DAY 1: The Road to Hana is Paved in Dirt (Road to Hana - North)
do more: Twin falls maui waterfall
The first major stop on the Road to Hana tends to get crowded quickly so get there early or skip it - there’s plenty of fish, or falls, in Maui. Less than a mile and a left at the fork will take you to the more popular Caveman falls, named for the perfectly habitable cave underneath, a perfect foreshadowing of the lack of quality accommodations in the Road to Hana. There used to be a swing here but management decided it was too much fun and had it removed. A right at the fork takes you to past several less popular falls with areas for rock jumping, and a meandering jungle hike which is not well marked - perfect foreshadowing of your demise.
Average duration: 1-2 hours. Visit www.twinfallsmaui.net for more information.
DO MORE: bamboo forest hike
One of the most underrated and least-visited gems on the road to Hana is the Bamboo Forest, not for the hike itself but for the variety of gems to be found within - maze-like and unmarked paths leading to a variety of waterfalls and swimming holes. Also for this reason, this forest is one of the most common rescue sites, and that’s just the people who are able to call for rescue; the rest of the bodies are just waiting to be found. Fortunately, if you heed our advice, there’s no reason you can’t make it out alive.
From the main road, you’ll walk down a short muddy hill to the main trail. Bring shoes with a good grip or you might as well just slide down the hill head first. Once on the main trail there’s a stream that you’ll be crossing on foot and hopefully you fair better than most of the families in Oregon Trail. There are many paths to choose from but beware that some of them were carved out by pigs, who are evidently more treacherous than we give them credit for. Just stay parallel to the stream; your paradise awaits.
Average duration: 1-2 hours. Visit www.mauiguidebook.com for more information.
MUST SEE: garden of eden arboretum
Speaking of native flowers and plants, you won’t find greater variety than you will at Garden of Eden, and this time, you won’t have to worry about getting kicked out for your sins though you should probably avoid eating from any of the plants anyway. Instead, you can eat up the best views of Maui, as featured in the opening segment of Jurassic Park, and this time, you don’t have to worry about getting torn to shreds by a pack of stray velociraptors. Beyond that, you’ll find plenty of colors to inspire social jealousy.
Suggested duration: 1-2 hours. Visit www.mauigardenofeden.com for opening times and more information.
MUST SEE: keanae lookout
There’s no shortage of views on your drive, but if you want to stop and enjoy the view instead of being distracted and careening off the road into a bed of jagged rocks, this half mile long solidified lava field is one of the first major viewpoints along the Road. This former taro-producing village has a bit of a tragic history, having been pummeled in 1946 by a tsunami originating as far as the coast of Alaska, leaving only a local church in its “wake.” Tsunamis aside, it’s a must see place in Maui, but avoid swimming here amongst its unforgiving rocks.
Suggested duration: 30 minutes. Visit www.mauiguidebook.com for more information.
MUST SEE: wailua valley state wayside
In case you’re already exhausted from your expedition through Maui, thankfully there’s not much to do here as far as activities go, but Wailua Wayside is the perfect place to stretch your legs and get the lay of the land, literally, affording you views of both the coast and the inland valley. There’s a nearby hike that takes you further into the valley, but having already seen the best view robs you of the motivation that you’ll need to muster for the swimming holes ahead.
Suggested duration: 30 minutes. Visit dlnr.hawaii.gov for more information.
SWIMMING OPTION A: upper waikani falls
Also known as the Three Bears for its trio of streams in descending size order, you’ll find yourself as tempted by the waters here as Goldilocks was tempted by the porridge of her eponymous adversaries. Watch the flow rate before you attempt the short but harrowing climb to the water. If you do make it down, you’ll have plenty of space, much like Goldilocks, to call this place your own.
Suggested duration: 60 minutes. Visit www.mauiguidebook.com for more information.
SWIMMING OPTION B: Pua'a Ka'a State Wayside
Don’t be deceived by the easily accessible and inviting falls and pools of Pua’a Ka’a; there’s a larger and more private swimming area upstream, but you have to fend off a muddy trail, mongooses (not mongeese?) and jungle chickens - wish we were kidding. If you are stretched thin on things to do in Maui (clearly you haven’t read this page thoroughly), then its worth checking out.
Suggested duration: 60-90 minutes. Visit dlnr.hawaii.gov for more information.
do more: Hanawi Falls
If you just want to see a waterfall without getting muddy or wet and hop back on the bus and pretend you had an adventure, Hanawi Falls is your best bet. Due to its shoddy path and frequent flash flooding, the tourists are actually in the right this time.
Suggested duration: 10-20 minutes. Visit www.to-hawaii.com for more information.
STAY THE NIGHT near: hana town
DAY 2: Ashes, Ashes, We all Fall Down (Road to Hana - South)
DO MORE: hana lava tube
A much unneeded break from the beautiful outdoors, this cave provides the perfect specimen for anyone interested in geology, which extends to the people who will inevitably say “wow, cool cave.” For the geologically ignorant, lava tubes are created when subterranean lava rivers dry up. Most of them collapse under the weight of their coolness but this tube is the largest standing of its kind. Highlights include ‘candyland,’ a chocolate fountain-looking geological feature, sure to excite your inner Augustus Gloop. If the chocolate fountain was legit, this would be the best place on the Road to Hana (sigh) - but feel free to tell the kids its real, that’ll get them out of the car.
Average duration: 60 minutes. Visit www.mauicave.com for operating hours and more information.
MUST SEE: black sand beach
Not really a place for lounging, the Black Sand Beach is nevertheless another noteworthy geological feature of volcanic origin on along the Road to Hana. The eponymous sand is created by the persistent battering of waves against volcanic rock, not that you really care- all you need to know is that it makes for the ideal Instagram fodder. Should you find yourself consumed by the desire to enter the ocean, know that this coast, with its strong rip currents and steep drop off, will likely consume you, so stick to the pics. The intrepid types will find more to offer in a lengthy coastal hike, with enough bird watching to really start creeping the birds out. It goes without saying the Black Sand Beach is a must see beach on Maui - but if that was true, why did we just say it.
Average duration: 1-2 hours. Visit dlnr.hawaii.gov for more information.
BEACH OPTION A: koki beach
The “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” of beaches, Koki Beach changes its appearance and temperament from white to rocky sands and calm to rough waters, depending on the season, summer and winter, respectively. Much like that bipolar friend of yours, it’s best to know when to approach, depending on what type of experience you’re looking for, between swimming or surfing. Koki is also culturally significant, with a hill to the north known as “Ka Iwo o Pele,” or the bones of Pele, marking the site of a fatal battle with her older sister, who apparently suffered from a complete lack of chill. The property is now owned by icon Oprah Winfrey and is undoubtedly the source of her satanic powers of influence. In the water across the hill is Oprah-free bird paradise of Alau Island.
Suggested duration: 60-90 minutes. Visit www.mauiguidebook.com for more information.
BEACH OPTION B: hamoa beach
A more consistent option for both swimming and surfing throughout the seasons, Hamoa Beach is maintained by a nearby hotel and it thus frequented by less-rugged beachgoers, (yes, tourists on Maui claim to be more refined than those on Oahu) so dress to impress - the whole world is watching you and judging your every move. In calmer conditions, you can escape prying eyes by swimming south of a rocky alcove to access the hidden Mokae Cove.
Suggested duration: 60-90 minutes. Visit www.mauiguidebook.com for more information.
MUST SEE: wailua falls
Although its a must-see on the Road to Hana, Wailua Falls might be difficult to see, given the plethora of tourists drawn to this easily-accessible roadside attraction. It’s worth seeing nevertheless, and waiting for a photo-friendly window of opportunity. If you’re up for a swim, you’ll see that most tourists don’t venture to the falls, giving you the perfect photo-bombing opportunity.
Suggested duration: 15-30 minutes. Visit www.mauiguidebook.com for more information.
MUST SEE: pools at ‘oheo & Waimoku falls (Haleakala national park)
A stunning valley punctuated by gentle cascades and inviting plunge pools, ‘Oheo is also known as “the seven sacred pools,” less indicative of a divine presence and more indicative of clever marketing. Avoid the temptation to jump or join the long list of lives lost. For more adventure, don’t miss the underrated Pipiwai Trail, a diverse path over the river and through bamboo woods - not quite to grandmother’s house - but to Waimoku Falls you go. You’ve come all this way but keep your distance yet to avoid falling rocks which won’t end as comically as a Wile E Coyote getting hit by a falling anvil. Respect nature and nature… might still try to kill you.
Average duration: 2-4 hours. Visit www.nps.gov for operating hours and more information. Note: if you plan on visiting Haleakala National Park tomorrow, as suggested in our itinerary, or within three days of your visiting here, keep receipt for included access.
DO MORE: Charles Lindberg's Grave
If you had “visiting a grave” on your Maui Itinerary Bingo Card, its probably because you’re a history buff or an aviation expert, and want to take this opportunity to pay your respects to American aviator Charles Lindberg, who made the first nonstop flight across the Atlantic in 1927, and here we about a century later, still struggling to find a direct flight to the most basic destinations. Lindberg was drawn to the Kipahulu region of Maui, as you’ll undoubtedly see why on your drive through, and lived out the final years of his life as quietly as one can live while slowly succumbing to cancer but getting to die here is still a pretty solid tradeoff.
Suggested duration: 10-20 minutes. Visit www.mauiinn.com for more information.
MUST SEE: Manawainui Gulch
“It’s not the destination, but the journey there,” is normally a stupid phrase that people say to themselves when they fail to get places, but in this case, it’s not so much the gulch itself but the drive there and beyond that’s incredibly worth of consideration.
Most people turn around at Haleakala and the Pools of ‘Oheo and head back in the direction from which they came, but don’t know that the way forward is both less rocky and less frequented and has sustained incredible views that put the rest of Hana Road to shame. Ignore the warnings of the rental car companies - live a little - you can put a price on severe tired damage but you can’t put a price on this glorious view. Simply exercise caution and the minimum sense of adventure - you’ll be good to go.
As for the gulch itself, it’s a good place to stretch your legs and see what happens when you throw caution too far to the wind. Not to worry, the remnants of cars at the bottom of the gulch are not remains of action films, but insurance policies kicking in.
Suggested duration: 30 minutes. Visit www.mauiguidebook.com for more information.
STAY THE NIGHT near: kula/makawao
DAY 3: House of the Rising Sun (Haleakala)
haleakala national park
“The house of the sun” is known primarily for its spectacular sunrise and sunset show, almost as if nature is just showing off here. Mark Twain once called the event “the most sublime spectacle I have ever witnessed,” and though he is known for hyperbole, the description isn’t too far off. The dormant volcano is already impressive in itself - it’s the most prominent feature of the island and the drive up is breathtaking, as are the hiking opportunities, both figuratively and literally, as the altitude can incite a shortness of breath. But if you can handle a little acute suffocation, you’re in for an extreme workout and some of the best views in all of Maui.
Advanced reservations are required to park your car prior to sunrise and are extremely limited. If you miss it or don’t plan ahead, the sunset hike is equally stunning though getting in early affords you the assurance of having time to tackle the parks main hike.
Visit www.nps.gov for operating hours and more information.
HIKING OPTION A: Keon'ehe'ehe'e (DIFFICULT)
Not for the faint of heart, but for the adventurous of spirit, this full day alpine desert hike takes you through the highest highs and the lowest lows, of both altitude and personal fitness. You should pack supplies under the assumption that you’ll get lost and won’t be found for weeks because that’s how much you’ll probably need to survive this tough but rewarding endurance test. It is recommended to park at the Halemau’u trail, then to hitchhike to Keon’ehe’ehe’e trailhead, so you can end the hike at your car and promptly die of a heat stroke in the backseat.
Average duration: 12 hours. Visit www.nps.gov for more info.
HIKING OPTION B: Leleiwi Overlook (EASY)
Looking to live another day? You still have several options to enjoy the landscape without the fussiness of getting exercise for once in your life. This short, subalpine shrub-land hike has excellent crater views and even has a solid railing in case you need someone to hold your hand through all life’s challenges.
Average duration: 30 minutes. Visit www.nps.gov for more info.
HIKING option C: kalahaku (EASY)
At .1 miles, it’s a stretch to classify Kalahaku as a hike but the overlook has all the payoffs of a hike, without the associated efforts. It’s almost disrespectful to the native Americans, who in the past risked their lives to climb this mountain to do their ceremonial things while we drive up to these beautiful places and complain that there aren’t enough parking spots but this wouldn’t be the first instance of us disrespecting the sacrifice of those here before us. The least we can do now is not leave trash here and leave the adjacently nesting birds undisturbed.
Average duration: 30 minutes. Visit www.nps.gov for more info.
HIKING OPTION D: pa ka’oao (EASY)
If you’re one of those people who spend the bulk of their park visits at the visitor center exhibits instead of… you know, being in the actual outdoors of the park, you’ll be pleased to find an easy visitor center-adjacent hike with crater and observatory views. It’s not an exhibit with placards, but you’ve done plenty research by now to go into the field and dole out a summary, unprompted explanation to a clearly uninterested passer-by.
Average duration: 60 minutes. Visit www.nps.gov for more info.
MUST SEE: red hill
The highest peak of Haleakala naturally affords the greatest views of the park, and Maui at large. At this height, you might feel like you’re on Cloud 9, or literally inside of it. The terrain’s also one of the more clear signs of volcanic activity, if you’re not one of those science deniers that needs to see eruptions to substantiate established knowledge in your last moments.
Average duration: 30 minutes. Visit letsgotomaui.net for info.
MUST SEE: haleakala observatory
You won’t be able to make much use of the first astronomical observatory in Hawaii other than as a photograph backdrop, but from this high up, and after dark, you should have a nice view of the stars regardless, so keep your damn instruments to yourself, scientists; this is why you guys don’t have friends. All nerd jokes aside, Haleakala Observatory provides one of the most epic views in Maui.
Visit www.mauistargazing.com for tour information.
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alternative: MAKAWAO FOREST RESERVE
If you’re looking for a more low-key and commercial-free nature experience, this forest reserve has all the fresh air and none of the visitor saturation of nearby Haleakala National Park. Sure, it doesn’t have a volcano or incredible views - you can thank us if choose to visit here instead on the day of Haleakala’s inevitable eruption - but it does have several scenic and quiet hiking trails, also suited for mountain biking, if you feel the need to amp things up, unnecessarily. The 5 mile Kahakapao Loop Trail is popular but if you’re hiking you’ll have to duke it out with the aforementioned adrenaline junkies. The 2 mile Waihou Spring has no bikers.
Average duration: 2-3 hours. Visit www.mauiinn.com for more information.