road to hana tours by locals

The 12 Best Guided and Private Road to Hana Tours in Maui

Updated Jan 1, 2024 • Activities , Maui , Road to Hana

Are you considering a guided or private Road to Hana tour instead of driving yourself? Tours are a great way to focus on the natural beauty of the area instead of the road. Driving the Road to Hana is a lot safer these days but its twists and turns can still be challenging.

There are five categories of tours to consider when planning your trip. Each offers a different experience, from relaxed and leisurely to active and adventurous.

• Guided Road to Hana Tours – For people that don’t want to drive.
• Private Road To Hana Tours – An exclusive experience with your own group.
• Self-Guided Road to Hana Tours – Go at your own pace.
• Road to Hana Hiking Tours – Guided hikes and waterfall adventures.
• Road to Hana Helicopter Tours – A different view of Maui and the Road to Hana.

In this post, we’ll help you decide which Road to Hana tour is for you by covering the best options available and what each has to offer. Let’s roll!

Our Picks: Best Road to Hana Tours in Maui

Don’t have time to read the entire post? Here are our picks for the best Road to Hana tours in Maui.

• Best Guided Tour: Dynamic Tour’s Small Group Adventure
• Best Private Tour: Hawaii by Storm’s Private Luxury Tour

Guided Road to Hana Tours

Private road to hana tours, self-guided road to hana tours, road to hana hiking tours, road to hana helicopter tours, more about the road to hana.

Guided tours are great if you’d like to enjoy the Road to Hana without having to focus on the road. As mentioned, it’s a lot safer to drive these days but someone in your group will still need to take the wheel. With a knowledgeable guide at the helm, you’ll be able to experience the Road to Hana on an unforgettable journey through one of the most picturesque parts of Maui.

Dynamic Tour’s Small Group Adventure

Experience the beauty of Maui’s iconic Road to Hana with Dynamic Tour Maui’s full-day sightseeing tour. Explore lush farms, scenic overlooks, and rich Hawaiian history while taking in breathtaking views at Wai’anapanapa State Park, Ho’okipa Beach Park, and Waikani Falls. Enjoy a guide, round-trip hotel transport, and lunch included in the package.

Valley Isle Excursions’ Small Group Tour

Explore the stunning beauty of Maui on this full-day, small-group tour operated by Valley Isle Excursions. With a maximum of just 12 attendees, you’ll drive the famous Hana Highway, visit Haleakala National Park, see Wailua Falls, discover Wai’anapanapa State Park’s black-sand beach, and more. The tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel, breakfast, lunch, and beverages.

Hana and Beyond’s Full Circle Tour

Join a family-operated, native Hawaiian tour company for a small-group full-day guided tour of the Road to Hana, including beaches, forests, and waterfalls. With a group capped at 12, you’ll enjoy an intimate experience that includes two swimming stops on a black-sand beach and waterfall (weather permitting), lunch, bottled water, and comfortable, private transportation.

Temptation Tours’ Luxury Hana Tour

Explore the stunning landscape and hidden treasures of Maui’s Road to Hana on this small-group sightseeing tour in a deluxe Limo-Van. Discover a wealth of attractions including towering lava cliffs, tropical gardens, crystal-clear pools, and cascading waterfalls. With breakfast, lunch, drinks, entrance fees, and hotel transport included, this is the ultimate way to experience the road to Hana.

If you’d like an exclusive Road to Hana experience with your own group, then a private tour is for you. Embark on a personalized journey through Maui’s Road to Hana, where you choose the pace, sights, and itinerary that suits you best.

Hawaii by Storm’s Private Luxury Tour

Explore Maui’s stunning Road to Hana in comfort with Hawaii by Storm’s private tour. Their lifted Ford Expedition with a knowledgeable guide allows you to take in the breathtaking scenery while having the flexibility to customize your experience, with all fuel, parking fees, and refreshments included.

Experience Hawaii’s Private Tour

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Experience Hawaii’s private Road to Hana tour in Maui. Ditch the strict timelines and craft your day amid stunning volcanic beaches and cultural immersion. Wander through Hana, unwind at Hamoa Beach, and marvel at Waimoku Falls. This personalized trip lets you explore at your own pace, ensuring an authentic and enriching Hawaiian adventure.

Holo Holo’s Private Tour w/Nature Walk

Discover the best of Maui’s Road to Hana on a private tour with Holo Holo. With customizable itineraries and four different tour options, their local expert guide and driver will take you on a journey through the stunning scenery, including waterfalls, rainforests, and black sand beaches. Perfect for solo travelers, couples, families, and small groups. Pick-up is available daily from most Maui areas.

I know we mentioned not driving but no post about Road to Hana tours is complete without mentioning self-guided tours. This is the cheapest option for seeing the Road to Hana and gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary and discover hidden gems on your own terms.

Shaka Guide’s Road to Hana Audio Tour

Shaka Guide’s Road to Hana audio tour is one of the most popular self-guided apps. With GPS-guided turn-by-turn instructions, this interactive app allows you to explore stunning landmarks, waterfalls, and nature hikes along the way while listening to entertaining stories and insightful commentary.

Get up close and personal with the stunning natural beauty of Maui’s Road to Hana on a hiking tour. Hike through lush rainforests and past cascading waterfalls for a truly immersive experience that brings you closer to the heart of this beautiful area. With experienced guides leading the way, you’ll have the opportunity to see the Road to Hana from a different perspective.

Hike Maui’s Waterfall and Rainforest Hike

Embark on a guided rainforest hike in East Maui with Hike Maui. Discover the beauty of the Road to Hana as you are transported to the trailhead and then trek through the lush valley with a local guide, learning about Maui’s ecosystems and taking in stunning waterfalls and rock formations. Enjoy a refreshing swim in freshwater pools and a healthy lunch along the way.

Temptation Tours’ Luxury Cavern Day Trip

Experience the stunning Road to Hana in luxury with Temptation Tours’ 10-hour small-group tour in a spacious Limo-Van. Discover the mesmerizing Ka’eleku Cavern, enjoy a Pacific Rim lunch, and explore the beautiful waterfalls and tropical gardens of Hana. With a maximum of eight guests, this tour offers a personalized experience, complete with commentary from your guide.

Take to the skies for an awe-inspiring view of Maui’s Road to Hana with a helicopter tour . Soar above lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and the rugged coastline for a bird’s eye view of one of the most breathtaking destinations in Maui. With expert pilots at the controls, you’ll be able to take in the stunning natural beauty of the Road to Hana from above.

Hana Rainforest Helicopter Flight with Landing

Take in the breathtaking beauty of Maui’s Hana Rainforest from a different perspective with Maverick Helicopters. Glide over the jungle-clad north coast, fly over the Road to Hana and explore the lush Wailua Valley on this scenic helicopter flight. Enjoy panoramic views of waterfalls and canyons while learning about the island’s geology, nature, and history from your live pilot commentary.

Maui Helicopter Tour with Road to Hana

See the entire island of Maui from a bird’s eye view with Maverick Helicopters’ full-circle tour. See the island’s famous attractions, including the Hana Rainforest and Haleakala National Park, as well as hidden valleys, scenic waterfalls, and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. Witness the island’s tallest cliffs and fly above popular areas such as Lahaina, Kapalua, Ka'anapali, Wailea, and Hana on this journey of a lifetime.

The  Hana Highway , or The Road to Hana as it’s more well known, is a 64.4-mile-long portion of Hawaii Routes 36 and 360. The highway connects tourists and locals alike from the town of Kahului in Central Maui to the town of Hana in East Maui . The “road” has been around since the 16th century. Then known as The Kings Trail, it was ordered by Chief Piilani who wanted to be able to travel from village to village by foot rather than by canoe on the ocean.

Modern (wider dirt and rock) roads were built in the late 1800s to facilitate the movement of people and products to and from the plantations in Hana. Sugar cane mills along with rubber and pineapple plantations thrived in Hana at that time, making the construction of better roadways to and from Kahului and Paia a must. The highway wasn’t paved until 1962 and even then there were still unpaved stretches. Surprisingly, the highway was not fully paved until the 1980s. 

So, are you ready to start your epic adventure on the Road to Hana? If you want to be able to take in all the scenery (without the distraction of driving) and stop at some of the most popular sites along the way, a guided tour might be right up your alley. Prefer to take your time and do the drive yourself? A self-guided tour might be for you. No matter how you choose to explore the Road to Hana, it’s a magically unique place and an adventure you won’t soon forget!

Meet the Authors

Aloha! We’re Justin and Katie, the owners of Maui Hideaway. We’ve been visiting Hawaii together with our family for 20 years and would love to share the experience of the islands with you. Whether you’re looking for a place to stay or just some vacation advice, we’re here to help!

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Wow!! This was amazing! Zak gave all we asked for and more! Caves, waterfalls, cliff jumping, great waves for black and red sand beach swimming and more. Zak shared so much information about the island of Maui and its people and he gave our mixed group ( 2 seniors, 2 young adults and 3 kids, 7, 10 and 12 yrs old) an amazing fun filled day tailored specifically to our group. We wanted to do it again! Thank you Marty and Zak!

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Road to Hana Preparation Tips, Highway Map, and Where to Stop

Must see & do on the hana highway.

The scenic  Road to Hana  on Maui is the undisputed top attraction on the island. We've been researching the attractions on the Hana Highway since 2002 when the highway first made a major and incredibly positive impression on us. We can now offer our visitors over 20 years of expertise on this beautifully scenic drive. From checklists for making the drive to the best guidebooks to audio CDs- we've researched it all.

— article continued below —

Wailua Falls beyond Hana town

This entry includes resources to provide Road to Hana driving tips and advice, plus maps and even information regarding closures, when applicable.

• Road to Hana Checklist - What to do and what to take on the drive
• Download our printable Mile by Mile Road to Hana Map
• Road to Hana Questions & Answers (Q&A)
• Road to Hana Tours & Excursions we recommend

Separately, you can explore the Best Stops on the Road to Hana, learn exactly what time to start , and read our driving tips for making the drive. We've also now created a list of the restroom and bathroom facilities along the drive.

Waikamoi Ridge Trail

Road to Hana Guided Tour

Valley Isle Excursions

The 600+ turns, 50+ one-lane bridges, and occasional rock or mudslides creates enormous stress and often exhaustion when you don’t know the territory. Hāna itself is all about  de-stressing , which is why Maui residents vacation there. Letting someone else take care of the driving is the  best way to see the famous Road to Hāna  and the surrounding area without the added stress of driving it yourself.

Come, join us for a relaxing road trip to Hāna, Maui

Road to Hana Tour

Hana Highway - Mile by Mile Guidebook

Road to hana - 8th edition update.

We highly encourage all visitors to consider a guidebook when driving the highway. It's the best way to determine which stops are for you and which aren't.

A lot of folks simply let the clumps of cars along the road be their guide. This is a big mistake. There are a lot of great places along the Hana Highway, but there are also several stops you'd be wasting your time visiting. That said, we invite you to let us be your guide.

We've driven the Hana Highway a few hundred times over the last few years and eventually, we said, "Why not put what we know in a book?" And, we can now better educate visitors on what spots are kapu  (off-limits), as well.

Our guidebook, Hana Highway Mile by Mile: The Road to Hana and Beyond  will navigate you along the 52 miles of undeveloped road, 56 one-lane bridges, and 617 curves. And the journey doesn't end in Hana, it continues well beyond the sleepy coastal town at the bay.

Now available in both digital and print editions!

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Pipiwai Trail at the Oheo Gulch in Kipahulu

Every twist and turn of the Road to Hana is something to see.

Road to Hana Introduction

Rated one of hawaii's best scenic drives.

When it comes to driving the Hana Highway on Maui, it's the journey, not the destination , that is the main attraction. There are few words that can describe the beauty of this drive with its cliffs cloaked in green and lush valleys bursting with waterfalls. Curves hug the coast and gaze over an ocean that stretches uninterrupted all the way to the Alaskan coastline. Couple that with black, red, and white sand beaches, a multitude of trails, and beautiful gardens and you've discovered the highway to heaven itself.

Traffic Conditions Advisory

How to help mitigate visitor impact on road to hana.

Previously, the Hawaii Tourism Authority sent out a press release regarding the high volume of traffic that was being seen daily on the Hana Highway (Road to Hana). We've posted a new blog article addressing the current  Road to Hana traffic and congestion issues, and have included their press release on that page, to further bring your attention to current conditions.

The Hawaii Department of Transportation has announced that, as of 2021, it has installed approximately 70 "no parking" signs on Hana Highway, warning drivers about the $35 no parking fine and a $200 surcharge for illegally stopping on a state highway, to reduce the temptation for drivers to illegally park on Hana Highway. Read more in our updated blog article →

Hana Highway Q&A »

Road to Hana Checklist »

Waianapanapa State Park & Black Sand Beach

Road to Hana Highway Map

Hana highway map - mile by mile....

Updated with a new high-resolution map of Maui. Includes each of the Hana Highway's top attractions, trails, landmarks, and beaches with mile markers for the entire drive.

The Highway to Heaven...

Hopefully, you've already perused our article  Is the Road to Hana Worth it?  If not, you might want to check out that page before continuing to plan your trip down the Hana Highway, as we share lots of helpful hints about making the drive on your own.  

We're here to help you plan that perfect road trip down this beautiful stretch of highway. Be sure to also check out our article entitled  Can I Make the Drive to the Oheo Gulch and Back in a One Day?  as it may also prove useful for many visitors planning to make the highway a day trip only.

Many visitors often ask us the same questions about the Hana Highway and that's why we've created this entry - to help answer the most basic questions about the drive to Hana town. So let's start with a few common questions and answers about the drive.

Hana Highway Q & A

Q: Where is the drive located? A: The scenic drive is located on the northeast coastline of Maui. Officially, the road is named the Hana Highway and on maps will be listed as Hwy. 36 and Hwy. 360. Many people, ourselves included, consider the Hana Highway to continue beyond Hana to the Oheo Gulch , or even beyond that to Upcountry Maui via Hwy. 31.

Q:  Where are the best places to stop along the way? A: Unless you spend a night in Hana town, visiting every attraction along the drive is impossible. It could take two or three days to see everything, so we always advise most visitors to stick to the highlights. That's why we've created the Best Places to Stop on the drive article, which will guide you to the major attractions while skipping the less appealing places that most people think are worth their time because they don't know better. You can waste A LOT of time on the Hana Highway if you aren't careful, so knowing which places to stop at in advance is very helpful and efficient.

Q:  What is the best time to start? A: If you want the honest answer - then start early; really early! We've dedicated an entire article to the topic of When to Start the Road to Hana? If you start later in the morning, expect a lot of traffic and a less pleasant experience on the highway due to congestion.

Q:  How long is the Road to Hana? A: Honestly, the answer to this question depends on how far you drive along the Hana and Pi'ilani Highway, and it also depends on where you start counting. Generally, you hear the answer to this question regarding how far it is to Hana town from the beginning of the junction with Highway 36/360, in which case the Road to Hana is approximately 34 miles long . If you include the distance from Kahului, where Highway 36 begins (technically the 'true start' of the Hana Highway), the drive is roughly 52 miles long . If you're starting from a location on the West Coast of Maui, like Ka'anapali, the total distance to Hana is roughly 76 miles long. But don't let these distance estimates fool you; driving the famously curvy highway will feel a lot longer. It consists of undeveloped road, has nearly 60 one-lane bridges, and has approximately 617 curves (some are pretty tight). If you're driving beyond Hana town, which is highly likely, and your destination is the Oheo Gulch, the total distance of the Road to Hana, from Kahului to the Kipahulu area where the Oheo Gulch is located is approximately 61 miles . If you're not continuing around the 'back road,' your total driving distance will be twice that amount since you'll have to drive back the way you came.

Keanae Peninsula

Q:  Is the drive to Hana (and beyond) safe? A: It's very safe for drivers who can keep their eyes on the road; trust us, they'll be tempted to look around. The highway is fully paved and even though it has many curves and one-lane bridges, the drive is very safe. For more information about driving the highway, check out our  Driving Tips for the Hana Highway .

Q:  How many waterfalls are there on the drive? A: That depends, but there are a lot of them. It depends because if it's rained recently then waterfalls burst forth from almost every curve on the highway. But if it has been dry, some falls may dry up and not be flowing. EMI, a company that diverts stream water for the hungry cane fields in central Maui, also can cause certain falls to cease flowing - again, usually when it's dry. In our opinion, the best waterfalls are actually beyond Hana town, with Wailua Falls being the crown jewel. If you're up for a little hiking, however, you can even get a good view of 400 ft. Waimoku Falls at the end of the Pipiwai Trail. The latter is located inside Haleakala National Park at the Oheo Gulch (also known as the Seven Sacred Pools). For more information on all the major falls along the drive, see our  Road to Hana Waterfalls  entry.

Q:  eBook/Guidebook, CD, GPS unit, or smartphone app - who should I trust to guide me? A: Not to toot our own horn- well OK, maybe a little bit- but we have written an exclusive  Hana Highway - Mile by Mile Guidebook  that details the drive's major attractions, and we think it's a great resource to visitors. We started writing the book years ago, and after dozens of adventures along the highway, I think it's fair to say we've done our homework and research.  We've guided thousands of visitors along the drive , and we've had an incredible amount of positive feedback from our recommendations and rating system in the book. Alternatively, if you're looking for an audio CD, then we feel the  R2H CD  is the best buy, as of this writing. We wouldn't advise visitors to use any smartphone apps requiring a cellular signal for the drive, as a cell phone signal is hard to come by on the trip. Additionally, some GPS tours can be problematic in our opinion, so we're not especially a fan of those either - sorry GPS folks, just being honest.

Also, a quick word of caution about some guidebooks: many will tell you about places that are on private property or that can be dangerous to visit. If it sounds like the book is revealing anything too exclusive, it probably is - so avoid those locations. Our guidebook states explicitly which places are on private property and which should be considered kapu  or off-limits.

Q:  Is the drive really worth it? A: Unless you don't like scenic drives with beautiful sights, waterfalls, and lush green surroundings - yes, the drive is worth it. Still, some people don't care much for the drive, and that prompted us to write an article about that topic:  Is the Hana Highway Really Worth it ? If you have any reservations about the drive, that article should clear up several essential factors for you and help you decide if the drive is right for you and your family.

Featured Road to Hana Tours

If you’re visiting the Valley Isle you simply cannot miss the opportunity to tour the world-famous Road to Hana. We have driven the road countless times by ourselves, but we understand that going solo is certainly not for everyone. Not only that, touring with a professional local guide means you’ll see all the best sights along the way, not just the overrated stops. Whether you want to ride the twists and turns in luxury, see the sights from high above, or get an up-close personal view on two feet (or wheels!), we have the perfect tour for you. Just remember that we feature only the best Road to Hana tours and they tend to fill up quickly, so book early to ensure availability. Mahalo!

Black Sand Beach at Waianapanapa

Road to Hana Checklist

This short checklist is meant to be a quick guide for what to do and what to take on the drive. As we mentioned earlier, the drive has so many attractions it would be impossible to see them all in a single day. This will allow you to visit the attractions before Hana town one day, and the sights beyond it the next. We've also made a list of the Road to Hana stops with facilities here .

1.)  Select a Rental Car or Guided Tour After reading all of our Q&A above you should have a good feel for whether you want to make the drive yourself or take a guided tour . The latter is great for people who aren't too keen on the curves or bridges, but honestly, we still prefer to make the drive ourselves. Don't worry about getting a 4x4 or anything special, even if you plan to drive the road beyond the Oheo Gulch. Any regular car will do. Lot of folks love driving the highway in a convertible, and we think that's great - but keep in mind that it can rain often along the drive in short bursts, so that could be a lot of work putting the top up and down on the car. Overall you're going to want a car that has decent fuel economy and can make the drive without needing to refuel in Hana (where gas prices will make your jaw drop). On that note, fuel up in Paia town, which is located at the start of the drive, before continuing.

2.)  What to expect for the scenic drive Knowing what to expect along the drive will help you avoid any unnecessary surprises. Here are a few things to expect: 

• Frequent, but often quick, rain showers
• Impatient drivers - so pull over often to let them by
• People stopped at every bridge - don't fall for this, stick to your plan
• Get out of the car on occasion, you can't see everything from the car seat
• Some short to moderate hikes - but they are excellent
• Paid admission at the Garden of Eden - we think it's worth it

Waimoku Falls - End of Pipiwai Trail

3.)  What to bring - and what not to bring A sizable packed lunch is definitely advisable for the drive since it will take nearly a full day to complete. Bring a small backpack to carry things in, as you'll be doing some walking to see some of the attractions. Don't forget your camera(s), you'll need it. Don't bring anything that's worth a lot of money if you plan to leave it in your car. While break-ins are more rare than they used to be, they do still happen on occasion, especially if any high-end goods are left visible in the car. This might include your phone, camera equipment, or any tablet or other electronic devices. While these electronics can be helpful when making the drive if you have an eBook, we'd advise you to try and keep those with you in that nifty backpack we suggested. You also won't need a GPS - it would be pretty hard to get lost on this drive. Here are some other items to consider bringing with you:

• A cheap cooler with ice - this will keep your food and drinks cool.
• Water/Drinks - bring what you can, stock up with more at the general store in Hana town.
• Comfortable shoes - expect to do some walking or hiking like we mentioned. Don't wear white shoes if you expect to keep them that way! Sandals are fine, as I've hiked in them for many miles, but they might not be right for everyone, so if you'll be wearing sandals or slippahs (flip-flops), you may want to bring some tennis or hiking shoes.
• A collapsible hiking pole - good for some folks if making the Pipiwai Trail hike at the Oheo Gulch.
• Pocket ponchos - just in case one of those rain showers last longer than a few minutes.
• Bug Spray - bugs are hit and miss, but it's worth being prepared in case the mosquitos are out and about.
• Cash - The Garden of Eden, in addition to the fruit and smoothie vendors, only take cash.
• Malama Pono - be a good steward of the Aina (land) and Kai (ocean) - respect for the land is very important on Maui.
• A watch - you'll definitely want to keep track of time. Never try to drive the highway in the dark- trust us!

Don't forget to stop and check out the many gorgeous waterfalls along the way. This is Wailua Falls.

Hamoa Beach Beyond Hana Town

4.)  Get ahead of the crowds when you can Yes... we know getting up early on your vacation isn't ideal, but it's worth being ahead of the crowds. If you can be at the junction of Hwy. 36 and Hwy. 360 (official start of the drive) by around 7 am, you'll probably be ahead of the major crowds who arrive between 8-9:30 am. You can start earlier, but this can result in less-than-ideal photos since the sun isn't high enough in the sky yet. Whatever you do, don't get stuck in the lines of cars or this can greatly reduce the enjoyability of the drive. Staying ahead of the masses will be your best bet. So leave early!

5.)  Check about the conditions beyond the Oheo Gulch If you plan to continue the drive beyond the Oheo Gulch, check with the rangers to see if it's rained recently or if any other conditions might create problems for that drive. Rockslides used to close that portion of the highway frequently, but rock netting has now been put in place to aid with this problem. While almost every car rental company will "prohibit" that section of road in their self-provided guides, the drive is more than worth it and becomes the highlight of the trip to many visitors. It has broken pavement and is narrow in a few sections, but once you get past Kaupo gap, conditions improve dramatically and you'll be amazed at the contrast in the scenery as opposed to how things looked on the Hana side. Be prepared for the wind, though, if you get out of the car; it can get quite strong when nearing Upcountry Maui.

6.)  Rotate drivers when possible You'll want to allow everyone to enjoy the drive, so be sure to rotate drivers if possible. This will give everyone the chance to fully enjoy the scenery. Most of the complaints we hear about the drive come from the drivers, who can't focus on the scenery because they have to watch the road. So be sure to share driving time if you can.

7.)  Start back early As noted above, you'll want to keep good track of time. Also, make sure you either begin your return along the northeast drive (if you're going back that way) or continue beyond the Oheo Gulch to Upcountry Maui, no later than 3 pm. This should give you about three hours to make the trip back to where driving conditions are less stressful. Driving the Hana Highway in the dark is certainly an, um, "experience", but we don't recommend it.

Honomanu Bay

Hana Highway

Explore all points of interest.

We've split all the Hana Highway (Road to Hana) sights and stops off into their own area here on our website. It helps separate the Hana Highway stops and sights from the rest of the attractions on Maui. To get started planning your own trip along the Hana Highway, just click the link below to visit our  Hana Highway region page.

  Hana Highway Attractions  

Road to Hana - 8th Edition: 2023 Update

We highly encourage all visitors to consider a guidebook when driving the highway. It's the best way to determine which stops are for you and which aren't. A lot of folks simply let the clumps of cars along the road be their guide. This is a big mistake. There are a lot of great places along the Hana Highway, but there are also several stops you'd be wasting your time visiting. That said, we invite you to let us be your guide.

We've driven the Hana Highway a few hundred times over the last few years and eventually, we said, "Why not put what we know in a book?" And, we can now better educate visitors on what spots are kapu  (off-limits), as well. Our guidebook, Hana Highway Mile by Mile: The Road to Hana and Beyond  will navigate you along the 52 miles of undeveloped road, 56 one-lane bridges, and 617 curves. You will pass by the most breathtaking scenery on the face of the Earth that was literally a million years in the making. And the journey doesn't end in Hana, it continues well beyond the sleepy coastal town at the bay.

Both hard copy and digital editions now available!

Backside of Haleakala - Road beyond Hana

Hana Highway Closures & News

We always attempt to monitor the Hana Highway for closures and planned maintenance or construction. If we are aware of anything that might cause disruptions to travel on the Road to Hana or beyond, we'll update the article linked below accordingly.

Road to Hana Hwy Closures, Maintenance, and Updates →

Hawaii-Guide encourages all visitors, prior to visiting the Hana area, to please review the official Hana Highway Code of Conduct below, provided by the HVCB & Hana Highway Regulation, an initiative of the Hana Community Association. Mahalo!

Road to Hana Highway Code of Conduct

• Visit State parks and County rest facilities.
• Enjoy the various farms, botanical gardens and fruit stands along the way.
• Avoid sites located on or beyond private properties, and areas that lack visitor welcoming signage. 
• Park in designated parking stalls. Vehicles protruding onto the highway are subject to being towed.
• Do not enter streams on occasions of heavy rains and flash flooding conditions. 
• Please respect the 'Aina ( land ): place trash in a proper receptacle, stay on the paths, respect the wildlife and plants, and practice safe procedures.

Road to Hana Reviews

Guidereview:, road to hana photo gallery.

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Recommended maui tours, terms of use & disclosures.

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Article Published/Updated: 03-02-2024

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Journey to Hāna, Hawaiian Style

Once in a lifetime adventure that takes you through the winding roads of Hāna and showcases the amazing natural beauty of Maui.

Our experienced and knowledgeable team will bring your journey to life and provide you with a unique and unforgettable experience. From the winding roads along the coast, the lush green jungle of the interior, historic sites and breathtaking views. Immerse yourself in some of the finest of what Hawaii has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a half-day or a full-day tour exploring the countless hidden gems of East Maui, our knowledgeable and experienced tour guides provide a unique perspective that only a local could give.  

We provide a free pick-up and return service from all major resorts and condominiums. The pick-up time is between 6:00 am and 7:00 am, and guests will receive notification of their pick-up time the day before the tour.

** All tour routes and availability may be subject to change due to weather conditions or othe r factors that are beyond the control of Hana & Beyond **  

*MOST POPULAR*

HĀNA & BEYOND TOUR

UPDATE:  We will be conducting our 'Hana Tour' with additional stops in the rainforest until further notice. The total tour duration will remain the same at approximately 9-10 hours.

Highlights will include -

Scenic drive through lush rainforest

Observe various waterfalls

Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees

Kaumahina Wayside Park

Halfway to Hāna fruit stand

Pua'a Ka'a State Park (swim - weather Permitting)

Lunch at the Black Sand Beach (swim - weather Permitting)

Drive through Hana town

Ke'anae Peninsula

Final stop at Ho'okipa Beach Park (viewing of green sea turtles)

Complimentary: Deli style lunch, snacks, soda pop and water.  

** Times may vary based on weather conditions, traffic and or other factors beyond   the control of H&B.**

*LONGER STOPS*

If you prefer to spend more time enjoying the stops rather than the drive, then this is the perfect tour for you. The total tour time is approximately 9-10 hours.

Highlights -

Kaumahina State Park

Kea'nae (Banana bread + snacks)

Pua'a Ka'a State Park (swim) - weather permitting

Black Sand Beach (swim) - weather permitting

Ho'okipa Beach Park

Complimentary Deli style lunch, Snacks, soda pop and water.

Available only for private tours or groups of 6+ or more.  

** Times may vary based on weather conditions, traffic and or other factors beyond   the control of H&B.**  

*AIRPORT SHUTTLES*

PRIVATE SHUTTLE SERVICES

Private Tours & Experiences

For any private tours please contact us for pricing.

Airport Shuttle Service

Kahului Airport to South Maui - $200.00

Kahului Airport to Lahaina, Kaanapali - $250.00

Kahului airport to Napili, Kapalua - $275.00

Up to 6 people Max.

Prices are the same from any of the above mentioned locations to the Kahului Airport.

Transport done in Ford Transit Vans.

Escalade for 3 persons max upon request.

REGENERATIVE TOURISM FOR HĀNA

We had the opportunity to speak with Kainoa Carlson with @hinowdaily back in February where we delved into the significance of embracing a responsible mindset when traveling. It is crucial for visitors to prioritize leaving their destination in a better condition than they found it and to seek immersive experiences that go beyond the typical Maui vacation.

One prime example of promoting sustainable and regenerative tourism on Maui is through legally guided tours on the road to Hana. These tours play a vital role in fostering a mindset of environmental responsibility and contribute to the preservation and enhancement of the local ecosystem. Every year, thousands of travelers embark on the breathtaking journey along the road to Hana, often utilizing their own private vehicles. We strongly encourage considering the option of taking a guided tour, as it serves as an effective means to minimize the impact of visitors on the road to Hana and the Hana community. By doing so, visitors actively contribute to the preservation of this remarkable route and the overall well-being of the local community.

"Emma was so great! We normally like to just do our own thing on vacation and this was our first time scheduling a guided tour. We weren't sure what to expect but this was the BEST part of our trip so far! Driving the Road to Hana on our own, we would have missed so much of the history and stories she told us which was the best part. Emma grew up there, knew literally everyone we passed (most were family) she was like a Hana celebrity 😂 We loved it.. Never seen anywhere like Hana, it was an amazing experience and I highly recommend!"

~ Alexa Passmore

TESTIMONIALS

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Top 5 Road to Hana Tours

The top 5 road to hana tours.

A serpentine route that parallels one of the most spectacular coastlines in the world. Waterfalls galore. Plunging freshwater pools. Beaches comprised of black sand, gray sand, white sand, and even red. Tropical rainforests; radical seascapes. Is it any wonder why the Road to Hana is considered a leading attraction not just on Maui but also on Earth? Allow us to help you narrow down your options when it comes to the top Road to Hana tours.

• Complete Hana Tour – Best Price, Best Experience, Run by Locals!
• Full Loop Tour – Private/Exclusive
• Halfway Hana Tour – Less Road Time
• Road to Hana Tour – Experience
• Hana Jungle Tour – Customizable

For those who choose to eschew a self-driven exploration of Maui’s remote eastern coast, the question becomes which tour they should select. With this in mind, we’ve pulled together our picks for the top Road to Hana tours —and given you a rundown of each option.

Complete Hana Tour

This 9.5-hour Complete Hana Tour takes the stress out of navigating the 64.4-mile route to Hana—a trek that, while endlessly stunning, includes hairpin turns and the need to pay careful, constant attention to the road. On this tour—as well as the others included here—you’ll be able to sit back, relax, and absorb the copious beauty all around you, from acres of land teeming with lush crops to waterfalls crashing from killer heights. Along the way, you’ll stop at a number of the Road to Hana’s greatest highlights. Chief among them? Waiʻanapanapa State Park —a 122-acre oasis that boasts a hala forest, a natural sea arch, blowholes, and an underwater grotto steeped in ancient myths—and the largest perennial stream on Maui, Palikea. Frequently praised for their fun adventures and informative team of guides, your Complete Hana Tour provides entertainment and education in equal measure.

Know Before You Go:

• Complete Hana Tours include a choice of sub sandwich or veggie wrap as well as snacks, water, and soft drinks. The first stop on the tour has coffee and breakfast items for sale.  Occasionally vegetarian and gluten-free options are offered, but those with dietary restrictions should inquire before being picked up for your tour.
• Consider yourself an early riser? Good! The Complete Hana Tour starts early (with hotel pick-up offered between 6 and 7 a.m.).
• Given the range of spots at which you’ll be stopping, wear appropriate footwear—and dress for adventure (swimsuits, water shoes, reef-safe-sunscreen, hat, etc.)

Hana Waterfall & Beach Full Loop Tour

Few trips journey into the real heart of Hawaii like the Road to Hana—especially when you’re on board with the Hana Full Loop Tour. This 8-12-hour expedition has several factors that make it stand out from the rest. First off? This Tour is the brainchild of Kellen Ferguson, who was born and raised on Maui and knows the island like the back of his hand. His deep knowledge of the land informs his tours, which brim with insider’s insights—and stops at special spots that other tour companies typically drive past. What’s more, each of these Local Maui Tours’ journeys is custom-designed, allowing you to set the pace and determine the action (with weather and safety considerations in mind, of course).

With options ranging from tours of lava tubes, ocean blowholes, and ancient lava formations to hikes that’ll take you to some of Maui’s most astonishing waterfalls , you’re bound to settle on an itinerary that will leave you more than satisfied. Further, while most rental companies disallow vehicles to travel to Maui’s “backside”—the barren and beautiful swath of land between Hana and Kula, which includes blind curves and washboard sections—the Hana Waterfall & Beach Full Loop Tour provides guests with the chance to do so (and safely at that). This will bring you into close contact with a stretch of Maui few see—and a glimpse into old Hawaii.

• While these local tours do not supply meals, the Hana Waterfall & Beach Full Loop Tour allows you to sample some of East Maui’s signature eats (from food trucks, roadside stands, and more), including Kalua pork tacos, plate lunch from Braddah Huts, Huli Huli Chicken, and melt-in-your-mouth homemade coconut ice cream.
• Should you choose to do the full loop—and if time allows—you may be able to taste some of the delectable wines at Ulupalakua’s Maui Wine.
• Have small keiki on hand? Be sure to pack your own car seat ( see updated Hawaii car seat laws .)

Halfway to Hana Tour

Unable to devote an entire day to seeing Maui’s secluded eastern coast? The Halfway to Hana Tour may be just the trip for you. Roughly 7 – 8 hours in length, this trip may be abbreviated, but it’s still huge on spectacular activities. While the tour itinerary depends upon your wishes—as well as stream flow rate, water quality, and rainfall—some of the sights you may see include Honomanu Bay (an isolated beach located at the base of sea cliffs that ascend 300 feet into the sky) and Waikani Falls, a photogenic trio of cascades that are surrounded by Hana’s iconic, verdant rainforest. What’s more, the Halfway to Hana Tour caps off with seven guests, which gives you a chance to have an intimate, chill experience.

• While the Halfway to Hana Tour affords guests the chance to take moderate to strenuous hikes, there’s no need to be a fitness buff: Again, each tour is custom-designed and can be tailored according to your and your group’s athleticism.
• That being said, be sure to pack water shoes and a swimsuit. The Road to Hana is synonymous with getting wet.

Road to Hana Tour

This Road to Hana adventure is certain to be an unforgettable Maui experience and it’s no wonder it makes our list of the top Road to Hana tours.  Fully customizable and private, this tour will only include your party (max: 6 passengers). Have your adventure tailored to fit your needs, interests, and fitness level while enjoying the rich history and culture of the East Maui region.  Friendly and knowledgeable guides take you through the twists and turns of the Hana Highway while stopping to enjoy secluded waterfalls, historical sites, and eateries along the way. From cliff-jumping to banana bread, this Road to Hana tour will reflect your style so that you can enjoy the experience to the fullest. Popular stops include waterfalls, bamboo forests, historical and cultural sites, a black sand beach, farm stands, food trucks, and stops to see unbelievable views of Maui. Get off the beaten path with this Road To Hana experience.

• Customizable, luxurious, private tour with your choice of three to four excursions along the way.
• Water, snacks & lunch are included, with options to purchase banana bread and other delights as you make your way to Hana Town.
• Waiʻanapanapa reservations are included should you choose to stop at the Black Sand Beach.
• Make sure to bring swimsuits, water shoes, and reef-safe sunscreen!

Hana Jungle Tour

As an alternative to the Hana Full Loop tour, you can choose to spend more time in the nature of the Road to Hana with the Hana Jungle, Waterfall, & Beach Tour. With approximately 8.5 hours to spend along the North Shore’s famed Road to Hana, you can hike deeper into the jungle to find even more waterfalls and private swimming holes. See extensive lava tubes, ocean blowholes, and multi-colored sand beaches.  There are many roadside food stops along the way giving you plenty of opportunity to enjoy local cuisine like kalua pork tacos, coconut ice cream, huli-huli chicken, and freshly baked banana bread. Some of the sites you may encounter are the storied Hana Bay , Puaʻa Kaʻa State Park, Keanae, a bamboo forest, the heart-shaped rock (Jurassic Park), Twin Falls, and more! These are just a few of the spots you’ll savor on this one-of-a-kind trip where you choose your own adventure.

• Meet your guide at 8:00 a.m. at Safeway in Kahului at 1090 Hoʻokele St, Kahului, HI 96732.
• The tour will conclude around 4:30 p.m.
• Hotel pick-up is available for a fee.
• Make sure to bring water, swimsuits, water shoes, a towel, cash for tips and roadside stands, and reef-safe sunscreen!

Still can’t decide?

Get more in-depth information about the road to hana ., top maui luaus, grand wailea luau.

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Join the discussion 11 Comments

How much is the half loop Hanna tour ?

Prices change seasonally. Once things are open again, you can check future dates for booking and pricing.

This Road to Hana Tour guide is incredibly helpful. You’ve really thought through everything you need to know before planning a trip. Thank you for this helpful resource. Saving this guide for later!

I went on the Hana Beyond Tour and it was exceptional. I would recommend it to anyone looking to experience the “real Hawaii” that doesn’t exist at the resorts.

I’m travelling with a senior who can’t do hikes, but would enjoy the scenic drive. Let me know if this tour would work for her.

Mihalo, Carolyn

Same question for us – were you able to get an answer?

All of these tours can be enjoyed without getting out and hiking. You can stop and explore more if you like, but most pop out, get some banana bread, walk, pop in, pop out to look at the black sand beach, pop back in, etc…

Which would be a good tour for my husband and I – where my husband has recently had shoulder surgery and cannot do any hiking – but we still want to see and experience the tour?

Hi! We are interested in taking one of your tours. We are going to be on a Cruise. Do you offer to pick up at the port?

Do u stop in Hana. There is a little store there that is worth stopping for. I am looking for a tour that stops there

It depends on what the group wants to do and if there’s time for it. Which store are you referring to?

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5 Routes for the Road to Hana: Choose Your Road to Hana Adventure

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Maui’s famous Road to Hana is an ultimate day-long adventure. Or multiple days. Part of the adventure is the strategy to beat the crowds while seeing your can’t-miss stops. Here are five routes for the Road to Hana so you can choose the best route for you.

The best routes for the Road to Hana are the following:

• Classic Road to Hana : make stops from Kahului to Hana and then drive back
• Stops on the Way Back : drive to Hana and make stops on the way back
• Circle Tour : make stops from Kahului to Hana and continue to the backside
• Reverse Road to Hana : drive the backside of Haleakala to Hana and make stops from Upcountry to Hana to Kahului
• Road to Hana with a Helicopter Tour : take a helicopter with a Road to Hana guided tour to enjoy the view from two perspectives

We have done all these routes for the Road to Hana, except the helicopter tour. Let’s get into the details on each of these routes for the Road to Hana so you can start seriously planning your journey through East Maui.

If driving these routes doesn’t sound like your type of vacation, see our 7 Best Road to Hana Tours . Let a local guide drive you and the family!

Here is everything you need to know about the Road to Hana Look no further for 33 Things to Do on Maui (+Things to Skip) We can also help you hash out where to stay on Maui : great vacation rentals and hotels for everyone from the budget traveler to the luxury seeker.

Road to Hana Starting Point

The Road to Hana starting point is Kahului on Route 36, Hana Highway . Beginning at Kahului Harbor, Hana Highway switches to Route 360 at Mile Marker Zero for the Road to Hana, 16 miles past Paia Town.

Road to Hana stops, like Ho’okipa Beach or Twin Falls, begin after Paia Town so some consider Paia to be the gateway to the Road to Hana. Mile markers referred to in Road to Hana guides refer to Route 360, not Route 36.

It is confusing, hence many download self-guided driving apps like the Shaka Guide or our Wayfinder Itinerary.

Most visitors drive from their hotel in West Maui (Kaanapali) or South Maui (Wailea) to Kahului to start the Road to Hana. The times and miles in the Road to Hana map below reflect Road to Hana starting point in Kahului, the official Hana Highway. 

The Road to Hana is 52 miles from Kahului to Hana in East Maui. The full Hana Highway is 64.4 miles long. To drive non-stop from Kahului to Maui takes approximately 2.5 hours due to the 620 curves and 59 bridges, of which 46 are one-lane.

Related article:

• Do You Need a Jeep for the Road to Hana?
• The Complete Road to Hana Guide

Drive the Road to Hana with Aloha

The Road to Hana is all about enjoying the stops along the drive to Hana and beyond. While visitors enjoy the stops, locals of Hana drive the road for their commute or to get supplies in Kahului and Wailuku. 

Please be courteous to the locals by letting them pass. See our Road to Hana Etiquette: 7 Tips for First-Time Visitors to help you safely navigate the drive.

Road to Hana Routes for One Day or More

Most visitors complete the Road to Hana in one day. One day with 5 to 8 stops makes for a 10 to 12-hour day in the car. We have a guide on How to Do the Road to Hana in One Day so you can plan your journey.

Due to the long day of driving, many visitors would prefer to spend the night in Hana or East Maui. This is a great way to experience more of the Road to Hana, especially time to explore stops past Hana, but the trouble is lodging. 

There are a few hotels and campsites near Hana. Since there are a few places to stay near Hana, what is available sells out or is expensive. See our Where to Stay in Hana for One Night for information. 

Tent camping is also available at Kipahulu Campground , home of the Pipiwai Trail (bamboo forest hike) and ‘Ohe’o Gulch (Seven Sacred Falls).

Routes for the Road to Hana

There are two main routes to Hana, both have famous stops or points of interest along them. As the old cliche goes, the Road to Hana is about the journey, not the destination. 

Therefore, picking your Road to Hana route is a combination of the following:

• beating the traffic and the crowds,
• the stops you want to make, and
• the condition of the road you want to drive to Hana

See Road to Hana Route #3 for a video on the conditions of driving the backside of Haleakala, the reverse road to Hana. The reverse road to Hana is partially paved and notorious for landslides.

Another strategic consideration is if you’re planning to stop at Maui’s best black sand beach at Wai’anapanapa State Park then a parking and entry reservation is required. You must select your time slot when making the reservation (time slots sell out). 

So, you have to pick a route that gets you to your time slot. The time slots are the following for entry to Wai’anapanapa State Park (slots may change so check the official website ):

• Morning I: 7:00AM – 10:00AM
• Morning II: 10:00AM – 12:30PM
• Afternoon I: 12:30PM – 3:00PM
• Afternoon II: 3:00PM – 6:00PM (must enter by 5:30PM)

I’m comparing these routes based on doing the Road to Hana in one day. Therefore, target 10 to 12 hours of driving as you’ll want to get off the winding part of the road before it gets dark.

There is no best route for the Road to Hana. You have to pick the route that works best for you. Let’s get into the routes for the Road to Hana.

Related article: Is Driving the Road to Hana Worth It? Here’s How to Decide

Oahu Wayfinder Itinerary

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

Kauai Wayfinder Itinerary

Cruising Hawaii Guide

Big Island Wayfinder Itinerary

Road to hana route #1: classic road to hana route.

The most popular route for the Road to Hana is to drive from Kahului to Hana along Route 360. This iconic route will take you through Paia Town and down Route 360 towards Hana Town. 

This is an out and back Road to Hana route.

With this route for the Road to Hana, you will make stops as you drive toward Hana. Most people arrive at Hana for an early dinner and then make the drive back non-stop so they aren’t driving at night.

We recommend making 6 to 8 stops along the Road to Hana. You can expect to make it to Hana in 6 to 8 hours. You can plan to make a few stops on the way back like Hana Lava Tube (closes at 4:00 PM) or Ho’okipa Beach to see the sea turtles.

This route is the most convenient for the following reasons:

• Most tour books follow the mile markers as they increase toward Hana along this route
• The simplest way to plan your trip as you pick stops along the road
• The largest selection of things to do at different price points, see examples below
• Lots of fruit stands, banana bread shacks, and roadside grills to eat at

The drawbacks of the Classic Road to Hana Route are the following:

• Traffic and crowds at the stops: as most visitors are taking this route, you will find the same people at the stops. 
• Lack of parking: the more popular stops, like Twin Falls at the start of the Road to Hana, can fill up due to lack of parking making you have to skip the stop.

There’s an app for the Road to Hana. Automatic GPS navigation, history, and stories as you drive the Road to Hana with the Shaka Guide . Download the Shaka Guide’s Classic Road to Hana .

Example Classic Road to Hana Route Stops

• Garden of Eden Arboretum
• Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees
• Waikamoi Nature Trail
• Ke’anae Penisula and Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread
• Wailua Valley Lookout
• Hanawi Falls (limited parking)
• Wai’anapanapa State Park and Black Sand Beach
• Hana Lava Tube – if you have time after Hana, stop at the Hana Lava Tubes (closes at 4:00 PM)

Road to Hana Route #2: Stops on the Way Back

Another popular route for the Road to Hana is to drive to Hana without making stops or making only a few. Get to Hana and then drive the Road to Hana backward. The strategy with this route is you will miss the crowds at the popular stops.

Starting the Road to Hana at 8 AM means you will arrive in Hana around 10:30 AM with no stops. Have breakfast, tour Hana, and then enjoy the stops on the way home.

While the Classic Road to Hana visitors are at the Ke’anae Peninsula eating banana bread, you could be leaving Hana to stop at the black sand beach. 

• Fewer people at the popular stops
• Less road congestion as you get a jump on the drive and then drive back earlier than most
• Local tour guides take this route for the Road to Hana as it is less crowded

The drawbacks of Stops on the Way Back Route are the following:

• Must navigate the mile markers in reverse
• Hana is a sleepy town, you may not find much open in the morning
• Fruit stands and banana shacks close early (2:30 PM or so) as most visitors go through in the morning and early afternoon

Shaka Guide: Download the Reverse Road to Hana (Route #4 below) but you’ll start the tour in Hana or wherever you start to do the Road to Hana backward.

Example Stops on the Way Back Route

• Hana Lava Tube  
• Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Falls (waterfalls)
• Garden of Eden Arboretum (closes at 4:00 PM)
• Ho’okipa Beach for sea turtles

Road to Hana Route #3: Circle Tour

This was the first route for the Road to Hana that I drove myself. This route maximizes the number of stops with no backtracking. Drive to Hana making stops and then continue past Hana to make a few more stops. 

This route for the Road to Hana takes clockwise around East Maui as you drive the Hana Highway and continue past Hana on the backside of Haleakala.

• Follow the navigational mile markers for simple trip planning
• No backtracking
• See popular stops past Hana
• Little to no road congestion on the drive past Hana

The drawbacks of Circle Route are the following:

• Backside of Haleakala is partially paved and is a rough road to drive
• Stops can be crowded as you’re on the regular schedule
• Normal road congestion on the Classic Road to Hana route
• No emergency roadside services for car rental companies on the backside

If this route sounds great to you, but you don’t want to drive the backside of Haleakala, let this local guided tour take you on the Circle Tour for the Road to Hana (backside) .

Note:  The backside of Hana has some graded dirt roads and rickety guardrails so the drive requires caution. Because of this, some rental car companies will void the insurance and/or not provide emergency roadside service if you drive on the backside of Hana. Confirm that you’re able to drive this section of the island with your rental car company in advance.

Occasionally the dirt road past Kipahulu District (Route 31) is closed to traffic due to landslides. However, although it is somewhat rough in places, it is by no means a daunting or particularly dangerous road if taken slowly.

See our Backside of Haleakala video for a tour of this cautionary part of the journey.

The Shaka Guide has a self-guided tour for the Circle Tour route. Download their Loop Road to Hana guide with 36 stops.

The backside is a rough road. If you don’t feel comfortable driving the road, let a local tour guide take you. Check out Hana and Beyond Guided Tour as they take you on the Circle Tour route.

Example Circle Route Stops

• Hamoa Beach 
• Wailua Falls
• Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park:‘Ohe’o Gulch (Seven Sacred Falls)
• Palapala Ho’omanu Church with Charles Lindburgh Grave
• Kula or Makawao towns for dinner

Road to Hana Route #4: Reverse Road to Hana

This is a combination of routes #2 and #3. Start your drive in Kula, Upcountry Maui, to take the backside of Haleakala and continue past Hana to Kahului. Make stops as you go.

This is a full circle of East Maui going counterclockwise. Start in Upcountry Maui and travel the road in reverse from the traditional Road to Hana routes.

From Kula to Hana takes about 3 hours. We recommend you start the tour at 8:00 AM in Kula and budget 12 hours to get to Kahului.

• Experience more stops with the full circle
• Fewer crowds as this is the least traveled route. Pipiwai Trail and Hana will have far fewer people visiting when you arrive.

The drawbacks of the Reverse Road to Hana are the following:

• The backside of Haleakala is partially paved and is a rough road to drive
• Manage your time well as the slow drive to Hana plus additional stops is time-consuming
• Fruit stands and banana shacks close early (2:30 PM or so) as most visitors go through in the morning and early afternoon. 

Shaka Guide download: the Reverse Road to Hana self-guided tour to take you from Kula to Kahului with 31 stops.

Example Reverse Road to Hana Route Stops

• Grandma’s Coffee in Upcountry
• Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park: ‘Ohe’o Gulch (Seven Sacred Falls) and Pipiwai Trail
• Koki Beach 
• Ke’anae Penisula Arboretum
• Ho’okipa Beach and Lookout
• Dinner at Paia Fishmarket

Road to Hana Route #5: Road to Hana with a Helicopter Tour

Another route for the Road to Hana is a helicopter tour. You can do this route in two ways, you can go on a helicopter tour of Haleakala and Hana (air only) or pair a helicopter tour with a van tour. 

A helicopter tour while on Maui is on a lot of people’s bucket list. Seeing the Road to Hana without the drive is tempting for many. But, the helicopter tour and van tour is the best of both worlds.

We share Hawaii helicopter safety and the safest tour operators here as Hawaii has the highest crash rate due to the changing weather conditions, especially around Haleakala.

Here are Hana helicopter tours worth checking out:

• Choose a Hana helicopter tour, zipline, or kayak trip, and then go halfway to Hana in a van with Hawaii Tours. Learn More Here .
• Hana Rainforest Experience : touch down in East Maui with this tour. It features two 20-minute flights plus a 30-minute landing in Hana to walk around and see a bit of the tropical terrain by foot. Tour by Maverick Helicopter Tours.
• Hana & Haleakala : Fly over two of the most beautiful locations on Maui with this 45-minute tour. Tour by Air Maui.

Routes for the Road to Hana Itinerary

We provided a sampling of the best stops for each Road to Hana route above. For our favorite stops all planned out in a perfect itinerary, check out our Maui Wayfinder Itinerary below.

The itinerary includes 8 excursion days around Maui, with one day dedicated to driving the Road to Hana along the Classic Road to Hana Route. If you want to finish your Maui trip planning with one download, this is it.

Get The Maui Itinerary

The step-by-step itinerary takes you to all the best beaches, snorkeling spots, restaurants, and sights. You’ll get six carefully planned excursion days to help you see the can’t miss stops no matter how limited your time is.

Get all the details on our itinerary and download it for a memorable and easily planned trip to Maui.

Thanks for reading The Hawaii Vacation Guide! I'm the co-founder, with my wife Erica, of the best Hawaii travel guide on the internet in our biased opinions. We enjoy traveling throughout Hawaii after living on Maui and Oahu. We share our adventures, travel tips and resources, and honest reviews so you can easily plan your dream vacation to Hawaii. Editing our videos, teaching the kids how to snorkel, and learning about the 'aina (land) and Hawaii culture are my favorite things to do. Have a wonderful trip to the Aloha State.

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What roads will be closed during today's Greenville Cycling Classic? What you need to know

Tour de France veterans George Hincapie, Bobby Julich, and Christian Vande Velde will take a 20-minute ride alongside other cyclists at the Greenville Cycling Classic , presented by Prisma Health, today at One City Plaza.

Tour de France legends Julich, Vande Velde and Hincapie will ride alongside the first 200 registered riders to a casual, one-kilometer speed criterium loop race that travels around downtown for 20 minutes beginning at 5:15 p.m.

Beginning at 3 p.m., men's and women's professional and amateur cycling will occur along Main and Coffee Street. Bike races will continue through 9 p.m. to determine a winner in nine divisions, ranging from 30-minute rides to a 70-lap competition.

This race is part of the Speed Week race series, with nine races in South Carolina and Georgia.

Who is George Hincapie?

Hincapie is a former professional racing cyclist who competed alongside Lance Armstrong as his domestique or assisting rider on the U.S. PostalPro Cycling Team. He is also known for helping Alberto Contador and Cadel Evans to their first Tour de France victories in 2007 and 2011.

During Hincapie's 27-year professional cycling career, he won three U.S. Professional Road Race championships and finished second in the 2005 Paris-Roubaix, still the highest-placing American ranking for that specific race.

How do I attend the Greenville Cycling Classic?

The racing path will expand between East North Street, East McBee Avenue, South Laurens Street, and South Brown Street.

What roads will be closed during the race?

Road closures for the event will be in place from noon to 11 p.m. on April 25.

They will include:

• Main Street, from McBee Avenue to East North Street
• East North Street, from North Main to Brown Streets
• Brown Street, from East North Street to McBee Avenue
• McBee Avenue, from South Brown Street to South Laurens Street
• South Laurens Street, from West McBee Avenue to West Washington Street
• Washington Street, from South Laurens to Brown Streets

Greenville Cycling Classic Event Schedule

• 3:15 p.m. -- Women's Category 4/5 Race
• 3:50 p.m. -- Men's Category 4/5 Race
• 4:25 p.m. -- Masters 40 +
• 4:25 p.m. -- Masters 50 +
• 4:25 p.m. -- Masters 60 +
• 5:15 p.m. -- Ride with the Tour de France Legends
• 5:55 p.m. -- Men's Category 2/3 Race
• 6:55 p.m. -- Women's Pro 1/2/3 Category Race
• 8:05 p.m. -- Men's Pro 1/2 Category Race

For more information, visit greenvillecyclingclassic.com

– A.J. Jackson covers the food & dining scene, along with arts, entertainment and downtown culture for The Greenville News. Contact him by email at [email protected], and follow him on X (formally Twitter) @ajhappened. This coverage is only possible with support from our readers. Sign up today for a digital subscription .  

Tour bus with 48 on board catches fire on I-595 in Davie, causing hours-long WB closure; no injuries reported

DAVIE, FLA. (WSVN) - Crews have extinguished a fire that erupted on a tour bus which led to the hours-long closure of the westbound lanes of Interstate 595 near Nob Hill Road.

Davie Fire Rescue units responded to the bus fire just before 3 p.m. on Friday.

7Skyforce captured firefighters as they tackled the flames that ate through what it could of the bus, leaving only a skeleton of it left over.

Crews were able to knock down the blaze on the double decker bus that had 48 people on board at the time it ignited.

The tourists on the bus ran out of the vehicle to avoid getting burned. They were later picked up.

As the tourists stood on the side of the road for hours, first responders handed them water bottles to keep them hydrated.

No injuries have been reported.

Video shared with 7News by viewers shows black smoke and flames from the bus fire.

Neighbors told 7News that it was a scary sight for them to see.

“We heard it. It shook the house,” said one neighbor. “I could hear something blew up on the highway.”

“Thank God, thank God,” said Joi Patterson, a nearby neighbor when she learned there were no injuries.

Patterson said she heard the commotion on the highway.

“We were in the house and playing with the kids, and all of a sudden, we heard an explosion. It sounded like a big boom,” said Patterson.

“It was really scary. All I could think about is, ‘Oh, my God, I don’t know who was on there, I hope it was empty, I hope they got off if there were people on there,'” said Renee Thomas.

Thomas and other neighbors, like Patterson, said they heard multiple popping noises.

“We suspect, one of my neighbors suspected, that it could be the tires,” said Thomas. I can only imagine how terrifying it might have been for the people that were on there.”

“I saw flames up above the wall, I was like, ‘Holy crap,’ and the smoke, the smoke was horrid. It’s, like, didn’t know what was going on for awhile,” said Patterson.

The westbound lanes were back open to traffic by 4:45 p.m.

But during the hours-long closure, traffic stretched all the way back to Interstate 95.

“I think it’s crazy. We had tons of people directed down this road because you couldn’t get through [State Road] 84 and everything,” said Patterson.

The bus was hooked up to a tow truck and towed away.

It remains unclear what started the fire.

Copyright 2024 Sunbeam Television Corp. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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Large bus fire causes closure of i-595 near nob hill road.

Jeff Weinsier , Investigative Reporter

Roy Ramos , Reporter

Cody Weddle , Reporter

DAVIE, Fla. – A vehicle fire caused major delays on a South Florida highway on Friday afternoon.

Sky 10 was over the scene on the westbound lanes of I-595 near the Nob Hill Road exit where a large bus could be seen on fire.

All westbound lanes of the highway were closed around 3 p.m. as firefighters worked to extinguish the fire.

At one point, the double-decker tour bus from Miami Tours, a company out of Miami Beach, was seen completely engulfed in flames.

Police said around 50 passengers were able to evacuate the bus. They waited under tents on the side of the highway for several hours until another bus could come and pick them up.

One of the passengers on that bus was Fillippo Muzifalconi, an Italian tourist.

He says a passing car signaled to the driver that something was wrong and the driver then pulled over.

“The driver immediately opened the door and we ran out,” said Muzifalconi. “The driver, I think he was a hero. He got out of the bus as the last person, waiting for everyone.”

The fire has since been extinguished.

Authorities said no injuries were reported.

Muzifalconi believes it could have ended much worse. The final passengers stepped off that bus just before it became fully engulfed.

“It was already full of smoke,” he said. “The last people going out, they were really in a difficult situation.”

The tourists on that bus told Local 10 News they were offered a full refund for their trip.

Copyright 2024 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.

About the Authors

Jeff weinsier.

Jeff Weinsier joined Local 10 News in September 1994. He is currently an investigative reporter for Local 10. He is also responsible for the very popular Dirty Dining segments.

Roy Ramos joined the Local 10 News team in 2018. Roy is a South Florida native who grew up in Florida City. He attended Christopher Columbus High School, Homestead Senior High School and graduated from St. Thomas University.

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Charlie Woods will play U.S. Open local qualifier Thursday

Charlie Woods looks to earn a spot at this year's U.S. Open at Pinehurst No. 2. (Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images)

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Charlie Woods’ road to Pinehurst begins Thursday.

Woods, the son of 82-time TOUR winner Tiger Woods, will compete in an 18-hole U.S. Open local qualifier Thursday at The Legacy Golf & Tennis Club in Port St. Lucie, Florida. The younger Woods is slated to tee off at 8:18 a.m. ET Thursday.

The road to the U.S. Open features 109 local qualifying sites across April and May, leading to 13 Final Qualifying sites in late May and early June. Final Qualifying is known as Golf's Longest Day, requiring competitors to navigate 36 holes to earn a tee time at the season’s third major championship.

To be eligible for qualifying, a player must have a Handicap Index not exceeding 0.4 or be a professional.

The elder Woods is a three-time U.S. Open champion, but he has yet to win at Pinehurst No. 2. Tiger Woods finished T3 at Pinehurst in 1999, two strokes back of winner Payne Stewart, and he placed solo second at the venerable venue in 2005, two back of Michael Campbell. He didn’t compete at Pinehurst in 2014.

Earlier this spring, Charlie Woods competed in a pre-qualifier for the TOUR’s Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches, his first foray at attempting to qualify for a TOUR-sanctioned event. The younger Woods shot 86 that day but will look to apply learnings in Thursday’s U.S. Open local qualifier.

Tiger and Charlie Woods have paired together in the last four PNC Championships, the two-player team event contested each December that utilizes a scramble format. Team Woods finished runner-up in 2021 but has yet to win the event.

Other notables in the field at Woods' site include Cameron Kuchar (son of Matt), Sunny Kim, Garrett Willis, Reed Greyserman (brother of Max), Austin Lemieux (son of Mario) and Michael Buttacavoli.