Everything you need to know about the Road to Hana
The Road to Hana is one of Maui’s top attractions for tourists visiting the island. But, driving this road requires planning to make the most of your full day adventure. We have answered your most frequently asked questions about the Road to Hana to help you plan the most epic day on one of the world’s most talked about drives.
After reading tips and aids to making the most of the day, check out the best stops on the Road to Hana and how to fit this adventure into the ultimate Maui Itinerary!
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Where does the Road to Hana start and end?
The Road to Hana weaves around Maui’s the outer edge between the town of Paia and Haleakala National Park. The road system does allow you to make a full loop, so because of this, you can start the Road to Hana in either (1) Paia on the Northside or (2) Haleakala National Park just south of Hana. You will see the same attractions on both, but we prefer to start the journey in Paia. Click here to read more about the best stops on the Road to Hana with mile markers and photos.
How long does it take to drive the Road to Hana?
The Road to Hana is a full day adventure that will take you 4.5 hours without stopping along the route. But believe me when I say, this easily becomes a 10-12 hour drive with all the beautiful and unique places to stop along the way.
Although the Road to Hana can be done in a day, there is lodging along the Road to Hana should you choose to fully maximize your drive and enjoy every stop over multiple days.
What time should I start the Road to Hana?
The Road to Hana can get very busy, so we suggest you get an early start around 8am. Note that the local vendors and businesses do not open until 8am, so if you start too early, you will have to either wait for vendors to open or skip past some early spots.
Another thing to consider is the placement of the sun if photos are important to you. The sun will be at it’s best from 10-3pm, so plan to be at the core of the drive during this time.
What do I need to pack for the Road to Hana?
This all-day adventure takes planning and preparation! The night before you leave, make sure you have the following things packed in a bookbag:
- Snacks / Water
- Towels
- Water shoes
- Flip flops
- Tennis shoes
- 2 sets of dry clothes
- 2 bathing suits
- Coverup
Your day on the Road to Hana will be filled with hiking, swimming, eating, and covering many different types of terrain, so make sure you have it all!
Is there food on the Road to Hana?
YES, AND A LOT OF IT! You will enjoy so many homemade snacks and desserts from local vendors on the Road to Hana. We suggest stopping as often as you can and trying a variety of foods. Our favorite foods were fresh pineapple (believe me when I say the freshest pineapple we had ever had), homemade banana bread, chocolate covered macadamia nuts rolled in coconut, and fresh pineapple sorbet! We took many snacks back with us to our resort to enjoy the rest of the week too!
Are there bathrooms on the Road to Hana?
There are bathrooms on the Road to Hana at several mile markers and state parks along the drive. Look for bathrooms at mile markers 12, 22, 32, and 34.
What kind of car should I rent to drive the Road to Hana?
Renting a Jeep is the best experience when driving the Road to Hana. However, any type of car can make the drive. Beware that after a heavy rain, there can be flooding on the road. Do not try to cross this water if that is the case – it is not safe!
What are the best stops on the Road to Hana?
There are so many wonderful stops on the Road to Hana! We have compiled a list of all stops with a short description on the Road to Hana – Click here to read about them all and see photos of what to expect while you plan out your epic day on the Road to Hana!
