Road to Hana Stops

Twin Falls on Maui

Hana Highway (360)

Twin Falls (MM 2)

• This is by far the largest waste of time when starting the drive. We see cars piled up here by the dozen and we just can't understand why. Compared to what's ahead of you, it's a waste of time. We only note it here because so many people DO stop here. The vendors are very friendly and offer some good products, but other than that we recommend skipping this stop.

Waikamoi Ridge Trail

Waikamoi Ridge Loop (MM 9)

• We enjoy this stop because it allows you to take a short stroll through the rainforest. However, there's no waterfall access and nothing to see other than the lush vegetation in the forest. If that's not your cup of tea, skip this spot.

Garden of Eden Overlook

Garden of Eden (MM 10)

• The Garden of Eden is one of the best gardens on Maui and we consider this a must see. The admission price is a bit steep, but the garden is meticulously maintained and worth a visit. It offers several great panoramic overlooks of the Pacific and also offers you a view of both Lower and Upper Puohokamoa Falls. On the way out, you have the option of stopping at a gallery where you'll find beautiful products made by local artists. Right before you exit the grounds there's little spot where homemade ice cream is served- definitely a treat if you are in the mood.

Overlook from within Kaumahina Wayside Park

Kaumahina State Wayside Park (MM 12)

• A pretty park that had its facilities upgraded a few years ago. Offers nice views of Keanae Peninsula ahead of you, but beyond that, there's nothing worth stopping for. You could easily skip this spot and never miss anything, in our opinion.

View of Hana Hwy over Honomanu Bay

Honomanu Bay Lookout (MM 14)

• One of the best stops along the Hana Highway that allows you to actually SEE the Hana Highway as it snakes across the cliffside. Our favorite pull out is the very large one (on the mauka/inland side of the road) 4/10th of a mile past MM 14. The other pullouts are either obstructed by vegetation or do not offer the same quality view as the aforementioned pullout. As always, be safe and use extreme caution on this portion of the exposed highway!

Keanae Peninsula as seen from above

Keanae Peninsula and Village (MM 17)

• Worth a stop if you have some extra time. The coastal views along the Keanae Peninsula are beautiful and it's a neat way to see one of Haleakala's most recent lava flows up close (you're on it).

Pua'aka'a Falls

Puaa Kaa State Wayside Park (MM 22)

• We personall feel like Puaa Kaa State Wayside is a spot you can skip. We note it because everyone stops here for either the facilities or lunch. None of the waterfalls are worth stopping for, so keep on moving... unless you must heed the call of nature!
• After the park there are a number of stops we detail online and in our book but most, if not all, can be skipped. Many of the waterfalls are small and not worth your time. Nahiku Road has become a location that's WAY over visited, so we don't advise people to drive down this road any longer. If you do go, don't expect friendly people to greet you there.

Overlook within Waianapanapa State Park

Waianapanapa State Park (MM 32)

• One of the only black sand beaches on the island of Maui is located here at Waianapanapa State Park. It also makes a great spot for lunch. You can probably skip the wet caves portion, as we've never been overly impressed by that part of the park. Not to mention some folks seem to have used the caves as a restroom - so that's another good reason to skip them.
• As of March 1, 2021, reservations (up to two weeks in advance) for all non-resident visitors and commercial vehicles will be required for entry to Maui's Waianapanapa State Park. No same-day reservations will be accepted. The parking fee for out-of-state visitors will be $10.

Hana Town Welcome Sign

Hana Town

• Honestly, there's nothing much to see in Hana town with the exception of a few little stores with souvenirs; although the town is quaint and welcoming. Keep heading towards the Oheo Gulch if you've got time left, or turn back to see some of the smaller sights.

Hamoa Beach beyond Hana Town

Hamoa Beach (MM 51)

Heading away from Hana, turn makai (toward the ocean) onto Haneoo Road when you reach it. The first lookout on the left is Koki Beach overlook but you can skip this and continue to Hamoa Beach further ahead. Parking can be bad later in the day, but this stop is worth it. In fact, we think this is the prettiest beach on Maui.

Wailua Falls on Maui

Wailua Falls (MM 45)

• Here you'll find what may be the most scenic and easily accessible falls in all of Hawaii: Wailua Falls. This is one of our favorite stops along the entire drive, and we believe this falls alone is worth the drive. If the flow isn't too heavy, take the short mauka (inland) trail to the base of the falls that starts on the Hana side of the bridge.

Oheo Gulch at Kipahulu (part of Haleakala NP)

Oheo Gulch at Kipahulu (MM 42)

• OK, so here's the big reward for all that driving. Some of the most pristine pools in all of Hawaii are here at the Oheo Gulch ('7 Sacred Pools'). If the weather is good, visitors are often permitted to swim at the pools. If not, you're still in luck; there's an amazing trail here too!
• There's a great hike up the Pipiwai Trail to the gorgeous 400' Waimoku Falls. Expect to spend anywhere from 1-4 hours at this stop. Be sure to leave in time to get back (via either route) before dark, and leave especially early during the winter months.
• Note that the park isn't crowded early in the morning between 7 am - 9 am, but after that, it gets quite busy.

Piilani Highway Landscape

Beyond the Oheo Gulch

Piilani Highway heading toward Upcountry Maui

• Beyond the Oheo Gulch (heading towards Upcountry Maui), the road does get a little rough in places; but again, we think you'll be fine if you try it. Just remember that you do so at your own risk and we are not suggesting you drive it. (Hat tip to the lawyers!)
• Be sure to enjoy the view as you make this drive, and stop when you can to snap some pictures of Haleakala's "backside." This area is dramatically different than the Hana Highway just on the other side of the mountain; it's almost surreal.
• Note that the wind is powerful on this section of the island so be sure to leave anything that might blow away easily in your vehicle.
• Once you reach Upcountry Maui, there are some gardens you may be interested in, though chances are that by then you'll have had enough driving and will just want to get back to your accommodations.

Be sure to check out all of our additional Road to Hana on Maui tips and resources.