Road To Hana

The "Road to Hāna" isn't just a drive; it’s a marathon of sensory overload. Stretching 64 miles from Kahului to the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park, the journey features 617 hairpin turns and 59 bridges (most of which are one-lane).

To enjoy it without a meltdown, the golden rule is: It’s about the journey, not the destination. If you race to Hāna town, you’ll find a quiet village and wonder what the fuss was about. The "magic" is everything you see on the way.

🛑 Essential Permits & Logistics (Do This First!)

As of 2026, the most popular spots require advance planning. You cannot simply "show up" at these locations.

Waiʻānapanapa State Park Strictly Required. Covers the Black Sand Beach. Reservations open 30 days in advance and sell out quickly.

gostateparks.hawaii.govHaleakalā (Kīpahulu) Entry fee is $30 per vehicle (valid for 3 days).

If you visited the Summit for sunrise, that same pass works here. Pay at the gate or use a National Park Pass.

Timing: Many people prefer to start by 6:30 AM or 7:00 AM especially if the goal is to “see it all”. You want to be past Twin Falls before the "tourist wave" hits. Aim to head back by 4:00 PM to avoid driving the cliffs in the dark.

📍 Top Stops & Local Businesses

The mile markers (MM) reset or change slightly; use these as a general guide.

1. Paʻia Town (The Starting Line)

Before the jungle begins, fuel up in this bohemian surf town.

  • Stop here for: Gas (last cheap gas!), coffee, and a "Road to Hāna" picnic lunch.

  • Business Highlight: Mana Foods for high-quality grab-and-go snacks.

2. Twin Falls (MM 2)

The first easily accessible waterfalls.

  • Business Highlight: Wailele Farm stand. Grab some fresh coconut candy or a smoothie.

  • Note: It gets very crowded; if the lot is full, keep driving—there are better falls ahead.

3. Garden of Eden Arboretum (MM 10)

A beautifully manicured park (paid entry).

  • Why stop: It offers the "Jurassic Park" view of Keopuka Rock and is great for seeing Rainbow Eucalyptus trees without worrying about roadside traffic.

4. Keʻanae Peninsula (MM 16)

Turn left off the highway for a dramatic view of crashing waves against black lava rock.

  • Business Highlight: Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread. This is a rite of passage. It's often served warm, and yes, it lives up to the hype.

5. Nahiku Marketplace (MM 29)

A funky collection of tropical food stalls.

  • Stop here for: Coconut shrimp, kalua pork tacos, or locally made jewelry. It’s a great mid-way "rest area" vibe.

6. Hana Lava Tube (MM 31)

A massive underground cave formed by ancient lava flows.

  • Experience: It’s self-guided and cool (literally—a nice break from the humidity). They provide flashlights.

7. Hāna Town (MM 34)

The "end" of the road for some, but really just the halfway point.

  • Business Highlight: Hasegawa General Store. A legendary family-owned shop where you can find everything from sunblock to obscure Hawaiian hardware.

8. Hamoa Beach & Koki Beach (Past Hāna)

  • Hamoa: Often cited as one of the most beautiful beaches in the Pacific. It’s salt-and-pepper sand and great for a swim.

  • Koki: Famous for its red-tinted sand (from a nearby cinder cone) and "Huli Huli Chicken" stands usually parked nearby.

9. Pīpīwai Trail (The Grand Finale - MM 42)

Located in the Kīpahulu District of the National Park.

  • The Hike: A 4-mile round trip that takes you through a massive bamboo forest and ends at the 400-foot Waimoku Falls.

  • The Pools: The "Seven Sacred Pools" (Ohe’o Gulch) are also here, though swimming depends on water levels/safety.