Shaka Guide's Reverse Road to Hana Itinerary

June 02, 2025

Shaka Guide

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.

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 rainforests
a lava cave, and
stunning scenic spots.

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

Road to Hana Map with Mile Markers

With Shaka Guide, you’ll have the freedom to stop where you want, stay as long as you like, and skip the places that don't interest you.

Our Reverse Road to Hana tour takes you to the rarely discovered backside of Hana.

With 127 narration points and over 30 stops, this tour takes between 10-12 hours to complete.

It begins in Kula Town and travels counterclockwise to Pa'ia Town, in the opposite direction of the traditional Road to Hana.

There are some serious pros to taking the tour in the "backward" direction:

You visit some of the most popular sites before the crowds -- think about it, if everyone starts the tour in the morning, then everyone arrives at 'Ohe'o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) in Haleakala National Park at Kipahulu around the same time. On this tour, Haleakala National Park will be one of the first stops.
You’ll arrive in Hana earlier in the day. It’s the perfect stop for lunch!
You will avoid traffic because you’ll be traveling in the opposite direction from everyone else!

We highly recommend you start the tour early, by 8 a.m.

PLEASE NOTE: If you’re staying in Lahaina or Ka'anapali in West Maui, the drive to the starting point for the Reverse Road to Hana is about an hour away. Don’t forget to include that extra time while you’re planning your day.

Important Information for Driving the Back Road to Hana

The back road to Hana (also known as the reverse Road to Hana or driving the Road to Hana backward) 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 rusy 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.

Also be aware that if you need a tow, it’s really expensive and will take the full day.

So, if you do decide to drive the reverse route along the back side, you do so at your own risk. Learn more about the back road to Hana here.

Debating which tour to take? Check out our suggested Classic Road to Hana Itinerary and Loop Road to Hana Itinerary. And, here's our tour comparison to help you decide.

RELATED: Is the Road to Hana Dangerous?

Recommended Start Time

We highly recommend you start the tour in Kula by 8 a.m., especially if you’re traveling from West Maui (the major resort areas of Lahaina and Ka'anapali).

If you don’t start early enough, there’s a chance you’ll be driving the windy Road to Hana at night.

Tour Stops

Natural Sea Arch

Approximate time: 5 minutes

Begin the day with a scenic site and geologic wonder! 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.

Huakini Beach

Approximate time: 30 minutes

Next is a visit to Huakini Beach. 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.

RELATED: Road to Hana Maps

View of Nu’u Bay & Haleakala

Approximate time: 10 minutes

Beautiful views along the backside of Hana

This is the first of many beautiful views that the tour has to offer! From this windy spot, you can see Nu’u Bay and Mount Haleakala.

Alelele Falls

Approximate time: 20 minutes

Alelele Falls is one of nine waterfalls you'll visit on on your adventure today! Visiting the 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 plan to hike at Kipahulu (Haleakala National Park) or want to save time for swimming at beaches later on, feel free to skip this spot and keep driving.

Charles Lindbergh's Grave

Approximate time: 10 minutes

Just before 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.

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

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.

This is the perfect place to spend some time, especially since you’ll arrive before the crowds.

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 waterfalls and pools.

Pipiwai Trail - Inside Haleakala National Park at Kipahulu

Approximate time: 2 hours

Views along the Pipiwai Trail

While you are at Haleakala National Park at Kipahulu, we highly 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 hike about 0.5 miles to the first lookout point where you can see Makahiku Falls, then turn around.

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.

Drive by Wailua Falls

Approximate time: 1 minute

As you’re driving, look out for Wailua Falls along the road. It’s a breathtaking, 80-foot waterfall. The best view is from the left of the bridge.

Be mindful of other drivers on the road as you keep an eye out.

Hamoa Beach

Approximate time: 30 minutes

Want to sit back and relax for a little? 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.

Koki Beach

Approximate time: 30 minutes

Koki Beach is another great spot to kick back and relax. 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."

This hill is a cinder cone that erupted lava just before Mount Haleakala went dormant.

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. This is a good spot to fill the tank for the road ahead.

Hana Town

Approximate time: 1 hour

You made it to Hana -- that was fast! Don’t worry, 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.

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

RELATED: Hana's History

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 ARE ALLOWED. The entry price is $10 to park AND $5 per person.

To get the most out of your visit, check out Shaka Guide's Wai'anapanapa State Park Travel Guide.

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.

Here, you’ll learn about the connection between the ancient Hawaiians and the land.

The garden is also a sacred cultural site and home to Pi'ilanihale Heiau, believed to be the largest heiau (or temple) in all of Polynesia.

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

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 waterf flows from a lava streambed into a beautiful pool below.

You can park on the shoulder on the left before the falls and get a closer look.

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

NOTE: Do not stop in the middle of the road! Pull completely off the highway and park. Be mindful of other drivers as you cross the road to view the falls.

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.

NOTE: 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.

AFTERNOON

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ke'anae Valley Overlook

Approximate time: 5 minutes

Pull over for an amazing overlook of the Ke’anae Peninsula. You will see a large shoulder on the right that provides a great bird's-eye view of the peninsula.

Notice the many taro patches that dot the landscape. You’ll visit this peninsula shortly.

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 public restrooms by the softball field at Ke'anae Park.

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, if you haven’t had anything to eat since Hana Town, you’re probably starting to feel a bit hungry. This is a great spot to grab a bit as we still have a ways to go before we make it to the next major food stop in Pa'ia Town.

Ke’anae Arboretum

Approximate time: 30 minutes

Perhaps you’ve heard of the rainbow eucalyptus trees on the Road to Hana? If you’re hoping 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's a bit of a hike on a paved path to get to the arboretum.

Nua'ailua View Point

Approximate time: 5 minutes

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

Honomanu Bay View

Approximate time: 5 minutes

Park in the pullout for a view of Honomanu Bay.

Bathroom Break at Kaumahina State Wayside Park

Approximate time: 10 minutes

This scenic rest stop offers a nice view of the Ke'anae Peninsula and is a great place to stretch your legs.

While there are restrooms here, they aren't the cleanest. So if you can wait, we recommend holding off until you reach Pa'ia Town.

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: Reservations are not required, but there is an admission fee. The arboretum is open daily but closes at 4 p.m. So if it's too late to visit today, you can always come back another time.

RELATED: The Ultimate Maui Travel Guide

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.

Twin Falls

Approximate time: 30 minutes

You’ve reached the last waterfall of the day!

Unbeknownst to most, there are actually three different falls in the area -- Twin Falls, the most easily accessible, and 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 may also find a farmstand selling fresh tropical fruits and banana bread.

If you’re looking to swim next to a waterfall,Twin Falls is the perfect place to end your day.

NOTE: Twin Falls is open daily except for the first Saturday of every month. The last entry is 5 p.m. Parking is very limited, and there is a $10 per vehicle parking fee. There is NO parking or walking allowed along the highway. So if the lot is full, you will need to try again later or come back another day.

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.

NOTE: To access Jaws, you will need a four-wheel drive vehicle for a muddy dirt road.

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 and watch the sunset!

There is a great view from the parking lot above that overlooks the beach.

Pa'ia Town

Approximate time: 30 minutes

You made it! You conquered the Road to Hana! Now that you’re in Pa'ia, we suggest you unwind with dinner at one of this seaside town’s quaint restaurants.

From here, you can head back to your hotel in West Maui (Ka'anapali or Lahaina) which will take about 45 minutes.

For restaurant recommendations, check out Shaka Guide's: Pa'ia Travel Guide

Conclusion

The Road to Hana is a magical journey filled with history, culture, scenic spots, and waterfalls making for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

We are grateful you’ve chosen Shaka Guide to help create lasting memories.

We hope that amid your full-day adventure, you take time to step back and appreciate the natural beauty of Maui.

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Ready to take the tour? Check out Shaka Guide's Reverse 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 Reverse Road to Hana Tour? Here's everything you need to know before you go!