Historic
The Road To Hāna

Conquer the Road to Hana in Style and Comfort

A First-Timer’s Adventure on the Hāna Highway

Those who are unfamiliar with the Hāna Highway, also known as the “Road to Hāna,” might look at their map and think, “Oh, it’s only 52 miles. We can make it to Hāna in about an hour.” Well, not unless you’re flying… literally. Aptly dubbed “The Divorce Highway,” the Road to Hāna features an exhausting and often harrowing 617 hairpin curves and 59 unforgiving one-lane bridges, not to mention an incredible number of blind spots along the way. With a speed limit of 25 mph or less the entire way, the drive time, with few to no stops, averages about 2.5 hours — and that’s without encountering any traffic or other diversions.

Oh, and there are more obstacles to making it there “on time,” such as being mesmerized by the incredibly beautiful waterfalls, local handmade jewelry, fragrant flowers and leis, fresh pineapple, banana bread, and a host of other Hawaiian culinary delights available at the roadside stands. When you catch a ride with us, you can decide what you want to focus on and let us take care of the rest.

For first-timers, the Road to Hāna can be both awe-inspiring and overwhelming. The narrow, winding roads and countless scenic stops make it a challenging drive for those unfamiliar with the terrain. That’s where Valley Isle Excursions comes in. With our experienced guides and drivers, you can sit back, relax, and fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Maui without the stress of navigating the treacherous route. Our comfortable custom cruisers, stocked with amenities, ensure a smooth and enjoyable ride. Plus, our guides share insider knowledge and local stories, turning your journey into a rich cultural experience. Let us handle the driving while you soak in the stunning landscapes and hidden gems of the Road to Hāna.

Road to Hana Tour

FROM ~~$279.99~~ $269.99

See beautiful coastline, rainforest waterfalls & tropical flora on a road to Hāna tour. Swim in a waterfall pool. Tour in comfort and style with Valley Isle Excursions!

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BEST ROAD TO HANA STOPS

The Road to Hana is dotted with incredible stops, including some of Maui’s most stunning waterfalls, unique beaches, and lush rainforest. Our expert guides know the top spots to visit on the Road to Hana, ensuring you see the most breathtaking waterfalls and hidden gems. We know when to avoid the crowds at the first few falls and help you discover the true beauty of Hana with insider tips from our knowledgeable guides.

When the weather is just right, the highway transforms into a waterfall wonderland. However, the narrow, winding roads with numerous blind curves can make driving challenging, and parking at popular waterfall stops nearly impossible and, in fact, quite dangerous. That’s why taking a guided tour is the best way to safely and fully enjoy this scenic journey.

With our custom-designed comfort cruisers featuring extra-large, elevated viewing windows, you can capture amazing photos without the stress of driving or worrying about getting your new camera wet. Sit back, relax, and focus on soaking in the sights and snapping perfect shots as we navigate the winding roads for you.

MAUI’S BEAUTIFUL WATERFALLS

The Road to Hana reveals stunning waterfalls at every turn, surrounded by lush tropical rainforest and countless photo opportunities. So get your camera ready! Before your adventure, learn how to photograph waterfalls with must-have tips from our pro, who has been capturing Maui’s waterfalls for over 20 years.

Waterfall levels can change rapidly due to small watersheds, but some maintain flow thanks to multiple springs. Many waterfalls continue to flow even during dry periods because water is diverted into the East Maui Irrigation Canals for crop irrigation. Knowing where to find these spring-fed waterfalls ensures a spectacular experience regardless of the weather.

RAINFOREST FLORA & FAUNA

Hāna’s rainforest stands out even among Hawaii’s lush jungles, boasting an exceptional variety of species and natural resources. Renowned for its beauty and floral diversity, Hāna was a prized place to live in ancient times, just as it is today.

Maui attracts visitors worldwide with its stunning and often rare varieties of flowers and flowering trees. Thriving in Maui’s 17 climate zones (yes, 17!), the island is home to an incredible array of plants. Bird of Paradise, Heliconia, Hibiscus, and Protea are just a few favorites among hundreds of exotic species found along the Road to Hāna, creating a vibrant, visually thrilling palette of colors rarely seen elsewhere.

KEANAE PENINSULA

Centuries ago, Hawaiians hand-carried soil from the mountains to create the Keanae Peninsula, showcasing their incredible physical labor and deep reverence for this land. This awe-inspiring feat is a testament to the cultural significance of the area, rich in history and tradition.

Today, the Keanae Peninsula is also known for its mouthwatering banana bread, a perfect complement to the variety of tropical fruits available at stands along the Road to Hāna. Visitors can savor these delicious treats while soaking in the rich heritage and natural beauty that make the Keanae Peninsula a must-visit destination.

WAI’ANAPANAPA STATE PARK

Wai’anapanapa State Park is home to a true Hawaiian treasure. This black sand beach, shaped by thousands of years of surf pounding on fresh lava flows, is ideal for exploring and photography. The unique, hot sand makes for quick tanning (or burning), so bring your shoes and be sure to apply reef-safe sunscreen before catching some rays.

The park also features a blowhole, several sea arches, pillars, and caves filled with legends. Hear these ancient stories and more directly from our Maui tour guides as you journey to this fantastic location.

PERKS OF OUR ROAD TO HANA TOUR

It would take any normal traveler several visits to figure out what they should spend time seeing and doing on the Hāna Highway, and beyond. Having an expert guide helps you to narrow down your bucket list so you can focus on what you really want to do and have your ‘ultimate Road to Hāna experience’ the first time you go. Indeed, “It’s not the destination, but the journey…” and a great guide will make your adventure on Valley Isle Excursions’ Road to Hāna tour so wonderful you’ll want to go again, on your next visit to Maui!

CARING, FUN GUIDES

Our guides are well trained to drive you while they entertain you with stories, describing the sites and pointing them out as you cruise to the next stop. Your driver is a local, who loves the island and wants to share it with everyone.

All our guides have friends, cousins, aunties and uncles living in Hāna area. They treat the area with respect and try to help out this remote community when they can; like making the daily newspaper delivery from Kahului.

LOCAL CLASSIC HOT BUFFET STYLE LUNCH

Many guests, even those who have spent the morning sampling the cuisine found at roadside stands, find our Classic Hot Huli Huli Chicken lunch very satisfying. No cold, or boxed lunches here.

Our lunch includes, Farm Fresh Greens, Handmade Dressing, a local favorite Macaroni Pasta Salad, Rice, and the main dish, Huli Huli Chicken. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are also available (Delicious Veggie Coconut Curry), made fresh daily by our locally operated farm-to-table partner. All served buffet style, like many family gatherings, come enjoy a delicious local favorite with Valley Isle Excursions.

MAUI COMFORT CRUISERS

Our air conditioned comfort cruisers are customized with extra large captain’s seats and special viewing windows to make sure you stay dry and don’t miss a thing! You can choose to experience on Valley Isle Excursions Road to Hāna tour:

pineapple fields
spectacular cliffs
bamboo jungles
local wares (jewelry, baskets, trinkets)
waterfalls
natural lava formations (e.g. arches and blowholes)
tropical streams and pools
colorful and fragrant island flowers
handmade leis
rainforest vegetation
all you can drink (non-alcoholic)

STRESS-FREE VACATION

For almost 20 years, Valley Isle Excursions has been providing stress-free tours along the Hāna Highway, allowing visitors to fully enjoy this breathtaking journey. Our experienced guides are well-prepared for whatever the Hāna Highway may present, ensuring you have a spectacular and safe drive to Hāna.

We’ve crafted the perfect day of exploration for everyone, from children to seniors. It’s a full day of adventure, so come ready to explore. The only thing you need to do is meet your guide at your hotel or condo at the specified time and place on your confirmation. Some resorts are quite large, so double-check that you’re at the correct entrance.

Experience Heavenly Hāna

STOPS ALONG THE WAY

Coastline Overlooks
Keanae
Waterfalls
Eucalyptus Trees
Black Sand Beach
Hana Bay

Hotel pickup and return is included!

The Road to Hāna: Did You Know?

The Road to Hāna has 617 turns & 59 bridges, many only 1 lane.

The Road to Hāna travels along the edge of many sheer cliffs.

The Road to Hāna starts in Kahului and ends in Hana.

The Road to Hāna is the longest rainforest highway in the USA.

The Road to Hāna is a registered historic area.

The Road to Hāna is only 52 miles but the average speed 25 mph.

The Road to Hāna is also called the "Divorce Highway".

EXPLORING HANA

The journey to Hāna is not just about reaching the charming plantation-era town itself but exploring the greater region it encompasses. The Town of Hāna sits at the easternmost tip of Maui, stretching from just before Kahanu Gardens to just before Koki Beach, although the area considered “Hāna” extends even further.

Hāna is the perfect spot to pause and have lunch after a scenic drive on the Hāna Highway. Many visitors flock to local eateries or grab takeout from restaurant windows, creating a lively atmosphere. However, with our Maui tour, you can skip the crowds along lines and enjoy a prepared picnic, allowing you to savor the sights and tranquility of Hāna even longer. Explore the lush landscapes, hidden waterfalls, and beautiful beaches that make this area a true Hawaiian treasure. Whether it’s the vibrant flora, historic sites, or the serene ambiance, Hāna offers a unique glimpse into the heart of Maui’s natural and cultural beauty.

KOKI BEACH

Around the corner from a more famous beach, this locals beach is a great place to take a stunning picture of ‘Ālau Island.

HANA BAY

The centerpiece of the local community with its beach park, pier, hall, fishing hale, and little shops.

HASEGAWA’S STORE

This store has everything a visitor or local could need including many of the local staple needs like lei making supplies.

DRIVING ON YOUR OWN?

For those planning a day trip to Hāna without a guide, careful time management is essential. Many visitors find themselves so captivated by the scenic beauty of the Road to Hāna that they leave little time to explore beyond the town itself. However, the journey doesn’t end in Hāna. The road past Hāna offers even more breathtaking natural beauty, with lush landscapes, hidden gems, and far fewer crowds. Although the roads may be more challenging, the rewards of discovering these untouched areas are well worth the effort. Plan wisely to ensure you have time to fully experience the wonders that lie both on and beyond the famous Hāna Highway.

SOUTH WAILUA WATERFALL

At almost 100 ft tall, this iconic waterfall is easily viewable right from the bridge where this and many other beautiful shots are taken.

HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK

Home to the Pools of Oheo and the Pipiwai Trail, this section of Haleakala National Park deserves a visit if your schedule allows. Entrance price gets you into the summit as well within 3 days.

CHARLES LINDBERGH GRAVESITE

Palapala Hoo’mau Church in Kipahulu is the final resting place for an American aviation icon. This area was the only place Charles Lindbergh found peace.

KIPAHULU AREA

Kipahulu area includes most of the wetter regions past Hana. Wailua Falls, Haleakala, and Palapala are all within a short distance of each other.

KAUPO AREA

Venturing further out brings you up and away from the ocean to the area below the Kaupo Gap. This is the windswept backside of Maui, is full of historical stories and raw beauty.

UPCOUNTRY MAUI

After a very bumpy road, followed by a very smooth one, brings you high up on the side of the Haleakala. This residential area has many little shops, attractions, and views to Lanaʻi and the other islands.

FACTS & FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long is the Road to Hana?

52 miles is what is most referenced but that is from Kahului. Add another 15-20+ miles from your hotel to Kahului. To do the round trip, expect to travel about 150 miles. Make sure your tank is at least 3/4 full!

How should I go to Hana? Fly, drive or tour?

Everyone has their own ideas about experiencing the road to Hana. We have done it each way and they all have their points.

Air: Getting in the air is always nice, the perspective can provide a greater appreciation of the land and waterfalls but you can’t hear and feel it. It’s over in 45 mins and you still haven’t really experienced it.

Drive: You pick where you want to go and how much time you want to spend. That normally works out to spending too much time at the wrong places and miss out on the really great stuff around Hana.

Tour: A guide handles everything for a fun, stress-free, entertaining and educational day. Relax and go with the flow, there is a lot to see over a very large area, most visitors don’t realize it.

Is the Road to Hana good for all ages? (Children, seniors, teenagers, etc.)

We have seen a lot of people on the road to Hana. It’s really a personal experience and you can enjoy it with the right preparation.

Babies (less than 6 months)

Normally they are the best for traveling and doing whatever. The road movement will keep the baby rocking to sleep all day long. Well timed stops to walk, take pictures, eat and use the restrooms will allow the day to fly by.

Infants (7 months to year)

Some of these children tend to be more fussy and need longer stops. If you child loves car rides and doesn’t get car sick then it can be a good day. It’s good to bring plenty of distractions as for parts there is a bit of time between stops.

Toddlers

These little ones are full of energy and want to be moving all around, all the time. At most stops there is no place for a toddler to safely explore, even with a parent, due to the slippery surfaces, the road proximity, sharp rocks and cliffs.

Children (4-7)

These children know enough but often forget the safety basics. Make sure they have some skills on slippery rocks, steep paths and getting wet. Pack band-aids, it will happen.

Older Children & Teenagers

This is a great age for the road to Hana, able to explore, swim, climb and be inspired. The beauty, richness of culture, food and things to do will them in school so they can pay for their own way back.

20-Somethings

Make a local friend, go hiking, camp in Kipahulu and be respectful of people and their land. You will have experiences that will become great stories.

Families

Everyone on the road is ohana (family). You go with a tour and they are your family for the day. Everyone can enjoy the road but know your limits. Can everyone handle 6-7 hours in the car over the day?

Couples

Romantic, no matter how you go. Best you let someone else drive. It’s not called the “Divorce Highway” for no reason. If you made a deal with your partner about no driving comments on vacation, this will definitely break that deal.

Seniors & Elderly

Most tours are catering to all groups. There is a lot to see in short walking distance. Many stops are also ADA compliant which is wonderful. The tour is filled with stories during the 40s and 50s which makes for a great connection.

What guidebook should I use for the Road to Hana?

There is no real good one we can recommend. Too often the guidebooks tell you about places you should not visit. Those places end up being on private land or you need to cross private land to get to. For that reason, those are reserved for the members of the community. Your best bet is to get a local guide, stay in Hana with a local, or take a tour.

Where is Red Sand Beach & should I visit?

Please avoid visiting Red Sand Beach. While it’s undeniably beautiful, the path is treacherous and has been the site of numerous rescues and fatalities each year. Respect the local wishes to prioritize tax money for beautification projects rather than rescue operations. Enjoy the stunning pictures, but prioritize safety and local guidelines.

What should we bring with us?

On our tour we suggest you bring:

A towel and a change of clothes if you plan to swim.
A good pair of shoes to explore with (not just flip flops).
Medicine for preventing car-sickness.
Cash for fresh fruit treats at roadside stands.
A good camera or fully charged phone.
A light jacket.
Reef-safe sunscreen and/or a hat.

There will be lots of places that your guide can stop to pick up treats and other things to accompany the drinks, picnic lunch and breakfast provided on tour.

If you are driving, include everything above plus:

Plenty of fuel.
Cold drinks.
A picnic or extra money for lunch.
A map or guide to locations.
List of desired stops.
Entrance fee for National Park.
Knowledge of safe locations for that day.
Information on road conditions.
Experience driving in a variety of conditions, on steep roads, one lanes, and more.

Are there many places to eat lunch?

Yes. There are many places to eat and the quality varies from so-so to awesome. If you’re choosing to drive yourself, pick your locations wisely, and hopefully, you don’t spend too much of your day waiting for it.

What will the weather be like?

Expect to be rained on at one point in the day. The wind will blow, the sun will disappear for periods of time but overall it should be a pleasant day.

Should we stay a night in Hana?

Staying a night or more in Hana is pretty special. There is not too much going on unless you are friendly with some locals.

Can I go all the way around?

Going all the way around means going thru areas that are a lot more dangerous than the road to Hana. Single lane gravel, uphill on cliffs with vehicles coming the other way. You don’t want to have to back up. The road deteriorates quickly in the many storms so rental car companies don’t want you damaging their cars over there.

Is Hana Highway dangerous?

It is dangerous for over-confident, impatient drivers who like to go fast. The same is true for those who distract easily, are not good drivers and tend to be accident prone.

Do we need a Jeep?

A jeep is not really ideal for the road unless you know specific places you want to travel to. It won’t help in flash-floods and landslides which are the most often reasons for road issues. The small jeep windows makes it hard for pictures and putting on the roof, in the many rains you encounter gets frustrating after a while.

What is the Reverse Route?

The reverse route is for those who plan to go all the way around Haleakala starting in Upcountry Maui and coming back to Kahului on the Hana Highway. Like everything there are pros and cons. The issue for most is that by the end of the day, the incredible road to Hana has lost it’s appeal, as everyone is tired and want to simply cruise.

Should we take a guided tour over driving ourselves?

Asking the question or seeking answers to the question means you probably should seriously consider it! It’s amazing how much you can get out of a day with a local guide! Take a tour early in your vacation and benefit from all the knowledge they have. You will be trying things, enjoying places and talking story like no other visitor around.

How long will the drive take?

It really depends on how many stops you plan to take. Your mission of the day might be to Hana Bay or elsewhere. Plan from your hotel about 7.5 hour round trip with only a few stops to take pictures and the usual traffic.

WATERFALLS, WATERFALLS, WATERFALLS!

Knowing where to go for the best photos is also a big time saver and makes the whole experience so much more relaxed. Our expert guides are well trained in everything you can see and do on the Road to Hāna and will make sure you get ample opportunities to get those amazing waterfall shots!

Guests have told us that they didn’t do the drive themselves because it was raining, which is smart from a safety standpoint (this road is known for landslides and rockslides). However, our guides know that just because it’s raining in Kahului, it doesn’t mean it’s raining in Hāna. But, it does mean that certain waterfalls will be flowing, while others may not, depending on where it’s raining. One of the most picturesque waterfalls, is Wailua waterfalls and it is past Hāna, many visitors miss this beauty.

Rest assured, our guides get the latest information about which waterfalls are flowing and which aren’t, before departure and during the trip. Unless there is a severe drought, you will see waterfalls, and we know all the best ones! So, we invite you to join us for your ‘best day on Maui’ with our Road to Hāna Tour!

TAKING PHOTOS

Our Custom Cruisers have been specially designed with observation and photography in mind. The problem when driving the Road to Hāna in an ordinary rental car, or even a Jeep, is that you’re too low. The guardrails and barriers are strategically placed to keep people from going into the waterfall or off a cliff, unfortunately their position ruins most attempts to photograph them, unless you’re taking blind shots (which is just guessing by raising your arm as high as possible and clicking away, hoping you got something worthwhile), or you get out of the rental car. Our Custom Cruisers eliminate this issue and allow you to get the shot while remaining dry and air-conditioned, regardless of weather. No need to wreck that new camera you bought just for the trip, right?

ROAD TO HĀNA GUIDES

Part of the charm to a Maui vacation is finally letting yourself slow down, relax a little and slip into “Maui time.” Our experienced Hāna tour guides are personally trained during their 6+ week trial period by the owner of the company. They are educated on everything about the Road to Hāna and beyond while making sure you have your “best day on Maui.” Our guides are unique because they’re also educated on every possible driving safety precaution and are incredibly knowledgeable and respectful of the local driving etiquette, (which makes the journey oh-so-much more safe and enjoyable for everyone).

ROAD TO HĀNA DEATHS

Almost every day, to our amazement, we see visitors behind the wheel who think they’re going slow enough to take pictures while driving, or just get caught up in the scenery and forget they’re supposed to be driving and either cause or nearly cause a severe accident. Sadly, there have been numerous deaths over the years on the road to Hāna because of this sort of recklessness.

The Hāna Highway is perhaps the most beautiful highway in the world, but it can be deadly. There are sheer cliffs with 100 ft + drops in some of the areas without guardrails! And, even if you did hit a guardrail, it’s no insurance policy that it will prevent you from injury. If you’re not familiar with this road, it’s best to go with a tour guide.

DRIVING THE HANA HIGHWAY

FOLLOW THE ROAD SIGNS

PULL OVER FOR THE LOCAL DRIVERS

PARK OFF THE ROAD

DON'T STOP ON BRIDGES

Many people visit Maui and wish they could live the island lifestyle. However, as with anything, it’s not always sand, and mai tai drinks all day. The cost of living is high. Traffic can be difficult because of narrow roads. Most people living here have 2 to 3 jobs. But everyone who lives on Maui knows that the best way to recharge and regain a substantial appreciation for why they are here is to go out to the “Hana Side.” In Hawaiʻi, we call these getaways “Holo Holo.”

The meaning of Hana in the Hawaiian language is “work.” The people who live in the Hana area work very hard to make a living in this remote paradise. Whether farming taro, fishing out in the rough east shore ocean, hammering nails in the blazing heat or working cattle in the steep mountainside rainforest, it is a hot and sticky place to make a living. This road also sees over 400,000 visitors a year, most of whom have never seen or traveled a road like this before. That’s why we who live here have learned the rules of the road and how to spread the Aloha to all and respect the residents and culture of this fantastic part of Maui because… living in such beauty is worth it!

GET THE PERFECT SHOT – A PHOTOGRAPHERS PERSPECTIVE

“I always drove myself out to Hana to photograph until I was hired by a tour company to shoot brochure images. Having someone to drive and answer questions about what I’m seeing was a significant advancement not only in knowledge but also in my ability to get shots from a vantage point of being higher up off the road and the huge windows enabled me to see over railings and vegetation.

Some of the best scenic views are on the narrow one lane parts of the road where it’s impossible to stop and get a good photo. This changed my perspective about driving myself, and I found that it was way less stressful and I was not as tired at the end of the day. I felt we made more stops than I would have in a rental car and getting back in a coolly air-conditioned van was an excellent relief from the tropical heat and humidity. If I only have one day to photograph Hana, I always go out on a tour van.”

CAMPING

There are only a couple of spots to camp in East Maui unless you know some landowners who would let you pitch a tent in their yard. Two of the most well-known places along the Road to Hāna are Waiʻanapanapa State Park, home to Hāna’s black sand beach, and the Pools of ʻOheʻo in Haleakalā National Park.

Though both places are busy during the day, by around 5 PM, the crowds head back to the other side of the island, leaving you with the place to yourself. Camping at Waiʻanapanapa offers a large grassy area next to the bathrooms or rustic cabins you can rent from the park’s service, typically requiring reservations months in advance. The Pools of ʻOheʻo, with campsites along the shore, boast incredible ocean views. Waking up early to have the pools all to yourself is a real treat and very romantic. The nearby bamboo forest trail is serene and mostly empty in the morning, offering a peaceful hiking experience.

HOTEL HANA

Recently acquired by Travaasa International, Hotel Hana is one of the most beautiful and quiet resorts on the island. It is expensive, but with outstanding gourmet meals and spa included it can be one of most enjoyable getaways in the entire state. Many celebrities stay here because of it’s luxury and exceptional privacy. It is possible to fly into tiny Hana airport as a package deal from Kahului or even Oʻahu.

Since this resort is located right in Hana town there is plenty to do and see. It’s hard to beat waking up for stunning sunrises and heading out to explore after a gourmet breakfast. The spa treatments are world-renowned. Definitely worth a few hours of your time. Watsu messages (floating water message in a saltwater pool) and the Noni Mai Tais will change your life!

VRBO AND B&B STAYS

There are quite a few rental properties available in Hāna, including condos, houses, and cottages. You’ll find plenty of listings on Airbnb, VRBO, and TripAdvisor reviews. Most rentals are near or in Hāna town, with several sprinkled throughout the area. Staying on the bay will provide you with outstanding sunrise photos of the bay and beach.

For those preferring the homey feel of a rental property, options abound. Airbnb and VRBO offer a wide range of accommodations, from quaint cottages to luxurious oceanfront homes. Staying in a rental allows for a more personalized experience, giving you the flexibility to cook your meals and enjoy the serene surroundings at your own pace. Plus, many of these properties are nestled in lush, secluded areas, offering a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring the scenic Hāna Highway.

HistoricThe Road To Hāna