Driving the Road to Hana is one of the best things to do in Maui. But, with over 40 scenic stops and destinations, it’s impossible to see it all in one day. However, if you only have one day to drive the Road to Hana, here are 15 of the best Road to Hana stops!
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15 Best Road to Hana Stops
Table of Contents
- 1. Pipiwai Trail (mile marker 42)
- 2. Seven Sacred Pools (mile marker 42)
- 3. Wailua Falls (mile marker 45)
- 4. Venus Pool (mile marker 48)
- 5. Hamoa Beach (mile marker 50)
- 6. Hana (mile marker #34)
- 7. Kaihalulu (Red Sand) Beach (mile marker 33)
- 8. Wai’anapanapa State Park (mile marker 32)
- 9. Hana Farms Roadside Stand (mile marker 31)
- 10. Coconut Glen’s (mile marker 27.5)
- 11. Makapipi Falls (mile marker 25)
- 12. Lava Tube Cave (mile marker 23)
- 13. Pua’a ka’a State Wayside Park (mile marker 22.5):
- 14. Three Bears Waterfall (mile marker 19):
- 15. Twin Falls (mile marker 2)
- Best places to eat in Paia
- Tips for driving the Road to Hana
While the Road to Hana does lead to the town of Hana, there are actually more stops after Hana that you don’t want to miss.
To make the most of your day, I would highly recommend driving to the end of the Road to Hana first.
This means that you will start your drive at Paia and then drive straight to the last stop on the Road to Hana. After that, you can slowly make your way back to Paia while making all the stops along the way.
Most people start at Paia and make stops as they go, but by doing it in reverse you will be going the opposite way of the tourists and avoid all the crowds.
The Pipiwai Trail is the furthest stop from Paia and the first destination I would go to.
The trail closes at 3 pm so by making that your first stop you’ll be guaranteed a chance to visit. If you make it your last stop then chances are you won’t get there in time.
This guide will highlight the best Road to Hana stops, starting at the Pipiwai Trail at the end, then working your way back to Paia. See the map below for the location of each stop listed in this guide.
Alternatively, if you would like to begin at Paia and end at the Pipiwai Trail, then just follow this guide in reverse.
The best way to navigate the Road to Hana is by using the state highway mile markers. Mile marker 0 can be found about 10 miles from Paia when Hwy 36 turns into Hwy 360.
Reset your odometer when you get to this point and it will help you better locate each stop.
However, it is important to note that once you reach mile marker #51 just after Hana Town, the numbers will reverse and begin decreasing sequentially.
So don’t be confused when you see that the last stop at the Pipiwai Trail is at mile marker #42 which is past Hamoa Beach at mile marker #50!
1. Pipiwai Trail (mile marker 42)
The Pipiwai Trail is our favorite hike in Maui! The 4-mile out-and-back trail leads through a dense bamboo forest, past a sprawling banyan tree, and to the base of the thundering 400-foot Waimoku Falls.
The trail is located within Haleakala National Park. The park is open from 9 am-5 pm. However, you must begin the hike no later than 3 pm as the park gates close at 5 pm.
There is an entrance fee of $30 per vehicle into Haleakala National Park. This also allows access to the Seven Sacred Pools, the Haleakala summit, and other hiking trails in the park.
The permit is good for 3 days, so be sure to keep your receipt if you are planning to drive to the summit or hike any other trails such as Sliding Sands during your trip.
For more details and information, be sure to check out our guide to Hiking the Pipiwai Trail.
2. Seven Sacred Pools (mile marker 42)
The Seven Sacred Pools Trail conveniently shares a parking lot with the Pipiwai Trail.
After you complete the Pipiwai Trail, you can choose to take the short 0.5-mile loop trail to Ohe’o Gulch to see the Seven Sacred Pools.
Unfortunately, the pools are closed for swimming indefinitely due to flash flooding and safety concerns. Check with the visitor center or ticket booth attendant for any updates.
Visitors can still take the short trail to the lookout point to find a waterfall flowing under the bridge and cascading down through pools of water before emptying into the ocean.
3. Wailua Falls (mile marker 45)
There are approximately 15 waterfalls along the Road to Hana and the Wailua Falls is one of the most iconic and photographed waterfalls you’ll see.
The impressive 80-foot waterfall is also one of the most accessible waterfalls in Maui as it can be seen just off the side of the road.
It is also one of the best waterfalls in Maui that you can swim in.
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, take the short but steep trail down to swim in the falls.
There is a small parking lot just before the bridge and the trail down to the waterfall is located just after the bridge. While the trail is short, it is steep and muddy so use extreme caution and wear durable shoes.
Once you reach the waterfall, take a refreshing dip in the plunge pool and cool off in the powerful mist.
4. Venus Pool (mile marker 48)
Venus Pool, also known as Waioka Pond, is a somewhat secret swimming hole. It is easy to pass right by unless you know what you’re looking for.
Just after mile marker 48 while driving towards Hana Town, you’ll cross a bridge and find cars parked along the street.
The trailhead is located on the right side of the road at the end of the bridge next to a fruit stand.
The short trail will lead through tall grass until it comes to a dead end at a wooden sign.
Hop over the cattle fence on the left where you’ll then cross a field that leads to the natural swimming pool.
It’s the perfect spot for cliff jumping and swimming on a hot day.
After you’re done taking a dip, pick up a fresh coconut at the fruit stand on your way out!
5. Hamoa Beach (mile marker 50)
Hamoa Beach is considered one of the best beaches in Maui. Travel + Leisure even claims that this was Mark Twain’s favorite beach in the world!
The protected cove and large sandy area make it the perfect beach for families and for snorkeling
Hamoa Beach boasts great amenities and shade trees perfect for a picnic on the beach. It is located adjacent to its sister beach, Koki Beach.
One interesting feature of Koki Beach is the cinder cone hill adjacent to it. Just before Mount Haleakala went dormant, lava erupted from this very cinder cone.
To reach the beach, park along the road then take the staircase down to the pristine beach.
6. Hana (mile marker #34)
Hana is a sleepy seaside town that the “Road to Hana” is named for.
Hana itself is a bit anti-climactic. Keep in mind that the beauty of the Road to Hana lies in the journey, not necessarily the destination.
However, Hana does make for a great place to stop and refuel during your road trip. You’ll find shops, cafes, food trucks, a gas station, and a general store.
The Hasegawa General Store has been owned and operated by the same family since 1910. Stop in and pick up snacks then fill up at the only gas station next door if needed.
If you’re looking for a place to eat in Hana, Braddha Hutts serves delicious BBQ chicken plates and has the kindest owners.
Ae’s Thai Kitchen also serves the most mouthwatering coconut-crusted Mahi with green papaya salad.
There is also a collection of food trucks and cafes at the Nahiku Marketplace shopping center just outside of town (at mile marker #28).
Here you’ll find Nahiku Café which offers smoothies and snacks. The Island Chef serves fresh fish and coconut shrimp. Island Style Tacos specializes in Kalua pork tacos, and Lu’a’us is known for its local Hawaiian dishes.
7. Kaihalulu (Red Sand) Beach (mile marker 33)
Red Sand Beach, also known as Kaihalulu Beach, is a bit of a hidden gem along the Road to Hana.
It is located in Hana Town at the end of Uakea Road. The road comes to a dead-end at the Hana Community Center where you’ll walk across the grassy field and find a path leading through the trees.
Limited street parking is available, or there is additional parking at the nearby Hana Ballpark.
I had read that this hike is possibly located on private property. When we visited, there were no “private property” or “no trespassing” signs.
The only sign that was posted was one stating that the trail is dangerous and the landowner is not responsible for any injuries.
That was our experience, but do your own research and never trespass on private property.
The trail down to the beach is only about 1/4 mile long, but it is prone to mudslides and can be quite dangerous.
The narrow trail follows along a steep ledge with sheer drop-offs in some portions.
The trail is also covered in loose cinders and ironwood pine needles, which can be quite slippery. Wear sturdy shoes and avoid the trail if it has been raining heavily.
But the views from the trail across the bay are beautiful!
As you come around the bend towards the end of the trail, you’ll find the crescent-shaped Red Sand Beach at the base of the dramatic Ka’uiki Head cinder cone cliffs.
It truly is a stunning sight as the deep red sand stands in stark contrast to the cobalt-blue ocean water.
An outcrop of jagged lava rock stands as a barrier against the relentless waves. This creates a placid shallow pool to wade in.
The cinder rock sand is quite rough, so I would recommend wearing water shoes. Also, be aware that this is one of Maui’s unofficial nudist beaches.
8. Wai’anapanapa State Park (mile marker 32)
Maui’s iconic Black Sand Beach, also known as Pa’iola Beach, is located within the 120-acre Waianapanapa State Park.
This is one of the most popular Road to Hana stops, and reservations are required.
Reservations are for 2 1/2 hour time slots and can be made up to 14 days in advance. No same-day reservations are accepted and the time slots fill up quickly.
While planning your Road to Hana itinerary, you could also make this your first stop so that you can better estimate the time of your arrival when making the reservation.
Just be sure to make a reservation, because this is one stop you won’t want to miss!
The wild untamed beauty of the black lava rock, rich tropical vegetation, and deep blue turquoise water is truly intoxicating.
The black sand is a result of hot lava that had shattered on contact with the ocean and it is one of the most unique beaches in Maui.
Take time to walk along the trail through the lava beds that were created several hundred years ago.
Along the trail, you’ll discover powerful blowholes spraying ocean water high into the air. The trail even leads to an ancient burial ground.
As you explore, you’ll also find two spring-fed ocean caves with freshwater pools, a sea arch, and hidden beaches.
Just be aware of the water conditions as it can oftentimes be too rough to swim at the beach. Also, keep watch as jellyfish and Portuguese man o’ war sometimes frequent these waters.
Check at the visitor center for water conditions if you have concerns.
And for more beach recommendations, check out our guide to the Best Beaches in Maui!
9. Hana Farms Roadside Stand (mile marker 31)
Maui is known for its legendary banana bread. We have tried it at several different locations around the island, but the best banana bread had was at the Hana Farms Roadside Stand!
It was so good, in fact, that we stopped both on our way to Hana and on our way home.
They make the bread fresh every morning so if you stop early on your way to Hana then chances are it will still be warm from the oven.
They have several different flavors to choose from. We tried the pineapple banana bread and the chocolate chip banana bread and they were both utterly delicious!
There are other baked goods and products for sale in the market, as well as a small outdoor cafe if you want to stop for some fresh air and grab a bite to eat.
10. Coconut Glen’s (mile marker 27.5)
Coconut Glen’s is the perfect refreshing treat while on your road trip!
It was even voted as one of the best ice cream shops in the world in 2014 by Conde Nast Traveler.
This iconic colorful van is owned and operated by Coconut Glen himself, along with a few staff members.
Coconut Glen’s is known for their homemade vegan coconut ice cream. The creamy organic ice cream is made fresh daily using milk from the coconuts grown right on the property.
The original coconut flavor is always on the menu along with a few other daily specials, such as Chipotle Chocolate or Ginger Lemongrass.
They also sell small bags of coconut candy. These hand-cut coconut strips are slow-baked in brown sugar and absolutely divine!
11. Makapipi Falls (mile marker 25)
The Makapipi Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls to photograph in Maui. You can capture the Makapipi Stream as it flows under the bridge before plunging 40 feet into a pool below.
The waterfall is located just before mile marker #25 on the Road to Hana as you are driving to Paia.
Just before driving over the bridge, there is a small pullout where you can capture a photo of the bridge and the waterfall.
There is no trail to hike down to the base of the waterfall, but it is still worth a quick stop.
Just note that the waterfall is seasonal. During the dry season, there may not be any water flowing.
And if you want to discover one of the best waterfalls that isn’t on the Road to Hana, then check out our guide to the Makamakaole Falls!
12. Lava Tube Cave (mile marker 23)
This hidden lava tube cave can be found just off the side of the road.
It’s easy to drive right by if you didn’t know it was there!
You can spot the entrance on the left side of the road just before mile marker 23 as you’re heading to Paia. There is a small parking area just past the cave.
If you have the Shaka Guide app, it will alert you when you are approaching.
The opening is hidden under exposed tree roots and looks like the entrance to a hobbit home.
After stooping inside, the space opens up to reveal a cavernous 150-foot lava tube.
The cave was formed when the lava from a nearby eruption cooled and hardened on the exterior, while the hot lava was still flowing in the inner core.
After the hot lava flowed out, the shell remained and created the cave you see today.
It doesn’t take much time to walk through, but it’s still an interesting and quick little roadside stop!
13. Pua’a ka’a State Wayside Park (mile marker 22.5):
The Pua’a ka’a State Wayside Park is a great stopping point for fresh air while driving the Road to Hana.
You’ll find plenty of parking and amenities such as clean restrooms, a grassy area, and covered picnic tables.
There is also a small waterfall that is perfect to swim in.
At first glance, the waterfall seems a bit underwhelming, especially compared to some of the more impressive waterfalls along the Road to Hana.
However, a short walk from the parking lot leads to a large plunge pool that is perfect for taking a refreshing dip!
14. Three Bears Waterfall (mile marker 19):
The Upper Waikani Falls is a triple waterfall also known as Three Bears Waterfall.
You’ll find a large, medium, and small waterfall just like in the fairytale, Goldilocks and the Three Bears.
The waterfalls are easy to see just off the side of the road. There is also a small area where you can pull over and take a photo from the bridge.
If you would like to hike down to the waterfall, there is parking on the right side of the road just before the bridge. The trail leading down to the waterfall is steep and muddy so use caution.
The largest waterfall cascades 70 feet into the Wailua Nui stream creating a plunge pool that you can swim in.
15. Twin Falls (mile marker 2)
Twin Falls is located right at the beginning of the Road to Hana.
One advantage of driving to the end of the Road to Hana first and making your way back, is that if you run out of time to hike the Twin Falls trail at the end of the day then it is easy to come back and visit them another day.
This is also one of the most popular Road to Hana stops so by visiting later in the afternoon you’ll be able to avoid the usual morning crowds.
Just keep in mind that the trail closes at 6 pm daily.
There is a decent-sized parking lot at the trailhead, although it is often full and you may need to wait.
Parking is $10 cash only. You’ll also want to bring cash to purchase snacks from the Twin Falls Maui Farm Stand.
Here you can find fresh fruit, smoothies, sugarcane juice, coconut drinks, and pineapple or banana popsicles with sugar cane sticks.
The Twin Falls Trail is 1.8 miles out and back. There are several waterfalls and even pools to swim in.
However, if it has been rainy then the river might be too muddy and swift to swim in, which was the case when we visited.
Many people opt to skip this spot and avoid the crowds.
While there are definitely more impressive waterfalls further along the Road to Hana, I think it’s still worth a stop if you have time.
Best places to eat in Paia
After conquering the Road to Hana, you’ll want to unwind and enjoy a relaxing dinner at the charming surf town of Paia. Here are a few of the best places to eat in Paia:
- Paia Fish Market: The place to go for fresh fish, try the Blackened Mahi Mahi.
- Café Mambo: Boasts the best burgers in Paia!
- Milagros Food Co.: This Tex-Mex restaurant is known for its homemade guacamole and salsa as well as its flavorful fajitas and tacos.
- Flatbread Company: This pizzeria specializes in oversized artisan pizzas cooked in a wood fire oven.
- Mama’s Fish House: Perhaps the most recommended restaurant in all of Maui! Mama’s Fish House is known for its decadent dishes, unique ambiance, and spectacular views. The entrees are pricey and you’ll need to make a reservation.
*And If you’re looking for more restaurant recommendations, check out our guide to the Best Places to Eat in Maui!
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Tips for driving the Road to Hana
- Download the Shaka Guide app: The Shaka Guide app came highly recommended and we found it so helpful. The app uses satellite technology so it works even if there is no cell reception. It will notify you when you are coming up to a stop with a brief history and commentary. The cost is $20 for the Road to Hana guide, but we felt that it was worth it.
- Take a tour: If you would prefer not to drive, you can book a small group Road to Hana tour. For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, splurge on a helicopter tour over the island where you can see the Road to Hana from above!
- Distance and time: The distance from Paia to the Pipiwai Trail is 55 miles one way. Depending on traffic, plan for about 2 1/2-3 hours one way without stops. I would plan for a full 12 hour day if you want to make the most of all the Road to Hana stops.
- Fill up in Paia: After you leave Paia, there is only one gas station in Hana town and it is quite expensive. A full tank of gas is plenty for your round trip, but just plan to fill up in Paia before embarking on the Road to Hana.
- Book a night in Hana: If you would like to spend more time exploring the Road to Hana, consider booking a night in the town of Hana. A few options include the Heavenly Hana Paradise, the Hana Kai Resort, or the Hyatt Hana-Maui Resort.
- Take medication if you’re prone to motion sickness: The Road to Hana is notorious for its 620 hairpin turns, narrow roads, and 59 one-way bridges. If you are prone to motion sickness, you may want to order a patch, or take non-drowsy Dramamine.
- Best days to visit: Sunday and Thursday are the best days to drive the Road to Hana. These are the busiest travel days at the airport which means there will be fewer drivers on the Road to Hana.
- Check the weather: The Road to Hana is one of the wettest areas of Maui, so rain is common. If there are showers off and on you should be fine, but if there is steady rain in the forecast you may want to reschedule the drive. The roads become more dangerous and the hikes can be quite muddy if there has been heavy rainfall.
- Don’t leave valuables in the car: Many of the stops along the Road to Hana are prone to theft. Never leave your valuables in the car, or you may become a victim of the Hawaiian “smash and dash”.
- Things to bring on the Road to Hana: Pack plenty of snacks, water, swimsuits, towels (these Turkish towels are lightweight and dry quickly), water shoes, plastic bags for muddy clothes, cash for fruit stands, and DEET-free bug spray.
- A few more tips: Pull over and let the locals pass if they are tailing you; Cell service is spotty, so come prepared; Most food stands open at 8:30 am and close at 3 or 4 pm so plan accordingly.
I hope this guide has helped you map out the best Road to Hana stops so that you can make the most of your day!
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This blog was SO incredibly helpful! My boyfriend and I did the Road to Hana yesterday, and never would have known about the red sand beach and a few other stops otherwise. Going about it backwards is the way to do it, and we felt like we had time for all the things we wanted to do. I took screen shots of this whole blog to follow along the way! We also downloaded the Shaka Guide and really enjoyed the guided tour! Thank you so much for all the detailed information!
Hi Brooklyn, thanks so much for taking the time to leave such a thoughtful comment! I’m so glad this guide was helpful and that you enjoyed your time exploring the Road to Hana. It’s such a beautiful area with so many hidden gems!