The 17 Greatest Street to Hana Stops on the Hawaiian Island of Maui
Driving the Street to Hana, also called the Hana Freeway, is likely one of the finest issues to do in Maui. This 600ish-turn, 64.4-mile route takes you thru a number of the most stunning surroundings on the island. It’s loaded with a whole bunch of hairpin turns, cascading waterfalls, a bamboo forest and dozens of lovely issues to see.
Whereas it’s potential to drive the entire thing in lower than 3 hours with none stops, we’ll miss out on heaps of experiences that hold vacationers coming again for extra. what they are saying, the journey is usually extra necessary than the vacation spot.
Let’s try 35 of the perfect stops on this scenic route, from the perfect photograph alternatives to climbing trails to the perfect eats on the street and a lot extra that may absolutely make for a enjoyable driving tour..
Mile Marker 0 — Paia City
What higher option to begin your journey to Hana than on the unofficial beginning place, the metropolis of Paia? This as soon as sugar-mill city is now a famend laid-back windsurfing vacation spot, with in style windsurfing spots like Ho’okipa and Spreckelsville attracting individuals the world over. It is usually generally known as the “Windsurfing Capital of the World.”
Stylish boutiques, eating places, surf retailers, and native artwork galleries, reminiscent of Nuage Bleu, Cafe Mambo, and Maui Fingers, name the place their residence. As that is the final city you’ll come throughout in your option to Hana, it’s additionally an incredible place to refill on gasoline (which might get fairly costly right here), snacks, toiletries, and whatnot.
Mile Marker 2 — Hana Freeway (360) — Twin Falls
Hawaii is understood for a number of the world’s most stunning waterfalls, and Maui is not any exception. The primary of many Street to Hana stops, the Twin Falls is located within the Ho’olawa Valley. Whereas the realm across the falls is inside non-public property (Wailele Farm), it’s simply accessible to the general public. There are additionally totally different meals stands the place you will get some refreshing smoothies and snacks. Since it is a in style cease for a lot of vacationers and locals, parking house can replenish rapidly, so ensure that to regulate your schedule to work round peak occasions (10AM to 2PM).
There are two waterfalls alongside the reasonably difficult 1.8-mile path resulting in Twin Falls. The primary one is comparatively near the car parking zone, the place you’ll see a small waterfall and a pure pool you may dip into. The second (the one usually seen on photos of Twin Falls) requires a little bit of climbing however is unquestionably properly price it. As there are various slippery (and generally harmful) spots alongside the way in which, remember to convey acceptable footwear, like water sneakers.
P.S. Don’t depart any valuables in your automobile, as (sadly) theft is often reported within the space.
Mile Marker 3.5 — Kaulanapueo Church
Kaulanapueo Church was in-built 1853. At 8:45 within the morning, we had been the one ones there, in addition to the spirits buried within the quaint cemetery, some courting again to 1940. The Protestant church buildings doorways had been locked, however the cease was price a peak across the grounds.
Mile Marker 4.5 — Huelo Lookout
Early on the Street to Hana drive we determined {that a} fruit smoothie can be so as and one of many first stands was Huelo Lookout. I ordered a banana bliss smoothie, which was made with contemporary papaya, coconut and bananas—if these elements don’t say Hawaii, I’m unsure what does.
Mile Marker 6.7 — Rainbow Eucalyptus Bushes
The Rainbow Eucalyptus Bushes are one in all Maui’s most well-known sights. Whereas these huge timber are discovered in several elements of the island, the most well-liked spot is round mile marker 7, the place you’ll see the “painted forest” alongside the slopes of Haleakala in direction of the ocean. The timber get their title from the rainbow-like inside bark that types when the outer bark peels away (which occurs a number of occasions a 12 months).
Mile Marker 9 — Ho’okipa Seashore Park/Ho’okipa Lookout
Top-of-the-line areas in Maui for leisure ocean actions is Ho’okipa Seashore Park at Mile Marker 9, which incorporates Ho’okipa Lookout.
This breathtaking white sand seashore gives a number of the finest windsurfing experiences on Maui’s coast, and it’s not unusual to see the professionals courageous the sturdy winds and waves. And let’s not neglect the lookout, which gives sweeping views of the adjoining shoreline and an up-close take a look at the highly effective waves that crash towards the rocky shore.
Mile Marker 9.5 — Waikamoi Nature Path
The Waikamoi Nature Path is a straightforward loop hike stuffed with ferns, tall timber and scenic overlooks. There are two climbing choices; the lengthy route and the quick. With our restricted time on the Hana Freeway we took the shorter of the 2 which was slightly below a mile.
Mile Marker 10.2 — Ka Haku Smoke Shack
Ka Haku Smoke Shack is likely one of the funkiest meals huts alongside the way in which to Hana and the ten buck hen plate comes with a free coconut. Don’t hassle with the canned corn and rice sides that include it. However the hen, that’s grilled proper in entrance of you, is tender and flavorful. The contemporary coconut juice washed all of it down properly.
Mile Marker 10.6 — Backyard of Eden
The Garden of Eden is a type of expensive, touristy arboretums that I’d sometimes move up, however it’s a nice cease for figuring out all of the native vegetation that you will notice throughout your Hawaiian travels. Plus, they’ve a few waterfall lookouts.
Mile Marker 12 — Kaumahina State Wayside Park
Coming in at round mile marker 12 is the scenic Kaumahina State Wayside Park. This 7.8-acre woodland/viewpoint is a superb place to relaxation and revel in some grub, with picnic tables and restrooms accessible for guests. Breathtaking views of the northeast Maui shoreline and Ke’anae Peninsula are a deal with for the eyes, with tons of nice photograph alternatives from one of many spots looking out. There are additionally a number of (albeit unmaintained) loop routes going uphill, the place you’ll see quite a few native and unique timber and vegetation.
Mile Marker 14 — Honomanu Bay Lookout
Honomanu Bay is located between mile markers 13 and 14 of Hana Freeway, on Maui’s North Shore. And what higher approach to absorb the bay’s biggest views than on the Honomanu Bay Lookout? This pullout, which is located simply previous Kaumahina State Wayside Park, gives a broad panorama of the bay and can be a preferred pictures spot. So whether or not you’re trying to absorb the pure great thing about Maui or seize some wonderful pictures, the Honomanu Bay Lookout is unquestionably price a go to.
Mile Marker 16.7 — Ke’anae Arboretum
Positioned previous mile marker 16 on the Hana Freeway alongside the Piinaau Stream is the Ke’anae Arboretum. What actually sells this one to vacationers and locals are the gorgeous tropical vegetation, flowers, and timber that develop right here (they’ve round 150 totally different species!) These embrace hibiscus, taro varieties, and the famed Rainbow eucalyptus. Entrance is free, and guests can take pleasure in a pleasant, simple stroll alongside the paved paths whereas taking within the breathtaking great thing about the flora.
Mile Marker 16.8 — Ching’s Pond
Ching’s Pond is a well-liked swimming gap that many individuals move by with out even understanding it’s there. The courageous locals cliff dive from the bridge, a 25 foot drop. The much less adventurous leap from the decrease parts or just watch from the sidelines. Leaping is totally, positively not advisable, however at the moment not taking the leap was additionally one in all my Street to Hana regrets. Undecided I’d be so courageous at the moment!
Mile Marker 17 — Keanae Peninsula and Village
Simply previous the Ke’anae Arboretum and mile marker 16 is a street resulting in Ke’anae, a small however stunning peninsula fashioned by the lava that flowed down Haleakala Crater and the soil introduced by ancestral Hawaiians centuries in the past.
At the moment, it’s identified for its historical Hawaiian city, taro farms, and beautiful land and seascape. With totally different viewpoints/lookouts within the space, you’ll at all times discover one thing new to see. Plus, it’s additionally a good way to take loads of pictures! Be sure you try the rugged lava-rock-filled shorelines, the historic church, and a style of some scrumptious banana bread (Aunty Sandy’s).
Mile Marker 17 1/3 — Midway to Hana
The Halfway to Hana snack store is actually a type of locations in style as a consequence of its title and it’ll most likely not be the perfect banana bread alongside the way in which, however well worth the cease simply to say you’ve been.
Mile Marker 18.8 — Wailua Valley State Wayside
A spot to stretch your legs and get a killer view! We took the steps on the fitting of Wailua Valley State Wayside to the highest and had been handled to a view of Ke‘anae Valley, Ko‘olau Hole and the village of Wailua. It will likely be a fast cease, however well worth the excellent Hawaiian view.
Mile Marker 19.5ish — Higher Waikani Falls
The Higher Waikani Falls, also called Three Bear Falls, is likely one of the hottest waterfalls of all of the Street to Hana stops. It obtained its title from the three separate side-by-side falls of various sizes, harking back to the unique bear trio from Goldilocks and the Three Bears. It’s additionally a comparatively fast hike to the falls proper on the aspect of the street.
Mile Marker 22 — Pua’a Ka’a Falls/Pua’a Kaa State Wayside Park
Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Park is positioned farther down the Hana Freeway, round half a mile previous milepost 22, and is a superb place to stretch your legs and revel in the great thing about Maui. Guests can take a brief hike by means of the forest to see a number of the birds and vegetation up shut. There’s additionally a waterfall on the property (Pua’a Ka’a Falls), which makes for a refreshing swim on a scorching day.
Mile Marker 24 — Hanawi Falls
The Hanawi Falls is one in all Maui’s most stunning and photographed waterfalls, positioned simply round mile marker 24. Constantly fed by the waters of the Hanawi Stream and surrounded by dense rainforest, the waterfalls are separated into two elements: the higher and decrease falls.
The higher waterfall is a 30-foot cascade that plunges right into a small pure pool discovered simply close to the bridge/roadside (which is a incredible spot for viewing it). The decrease waterfall is a 200-foot cascade accessible by way of a path from the Nahiku village. Sadly, some elements of the path are underneath non-public property, which prohibits any climbing.
Mile Marker 27. 5 — Coconut Glens Ice Cream
It’s not simply the sights that make Street to Hana a visit price remembering, but in addition the little candy treats we get to style alongside the way in which. And in relation to consuming ice cream, you’ll wish to cease on the funky bus at mile marker 27 1/2.
Constituted of domestically sourced elements, Coconut Glen’s natural vegan ice cream prides itself as the perfect there may be in Maui, and it could undoubtedly be the case when you get a style your self. With totally different flavors reminiscent of mint chocolate, lemongrass, and their signature coconut taste (and extra), your journey will certainly be an entire lot sweeter!
Mile Marker 28.8 — Nahiku Market
Nahiku Marketplace is a Hana purchasing middle, which consists of a tiny handful of Hawaiian product retailers. That is the place I found one in all my absolute favourite Maui treats, coconut sweet. The coconut is hand minimize, sprinkled with brown sugar and gradual baked. And it’s scrumptious!
Mile Marker 31 — Hana Farms Roadside Stand
The Hana Farms Roadside Stand is a well-liked cease for vacationers alongside the street to Hana. It’s a neighborhood market the place you should buy all kinds of products made in Hana and the farm itself, reminiscent of scorching sauces, spreads, skincare merchandise, and extra.
Be sure you try their bakery for some freshly-made breads, bagels, desserts, and their signature banana bread (is available in 4 totally different flavors.) In case you’re in search of one thing heavier, you may take pleasure in an open-air eating whereas munching on their wood-fired pizzas, pupus (a sort of Hawaiian appetizer), harvest salads, and extra.
Mile Marker 31 — Hana Lava Tube
Positioned previous mile marker 31, the Hana Lava Tube is likely one of the many pure wonders you could find on the Street to Hana. This large tube is constituted of solidified lava fashioned when the molten rocks cooled and hardened and is large enough to stroll by means of.
Guests can take the self-guided tour, which takes them contained in the underground lava tube. Completely different rock formations like stalagmites and stalactites fill the partitions and ceilings, and uncommon ones just like the Chocolate Hall and Chockstone are undoubtedly a must-see. In case you fancy one thing above floor, you may as an alternative discover and ‘get misplaced’ of their Purple Ti Botanical Backyard Maze.
Mile Marker 32 — Luana Spa Retreat
After indulging in an excessive amount of coconut sweet, we made a fast cease at Luana Spa Retreat to get a tour of a yurt. Why? As a result of I had no thought what the heck a yurt was both. Seems it’s a fancy-smancy collapsible tent generally utilized in Mongolia. However, you may sleep (or, even higher, get a spa remedy) in a single at Luana.
Mile Marker 32 — Nutcharee’s Thai meals
Proper subsequent to Luana Spa Retreat is Nutcharee’s, a scrumptious and genuine out of doors Thai restaurant. Although it’s off the overwhelmed path of the Hana Freeway, this place generally will get so busy it has to show away visitors. Yep, it’s that good.
Mile Marker 32 — Pa’iloa Seashore Black Sand Seashore at Wai’anapanapa State Park
The Pa’iloa or Wai’anapanapa Black Sand Seashore in Wai’anapanapa State Park (mile marker 32) was my favourite cease alongside the Street to Hana. Due to its distinctive black sand and exquisite tropical environment, this quick stretch is a particular Instagrammable spot.
A brief, steep path led us to the seashore, which began with a big coal-colored rock, adopted by shiny black sand with descending sizes of pebbles. Circumstances-permitting (as it could usually get harmful), you may go swimming within the water, however even simply the sight of it’s well worth the journey. There are additionally neighboring lava caves with freshwater lakes in the event you like exploring for a bit. Lovely!
Mile Market 33 — Hana Tropicals
Hana Tropicals is a unique tropical flower farm and orchid nursery positioned within the charming city of Hana in East Maui. The farm is an homage to one in all nature’s most stunning and distinct signatures across the island of Maui. The grounds are nestled away in a lush ethereal jungle, teeming with natural magnificence.
They provide a free guided tour of their farm, offered by one in all their passionate volunteer staff, or you might select to discover the property at your individual tempo and curiosity.
Mile Marker 34 — Hana City
Right here at mile marker 34 lies the small city of Hana, the place the entire journey is known as after. It was as soon as residence to the primary sugarcane plantations on the island, which paved the way in which to the creation of the roads coming to and from Hana.
Though it’s a quiet, sleepy city, Hana’s appeal lies in its wealthy historical past and the belongings you’ll uncover as soon as you recognize it a bit higher. Lush rainforests, stunning seashores, and scrumptious eats are simply a number of the many issues awaiting the weary traveler, and is unquestionably the perfect place to pause and rejuvenate. Some must-see locations embrace the Hana Cultural Center and Museum and Hana Bay Beach Park.
Mile Marker 35 — Kaihalulu Purple Sand Seashore
The pink sand seashore of Maui, also called Kaihalulu Beach, is arguably one of the beautiful and scenic seashores in the whole world. The seashore will get its pink colour from the iron-rich hill discovered within the space, which fantastically contrasts the ocean’s blue waters.
One thing to remember is that the entry path crosses non-public property, which is why the locals draw back from going to the seashore and why you might choose out too. It’s possible you’ll discover it disrespectful if one trespasses. The hike is comparatively quick, however the path is steep, slim, and harmful, particularly in the event you’re not carrying correct footwear. Use your finest judgment in the event you’re planning to go to right here, or in the event you’ll go for different points of interest as an alternative.
Mile Marker 41 — Lindbergh’s Grave
Tying in with our earlier entry, the Palapala Ho’omau Church additionally serves as the ultimate resting place of flier Charles Lindbergh, who’s finest identified for being the primary particular person to fly a monoplane nonstop and solo throughout the Atlantic Ocean. He spent his final years in Maui till he died of lymphoma on August 26, 1974 (age 72.)
His grave may be discovered underneath the shade of a plum tree and can be one of many causes individuals go to the church.
Mile Marker 41 — Palapala Ho’omau Church
The Palapala Ho’omau Church is an attractive church positioned simply previous mile marker 41 (eight miles south of Hana). In 1864, Christian missionaries constructed the church out of limestone coral and lava rock. Over the following century, it served as a spot of worship and a middle of exercise for the locals. Sooner or later, nonetheless, it was deserted till it was restored in 1964 by Sam Pryor and famed aviator Charles Lindbergh.
At the moment, it attracts guests worldwide with its beautiful gardens, surroundings, and seaside vistas. Add to that the peace and quiet one feels inside church grounds, making it an incredible cease after a protracted drive.
Mile Marker 42 — Ohe’o Gulch — Seven Sacred Swimming pools
Our final cease on the Street to Hana loop was the Ohe’o Gulch, also called the Seven Sacred Swimming pools. There are a number of falls that circulation by means of Ohe’o Gulch and they’re in style. By the point we obtained there, round 2:30pm, it was loaded with vacationers.
Mile Marker 42 — Pipiwai Path
Transferring on to Haleakala National Park at mile marker 42 is likely one of the finest (if not the perfect) trails in Maui: Pipiwai Path. This 4-mile, reasonably difficult route takes you to a few of its highlights, such because the 200-foot tall Makahiku Falls, a large 137-year-old Banyan tree, Maui’s most picturesque bamboo forest, and ending with the magnificent 400-foot tall Waimoku Falls.
Be sure you put on acceptable footwear as some elements of the path can get muddy and slippery, convey numerous water, some bug repellants, and naturally, depart no hint behind.
Mile Marker 45 — Wailua Falls
Wailua Falls, described as Maui’s “most photographed waterfall,” is located proper after mile marker 45 alongside the Honolewa Stream. That is undoubtedly one in all Maui’s most accessible and luxurious waterfalls, cascading round 80 ft down the aspect of a lush jungle cliff into a powerful plunge pool. What’s extra, you don’t even must go on a hike to see it!
Mile Marker 50 — Hamoa Seashore
After passing the city of Hana, we made a fast cease at Hamoa Seashore, an attractive, crescent public seashore. This golden white sand seashore is likely one of the finest surf breaks on the island (together with Koki Seashore), with the waters altering from mellow to fierce in a snap (remember to watch your youngsters!)
Through the calmer occasions, particularly within the morning, you may take pleasure in different water actions reminiscent of snorkeling and bodysurfing. We simply took a peek, however we might have spent extra time sunbathing if we didn’t must get again to Paia by dinner.
Mile Marker 51 — Koki Seashore
Koki Seashore is a pink sand seashore positioned on the island of Maui in Hawaii and is likely one of the two well-known Hana surf breaks liked by native surfers (the opposite one being Hamoa Seashore). The neighboring Ka Iwi O Pele, or “Bones of Pele” cinder cone hill, is chargeable for the darkish pink sand at Koki Seashore.
Because the waters can get fairly tough across the seashore, it’s not a really perfect spot for swimming. Nevertheless, it’s a incredible spot to loosen up and have a picnic whereas taking within the views of the surfers and the ocean.
. . .
It’s plain that Street to Hana is likely one of the hottest vacationer points of interest in Maui. From lush rainforests and luxurious waterfalls to pink and black sand seashores to scrumptious eats, there may be a lot this a part of the island has to supply. Whereas it could take a while to get by means of these nice stops, simply bear in mind to take pleasure in and take advantage of out of your journey!
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Important Suggestions for Visiting Maui and the Street to Hana
Getting There: Kahului Airport is a significant hub and most airways will fly into it. It’s the solely airport in Maui that accommodates direct flights from the U.S. mainland. You possibly can simply test for the perfect fare offers at Skyscanner, which additionally has the choice to decide on ‘most cost-effective month’ because the departure to search out the bottom priced dates to fly to your vacation spot. Though there may be an airport in Hana, there aren’t taxis, shuttle providers, or automobile leases on the Hana Airport, so fly into Kahului Airport and choose up your rental automobile, take a taxi, Uber, Lyft or a shuttle to your lodge.
The place to Keep in Maui: It’s finest to remain close to the airport in Kahului, near the beginning of the Hana Freeway. The Napili Sunset Beach Front Resort (reasonable) is a superb selection in Lahaina. For one thing a bit of nearer, the Old Wailuku Inn at Ulupono will prevent some
journey time on the way in which to the Street to Hana. For one thing on the inexpensive aspect, attempt the Kihei Kai Oceanfront Condos or the Banyan Tree Bed and Breakfast Retreat. For a lodge with a bit of extra extravagance, guide a room on the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa. Or search some nice offers on lodges of your selection at Booking.com. In case you’re in search of extra of a house ambiance (or are touring with a bunch of individuals), head over to Airbnb that has homes, residences and even only a room for hire in each value vary.
Getting Round: Renting a automobile in Maui is the perfect to actually expertise the Street to Hana and RentalCars.com has some nice offers. If you’re not renting a automobile, there are many choices. Taxis, Lyft and Uber can be found throughout Maui, plus many of the high points of interest may be accessed with the Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley, the Hula Hula Hopper. If you’re not renting a automobile however want to expertise the Street to Hana, try a number of the finest excursions that provide pick-up providers out of your lodge or condominium beneath within the ‘Greatest Excursions in Maui and the Street to Hana’ part.
Metropolis Transportation Passes: The Hula Hula Hopper Trolley gives a 2-Day all
inclusive move for $48 that permits entry to all 4 Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley traces.
Greatest Excursions in Maui and the Street to Hana: You will discover a number of the high excursions at Get Your Guide or Viator, and listed here are a number of the high ones:
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Stroll a Black Sand Seashore on the Street to Hana
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Excursions
Maui: Scenic Drive to Hana
Full-Day Sightseeing Tour of the Road to Hāna
The Road To Hana: Private Hike
