Shaka Guide's Loop Road to Hana Itinerary
There is only one road into and out of Hana. Locals have to drive this road every day and the thousands of 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 unsafe sites. And, please remember to pick up your trash.
- For more on being a responsible traveler to Hawaii, click here.
- You can also learn about proper Road to Hana etiquette here.
- And, before you travel to Hawaii, be sure to take the Pono Pledge here.
Exploring Road to Hana with Shaka Guide
The Road to Hana is one of the most famous excursions in Maui.
This road trip along Hana Highway passes dozens of:
- waterfalls
- beautiful beaches
- tropical forests
- a lava cave, and
- stunning scenic spots
Along the way, you can swim by a waterfall, hike through rainforests, and try some local grinds (two words: banana bread).
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 Loop Road to Hana tour takes you to the rarely discovered back road of Hana. With 142 narration points and over 30 stops, this tour takes between 10-12 hours to complete.
It begins in Kahului near the airport and ends in Kula Town. From there, you turn on your GPS to direct you to Pa'ia Town for some dinner, or just drive straight to your hotel.
We highly recommend you start the tour in Kahului early, by 8 a.m., if you’d like to explore each awe-inspiring location on this tour.
PLEASE NOTE: 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 leave 'Ohe'o Pools around 5 p.m.
Important Information for Driving the Back Road to Hana
The second half of the drive, past Kipahulu, is poorly maintained and is sometimes closed to visitors. When it's open, be prepared to navigate potholes and stretches of dirt road, drive next to cliffs with rusty guardrails, and maneuver along narrow, one-lane roads with blind curves.
Although some people have driven the back road in a two-wheel drive vehicle, a four-wheel drive is definitely preferable.
You should know that most rental car agreements prohibit driving on unpaved roads, and your insurance may not cover you if you break down. Tows are crazy expensive and will take the full day.
So, if you decide to drive the complete loop around the back side of Haleakala, you do so at your own risk. You can check out this article to learn more about driving the back road to Hana.
Debating which tour to take? Here's our tour comparison!
MORNING STOPS
We highly recommend you start the tour from Kahului by 8 a.m. If you don’t start early enough, there’s a chance you’ll be driving the road at night.
This is definitely doable, it’s just a matter of preference.
Pa'ia Town
Approximate time: 30 minutes
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 or lunch for the road. We recommend the Hana Picnic Lunch Company!
Your 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!
Ho'okipa Beach
Approximate time: 10 minutes
The consistent strong winds and good waves here 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.
Jaws Surf Break (aka Pe'ahi)
Approximate time: 10 minutes
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. Unless it’s winter and you are sure that Jaws is “breaking” we suggest you skip this beach and keep driving.
PLEASE NOTE: To access Jaws, you will need a four-wheel drive vehicle for a muddy dirt road.
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 very 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 later 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 family-friendly 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 scenic rest stop is a great place to stretch your legs and use the restroom.
It’s not the cleanest restroom along the road, so if you can wait, we recommend using the restroom at the Ke’anae Peninsula.
However, while you’re there, take the opportunity to snap a photo of the Ke'anae Peninsula which we'll be visiting in a bit.
Honomanu Bay View
Approximate time: 5 minutes
Park in the pullout on the right side of the road, then carefully cross the highway for a good view of Honomanu Bay. Do not block traffic.
Nua'ailua View Point
Approximate time: 5 minutes
Pullover 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!
And even better, the Ke’anae Arboretum is free and open to the public.
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 public restrooms at Ke'anae Park by the softball field.
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 at 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.
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 fresh banana bread, shave 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.
Wailua Valley State Wayside
Approximate time: 15 minutes
Wailua Valley State Wayside offers an excellent view of little Wailua Town and a famous church called the “Coral Miracle Church.”
From the overlook, you can also see the Haleakala Volcano behind you.
You may even get lucky and see a waterfall or two cascading down in the distance.
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 Hawaii.
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.
AFTERNOON
Secret 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.
Watch your head as you enter the cave. The entrance to the cave 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 the 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 Falls 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 Tropical 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 heiau (or 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 only 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 stretch your legs, dip your toes in the ocean, bask in the sun, or enjoy a picnic.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Reservations are required to visit Wai'anapanapa State Park. You can book reservations up to 30 days in advance. NO SAME DAY RESERVATIONS 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.
To learn how to plan your day based on your reservation time, click here.
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 5 p.m.
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.
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.
NOTE: The only gas station in Hana is next door to the general store. Fuel up here if you need to.
Koki Beach
Approximate time: 30 minutes
You made it to Hana! Now, take a few minutes to 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."
The 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.
To access the beach, park next to the road and take the set of stairs down to the sand.
Drive by Wailua Falls
Approximate time: 1 minute
As you continue driving towards Kipahulu (Haleakala National Park), look out for Wailua Falls along the road. It’s a breathtaking, 80-foot waterfall.
The best view is from the right of the bridge. 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
Once you get to Haleakala National Park at Kipahulu, we recommend you check out the Pipiwai Trail. This 3.5-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 about 0.5 miles 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.
'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 Pools of ‘Ohe’o and Seven Sacred Pools, is a series of cascading waterfalls that lead to pristine rock pools.
Take in the natural beauty and reminisce on all you’ve seen and learned so far 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
Charles Lindbergh's Grave
Approximate time: 10 minutes
Just past Haleakala in a remote graveyard is the final resting place of Charles Lindbergh, the famous aviator known for being the first to fly nonstop across the Atlantic from New York to Paris.
In 1972, he was diagnosed with lymphoma. After receiving various treatments in New York to no avail, he decided to spend the remainder of his life on Maui.
Behind the church is a small park, feel free to walk around and enjoy the serenity here.
Alelele Falls
Approximate time: 20 minutes
We’re not done with waterfalls just yet! This will be the ninth and final waterfall of your adventure today.
Visiting Alelele Falls requires a short hike that crosses a stream, but other than that, it’s pretty accessible.
The falls are roughly 50 feet tall, and there’s a pool for you to swim in. If you’re looking to get back before dark, skip this spot and keep driving.
NOTE: The falls can be seasonally dry in the summer months.
View of Nu’u Bay & Haleakala
Approximate time: 10 minutes
Beautiful views along the backside of Hana
You may think you’ve seen all the amazing views Maui has to offer, but there's more to come!
Pull over for another epic view of the Valley Isle.
This windy spot offers views of Nu’u Bay and Mount Haleakala.
Huakini Beach
Approximate time: 30 minutes
Get one more beach in before you end your day! After a short walk to the shore, you’ll notice this beach is covered with rocks!
Although you won’t feel sand between your toes, stop and listen as the waves crash onto these rocks.
You’ll hear a loud rumbling if the conditions are right.
Natural Sea Arch
Approximate time: 5 minutes
As you drive along this country road, you’ll soon spot a rock formation in the ocean.
This sea arch was created by an ancient dried lava flow that has carved out a hole by the ocean’s unrelenting waves.
Drive Back
Approximate time: 30 minutes - 1 hour
After you’ve stopped to look at Mother Nature’s work, you’ll begin your return trip home. If you’re heading back to Pa'ia for some dinner, it’s about a 30 minute drive from here.
If you’re going back to your hotel in West Maui, you can expect it to take about an hour.
PLEASE NOTE: The tour ends here. From this point, you’ll need to enter your final destination into your GPS map.
Conclusion
The Road to Hana is a magical journey, filled with history, culture, scenic spots, and waterfalls making for a one-in-a-lifetime experience.
The Loop tour gives you a chance to experience the wet tropical jungles of Hana and the dry grassland of Haleakala all in one day.
We are grateful you’ve chosen Shaka Guide to help create lasting memories.
We hope that in the midst of your full-day adventure, you take time to step back and appreciate the natural beauty of Maui.
Ready to take the tour? Check out Shaka Guide's Loop Road to Hana Tour!
We hope that we’ve given you all the information you need to make the most of your day. Your vacation is extremely important to us so if you have any questions feel free to reach out at aloha@shakaguide.com.
Ready to take the Loop Road to Hana Tour? Here's everything you need to know before you go!
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