalls. But this one is the largest of them all at 80 feet tall.

The best view is from the right of the bridge. No need to stop here; there's no parking.

Just peek out your window, but be mindful of other drivers on the road as you keep an eye out.

Pipiwai Trail (Inside Haleakala National Park)

Approximate time: 2 hours

Views along the Pipiwai Trail; Thomas from Philadelphia Area, USA, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Once you get to Haleakala National Park at Kipahulu, we recommend you check out the Pipiwai Trail. This three-and-a-half-mile rainforest trail offers beautiful views of two waterfalls and a bamboo forest.

The hike is rated moderate and takes about 2 hours to complete.

If you’re short on time or looking for a family-friendly option, you can just hike partway to the first lookout point where you can see Makahiku Falls.

NOTE: There’s a $30 entrance fee per car to enter Haleakala National Park. If you visited Haleakala summit within the past three days, you can show your receipt to enter for free.

RELATED: Pipiwai Trail Travel Guide

'Ohe'o Gulch aka Pools of ‘Ohe’o aka Seven Sacred Pools (Inside Haleakala National Park)

Approximate time: 1+ hours

This is by far one of the most popular stops on the Road to Hana. 'Ohe'o Gulch, also known as the Pools of ‘Ohe’o or the Seven Sacred Pools, is a series of cascading waterfalls that lead to pristine pools of water.

Take in the natural beauty and reminisce on all you’ve seen and learned on your tour today.

NOTE: There’s a $30 entrance fee per car to enter Haleakala National Park. If you visited Haleakala summit within the past three days, you can show your receipt to enter for free.

UPDATE: The Pools of 'Ohe'o are currently closed to swimming. But the trail is still open for viewing the waterfall and pools.

EVENING

If you want to avoid driving at night as much as possible, we suggest you begin the return trip around 4:00 p.m.

Don’t be discouraged if you want to keep going; it is not impossible to drive at night. Just use common sense and caution.

Drive Back

Approximate time: 3 hours

After you’ve experienced all that the national park has to offer, you can begin to make your way back to Pa'ia Town along Hana Highway (the same way you came).

Don’t worry. It goes by faster than you think! Of course, that is because we’ve prepared loads of interesting stories about the history and legends of Hawai'i to keep you entertained the whole drive back!

NOTE: Along the way, there’s only one stop so you can completely focus on the drive.

Waioka (Venus Pools)

Approximate time: 30 minutes

On your way back, we'll pass the trailhead for Waioka, also known as Venus Pools.

This hidden gem features a cool waterfall, swimming hole, and opportunity to cliff jump.

While it looks idyllic, you should know that Waioka poses several dangers such as a steep and slippery trail, harmful bacteria in the water, risk of injury from cliff jumping, and dangerous flash floods. Tragically, people have been severely injured and some have even died at this location.

If you decide to go, you visit the pools at your own risk. Remember, if it has rained recently, looks like rain, or is starting to get dark, you should skip this spot.

NOTE: East Maui Ready has issued an advisory against visiting Waioka for the reasons stated above. They encourage visitors to only visit places in East Maui that are open to the public or managed by state and federal parks. In addition, there is no parking near the trailhead. Please respect the "No Parking" signs.

Pa'ia Town

Your tour will end in Pa'ia Town, close to where we began. At this point, it’s probably late in the evening and you’re looking for some grub.

We recommend you have dinner in Pa'ia, especially if you have to make the 45-minute drive back to West Maui. Check out the tour highlights for recommendations!

Conclusion

The Road to Hana is a magical adventure filled with history, culture, beaches, scenic spots, and waterfalls.

We are so glad you’ve chosen Shaka Guide to help make lasting memories.

We hope that in the midst of your full-day adventure, you take time to appreciate the natural beauty of Maui.

Ready to take the Classic Road to Hana Tour? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

Can’t get enough of the Road to Hana? Next time try our Reverse or Loop Road to Hana where you drive around the back road to Hana for a totally different experience! Check out which Road to Hana tour is right for you!

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