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Road to Hana Maui Tour Guide

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Road to Hana Maui Tour: Self-Guided Drive

Tour Details

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Welcome to the road to hana maui tour.

Aloha! Explore the Hana Highway, Maui’s top attraction, with this self-guided audio tour! The 65-mile scenic Road to Hana tour will take you past some of Hawaii’s most beautiful sights, and this accompanying audio tour will point out the very best that Maui has to offer as you drive. The Road to Hana tour is one of those bucket list items in Maui that you should put on your must-do list.

We are proud to be an official Hawaii Visitors & Convention Bureau member.

About the Tour

Wherever you begin the day, you’ll drive through Kahului and officially start your journey from there, cruising along the Hana Highway through Paʻia and past Hoʻokipia. From there, you’ll arrive at the official Mile Marker Zero location for the route, and then it’s 35 miles to the town of Hana. 

Then, Enter the Rainbow Eucalyptus, also known as the Mindanao Gum, Rainbow Gum, or Rainbow Eucalyptus, and its array of colors are a natural phenomenon.

Along the way, Twin Falls is the first easily accessible string of waterfalls and pools on the Road to Hana. It also has one of the better snack stands on the journey. Guidebooks typically underrate twin falls and are a worthy stop.

Don’t miss the Waikamoi Ridge Trail on the Road to Hana tour; an often unnoticed attraction on the Pacific’s most fabled road climbs towards the sky just past mile marker nine between Twin Falls.

And, of course, visit the so-called Ching’s pond. What to say about Ching’s pond? Bluntly – while Ching’s is nice, it isn’t spectacular – and unless you live here, you probably don’t have time for the less than spectacular – especially if you’re doing the Road to Hana tour in a day.

Along the way, Waterfront park with a black sand beach, picnic tables, BBQ grills & restrooms. Oceanfront Park, known for its dark sand & powerful waves, features grassy picnic areas & broad views. Wailua Falls is a waterfall on the island of Kauai, part of the US state of Hawaii. The 173-foot falls are located on the South Fork Wailua River near Lihue. The waterfall is prominently featured in the opening credits of Fantasy Island’s television series. The Pipiwai Trail- stunning waterfalls, colossal bamboo forest, idyllic stream, and more beautiful than you can imagine- is simply one of the best hikes on Maui. 

Finally, we’ll end the tour at the Kipahulu Visitor Center, located near the end of Hana Highway on the eastern shore of Maui.

Black Sand Beach Reservation

You require a reservation to visit the famous black sand beach of Maui and the rest of the Wai’anapanapa State Park. This rule was implemented to combat how growing numbers of visitors made the park less enjoyable for tourists and residents. Reservations for Wai’anapanapa can be made here . To visit Wai’anapanapa by car, you must make parking and separate entrance reservations for all party members. Parking for a standard car is $10, but larger vehicles pay an increased fee. Walk-in entry is $5.

Note that the Wai’anapanapa State Park is located at mile marker #32, which is roughly 53 miles from Kahului, so a good way through the journey. A reservation doesn’t just grant you access to the black sand beach and the park’s other features, such as the native hala forest, heiau (religious temple), sea stacks, blow holes, and so much more.

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Road To Hana Self Guided Tour Map

Where To Start?

Starting Point Address

Road to Hana: 5059 Koloa St, Kahului, HI 96732, USA

Reverse tour: 41145 Hana Hwy, Kula, HI 96790

How Does It Work?

• Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
• Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If there are multiple versions or entrances for your tour, be sure to download all audio guides.
• To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
• The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
• Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.

What You'll See

Welcome to road to hana.

Get ready to embark on an epic journey around the beautiful island of Maui. The famous Road to Hana will take you to the island's most eye-popping destinations, greatest hiking trails, and cutest coastal towns. Plus, you'll pick up plenty of essential Maui history along the way. So buckle up, roll down the windows, and set out on the trip of a lifetime!

Pa'ia is a weird, wild town full of bohemians of all stripes. You'll know you've arrive when you see a sign saying "Do Not Feed the Hippies" followed by streets full of all sorts of colorful characters. Country legend Willie Nelson even owns a house here!

Ho'okipa Beach Park

The first beach you'll see is the pristine Ho-okipa Beach, a spacious state park & surfing spot complete with picnic areas & pavilions.

Next is Jaws Beach, where the most daring of Hawaii's surfers take to the water to catch monster waves which can reach heights of up to 50 feet!

Mile Marker Zero of the Road to Hana

As you pass Mile Marker Zero and officially start your journey along the Road to Hana, you'll hear lots of history about this road, including how it began as a footpath in the 1400s!

Twin Falls Maui Waterfall

The first waterfall you'll encounter is actually two waterfalls, aptly named Twin Falls. Make a quick stop here for some great views and great photos.

Rainbow Eucalyptus

You've never seen trees quite like the Rainbow Eucalyptus before! Get a good look at this grove of rainbow-colored trees right alongside the road here.

Waikamoi Ridge Trail

Looking to hike Maui's lush jungles? Look no further than the Waikamoi Ridge Trail, offering some stupendous scenery.

Garden of Eden Arboretum

Continuing on, you'll arrive at the Garden of Eden Arboretum, home to over 700 species of plants, including some donated by former Beatle George Harrison!

Kaumahina State Park

Don't miss Kaumahina State Park, up next. This picturesque stretch of coastline is perfect for a picnic or a few shots few your Instagram.

Honomanū Bay & Access/Parking

Those looking for a more secluded stretch of shore will want to stop and Honomanu Bay, a black pebble beach where you're all but guaranteed to find some serenity.

Nua'ailua View Point/Bay

As you drive, you'll come next to Nua'ailua Viewpoint, offering some great views of the more rugged, rocky parts of Maui's coastline.

Ke'anae Arboretum

Can't get enough of Maui's wild flora? Check out the Ke'anae Arboretum, up next. Once a peninsula of jagged black rock, this has now become one of the greenest places on the island!

Detour: Ke’Anae Peninsula

If you're in the mood for a detour, take a drive along the Ke'Anae Peninsula and learn about how Hawaiians transformed it from harsh volcanic rock to a paradise for plants.

Ching's Pond

The more adventurous sorts might want to pause at Ching's Pond, a popular cliff-jumping spot, and take a daring dive into the clear blue water. Just exercise plenty of caution if you do!

Wailua Valley Lookout/Park

The next overlook you'll find is Wailua Valley Lookout, offering views of some of the most remote parts of this island. If you love the jungle scenery, this is a must!

Upper Waikani Falls

A trio of waterfalls await you next, all of which merge into a single tremendous waterfall during the wet season.

Pua'a Ka'a State Park

Continuing on, you'll arrive at Pua'a Ka'a State Park, home to some unexpected Hawaiian critters: mongooses! Here, you'll learn about how these creatures ended up on the island and what they mean for the native wildlife today.

Nahiku Viewpoint

Nahiku Viewpoint is next, offering some of the best ocean views on the entire island. This is also right near the former home of George Harrison!

Nahiku Marketplace

Looking to pick up a souvenir or a snack? You'll find it next at the Nahiku Marketplace, a quaint little market with anything you might be looking for.

Hana Lava Tube

Ever wondered what the inside of a volcano looks like? You can find out at the Hana Lava Tube, leftover by the lava flows which once coursed across the entire island.

Kahanu Garden, National Tropical Botanical Garden

The next botanical garden, Kahanu Garden, isn't just about plants, but also contains some truly special history. Here, you can find an ancient Hawaiian temple called a Heiau!

Waiianapanapa State Park

Next, you'll arrive at Waiinapanapa State Park, where you'll find one of Hawaii's famous black sand beaches. If you've never seen a volcanic beach before, it's a seriously incredible sight, so make sure you don't miss out on this stop!

Hana Tropicals

If you want to take some of Maui's colorful plant life home with you, stop by Hana Tropicals and order some for yourself!

Hana Bay Beach Park

You'll arrive next at Hana Bay, a buzzing beach with BBQs, kayaks, and plenty of crystal clear water to enjoy a swim in.

Koki Beach Park (Red Beach) & ‘Ālau Island

Up next is another unusual beach: Koki Beach. This red sand beach is sure to catch anyone's eye, so make sure to grab a few photos before you go!

Hamoa Beach

The next beach on the tour is Hamoa Beach, where Oprah owns around 200 acres of land!

Waioka Pond (Venus Pool)

Up next is a hike to Waioka Pond, also referred to as "Venus Pool." This beautiful, secluded pool isn't just picture-perfect... it's also a fantastic spot for amateur cliff-jumping!

Wailua Falls

Those looking for a really impressive waterfall will find it at Wailua Falls. These falls are about 200 feet tall and simply must be seen to be believed.

Haleakala National Park

Want a commanding view of just about the entire island? Take a trip into Haleakala National Park! This park sits atop an immense volcano, the peak of which stretches a staggering 10,000 feet above sea level!

Pipiwai Trail

The Pipiwai Trail, up next, features waterfalls, an incredible bamboo forest, and lush jungle scenery. Put simply, it's one of the best hikes on the whole island.

Kipahulu Visitor Center

Finally, you'll arrive at the Kipahulu Visitor Center. The tour concludes here.

Preview The Tour

  how many tours should i buy.

Since this is a driving tour, you only need to buy one tour per car.

  How many turns are there on the Road to Hana?

To say that the road to Hana is a long and winding road would be an understatement. This iconic stretch of highway entails six-hundred and twenty turns and 59 Bridges.

  Is the Road to Hana a one-way road?

The Road to Hana is a two-direction road. You can go from Kahului to Hana, or reverse directions, starting in Hana and working your way southwest. 

  Things to do on the Road to Hana?

While driving the Road to Hana is a destination in and of itself, there are many attractions that can be found along the highway. Among these are Ho’okipa Beach Park, the stunning Rainbow Eucalyptus Grove, Kaumahina State Park, and Haleakala National Park. All of these spots are easily accessed from the Road to Hana.

  Can you drive the Road to Hana by yourself?

If you’re nervous about traveling alone, a driving tour from Action Tour Guide will help you get the most out of your solo adventure. Ensure that your car is in good condition for a long drive and is fully fueled up. Don’t forget to pack some snacks, water, and toiletries, and you can hit the road! 

  Can you drive around Maui in one day?

Maui is the second largest Hawaiian island, but it is still relatively small with a land area of about 730 miles.  A drive around the full perimeter of Maui will take about 10 to 12 hours.

  What time should you leave for the Road to Hana?

 Leaving around 7am will leave you with plenty of time for driving and for a couple of interesting stops. It’s important to be clear about where you want to stop and how much time you will be spending at each one.

  Is the Road to Hana dangerous?

The Road to Hana requires careful driving, however, a Road to Hana tour is not inherently dangerous for well-prepared travelers. 

  Which direction is best for the Road to Hana?

Most people drive the Road to Hana starting in Kahului and finishing up in the town of Hana. However, the Road to Hana can also be driven in reverse, going from Hana backwards to Kahulu.

  Mistakes to avoid when driving the Road to Hana

First, you’ll want to avoid being careless about your timeframe. The Road to Hana takes a long time. Secondly, you will want to make sure that your car is in excellent driving condition and it has been filled with gasoline.You’ll want to bring along plenty of snacks and water to sustain you in between your stops. It’s a good idea during any roadtrip to stock up on things to eat and drink as you drive.

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Shaka Guide App - Maui Self Guided Audio Driving Tours

Maui, road to Hana

Monica and friends, wonderful day on the road to hana, available daily, pick-up not available, what to expect.

• Take a day cruising and exploring Maui’s most famous 42 miles of road, the Hana Highway.
• Hike to and explore hidden waterfalls, visit black sand beaches, lookout points and a lava tube.
• Approximately 10-12 hours round trip with 142 narration points
• Experience a sunrise like no other at the summit of Haleakala!
• Visit a lavender or dairy farm or hike one of the many trails winding through upcountry Maui.
• Approximately 4-6 hours round trip with 68 narration points
• Discover Maui’s hidden gems on a drive around the West Maui Mountains.
• Explore endless beaches and secluded look out points, visit historic Lahaina Town or hike some of the incredible trails the West Maui is hiding.
• Approximately 6-8 hours round trip with 79 narration points
• Watch the sunset from the summit of Haleakala, the house of the sun.
• Enjoy hiking trails and visit local farms before arriving at the summit for the sunset and stargazing.
• Instead of returning the same way you came, like the Classic Road to Hana Tour, you loop all the way around the rarely explored backside of Hana.
• Approximately 10-12 hours round trip with 135 narration points
• Beat the Hana Tour traffic by going the opposite direction, starting in Kula Town and exploring the backside of Hana first.
• You will beat the crowds to the most popular spots like Oheo Pools and Hana Town, this is the biggest advantage of doing the tour route in reverse
• Approximately 10-12 hours round trip with 127 narration points

Transportation add-ons

Important activity information, restrictions.

• You will be charged for an additional audio tour if you download the tour through the Shaka Guide app without using the provided confirmation/purchase code.
• You must download the Maui Shaka Guide to utilize the audio tours for the island of Maui. The Big Island or Oahu Shaka Guides will not work on Maui.

Additional notes

• The Shaka Guide app can be downloaded at anytime from the Apple App Store or the Google Play Store.
• You will receive Purchase Code once your booking has been confirmed, and this code will allow you to download your audio tour.
• Access to each audio tour is permanent on the app once the Purchase Code is redeemed.
• Your Redeem Code is case sensitive. Also, please make sure you whitelist our email address [email protected] so our emails do not get lost or routed to your Junk or Spam folders.
• Should you need further assistance or have other questions, please email [email protected] or call (808) 201-8138

Required items to bring & attire

• While you are downloading the tour, make sure you leave the app open. Closing the app or switching over to another app may stop the download or cause an error.

Booking requirements (# of participants, vehicles, hours, etc.)

• You can book a maximum of 1.

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Overall rating

What a wonderful way to visit Hana without any obligations but assisted in a way as if we had our personal guide with us in the car. The humour and comments during the audio guide was a big plus and as for the view duri ... ng our visit, just outstanding! For the price, it's a must and the perfect way to visit any place by car! Thank you!

Truly a wonderful day on the Road to Hana, thanks to the Shaka Guide App! The app had almost a full 12 hr itinerary set out for my partner and I. We enjoyed every minute of it! There is no way we would have seen all that ... we did without using the Maui self guided tour by Shaka Guide. Thank you again for a great experience!

Activity Provider Shaka Guide LLC

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• Any cancellations made after the booking confirmation date will be subject to a charge of 100% of the total amount.

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Road to Hana Guide: stops, tours, map, and tips! (2024)

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to make a purchase through my links we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Read about our affiliate policies here .

You’ve headed to Maui and you’re ready to check out one of Maui’s most popular things to do : the Road to Hana. This all day adventure takes you on a winding drive through lush, east maui , which is remote, beautiful, and unlike what you’ll find on the other side of the island. 

While this tops the list for most visitors’ bucket list, there is a lot to know before you set out on your journey. Overcrowding, parking challenges, and private property make this a tricky day out if you’re not prepared. But we have you covered with our complete Road to Hana guide as well as our favorite tours, which make for a stress free day on the road. 

Here are some of our best Road to Hana resources from this article: 1. We highly recommend a tour, here are our favorites. 2. If you want to try the drive yourself, mind your manners for the local commuters and other travelers taking in the sights. 3. Book a rental car for the drive. 4. Whether you pick a tour, or traverse it yourself, let us help you pick the best route because there’s more than one!

What is the Road to Hana?

The Road to Hana is a stretch of the Hana Highway (HI-360) that connects the town of Hana in East Maui with Kahului in central Maui. The 52 mile drive is relatively short distance wise, but isn’t an easy road to navigate. With 620 curves and 59 bridges winding you through the rugged rainforest landscape of East Maui, the drive is an experience. The resorts and crowded beaches of the leeward side of the island have been replaced by waterfalls, cliffs, and dramatic ocean views. 

We do think that this scenery is best experienced with a professional tour guide , but we’ll dive more into that later. 

Why the Road to Hana is so famous

The road is famous for its stunning natural beauty and the many unique stops along the way. There are several parks, beaches, waterfalls, and hiking trails that can be accessed from the road, as well as historic sites and cultural attractions. Some of the most popular attractions include the Twin Falls waterfall, the bamboo forest that is part of the Pipiwai Trail, and the black sand beach at Waianapanapa State Park (we cover more stops below). 

The Road to Hana is also famous for its challenging driving conditions. The road is narrow and winding, and requires drivers to be alert and cautious. A majority of the bridges you’ll encounter are only one-lane, which makes the drive tricky, and slow at times. You’ll sometimes hear it referred to as the Divorce Highway as the drive can get tense at times. However, the stunning scenery and the many attractions along the way make the drive worth it for those who are up for the challenge.

Driving challenges on the Road to Hana

We’re going to address this upfront because I don’t see a lot of articles covering this and it is an important consideration into if and how you drive the Road to Hana. 

The Road to Hana has seen a lot of challenges in the last decade, which make driving difficult. There has been an influx of visitors heading here (because it’s so beautiful!) and a lack of parking and knowledge about and how to navigate the road. Combined with road maintenance work, sometimes this trip can be more of a headache than the view is worth. This is especially true in the height of the summer when it is most crowded. 

It’s important to know there is a lot of private property and areas where parking is strictly prohibited. You will get cited and ticketed if you park illegally on the road, and they began cracking down on this very seriously starting in 2021. 

Our Road to Hana etiquette guide gives you our best information on driving the road well (like who goes first on those 49 one-lane bridges?) and what to watch out for on your journey. 

And our favorite guided tours help to alleviate the overcrowding on the road and eliminate any driving challenges you may encounter.

If you’re heading to Maui on a cruise ship, a tour is your best bet and we highlight the ones that work with ship schedules in our list of Maui Shore Excursions and be sure to check out our Cruise Travel Guide .

Road to Hana Guide: Top 7 Stops on the Road to Hana

There is so much to see and do on the Road to Hana that it’s challenging to fit it all into one day. It’s important to have a few of your must-see stops picked out before setting off on your drive. 

Road to Hana map

1. Wai’anapanapa State Park

Mile marker 32

This is quite possibly our favorite stop, so take some time to explore here. You’ll find a black sand beach, caves, tidepools, panoramic views, and walking trails. They also offer camping and cabins if you decide to extend your trip for just one night. 

Reservations are now required to visit Wai’anapanapa State Park so make sure you’ve made those well in advance of your visit. 

2. Eucalyptus Rainbow Trees

Mile marker 7

This is a popular but quick stop to check out the rainbow eucalyptus trees at mile marker 7. There are no signs, so this is easy to miss. There is parking, available, but it is on the other side of the highway, so take care when crossing. If you want to skip this stop, there are rainbow eucalyptus in the arboretum on the Keanae Peninsula. 

3. Ke’anae Peninsula

After mile marker 16

Here you’ll find a rugged coastline, an arboretum, and (famous) Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread. Stretch your legs, go for a walk, and enjoy the views. Be sure to find some Rainbow Eucalyptus in the Ke’anae arboretum.

4. Pua’a Ka’a State Wayside Park

Mile marker 22.5

These are very accessible waterfalls with picnic tables, restrooms, and swimming holes. This is a great place to stop and take a rest. You’re more than halfway to Hana so take a minute to enjoy the beauty you’ll find in this park. 

5. Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park

12 miles past Hana

This area is actually past Hana, but it’s worth a visit. In this part of Haleakala National Park, you’ll find the Pipiwai Trail with the famous Bamboo Forest and Waimoku Falls. Entrance to this park of Haleakala National Park does require paying the entrance fee. 

If you plan to visit Haleakala National Park again on your trip (perhaps for sunrise or sunset), keep your ticket. It is good for entrance into the park for three days. You’ll also find the Pools of ‘Ohe’o here (sometimes called the seven sacred pools but these are often and swimming in Oheo Gulch is strongly discouraged due to safety concerns . 

You can check the status of the hiking trails on the National Park Service website . 

6. Hamoa Beach

Mile marker 51

On sunny days, this bay is absolutely beautiful. When the ocean conditions are calm, it’s a great place to do some swimming and enjoy the crystal clear water. This is one of our favorite beaches on Maui . 

7. Wailua Falls

This impressive waterfall is located right off the highway, with additional space for parking. No need to hike to this impressive fall! To the right of the bridge, there is a path that will lead you down to the pool and if the conditions are safe you might be able to enjoy a quick dip. 

If you have time and want to add on a few more stops, plant lovers will enjoy a stop at the Garden of Eden Arboretum , and our kids loved exploring the Hana Lava Tube.

What You Should Skip on the Road to Hana

Popular sites will tell you to stop at places that you shouldn’t. These spots are either on private land, have no parking/extremely limited parking , or are dangerous. These include:

• Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach
• Bamboo forest (not to be confused with the bamboo forest on the Pipiwai Trail)
• Hanawi Falls 
• Upper Waikani Falls

Tips for Driving the Road to Hana

Can you take a rental car on the road to hana.

You can absolutely take your rental car on the Road to Hana. The confusion with most visitors is whether they can take their car on the unpaved portion of the road that is past Hana town, sometimes known as the backside or the backway to Hana. This is the portion of the road that takes you from Kipahulu to upcountry Maui (highway 31). This part of the road is unpaved, has no guardrails, little cell phone service, and will occasionally wash out during big storms on Maui. 

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.

If you’re looking for a rental car, you’ll definitely want to check out our favorite booking site , which has helped us save thousands of dollars over the years. 

How long should I plan for the Road to Hana?

If you drive the road without stops and there’s no traffic, you can expect to drive the entire Road to Hana (one way) in just over two hours. But the stops are the entire point of enjoying this part of the island! With stops, you can expect to spend 10 -12 hours. Yes, that’s a long day, but you can do as much or as little as you want. 

Guided tours for the Road to Hana all run 10-12 hours long. 

Where should I start driving the Road to Hana?

The Road to Hana officially starts in Paia town, a charming community on Maui’s north shore. This is your last chance to easily stock up on food, water, and gas before heading onto the road, so if you need to, make a stop here. We usually grab a coffee in town and a few snacks from Mana Foods . 

If you have enough time on Maui, we recommend exploring Paia and the stops closer to it on a day when you’re not driving the Road to Hana. There is a lot to see and experience on Maui’s North Shore, which is why we include it as a separate day in our Maui itinerary . 

What’s the best route to take on the Road to Hana?

While the Road to Hana may seem pretty simple (drive there and drive back) there are a few different ways you can structure your day to see what you want to see on the way. If this is your first time driving the Road to Hana, you’ll probably want to stick with the classic Road to Hana route. 

Options for driving include:

• 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

As you start looking at tours you’ll find that some stick to the Classic Road to Hana route, while others do a Circle Tour so you’re able to see more sights past Hana town. 

Read more about these five routes in our Routes to Road to Hana guide . This tour company does the full Circle Tour of the Road to Hana (backside) .

What time should you start the Road to Hana?

Honestly, the earlier the better. When we do the Road to Hana, we aim to leave by 6:30 am to avoid the crowds and get a jumpstart on the day. 

One of the first stops on the Road to Hana is Twin Falls. Their parking lot is the most crowded between 9 am and 2 pm (yes, they do get full and turn cars away). It takes 1 hour to 90 minutes to get to Twin Falls from most resort areas on the island, so it’s safe to say that most people set out on their excursion between 7:30 am and 8. You’ll want to get on the road before they do. 

Should I drive the Road to Hana myself or take a tour?

The Road to Hana has become a very popular destination for travelers and it makes it to the top of many Hawaii bucket lists . It is spectacular. But this attention has brought a lot of road congestion and makes it challenging to find parking at a lot of the top sights.

After taking a guided tour on the Road to Hana, we really discovered just how nice it was to have someone else do all of the planning and worry about finding parking. Plus, having a local Hana guide added to our experience because we were able to hear stories that we wouldn’t have heard otherwise. If you’re torn between a guided tour and driving it yourself, we now wholeheartedly recommend taking a tour. Not only will you have a better experience, you’ll ease the pressure of overcrowding that locals are experiencing. 

Check out our favorite Road to Hana guided tour s and you can even see a video of our experience on a tour here: 

Driving safety on the Road to Hana

Though the Road to Hana has a lot of twists and turns, it’s paved and generally safe. But there are some precautions you’ll want to take on your journey: 

• Pay attention to the road, rather than the sights
• Pullover for faster vehicles (locals tend to drive faster on these roads)
• Pay attention to signs asking you to yield before bridges and honk before curves
• Check weather conditions for flash flood advisories
• Check water conditions before swimming — the ocean currents can be strong and rough
• Stay on trails and off of private land
• Adhere to no parking signs because you will get ticketed

Check out our full driving guide for the Road to Hana . 

Should I do the Road to Hana in one day? 

Most people visiting Maui don’t have unlimited time to enjoy and explore the island. If you can only spend one day on the Road to Hana, make the most of your time and do some planning before your trip. Our Road to Hana in one day helps lay out the stops and timing for your one day excursion. 

If you have more time and you’re excited to explore more of East Maui, staying a night or two in Hana can be a good idea. That way you can take your time seeing things on the drive to Hana and spend the next morning exploring sights past Hana, like the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park. Just be prepared that East Maui is very quiet (which is what adds to it’s charm!) so don’t expect nightlife. 

It can be difficult to find accommodations that allow you to book just for one night, but we give you some options in our Where to Stay in Hana for One Night guide . 

What should you bring on the Road to Hana? 

East Maui and Hana are remote, and you won’t find many amenities along the road. So it’s important to have prepared before you head out on your journey (or at least stop in Paia to pick up some last minute things). 

Pack a day bag with:

• Light jacket
• Shoes for hiking (we love Tevas)
• Bathing suit
• Water and snacks
• Basic first aid kit (bandaids!)
• Change of clothes
• Cash for food stalls along the way

Check out our full list of recommended travel items for a trip to Maui.  

There are sometimes car break-ins along the Road to Hana. Just like when you travel anywhere, you’ll want to make sure you don’t leave valuables in the car. 

Road to Hana Guide Planning Checklist

• Step 1: Do you drive the road yourself or take a guided tour? By now you probably know whether you want to head out on this journey yourself or have a local guide drive you. If you want to go with a guide, check out our favorite guided tours here (plus get a discount!) and you’re done with your planning! If you’re going to drive the road yourself, move onto step 2. 
• Step 2: Decide whether you’re going to stay overnight or do your trip in one day. Most people make this journey in one day, but if you want to stay overnight, this is a good time to check out hotel or camping reservations. 
• Step 3: Plan out your must-see stops , making sure to note the mile marker and order of the stops. Don’t try to fit in too many. Choose 3-4 must see stops and then take it easy for the rest of your dive. 
• Step 4: Plan out your route. We lay out five options for driving the Road to Hana so choose the one that is most comfortable for you. If visiting Waianapanapa State Park is high on your list, make sure to get a reservation now. 
• Step 5: Download an app for the drive. If you decide to forgo a guided tour, you’ll still want some audio to help you navigate the drive. While not as informative or entertaining as a guided tour, the Shaka Guide app has a few Road to Hana routes that gives some great information and alerts you to upcoming stops. 
• Step 6: Pack the car. Use our packing list above and get ready the day before you plan to set out. You’ll have an early morning start, so it’s best to just get up and go! 
• Step 7: Enjoy the ride. There’s a lot to see and sometimes we put too much pressure on ourselves to see it all. Head out with a sense of aloha, take it easy, and if you need to deviate from your list because parking is full or the traffic is making you tense, go with the flow! 

Want more Maui guides? You’ll want to read these before your trip:

• Our complete Maui Guide
• Maui trip planning (updated!)
• 14 Amazing Things to Do in Kihei: your South Maui bucket list
• 33 things to do on Maui (+ things to skip)
• Where to stay on Maui : hotels and rentals for a range of budgets
• The 7 best snorkeling tours on Maui 
• The best luaus on Maui (our honest review!)

Plan Your Dream Trip…Easily

Stop searching and taking notes. Our itineraries take you step by step on amazing excursion days around the island. So you can have your dream vacation without all the work.

Wow, we are on a roll. Love the itinerary for Maui. We are just getting back from Hana today. My uncle complimented me on my ability to pack it all in.  Paula M.

Maui Wayfinder Itinerary

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.

Don’t lose this article! Pin it for later and follow us for more!

I'm the co-founder, with my husband Jordan, of The Hawaii Vacation Guide. We have lived on Maui and Oahu and continue to travel, experience, and learn about the Hawaiian Islands. We travel with our kids, Henry and Edith. I am a planner! I love to plan trips from the mainland and island-hopping adventures, excursion days, and everything in-between. I spend a lot of my time in Hawai'i on a SUP and my favorite time of year in Hawai'i is whale season!

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Road to Hana

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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!

Purchase Now

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: 06-01-2024

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Making Life Blissful

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Good Deals , Reviews , Summer Fun , TIPS AND IDEAS , TRAVEL  ·  02/29/2020

The BEST App for Driving The Road to Hana

The best way to drive The Road to Hana in Maui using the awesome Shaka Guide App to make it the best experience ever! Here’s why the Shaka Guide app makes driving The Road to Hana easier.

This past week we visited Maui for the first time ever and we loved every single minute of it.  Before getting there we knew we wanted to try driving the notorious Road to Hana.  We had heard about its hairpin turns, crazy drivers, and narrow bridges.  We heard it was long and made those prone to car sick want to turn around within the first hour or two.  However, we found an awesome travel guide app that made huge difference in our trip to Hana.  The Shaka Guide App made driving The Road to Hana one of our most favorite experiences in Maui! It’s the way to go! It tells you the BEST places to stop on the Road to Hana and where not to stop.  It follows you along with GPS and knows  There are many options depending on what kind of tour in Maui you want to take.  Here’s how the Shaka Guide App works, and why it makes driving the Road to Hana so much better.  Read on,  if you are planning a driving the Road to Hana anytime in the near future!

*This is not a sponsored post.  I just truly love this app and wanted to share. This post contains affiliate links.

Don’t Miss the Road to Hana in Maui

If you’ve been planning a trip to Hana town or Haleakala National Park in Maui, you’ve probably already heard a lot about the Road to Hana and that getting to Waimoku Falls is quite a journey. The Road to Hana is long.  The Road to Hana is curvy and tedious.  All of this is true.  However, we found out that our experience driving to Haleakala National Park (which is located at the very top end of The Road to Hana) was one of the best experiences of our vacation in Maui.  And this is completely because of the Shaka Guide App .  I’ll explain details below.

If you are looking for more travel information, check out these posts:

The Shaka Guide Maui Tours

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Reasons to Get the Shaka Guide App

1. The Shaka Guide connects to your car sound system .  You can hook it up to your sound system and the app will easily play along while you drive.  It’s like having the tour guide right in the car with you.  It connects with Bluetooth, USB cable, or auxillary cord.  We had a rental car and it worked just great in that car.

2. The Shaka Guide uses GPS technology .  You never have to push stop or figure out where you are.  The app follows you using GPS technology and when you get to a certain point it automatically will play the info that you need for that area.

3. The Shaka Guide gives info and stories.   The app guide is very interesting.  He tells stories, history and legends, fun facts, and information that only locals would know about the area.  He tells you exactly where to park, what to expect, and more!  He even told us where to find the best banana bread along the way. He told us where the bathrooms where and how to best cross the narrow bridges.  We found all of this so helpful.  We learned so much about Maui and how the Hawaiian islands were united during our tour.

4. The Shaka Guide helps you know where to stop and where not to stop .  There are so many points of interest along the Road to Hana and it’s hard to know which ones to spend time on.  Many of the areas have small parking lots (if any parking at all) and few signs to help you know where you are.  The tour guide tells you how long certain interest points will take, what to expect, and places that may not be worth your time.  This way you can make an informed decision on whether or not to stop at every waterfall along the way.  And it you take a detour, your Shaka Guide app will help you right along the way.  You will be told when is a good time to turn around based on the time of day and other tidbits of info that help you know what to do.

5. The Shaka Guide app helps you drive the long road back .  When you have finished seeing what you want to see on the Road to Hana, the Shaka Guide app is worth continuing on your long drive back because he’ll help find points of interest that you may have missed, as well as tell you stories and legends as you drive the 2-3 hours back.  We found this part so helpful because we were tired and bored as we drove back in the dark after a long, fun-filled day, so it was nice to have the company.

How the Shaka Guide App works:

Download the shaka guide app a few days before your trip to hana or other hawaiian tour location.  the app is available for free with in-app purchases at the app store or google play.  they offer many different tours for different places on the hawaii islands., purchase and download the specific tour you want before you go.  create an account to do this.  we purchased the classic road to hana tour and loved it.  make sure the tour is completely downloaded before you head out., hook it up to your car stereo and listen as you go, places to see on the classic road to hana tour :, here’s a list of places we loved visiting on the road to hana.  i hope you enjoy it as much as we did.  click here for the full itinerary of the classic road to hana tour., keanae valley overlook, kaumahina state park, waikani falls (3 bears), honomanu bay, wailua iki falls, secret lava tube cave, nahiku landing, oheo gulch (7 sacred pools), pipiwai trail (bamboo forest), haleakala national park, update shaka guide also now has guides for utah tours  check out all the utah national parks with help from shakaguide connect with me on instagram @makinglifeblissful and let me know if you have any questions, you may also like:.

About Lisa Jorgensen

I was hit by an intoxicated driver when I was walking on the sidewalk. I was also 6 months pregnant at the time. I learned a huge lesson about miracles and not taking life for granted. I believe in finding the good and making life blissful with family, food, and fun ideas. Every moment matters.

Hi I'm Lisa! This is the place for families who are looking for screen-free activities to keep kids entertained and discovering the world around them. If you are looking for crafts, travel ideas, family activities, and recipes then this is the place! I'm a regular, freckle-faced mom of 3 dreaming of travel and posting between laundry loads. I believe in God, miracles and all the positivity I can get! Thanks for stopping by!

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Shaka Guide Maui "Classic" Road To Hana Audio Driving Tour

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Maui   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Mike Andrew Photography | Getty Images

Why Go To Maui

Maui is not nearly as large as the Big Island, nor is it as small as Lanai, as bustling as Oahu or as quiet as Kauai. For many Hawaii vacationers, Maui is just right – offering a taste of just about everything the Aloha State has to offer, from impressive wildlife to intriguing history and culture. While on a visit here, you can shimmy alongside professional hula dancers, golf along coastal fairways, sail down a zip line , snorkel  alongside five different types of sea turtles or simply lounge along some of Hawaii's most notable beaches.

One of the archipelago's most popular tourism spots, Maui can be found sandwiched between the Big Island and the much tinier Molokai (which you can explore by signing up for one of the best Maui tours ). Maui is divided into five distinct regions: Many travelers base themselves along the coasts of South Maui (home to the famous Wailea Beach ) or West Maui, where the sands of Kaanapali Beach  and the music from the Old Lahaina Luau are located. But the rest of the island should not be missed. Travel along the Road to Hana to experience East Maui's scenic coastline, explore Haleakala  – the world's largest dormant volcano – in the Upcountry and discover the former tribal battlegrounds of Central Maui's Iao Valley State Park . And for a bird's-eye view of it all, reserve a spot on one of Maui's best helicopter tours .

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• # 1 in Which Hawaiian Island is the Best to Visit? Our 2024 Ranking
• # 1 in Best Honeymoon Destinations in the USA
• # 2 in Best Places to Visit in the USA for 2023

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Best of Maui

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• # 1 in Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
• # 2 in Montage Kapalua Bay
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Best Things to Do in Maui

• # 1 in Haleakala National Park
• # 2 in Road to Hana
• # 3 in Ka'anapali Beach

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Maui Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best times to visit Maui are April through May and September through November. The spring and fall shoulder seasons provide the pleasant weather Hawaii vacationers seek without the high rates and heavy crowds that accompany the summer and winter. However, if you're into surfing, you'll want to travel in the winter for the best conditions – just book as early as possible to get a discounted rate. Meanwhile, if you're traveling with kids, you may want to splurge for a summer trip as that's when the waters are calmest. If you plan to set out on one of Maui's adrenanline rush-inducing tours and adventures, consider a travel insurance policy with medical coverage just in case.

Weather in Maui

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

Nothing is free Resorts may advertise free internet and gym access, but you pay for those with the resort fee. Unfortunately, the fees are not negotiable, but at least you now know to expect them.

Pick your hotel wisely Maui is full of things to do , but the island itself is fairly large. Make sure you choose a hotel that puts you close to your must-sees.

Mind the time Maui doesn't participate in daylight saving time. When the rest of the U.S. moves their clocks back or forward, Maui's time stays the same.

Sign up for a tour Hoping to snorkel the waters surrounding Molokai, spot whales in the ocean  or see Haleakala National Park at sunrise? The best Maui tours  take the hassle out of planning these unforgettable experiences.

How to Save Money in Maui

Consider the bus Driving is by far the easiest way to get around Maui, but if you plan on spending most of your time in one single area, you may be able to save on rental fees by relying on the bus. However, if you do decide to rent a car...

Know your insurance policy Some car rental agencies will try to convince you that you'll need collision insurance. (This is a no-fault state where you'll have to pay any damages before leaving.) But your personal insurance or your credit card might already cover this.

Forgo the ocean view It's nice to look out at the water, but if you can wait to do so at the beach rather than from your room, you can save a considerable chunk of change of your nightly hotel rate.

Culture & Customs

Maui is a great place to go if you're looking to learn more about Hawaii history and culture. In fact, legend has it that it was the demigod, Maui, who pulled the islands from the sea and lassoed the sun from the top of Haleakala . Travelers who are interested in learning more about island lore will have plenty of opportunities to do so: A visit to the scenic Iao Valley will offer a glimpse into the tumultuous era of tribal warfare, while a stroll through the small town of Lahaina will yield a better understanding of Hawaii's whaling, plantation and trade history.

Today, Maui is one of America's most popular vacation destinations – probably because it's so drastically different from any place on the mainland. Vacationers will find all the makings of contemporary luxury at the island's resorts , but outside the hotel areas, the relaxed "Aloha spirit" permeates. If you're looking to blend in with the locals, you simply need to loosen up: Pack T-shirts, shorts and flip-flops (as well as some light layers) for everyday wear, and tone down the road rage (no honking here).

Other cultural traditions continue to influence everyday life in Maui, one of the most noticeable being language. Unlike many other states, Hawaii has two official languages: English and Hawaiian, which is a member of the Polynesian language family. Though you won't have any trouble finding English-speakers, you'll benefit from learning a few basic Hawaiian phrases; "aloha" means both "hello" and "goodbye," and "mahalo" means "thank you."

The arts are a mainstay on the island, with numerous festivals – like the one held twice a month in Lahaina's Banyan Tree Park – showcasing works by regional craftspeople. And throughout the year, Maui honors its vibrant culture through events like the Maui Steel Guitar Festival and the East Maui Taro Festival. 

If you're more interested in discovering Maui's natural wonders than its heritage, you'll find plenty of places to do so – from flower-filled jungles to underwater reefs teeming with aquatic life. However, it's important that you leave the island as you found it. Resist the urge to collect living souvenirs or to have a one-on-one encounter with local wildlife, as these could result in hefty fines. 

What to Eat

This is the kind of destination where you really should soak up as much of the local cuisine as possible, regardless if other options are available. Like the rest of America, Maui is on board with the local food movement – here, you'll find plates piled high with freshly caught fish and regional produce. To find these ingredients prepared the island way, you'll want to stray from resort-heavy areas and head to towns like Lahaina, Kihei and Paia, which are home to popular restaurants like Paia Fish Market ,  Mama's Fish House ,  Merriman's , Star Noodle , Lahaina Grill  and Nalu's . The farther you get from Maui's resorts, the more local mom and pop joints you'll find. These local outposts serve such specialties as pork roasted in banana leaves, poi (ground taro root) and haupia , a creamy coconut custard. If you're not quite sure where to start your culinary tour, ask some local residents for recommendations or sign up for one of the best Maui tours .

One very popular – and economical – way to get your fill of Hawaiian cuisine is to eat big around noon. Many local eateries served what's called a "plate lunch," which comes piled high with some sort of protein (usually beef, pork or fish), rice and macaroni salad. This tradition formed on the fruit and sugar plantations, where workers would gather for lunch with with bento-like boxes piled with rice and leftover meat from the previous night's dinner. Today, it's common to see residents and visitors alike chowing down on the mountainous servings dished out by plate lunch restaurants and stands.

If you are staying in accommodations with a kitchen, make sure to schedule a trip to a farmer's market. In addition to the freshest produce, you'll also find fresh fish and some readymade items, such as banana bread and passion fruit butter. Go Hawaii offers a guide to all of Maui's farmers markets on its website . Fruit stands selling smoothies and juices are also a common sight, especially on the Road to Hana . 

Maui is a very safe place with little crime. Your main concern should be staying safe in parks and on hiking trails and, most importantly, in the water. Never hike or swim alone, and be sure to consult weather and tide conditions before entering the water.

Getting Around Maui

The best way to get around Maui is by car, particularly if you're planning on exploring large swaths of the island. Maui features a fairly comprehensive set of roadways, so finding your way around shouldn't be too difficult. There is also a bus system and hotel shuttles depending on where you stay – but these won't always be a dependable option for wide exploration.

You can easily rent a set of wheels upon arriving at Maui's main flight terminal, Kahului Airport (OGG), located on the island's northern coast. You'll find two other airports on Maui: The Kapalua Airport (JHM) is located on the north coast of West Maui, while Hana Airport (HNM) sits in East Maui. Kahului services several major airlines, including United, Alaska and Delta, but both Kapalua and Hana are usually only used for inter-island transfers. If you aren't renting a car, know you can also get a taxi from these airports as well as a Lyft or Uber. 

Maui gets its nickname, the "Valley Isle," from the fact that the it's broken up by two islands on either side: the West Maui Islands and Haleakala to the east. 

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• HOW IT WORKS
• TRIP PLANNERS

HAWAII, MAUI, OAHU, BIG ISLAND, KAUAI BUNDLE

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• Suggested or custom itineraries
• One-time purchase
• No date limit or expiry
• No data connection required to tour
• Free trip planners
• Location: Hawaii, USA
• Audio Points: 465+
• Valid: No expiry
• Start: Flexible
• Direction: Multi
• Download: ~196Mb

ALL INCLUSIVE TOUR

This tour is designed to be flexible, so you can road trip the way you want. No worrying about where to start or which portion of the island you want to see. Use our suggested itineraries in the app tour plan, or divide the commentary to create your own half, full or multi day sightseeing trips across the island.

Tour Route Map

Audio preview.

What to Expect

Maui’s beauty is obvious, but when you uncover the stories, culture and history, you’ll truly connect with the Valley Isle.

Though Maui is easily driveable and accessible, you will want to take your time and explore all 4 corners of this diversely beautiful island paradise.  It’s a place like no other where in a day you can be swimming with turtles, or hiking the moonscape at the top of an extinct volcano, or absorb the refreshing mist of a rainforest waterfall.

Don’t even know where to begin?  We’ve suggest dividing Maui into 5 different areas and all of these are included in this tour. Do 1 area in a day, or combine 2 or more areas for a full day of sightseeing.

Includes 5 suggested road trips to explore across Maui;

The Road to Hana is one of the world’s most scenic drives and the most famous drive on Maui. As you wind your way around the bottom of Maui’s 10,000 foot volcano, the drive is rich with waterfalls ,  black sand beaches ,  bamboo   forests ,  lava rock  formations and amazing ocean views as you wind your way through 620 curves and 59 bridges.

With such a long day of exploring and very few signs along the way, it’s important to know the  5 “not to be missed ”  stops , and the many more suggestions –  if you have time.  Part of the secret to enjoying the journey is knowing how not to waste your time, and we have tips for that as well.

On the return drive from Hana , we’ll point out the not to be missed stops again as well as tell you stories about Hawaii’s fascinating history and rich culture.

• Hamoa Beach
• Ho'okipa Beach
• Ke’anae Arboretum
• Ke’anae Peninsula
• Alau Island
• Oheo Gulch (7 Sacred Pools)
• Pipiwai Trail
• Upper Waikani Falls (3 Bears)
• Rainbow Eucalyptus
• Wai’anapanapa State Park (Black Sand Beach)
• Wailua Falls

Make your way up to  Haleakala Crater  for a sunrise, sunset or a midday view you won’t soon forget.

Climb above the clouds to a Mars-like landscape with cinder cones, silverswords, endangered Nene geese, views of the Pacific Ocean and other Hawaiian Islands from 10,000 feet.  We’ll share stories of how the Islands have formed in the middle of the Pacific Ocean, both from Hawaiian mythology and our modern explanations.

On the way we’ll tour through the upcountry Paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) town of Makawao and have the opportunity to visit art galleries, gift stores and of course great dining choices as we transition from the beach, to fertile farmlands, to the rocky cinders above the treeline.

If you plan to go for sunrise – you must make an advanced reservation with NPS. No reservations are required at any other time of day.

• Haleakala Summit and Crater
• Hosmers Grove
• Kalahaku Overlook
• Silversword
• Makawao – Upcountry

This part of the island is a popular choice for the resort areas of Ka’anapali and   Kapalua .  As we explore West Maui we’ll have magnificent views across the water to Maui’s other islands, punctuated by whales breeching during the season; December to April.

West Maui has many very calm and gentle beaches where you can swim, try stand up paddle boarding, surfing and excellent snorkelling, especially in the beautiful Honolua Bay .  Explore further around the coast to Maui’s best blowhole Nakalele on the rugged and lava rock windward side of the island.

• Nakalele Blowhole
• Honolua Bay
• DT Fleming Park and Beach
• Mile 8 (Whale) Lookout
• Ma’alaea & Maui Ocean Center

Tucked into a volcanic valley of central Maui is the Iao Valley and its photogenic volcanic rock needle.  Its unique location makes it one of the wettest places on the planet and it’s a fascinating drive quickly into lush forest that receives an average 1 inch of rain every day.

Also an important culturally important place in Hawaiian history and celebrates Maui’s incredible diversity of cultures at the Kepaniwai Park .  Add a side trip to Iao Valley if you are exploring West Maui, South Maui, or even Haleakala on the same day.

• Iao Valley and Needle
• Kepaniwai Park
• Kahului Shopping
• Maui Tropical Plantation
• Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum

Heading to the sunny and dry south Maui, we’ll first drive through the lively vacation area of Kihei with its family friendly beaches and snorkelling from the shore. Continue south to the swanky resorts of Wailea, but everyone is welcome to enjoy the cove beaches and even snorkel in turtle towns. Join locals and visitors “in the know” at the sandy beaches of Makena .

Keep following to the end of the road to see the location of Maui’s last lava flow which reshaped the coastline at La Perouse Bay .

• Kamaole Beach Parks
• Turtle Town
• Makena Beaches
• La Perouse Bay

Suggested Start Location

Since there are many different accommodation and resort areas on Maui, there are no specific start locations. Simply begin by joining the tour at the closest place to you. All the driving directions you will need to get to the specific tour areas and to follow the routes are included in the audio.

Suggested Time

You can spend at least 4 days drive-touring the different parts of Maui.  Road to Hana is definitely a full day. Most other areas can be explored with half day outings.

Driving Distance

There’s approximately 200 miles of roads with tour audio and the commentary is different in either direction.

WHAT IS MAUI KNOWN FOR?

Maui, known also as “The Valley Isle”, is a diversely beautiful island paradise and the second largest Hawaiian island. It’s a place like no other where in a day you can be swimming with turtles, or hiking the moonscape at the top of an extinct volcano, or absorb the refreshing mist of a rainforest waterfall.

WHAT IS THE BEST MONTH TO VISIT MAUI?

Considering the dramatic contrasts of the seasons in the northern hemisphere, is there really a “bad” time to visit Maui? There are basically two distinct climate differences through the year, and even the cooler, wetter weather that is considered winter in Hawaii from December to April are a pleasant respite from the mildest winters on the mainland.

You can expect far more crowds and higher prices in the winter months, with a similar, schools-out family vacation crowd in June, July and August. So the off-peak, “shoulder seasons” of April-May and September to mid-December are when you’ll find the best values.

HOW MUCH TIME DO YOU NEED IN MAUI?

You could easily spend weeks exploring Maui, but generally at least one week is enough in order to not feel rushed. That way you can get a full sample of the island treasures, because any pre-planned itinerary will often be disrupted by the urge to just relax and gaze at the natural beauty for a few hours or days before plunging off to adventures. A good rule of thumb is to add one week for every additional island you want to visit. 

DO I NEED RESERVATIONS FOR THE ROAD TO HANA OR HALEAKALA?

Advanced reservations are required for limited parking at Haleakala (sunrise only) and also at Wai’anapanapa State Park (Black Sand Beach).

DO I NEED A PARK PASS FOR THE ROAD TO HANA OR HALEAKALA?

The Haleakala Summit and the area where the Ohe’o Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools) and Pipiwai Trail are located is within Haleakala National Park, and a park pass is required to visit these locations. You can use the same pass at each of these locations within 3 days.

SHOULD I GO TO HALEAKALA FOR SUNRISE?

If capturing the first sun rays rising over the horizon at 10,000 feet sounds like a once in a lifetime experience you don’t want to miss out on, then YES, you should do it. But you need to plan ahead.  

Reservations are mandatory for sunrise, as parking is limited. Prebook your Haleakala Sunrise pass with NPS . Last minute tickets are available online 2 days in advance.

Keep in mind, it takes between 2-3 hours to drive to the top of volcano, depending on where you are staying on Maui, so allow a generous amount of time to drive across from your hotel/resort. It might require you to leave your resort around 3am.

No reservations required at any time other than sunrise. In fact, midday with the sun directly overhead is better for photographs or time your visit around sunset and stay even stay later into the evening to view the stars.

Trip Planning

Reservations required.

Reservations are required for sunrise viewing at the Haleakala Summit from 3am – 7am daily, visit nps.gov for reservations and further details. No reservations are required for viewing at other times of the day or sunset.

Reservations are required to access Wai’anapanapa State Park (Black Sand Beach), visit gostateparks.hawaii.gov for reservations. You cannot make same day reservations. See how to make a reservation, for what time and other FAQs .

Reservations are required for Iao Valley, visit hawaii.gov for reservations and further details.

HOW TO VISIT MAUI WITH RESPECT AND COMPASSION

Many areas across Maui are now welcoming visitors back (not Lahaina), but asking for visitors to be mindful the entire community is still healing and grieving.

Here are some tips;

Make sure you’ve packed two things on a trip: patience and grace. Expect to wait for longer than you’re used to for food or other services.

Support local businesses. Your visit will support Maui businesses that rely on tourism for their families’ livelihood. Visit MauiNuiFirst.com for various ways to eat, shop, play, stay and support local.

Hosting uninvited volunteers in direct recovery work may be difficult at this time. Visit MauiNuiStrong.info for efforts welcoming volunteers and contributions.

Do not enter Lahaina Town or take photos of the area, even from afar. The area is restricted because conditions can be hazardous to your health. Respect the privacy of survivors and the dignity of those who lost their lives.

Do not ask about a resident’s personal experience with the disaster. While a question such as “Were you impacted by the fire?” may be intended to be supportive, many survivors are not ready to share their experiences with others.

If you come across a memorial service or other private gathering, leave the area immediately. Respect the gathered survivors and residents — do not take photos or videos.

We hope these guidelines allow you to practice “malama”, a word you will see in recovery efforts that translates to take care of, tend, attend, care for, preserve, protect, beware, save, maintain.

Maui Travel Guide & Trip Planner

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CLASSIC ROAD TO HANA TOUR

Epic adventure to Hana and Beyond!

LOOP ROAD TO HANA

Explore Road to Hana and the Backside in a Loop!

REVERSE ROAD TO HANA

Explore the "Backside" to Hana & Beat the crowds

SUNRISE AT HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK TOUR

Be on Top of the World & Explore a Volcano!

SUNSET AND STARGAZING HALEAKALA TOUR

Go to the Summit, then stay for the Sunset & Stars!

WEST MAUI COASTLINE TOUR

Explore the scenic coastline of West Maui

Maui Tour Driving Bundle

Includes 6 tours, $29.99 $59.98 50% off.

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20 Fun Things to Do in Hawaii with Kids in 2024

W ith so many fun things to do in Hawaii with kids, the Aloha State is one of the best destinations for a family-friendly vacation. Each of the Hawaiian islands  is unique and offers an abundance of kid-friendly activities and accommodations for the best family vacation. Not sure which Hawaiian island to visit? Check out our list of things to do in Hawaii on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii Island (Big Island).

Oahu is typically the easiest Hawaiian island to reach and the most affordable for family travel. It also has some of Hawaii’s best beaches for families. Rent a car to drive around the island and experience the many fun things to see and do on Oahu.

Hula lesson in Waikiki. Photo credit: Mimi Slawoff

1. Visit Honolulu’s Many Kid-Friendly Attractions

Honolulu is a bustling city with many family-friendly oceanfront resorts and attractions like the Honolulu Zoo , Waikiki Aquarium , Bishop Museum and Pearl Harbor . Plus, famous Waikiki Beach is one of the best places to learn to surf and paddle board.

2. Learn About Pearl Harbor

Pearl Harbor is the site of WWII’s 1941 bombing attack and home to the USS Arizona Memorial . Tickets for the 75-minute USS Arizona Memorial program are free. However, there’s a limited number available each day.

The program includes a short video (with actual attack footage) and a round-trip boat ride to the USS Arizona Memorial, located above the remains of the sunken ship. The ship is the final resting place for more than 1,000 men.

Since Pearl Harbor is one of Oahu’s top attractions, it’s strongly recommended that visitors make advanced reservations online at www.recreation.gov .

3. Hike on Diamond Head

There aren’t many places in the world where you can walk along a trail to the edge of a 300,000-year-old crater, but Diamond Head is one of them. A hiking trail leads to the summit for panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Honolulu.

SheBuysTravel Tip : To beat the heat and crowds, you should get an early start for this popular hike.

4. Snorkel at Hanauma Bay National Preserve

Located on the side of Koko Head, Hanauma Bay is about a 30-minute drive from Honolulu. With beautiful blue waters, Hanauma Bay is a great place to snorkel and see its 400 species of tropical fish and abundance of green sea turtles.

5. Polynesian Cultural Center

The Polynesian Cultural Center features six island villages representing Hawai‘i, Samoa, Tahiti, Tonga, Fiji and Aotearoa (New Zealand). At this Polynesian-themed park and living museum, you can learn about various traditions through interactive and hands-on activities. For example, learn to throw a wooden spear, paddle a canoe and cook like a Polynesian.

The center also has family-friendly luaus with a variety of traditional food like lomilomi salmon, chicken long rice and kalua pork. Note that no alcohol is served at this luau.

6. Book Exciting Adventures at Kualoa Ranch

The family-owned Kualoa Ranch offers many different types of tours sure to thrill adults and kids of all ages. Adventures include horseback riding, jungle expeditions, beach outings and visits to Hawaiian fish ponds.

7. Watch Surfers on the North Shore

The North Shore is the rustic and laid-back side of the island with legendary surf beaches and food trucks serving fresh fish tacos, shrimp and more. Take a surf lesson at Hans Hedemann Surf School or just watch the pros. Laniakea Beach is one of the best spots to see sea turtles sunbathing.

8. Eat Shave Ice in Haleiwa

This little surf town is home to boutiques, art galleries and restaurants. It’s also where you’ll find Matsumoto Shave Ice – one of the best places to enjoy the snow cone-style treat.

FIND PLACES TO STAY NEAR OAHU

Father and son surfing together along the Kaanapali beaches in Maui. Photo credit: Deb Steenhagen

Maui is a popular island for many reasons. It’s a developed island with stunning natural attractions. Kaanapali Beach is a resort area on the western shore of Maui and is home to a variety of beachfront hotels , great family-friendly restaurants , lots of free things to do with kids  and beautiful sunsets.

9. Take a snorkel cruise to Molokini Crater

Enjoy a catamaran cruise to one of the best snorkel and scuba spots in Hawaii – Molokini Crater . The crescent-shaped crater is home to thousands of tropical fish, Hawaiian green sea turtles and other marine life. You can also take a whale watching boat tour to the area.

10. Visit the Maui Ocean Center

Kids of all ages will be impressed with the Maui Ocean Center ’s many exhibits. It features a 750,000-gallon Open Ocean exhibit with a 240-degree view acrylic tunnel, outdoor tide pools, turtle lagoon, living reef and daily presentations.

11. Spend a day on Haleakala

A dormant volcano, Haleakala sits at 10,023 feet above sea level. Catch a sunrise or sunset from the summit. Daytime views are also stunning. Note that it can be chilly at the top, so bring sweaters for everyone.

Don’t rush off the mountain without visiting two unique farms. At the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm, you can walk through lavender fields. Nearby, the Surfing Goat Dairy Farm produces award-winning cheeses. On the kid-friendly tours, you’ll feed goats and sample cheese.

12. Drive on the Road to Hana

Pack the car with snacks and drinks for an incredible road trip. Get an early start to beat the crowds on this popular drive. The drive is just 52 miles long. But with 620 curves and 59 narrow bridges, it can take a few hours. Along the way, you’ll see waterfalls, black sand beaches and the charming town of Hana.

Pack essentials for land and ocean activities when visiting Hawaii. Photo credit: Mimi Slawoff

Kauai’s mountains and valleys are lush and green, flowing with waterfalls and rivers that are ideal for paddle boarding and kayaking. Other places to visit include Waimea Canyon, Poipu Beach and Hanalei Bay.

13. Horseback Riding at Princeville Ranch

Located on Kauai’s North Shore, Princeville Ranch is one of Hawaii’s oldest cattle ranches. Horseback riding lessons are available for ages 4 and older.

14. Book Ziplining and Mountain Tubing Tours

Kauai Backcountry Adventures  offers the best family activities for an adrenaline rush. On the mountain tubing tours you’ll float down an old sugar plantation irrigation system, through open canals and through several tunnels hand-dug circa 1870.

In addition, the company offers a seven-line Zipline course through a lush forest.

15. Sail Along Napali Coast

The Napali coast spans 17 miles along Kauai’s North Shore. Guided snorkel cruises are an excellent way to see the stunning Napali Coast’s cliffs, sea caves and waterfalls.

My son practiced his snorkel skills in the pool prior to our snorkel adventure on the Big Island. Photo credit: Keri Baugh

Hawaii Island (Big Island)

Hawaii Island, also called the Big Island of Hawaii, has an array of diverse outdoor adventures suitable for the whole family. In fact, because the island has 10 of the world’s 14 climate zones, you’ll also experience a variety of terrain and weather. Explore beaches, waterfalls, cultural sites and coffee farms on the Big Island, which is home to two active volcanoes – Kīlauea and Mauna Loa.

Many of the large Hawaii Island resorts, such as the Fairmont Orchid on the Kohala Coast , offer hula lessons, canoeing and other Hawaiian cultural experiences for their guests.

16. Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, Hilo

Stop by the visitor center for park news and activities before exploring this unique park that has hiking trails, steam vents, lava tubes and a rainforest. Older kids will especially enjoy trekking through the rainforest to the crater floor pocked with steam vents.

Akaka Falls, Big Island. Photo credit: Mimi Slawoff

17. Visit Akaka Falls State Park

Located along the northeastern Hilo Coast, Akaka Falls State Park is the site of two waterfalls on one short hike. Follow a footpath through a rainforest to see the 100-foot Kahuna Falls and the towering Akaka Falls . This is a lovely outing for kids of all ages.

SheBuysTravel Tip: There are a few picnic tables by the parking lot.

Hilo Farmers Market. Photo credit: Mimi Slawoff

18. Shop at the Hilo Farmers Market

The Hilo Farmers Market  features over 200 vendors selling fresh fruits, vegetables, Big Island food products, tropical flowers and handmade craft items. It’s a great place to shop for picnic items to bring to the beach or back to your hotel.

19. Snorkel in Sunny Kona

The sunny Kona district is great for beach activities like snorkeling , paddle boarding and spotting dolphins and honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles). One of Kona’s most unique adventures is the nighttime manta ray boat tour. It’s a magical experience to float on top of the water in a calm bay, with bright lights attracting the rays who swirl inches below.

FIND PLACES TO STAY NEAR KAUAI

The post 20 Fun Things to Do in Hawaii with Kids in 2024 appeared first on She Buys Travel .

Shaka Maui Audio Tour Guide 4+

Road to hana gps travel guide, shaka guide, designed for ipad.

• 5.0 • 71 Ratings
• Offers In-App Purchases

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Description.

The ultimate Road to Hana Audio Tour Guide with options for classic, loop or reverse! Updated 2024 stories about how to travel respectfully related to the Lahaina fires. Change the way you see Maui with Shaka Guide. Get all the benefits of a guided tour from an app! Along the way, you’ll get directions as you drive, hear stories about the places you’re visiting, and listen to Hawaiian music. The app features six GPS audio tours of the island, including three ROAD TO HANA tours — the Classic, Loop, and Reverse! Each Shaka Guide tour visits popular attractions, beaches, hikes, scenic spots, and cultural sites. All tours are made locally in Hawaii with hours of audio narration that plays automatically as your drive. The app works completely offline. This means that even in remote parts of the island without wifi or data, we’ll still get you where you need to go! Shaka Guide tours never expire — use them more than once or break them up into multiple days. Change the way you see Hawaii with Shaka Guide! Check out the Maui tours below. CLASSIC ROAD TO HANA TOUR *Most Popular Tour* 10+ hours, 32 stops Your Maui experience is not complete without Shaka Guide’s Classic Road to Hana Tour. Let this app guide you the entire 64+ miles of Hana Highway. On this epic journey you’ll discover: - Little-known waterfalls - Great hiking trails - Off-the-beaten-path swimming holes - Beautiful white, and black sand beaches - Enchanting stories about Hawaii Popular Stops: • Twin Falls • Waianapanapa State Park • Hana Town • Seven Sacred Pools aka the Pools at Oheo • Pipiwai Trail LOOP ROAD TO HANA TOUR & REVERSE ROAD TO HANA TOUR 10+ hours, 37 stops Similar to the Classic tour except these tours take you around the island allowing you to see the untamed backroad to Hana! The Loop and Reverse tours make the same stops, but start in opposite directions. Popular Stops: • Backroad to Hana • Waianapanapa State Park • Hana Town • Seven Sacred Pools aka the Pools at Oheo • Pipiwai Trail SUNRISE AT HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK & SUNSET & STARGAZING AT HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK 3+ hours, 10 stops These tours take you to the summit of Mount Haleakala and back stopping at the best viewpoints and hikes along the way. As you drive, listen to stories about the park's history and Hawaiian legends like Maui, da’ Hawaiian Superman! Popular Stops: • Red Hill Overlook - Haleakala Summit • Sliding Sands Trail • Leleiwi Overlook • Halemau'u Crater Hike • Makawao Town WEST MAUI COASTLINE TOUR 6+ hours, 17 stops Drive through the historic town of Lahaina and the famous resorts of Kaanapali and Kapalua before visiting an awesome blowhole! Then come with us as we wind around the West Maui Mountains along coastal cliffs, finishing the tour in the lush Iao Valley. Popular Stops: • Lahaina • Kaanapali Beach • Kapalua • Olowalu Petroglyphs • Nakalele Blowhole Check out a complete list of stops for each tour in the app! BUY THE ISLAND BUNDLE, GET ALL 6 MAUI TOURS When you buy the island bundle you’ll get ALL SIX Maui tours for more than 50% off the retail price. WHAT CUSTOMERS ARE SAYING - “Best Road to Hana tour app” - “Very enjoyable, cost-effective Maui tour guide” - “Best money ever spent!” - “Couldn't have navigated without it” - “Road to AMAZING!!” DOWNLOADING THE TOURS It’s important that you download the tours (preferably in wifi) before you go. Make sure the tour is completely downloaded and you’ll have no problem using the tours offline. BATTERY USAGE The app uses your GPS only when necessary. Please remember that continual use of your GPS can dramatically deplete your battery. Be sure to pack a car charger for your tour. IPAD NOTICE You can use an iPad to take the tour, however, wifi-only iPads without GPS capability will not work. ABOUT SHAKA GUIDE At Shaka Guide our goal is to connect people with places. We love Hawaii. Not just for its beauty, but also for its rich history and culture. We believe that every destination has a story and we want to tell it. In Hawaii, we have over 20 audio tours that do just that — share the stories of the islands.

Version 8.3.5

Bug fixes and improvements

Ratings and Reviews

Fab app just make sure you put your phone into flight mode.

We used this app to do the road to Hana loop in our hire car. I must say without this app we would have missed loads of awesome sights that weren’t in our guide book. The app was really easy to use and picked up exactly where you were and told you what to look at without having to do anything. I was really impressed with how perfectly timed it was in relation to where you were on the road! The guide gives you just the right balance of information but doesn’t go into information overload. My one criticism is that we stumbled upon the known bug after the first stop where the tour tried to reinstall. We actually couldn’t get it to reinstall on my husbands phone due to the lack of signal so I ended up downloading and paying for it again on my phone. This time we made sure to put the phone onto flight mode, we did this and had no issues. If we had just used the guide book then I really don’t think we would have had as good an experience on the road to Hana! We liked the app that much that we are using it again today for the Haleakala National Park. Fab app, very innovative - well done! I think there should be more tours like this available for the people, like us, who rather go it alone than on an organised tour.

Developer Response ,

Mahalo Beth for the awesome review! Thanks for your patience with this bug. We are fixing it now. If you would like to request a refund for the double purchase please email me and I will be happy to refund you. - [email protected]

Road to Hana! Best app EVER!

We downloaded this app this morning. We bought the classic one and we were not disappointed. From the moment we got to the start of the route we were guided every step of the way. Loads of information and stop offs. Even which place to stop off and buy a picnic for along the way. It’s a long day, so beware. Set off before 10am, we set off at 11am and only got back to the start just before dark. The drive is very slow and lots of bends. My husband was very tired by the time we got back to our condo. Took 12 hours and we didn’t do everything on the app. The waterfalls are amazing but make sure you take appropriate foot ware for the rocky descents and also quite muddy. All in all a very memorable day, breathtaking views around every corner. This app is amazing. We’re going to download another one definitely 👍🏻

Shaka Road to Hana Tour

The App really works and the fact it uses GPS to locate your position means you can be offline which is great as there was “no service” for my mobile the whole time we were on the road. As points of interest come up on the road the App springs into life and talks you through the location, where to park and if it is safe to swim etc. If you do the road to Hana leave early as it gets busy and you often can’t park at certain waterfalls etc as space is very limited-the road really is very twisty with single lane bridges and sections. Will test your driving ability especially in the oversized American cars! Great App, well put together-I’m getting the Big Island your next.

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The developer, Shaka Guide , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

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Information

• Classic Road to Hana Tour £19.99
• Maui Full-Island Tour Bundle £29.99
• Loop Road to Hana Driving Tour £19.99
• Haleakala Volcano Driving Tour £19.99
• "Reverse" Road to Hana Tour £19.99
• Maui 6 Driving Tour Bundle £29.99
• Road to Hana & Haleakala Tours £12.99
• West Maui Coastline Tour £19.99
• Sunset & Stargazing Haleakala £19.99
• Complete Hawaii Collection £79.99
• Developer Website
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Some in‑app purchases, including subscriptions, may be shareable with your family group when family sharing is enabled., more by this developer.

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Travel | what you need to know before you go to a national park this summer.

The National Park Service has tightened access at the most popular of the 63 national parks to reduce crowding and traffic jams, which have become worse as visitor counts have soared.

A timed-entry reservation system has been put into effect, with the goal of spreading out visitation throughout the day, to avoid nightmare traffic jams and gruesomely long waits, officials said.

Typically, reservations are required during peak visitor hours, such as 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. (If you arrive before or after those hours, you won’t need one.) Check the National Park Service website for each park for details.  And if you already have camping or other permits or activity reservations, entrance reservations aren’t required.

Sometimes timed entry tickets are required to get into historic homes, to board ferries or to drive specific roads, such as the Going-To-The-Sun Road in Glacier National Park. Each park has its own rules.

Here are the national parks and monuments requiring reservations at this writing, though you should really check the website to make sure there haven’t been any changes. (And note that some state parks and recreation areas have also jumped on the bandwagon. See details below.)

• Acadia National Park, Maine
• Adams National Historical Park, Massachusetts
• Arches National Park, Utah
• Carlsbad Caverns, New Mexico
• Ellis Island Part of Statue of Liberty National Monument, New York
• Ford’s Theatre, Washington, DC
• Fort Matanzas National Monument, Florida (Ferry ticket)
• Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, Washington, DC
• Gateway Arch National Park, Missouri
• Glacier National Park, Montana (Going-to-the-Sun Road eastbound, the North Fork, and Many Glacier areas)
• Haleakalā National Park, Maui, Hawaii (for sunrise viewing only)
• Independence National Historical Park, Pennsylvania
• Mount Rainier, Washington
• Perry’s Victory & International Peace Memorial, Ohio (Memorial Deck only)
• Redwood National and State Parks, California (required only for Gold Bluffs Beach and Fern Canyon)
• Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado
• Sagamore Hill National Historic Site (Theodore Roosevelt House) New York
• Statue Of Liberty National Monument, New York
• Thomas Edison National Historical Park (To visit Edison home) New Jersey
• Timpanogos Cave National Monument, Utah (Cave tour required)
• Washington Monument, Washington, DC (elevator to the top. Some same-day passes available)
• Yosemite National Park, California

Perhaps interestingly, you won’t need a reservation to visit Yellowstone National Park, at least not as of this writing.

And, while we’re on the subject, note that you may need a special advance permit to visit certain overcrowded attractions, such as the popular Angels Landing hike at Zion National Park in Utah. You don’t need a timed ticket to get into Zion (although you do have to ride a shuttle bus), however if you want to make this popular hike, you’ll need a permit in advance.

In addition to your timed entry ticket, you’ll also need to pay the fee is for that particular park on arrival, or have a pass that enables you to enter free, such as a senior, military, disabled or 4th grader pass.

How to reserve a timed-entry National Park ticket

These are available in advance on the Recreation.gov website or mobile app. It’s a good idea to get one as soon as your plans are firm.

There will be a limited number of last minute timed-entry tickets made available at 6 p.m. Pacific Daylight Time on the night before. These will probably go quickly, so be ready.

How to book: Go to the Recreation.gov website or app (you must create an account) or call the reservation line at 877-444-6777. Reservations cannot be booked at park offices.  It costs $2 to make a reservation. This is not refundable.

What about National Forest sites?

Yes, it’s true. We haven’t finished listing all the types of places you might need a reservation. At the most popular National Forest fun spots, expect to find that you’ll also need to book in advance. For example, at the Coconino National Forest in Arizona, the Fossil Creek Wild and Scenic River trails and waterfall require advance booking on Recreation.gov .

It’s not a bad idea to double check, so you don’t get shut out.

Reservations for state parks

And even some particularly popular state parks are now requiring advance reservations. You’re not getting in without one, so take heed. The downside is that you have to pay for the reservations. The upside is that you’ll be able to find a place to park.

Here are a few of the most popular:

Reservations cost $5 per person, plus $10 parking. They can be made up to 30 days in advance. (Make a reservation here: gostateparks.hawaii.gov )

•   Waiʻānapanapa State Park and its black sand beach along the Road to Hana in Maui.
• Īao Valley State Monument,  Maui
• Diamond Head State Monument. Oahu
• Hāʻena State Park, Kauai

Advance purchase day passes are not mandatory but parks do fill up, so these “Save The Day” passes are highly recommended. Texas has 84 state parks. Here are some of the most heavily visited. (Reserve here: tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/reservations  or call 1-512-389-8900.)

• Balmorhea State Park
• Brazos Bend State Park
• Cedar Hill State Park
• Dinosaur Valley State Park
• Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
• Garner State Park
• Inks Lake State Park
• McKinney Falls State Park
• Palo Duro Canyon State Park
• Ray Roberts Lake State Park

Nevada requires $5 advance day use reservations only for the Big Bend of the Colorado State Recreation Area . In Tennesee , only the Cummins Falls State Park requires a $6 access permit. So it goes without saying that if you’re planning to see a state park or national forest recreation area that you know is popular, it’s never a bad idea to find out if you need  to book it in advance.

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