top of page
Search

🌺 Best Hikes and Stops on the Road to Hana, Maui

Road to Hana

The Road to Hana isn’t just a scenic drive — it’s a full-day adventure through lush rainforests, waterfalls, and Hawaiian culture. Here’s your complete guide to the best hikes, where to eat, and what needs reservations, now with clickable links for easy navigation.


Pro Tip: Start early, drive to the furthest point first, and then stop at shorter trails and food spots on your way back. Always pull over safely to let locals pass.


🌿 1. Pipiwai Trail → Waimoku Falls (Best Hike)


Pipiwai Trail

📍 Kīpahulu District, Haleakalā National Park

Mile Marker 42


Why it’s the top hike:

  • Walk through a bamboo forest

  • Pass multiple waterfalls

  • Ends at a 400-foot Waimoku Falls

  • Moderate difficulty, stream crossing

Details:

  • ⏰ 2–3 hours

  • 💲 Park entrance fee: ~$30 per vehicle (valid 3 days)

  • ✅ No reservation needed for the trail, just pay park fee


Extra: Combine with Kuloa Point Trail → ʻOheʻo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools)


🌴 2. Twin Falls



📍 Near Mile Marker 2 on Hana Highway


Highlights:

  • 1–2 mile easy/moderate hike

  • Swimming holes and waterfalls

  • Jungle scenery, great for families

  • Private land, parking fee applies


🌿 3. Waikamoi Ridge Trail


Waikamoi Ridge Trail

📍 Near Mile Markers 9–10


Highlights:

  • 30–90 minutes, easy/moderate

  • Lush rainforest and coastal views

  • Less crowded, peaceful stop

  • Free access


🖤 4. Wai‘ānapanapa State Park → Black Sand Beach


Wai‘ānapanapa State Park → Black Sand Beach

📍 Mile Marker 32, near Hana


Highlights:

  • 4 miles out-and-back coastal trail

  • Black sand beach, blowholes, ancient lava trails

  • Easy/moderate, 1–2 hours


Reservation Info:

  • ✅ Non-residents must reserve entry + parking

  • Book at least one day in advance

  • Hawaiʻi residents with ID do not need reservations

  • Slots released 30 days in advance


Pro Tip: Arrive within your first 30 minutes of your reserved time.


💦 5. Upper & Lower Puohokamoa Falls



  • Short unofficial trails to hidden pools

  • Use caution — footing can be slippery, access varies


🌺 6. Cultural Stop — Kahanu Garden


Kahanu Garden

📍 Near Hana


  • Home to Piʻilanihale Heiau, the largest intact ancient Hawaiian temple

  • Explore Hawaiian culture and history in a beautiful garden setting


🍽 Food Stops Along the Road to Hana


Hana Town Favorites:

  • Thai Food by Pranee

    Google Maps Location

    Roadside Thai with picnic tables under tropical foliage

  • Hana Farms Roadside Stand & Pizza Oven

    Google Maps Location

    Wood-fired pizzas, farm-grown toppings, fresh salads, baked goods, occasional live music

  • Braddah Hutts BBQ Grill (food truck)

    Google Maps Location

    Ribs and grab-and-go picnic at Koki Beach (limited hours 11am–2pm)

  • Huli Huli Chicken Stand (near Koki Beach)

    Google Maps Location

    Picnic tables overlooking dramatic cliffs

  • Hana Ranch Restaurant

    Google Maps Location

    Farm-to-table sit-down meal with ocean views, try the lilikoi mai tai


Along the drive:


Pro Tip: Always pack snacks and water — some spots close early or have limited hours.


📌 Road to Hana Hike & Reservation Summary

Stop

Type

Time

Reservation?

Links

Pipiwai Trail → Waimoku Falls

Moderate hike

2–3h

❌ Park fee only

Google Maps

Twin Falls

Easy/moderate

1–2h

❌

Google Maps

Waikamoi Ridge Trail

Easy/moderate

30–90min

❌

Google Maps

Wai‘ānapanapa State Park

Easy/moderate

1–2h

✅ Non-residents

Google Maps

Upper/Lower Puohokamoa Falls

Short hike

30–60min

❌

Google Maps

Kahanu Garden

Cultural site

1–2h

❌

Google Maps

🌿 Tips for the Perfect Road to Hana Day


  • Start early in the morning

  • Drive to the furthest point first (Pipiwai), then stop on the way back

  • Pull over safely to let locals pass

  • Make reservations for Wai‘ānapanapa (Reservation Portal)

  • Allow flexibility — the journey is part of the adventure!

  • Bring:

    • Water and snacks

    • Reef-safe sunscreen and bug spray

    • Swim gear, rain gear (layers), quick dry towel, sunglasses/hat

    • Grippy water shoes/hiking sandals

    • Cash

    • Waterproof bag for camera/phone

    • Trash bag

    • Might also consider: flashlight or headlamp (if staying late), binoculars

    • Downloaded GPS or physical trail map


🌴 Explore More Trails Along the Road to Hana


While Pipiwai Trail is Maui’s crown jewel, there are many more hidden trails along the Road to Hana for those with extra time and adventurous spirit. From secluded waterfalls to quiet rainforest paths, these hikes can be discovered by checking local guides, AllTrails, and by keeping an eye out for safe roadside pull-offs with trail signs.


If you’re dreaming of an epic hiking trip to Hawaii, planning ahead is key — from trail choices to where you stay and if you want to drive or take a guided tour. Reach out to plan your next Hawaii adventure and let us help you craft a trip full of unforgettable trails, waterfalls, and coastal vistas! 🌺🥾


 
 
 

Comments

bottom of page