The Road to Hana runs about 64 miles along Maui’s eastern shore. From Nāpili you can expect a drive time around 3 hours. Start this adventure expecting a full day of aloha, slow pace, and natural beauty. Expect lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, black sand beaches, and many one-lane bridges. This guide lays out what matters most, mile by mile, with practical tips that will help your journey be enjoyable.

Table of Contents

• Before you leave Kahului
• Quick driving tips
• Must-see stops, mile by mile
• Practical notes for a respectful visit
• Why slow down on this drive
• Frequently asked questions
• Parting thoughts

Before you leave Kahului

Start early, aim for sunrise. Traffic and parking shape the day, so an early launch keeps the pace relaxed. Fill the gas tank before leaving town. Bring plenty of water, snacks, and a packed lunch if you prefer fewer stops at roadside stands. Wear comfortable clothing, a swimsuit, towel, and sturdy hiking shoes or water shoes. Pack sunscreen, bug repellant, and cash for local vendors and parking fees.

Quick driving tips

Expect hundreds of tight turns and many single-lane bridges. Drive respectfully, yield when local signs indicate yield, and move slowly through narrow stretches. Pull off at turnout areas for photos or to let locals go by so traffic flows smoothly for everyone.

Must-see stops, mile by mile

Hoʻokipa Beach Park

Hoʻokipa sits just before mile marker zero. This beach is a surfer meeting place and a great spot to see Hawaiian green sea turtles resting on the sand. Parking is free and picnic tables invite a quiet breakfast stop. Sunset views along this stretch are special. Hoʻokipa Beach Park — a classic surf spot and turtle-viewing area where we usually stop first.

Twin Falls, mile marker two

Twin Falls offers a short hike to multiple cascades and good swimming spots. Arrive before eight in the morning to avoid crowds. There is a small parking fee. Wear water shoes because some parts of the trail include stream crossings. Save swimming for the upper falls, where the pools feel most dramatic.

Bamboo forest near mile 6.7

A narrow trail threads through towering bamboo groves and leads to hidden falls. The atmosphere feels otherworldly, especially in the morning light. The path can be muddy, so sturdy shoes are helpful.

Garden of Eden Arboretum, mile 10.5

This 26 acre botanical garden showcases native plants, a bamboo grove, and scenic viewpoints. Panoramic views of Keopuka Rock became familiar from a famous movie scene. The garden closes by late afternoon, and there is an admission fee, so plan accordingly.

Keʻanae Peninsula, around mile 16

Keʻanae is a small historic village with an overlooked arboretum featuring rainbow eucalyptus trees. Aunty Sandy’s banana bread stand sits nearby. Expect a line early in the day, and arrive before noon when loaves often sell out. Walk to the end of the peninsula to enjoy crashing waves against lava rock while you savor fresh banana bread. 

Wailua Valley State Wayside, mile 18

Stop for sweeping coastal and valley views. The pullout is a short photo stop that helps break up the drive. Overlook across Wailua Valley toward the ocean.

Upper Waikani Falls, mile 19 (Three Bears Falls)

These three-tiered falls are visible from the road. Pull over safely for photos or take a short walk to get closer to the cascades. 

Puaʻa Kaʻa State Park, mile 22

This state park has picnic tables, restrooms, and access to waterfalls and swimming holes. The water can feel cold depending on season. The park makes a good family stop for a rest and a swim.

Nahiku Marketplace, mile 29

A handful of food stands offer fresh fish tacos, local coffee, and handmade crafts. This is a good place for a snack and a souvenir purchase. Keep in mind hours vary, embrace the aloha pace when a stand is closed. 

Waiʻānapanapa State Park, mile 32

This park features a famous black sand beach, sea caves, blowholes, and lava tubes. Reservations are required for timed entry blocks, and there is a modest per car and per person fee. Walk the coastal trails and observe blowholes from a safe distance because wave activity can become dangerous. 

Hana town

Hana is a small community where the day slows down. Browse local art, enjoy pokē from food trucks, and grab coconut ice cream. Most places are free to wander, and the town offers a good place to rest before continuing farther along the coast.

Venus Pool, mile 48

A favorite among locals, this tucked-away freshwater pool provides a refreshing swim. Follow directions carefully and respect private property signs while approaching this spot.

Wailua Falls, mile 45

This 80 foot waterfall sits right off the roadway and makes an easy stop for photos. There is a small lot for parking. Adventurous people head down to swim in the plunge pool. Entry into the roadside area is free.

ʻOheʻo Gulch (Pools of ʻOheʻo), Haleakalā National Park, mile 42

Located within Haleakalā National Park, the Pools of ʻOheʻo are a string of cascading pools framed by dense foliage. Spend time on the trails and enjoy views of the coast from the lookout. Park entry requires a per vehicle fee, unless a National Park Pass applies within a three day window.

Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls

Pipiwai Trail teaches patience and reward. The four mile round trip hike climbs through forest, passes Makahiku Falls, crosses under a massive banyan tree, and enters a towering bamboo grove. The trail finishes at Waimoku Falls, which drops about 400 feet down a sheer cliff. Expect a two to three hour commitment and a moderate challenge with roughly 800 feet of elevation gain.

Practical notes for a respectful visit

Follow posted signs and stay on trails for safety and cultural respect. Carry out trash, leave plants where they grow, and support local small businesses along the way. Bring cash for roadside vendors and for parking fees at certain state park entrances. Weather shifts quickly along the coast, so layers help for both sun and cooler moments under the canopy.

Why slow down on this drive

Road to Hana holds its charm when we allow extra time for each stop. The journey matters more than a race to Hana town. Time spent on short hikes, sitting by a pool, or talking with a baker at a roadside stand adds layers to the day. Move with aloha and enjoy the unhurried rhythm of East Maui.

Frequently asked questions

How long will the round trip take

Plan for ten to twelve hours when you include stops and short hikes for a full day experience.

Should we drive the Road to Hana ourselves or book a tour

Driving yourself offers flexibility to stop when inspired. Guided tours reduce planning and navigation. Choose the option that suits how you prefer to travel, slow and local or guided and relaxed.

Are reservations required for Waiʻānapanapa State Park

Yes. Book a timed entry block in advance. There is a per car and per person fee for park access.

What footwear should we bring

Sturdy hiking shoes for trails and water shoes for stream crossings and rocky pools make the day more comfortable.

Is Haleakalā National Park entry required for the Seven Sacred Pools

Yes, the Pools of ʻOheʻo sit inside Haleakalā National Park and require the park entry fee unless covered by a National Park Pass within a three day window.

Parting thoughts

We recommend leaving early, pulling over if theres a line of traffic behind you, and keeping a sense of aloha for people and place. The Road to Hana rewards patience with quiet corners, powerful waterfalls, and friendly roadside offerings. Bring treat or coffee from Island vibes Cafe for the drive, a towel for spontaneous swims, and an appetite for banana bread. Travel gently, and return back to Nāpili Village Hotel with a soft place in your chest for East Maui.