The Road to Hana: Maui’s Most Scenic Adventure (and My Favorite Way to Experience It)

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The Road to Hana: Maui’s Most Scenic Adventure (and My Favorite Way to Experience It)

The Road to Hana isn’t just a drive—it’s a full-day experience filled with breathtaking views, lush rainforests, waterfalls, and unforgettable stops along the way. With 600+ curves and nearly 60 one-lane bridges, this winding 64-mile road from Kahului to Hana is as thrilling as it is beautiful.

I’ve done the drive myself, and I’ve also taken an excursion—but if you’re asking for my favorite way to do the Road to Hana? It’s taking a guided van down and a helicopter back. You get the intimate experience of exploring the road with a local expert and then end the day soaring above waterfalls and remote coastlines you’d never see from the ground.

Let’s dive into the options.

 

Excursion + Helicopter: The Best of Both Worlds

Taking an organized van tour gives you the chance to relax and enjoy the ride without the stress of navigating winding roads. A great guide will point out things you’d never notice on your own—and make stops at the best viewpoints, waterfalls, and roadside stands.

Then, instead of the long drive back, you board a helicopter for an epic return flight over Maui’s rugged beauty. Waterfalls, jungle valleys, sea cliffs, and Haleakalā Crater—all from the sky. It’s efficient, exciting, and honestly… a once-in-a-lifetime kind of day.

 

Prefer to Drive It Yourself? Here’s What to Know:

If you want to take your time, stop wherever you want, and do it all at your own pace, self-driving is a great option too. I’ve done it myself and loved every twist and turn.

Here’s what I tell clients who self-drive:

Start early. Aim to hit the road by 6:00 AM to beat traffic and give yourself the whole day.

Fuel up. Gas stations are few and far between after Paia.

Pack smart. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, bug spray, a rain jacket, a swimsuit and a towel (because nobody likes a soggy car seat), and comfortable shoes.

Go offline. Cell signal is spotty at best. Download your map ahead of time and consider using an app like Shaka Guide for fun and informative commentary.

 

Must-See Stops on the Road to Hana:

Twin Falls (Mile Marker 2): Easy access to waterfalls and a quick dip.

Ke‘anae Peninsula (MM 16): Beautiful lava rocks and old Hawaii vibes.

Waianapanapa State Park (MM 32): Stunning black sand beach (reservations required).

Hana Town (MM 34): Peaceful and charming—perfect for a break.

Ohe‘o Gulch & Pipiwai Trail (MM 42): Waterfalls, bamboo forests, and unforgettable hikes inside Haleakalā National Park.

 

Let’s Get You There

Whether you want to drive it, ride in comfort, or go for the ultimate combo with a scenic helicopter return—I can help you make it happen. Let’s chat about what fits your style best and plan your perfect day on the Road to Hana.

Ready to explore Maui your way? Let’s talk.