Visitors to Maui will be charmed by a beautiful drive along the Hana Highway that offers some of the most spectacular sights on the Hawaiian Islands. With varied landscapes that include lush gardens, jaw-dropping mountains, deep blue seas, beautiful beaches, and more, any traveler will be enchanted with the long and picturesque 52-mile stretch of highway across Maui. Below are just some of the scenic sights adventurers can expect to encounter on the Road to Hana.
9 Twin Falls
The Road to Hana has many spots to see waterfalls that wow, and Twin Falls is no exception. Located on a family-owned farm with access to both the Lower and Upper Falls, visitors can choose their trail and make their journey to either of these picturesque sites.
- Tip: These are the first waterfalls along the road with easy access, so it’s always bustling. Be sure to stop at the farm stand to sample some delicious goodies such as sugarcane juice and locally grown fruit.
8 The Maui Garden Of Eden
Located around mile marker #10, this gorgeous spot is a must-see for any traveler on the Road to Hana. An arboretum with immaculately kept grounds, incredible species of native flora, and views of the ocean and Puohokamoa Falls, this is a top destination for Maui visitors.
- Tip: There is an entrance fee, but most visitors say it’s worth it to explore this beautiful sight.
- Entrance Fee: $20 (age 16 and up), $10 (age 5-16), children 5 and under are free.
- Hours of Operation: The arboretum is open from 8:00 AM-4:30 PM daily.
7 Wailua Valley State Wayside
Be sure not to miss this scenic stop for some of the best views around. Visitors will be thrilled by both the ‘mauka’ (views toward the mountains), and ‘mauna’ (views toward the ocean). Situated along mile marker #18, Wailua is easy to miss if you aren’t looking for it.
- Tip: Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenery before climbing the nearby stairs for panoramic views of Ke’anae Valley and the lush taro fields of Wailua Village.
6 Wai’anapanapa State Park
Wai’anapanapa means ‘glistening water’ and it doesn’t disappoint. Lovely views of the East Maui coastline are complemented perfectly by the clear blue waters and the black sand of Pa’iloa Beach. With freshwater caves for exploring, trails for hiking, and the opportunity for cliff jumping, this amazing spot along mile marker #32 is ideal for any adventurer.
- Tip: The legendary caves aren’t just for exploring—visitors can camp there too. However, it does require a permit so planning ahead is a must.
5 Hamoa Beach
Known as one of the best beaches on Maui, Hamoa Beach is a short drive past Hana. Anyone looking for a quiet spot to swim, sunbathe, and relax while enjoying the most spectacular views will be enchanted with this crescent-shaped immaculate beach surrounded by verdant vegetation and towering cliffs.
- Tip: Visitors can park on the street near the beach; however, the trek down to the shoreline itself is somewhat steep, so be prepared.
4 Nahiku Marketplace
Located at mile marker #29 on the Road to Hana, this little village is a great local spot to check out everything from art galleries to roadside food vendors. Visitors will love Nahiku, because of its diverse shopping and dining options.
- Tip: This is a great place to stop for lunch along the Road to Hana; some say the kalua pork tacos are the best around.
3 Hanawi Falls
Right after mile marker #24 on the Road to Hana is the Hanawi Falls. Visitors can get a glimpse of these spectacular falls from the almost 100-year old Hanawi Falls Bridge--and watch in wonder as the waterfall plummets 200 feet into a lovely freshwater pool.
- Tip: There is no designated parking area, so be sure to park off the road in a safe spot.
2 Hana Town
This small, sleepy village is full of history, culture, and legends--and is known as a place for the Gods. Located on mile marker #34, this spot is sometimes known as ‘Heavenly Hana’ because of its deep-rooted Hawaiian history and peaceful surroundings. Visitors will also enjoy the scenic beaches and the friendly, welcoming local residents.
- Tip: Many travelers say that Hana Town is worth an overnight stay because of its abundance of local history that can’t be fully explored in a few hours.
1 Ke’anae Peninsula
Around mile marker #16, travelers can find the Ke’anae Peninsula (just past the Ke’anae Arboretum). The surrounding area is rich in history as well as stunning views of the coastline. Many visitors say this is a great place to get a taste of ‘Old Hawaii.’
- Tip: The six-acre arboretum is worth exploring because of its lovely botanical gardens packed with exotic flora such as the rainbow eucalyptus. Plus, admission is free!
There are many beautiful spots worth stopping at on the Road to Hana that offer unbeatable Maui scenery, plenty of local history and culture, and diverse landscapes that are a must-see for any visitor to the second-largest Hawaiian Island.