road to hana tour

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

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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 The resorts and crowded beaches of the leeward side of the island have been replaced by waterfalls, cliffs, and dramatic ocean views.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

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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.

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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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Aloha & welcome to hana tours of maui.

We are available to book the following ways: (1) Book direct, call 1(808)575-2317 or book online. (2) Book through a travel agent or affiliate channel. Seating is limited and the experience is incredible!

We specialize in Hana Tours

Bring your Ohana (family and friends) and enjoy one of our world’s most scenic & captivating roads . Our Ohana will take you around Maui’s eastern volcano to see breathtaking ocean and mountain views. Hana Highway features over 600 coastal turns and nearly 60 bridges, most are only one lane. 

Let our experienced guides take the lead, while you enjoy a relaxing tropical tour along this historic road and around the Haleakala volcano. Take our ecotour along coastal Hana highway and into the lush rainforest of Maui’s eastern volcano, Haleakala. Riding the road to Hana is not your typical highway experience. Know before you go.

Coming soon! Seasonal Special Tour

Enjoy some of Maui’s best. Tour offering changes throughout the year. Pair this option with one of our Hana Tours to experience the best of Maui. 

New! Northside Hana Tour

Our Northside Hana Tour takes you on a sightseeing tour along famous Hana highway. Take in the unforgettable views of Maui’s lush north shore on the east side of Maui. 

Limited Seating, Reserve your seat today: BOOK NOW

Most popular: deluxe hana tour, our road to hana tour around the haleakala volcano.

Enjoy the care-free feeling of having the details covered. Travel in comfort with our tour, as we provide a relaxing adventure. We aim to drive the north and southern route for the deluxe tour but access to the southern route is not guaranteed but either way, you’ll enjoy a full tour experience. 

• Guest pick up across most of south and central Maui. 
• Drive through Paia Town and see north shore surf 
• Kea’nae Peninsula 
• Stop for fresh banana bread – remember to bring spending money (cash).
• See Upper Waikani Falls (3 Bears Waterfall)
• Tour along coastal and historic Hana highway through a  lush Hawaiian rainforest of Maui’s eastern volcano, Haleakala. 
• Stop for a chance to buy some fresh banana bread and other local treats.
• Enjoy a waterfall stop in the rainforest, an opportunity to swim* 
• Wai’anapanapa State Park. Enjoy walking around and experiencing a volcanic black sand beach in Hana . Swim time available*
• Full lunch included, customizable.
• Drive around Hana town and learn about the area.
• Explore a botanical garden and browse local gifts available for purchase. 
• Relax, taking in countless waterfalls as your driver expertly navigates the hundreds of curves and nearly 60 one lane bridges along this unforgettable journey.
• Guest drop off is around 5:30pm

For more details, check out our page Where We Go . 

For your tour on Maui, enjoy:

• Highly qualified, knowledgeable, professional, and thoughtful guides.
• Custom comfort vans seat up to 14 guests. Windows are over-sized with tinting and UV protection.
• Room to stand as you walk though the van. Vans are well maintained Ford Transit models.
• For special requests or questions, please contact our office at   808-575-2317 . 

To learn about more of our tour options, click here . 

Maui fire response notices:.

• We are still open and operating.  Please respectfully understand although we are in mourning for the lost, many on Maui still need to work.
• A portion of the proceeds from every gift card and ticket sold/redeemed from August – December 2023 will go towards relief from the effects of the Maui Fire. 
• Our deepest condolences for the lives and homes lost with the Maui Fires. We pray for strength within the survivors and connection among loved ones. We hope for the safety of those in relief efforts, working on scene, and in the cleanup crews. 
• Aside from the west side, Maui is still open for tourism. The people of the island rely on income from tourism to buy food, pay rent, etc. Our operations support local families and businesses, made possible due to guests choosing us for a Hana Tour.

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

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

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

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

Our Picks: Best Road to Hana Tours in Maui

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

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

Guided Road to Hana Tours

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

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

Dynamic Tour’s Small Group Adventure

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

Valley Isle Excursions’ Small Group Tour

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

Hana and Beyond’s Full Circle Tour

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

Temptation Tours’ Luxury Hana Tour

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

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

Hawaii by Storm’s Private Luxury Tour

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

Experience Hawaii’s Private Tour

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

Holo Holo’s Private Tour w/Nature Walk

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

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

Shaka Guide’s Road to Hana Audio Tour

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

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

Hike Maui’s Waterfall and Rainforest Hike

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

Temptation Tours’ Luxury Cavern Day Trip

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

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

Hana Rainforest Helicopter Flight with Landing

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

Maui Helicopter Tour with Road to Hana

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

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

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

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

Meet the Authors

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

Links on this page may be affiliate links. If you click on one and make a purchase, we may receive a small commission at no cost to you.

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ROAD TO HANA FULL DAY TOUR

Enjoy the scenic and historic Road to Hana from the safety and comfort of our luxury vans. Roadside waterfalls, lava caves, red and black sand beaches, beautiful hikes, and vistas abound!

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WE'VE NEVER DONE THE SAME TOUR TWICE!

Road to hana tour, full day • all ages.

Your best day on Maui guaranteed! Private tours only, it’s all about you guys! Roadside waterfalls, lava caves, red and black sand beaches, beautiful hikes, cliff jumping and vistas abound. A great way to get out in the jungle!

• Hour Glass Half-Day

ROAD TO HANA HALF DAY TOUR

Experience the rainforests and jungles of Maui in just a few hours! This customizable tour is for those who want the same personalized and private tour experience but wish to trim down the time.

EXPLORE OUR 5-STAR REVIEWS

We have been on many excursions, and this has them beat by far. From the first few minutes, we all felt like we had been friends with the guide for years. He provided us with island history, legends, customs, and how the locals show respect to their Aunties and Uncles. There were no safety concerns; the vehicle was comfortable, clean and in great shape. If you get the chance to book with Maui Tour Company, do it!

The best investment we ever made!! Our guide was cool and calm and actually ventured out to show you things nobody knows — he had the knowledge and expertise you need in a guide. We cliff jumped together — ate lunch together — and got to know each other on a personal level. Even just spending 5 hours with him parked in a car would be worth it — his stories are amazing and he has truly found the meaning of life and happiness!! Best trip ever thanks to you!!

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

We had so much fun with Marty! Cliff Jumping, spelunking, water falls, banana bread, and just plain old having fun with a really cool guy! He taught us about the land, it’s history, people, animals and plants to boot. An all around great time and worry free. Do yourself a favor and hire Marty for your Road to Hana ride, and pass on the “Road to Divorce”. Marty makes adventure easy.

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THE BEST GUIDES

Maui Tour Company works with the best and most knowledgable guides on the island. Each guide has their own talents, personalities, and fortes, whether it be Hawaiian history, endemic species of plants and animals, cliff jumping, hiking, and more! Together, we represent years of hospitality and on-island guide experience, and a spirit of aloha that no tour should be without.

UNFORGETTABLE TOURS

Many come to the island with dreams of white sand beaches, luxury accommodation, and tropical drinks garnished with tiny umbrellas; however, they find the true soul of the island is off the beaten path.

There is an infinite array of secret beaches, hidden waterfalls, and adventure tucked away throughout the island that most visitors never get the opportunity to see.

PRIVATE EXPERIENCES

Our private tours do away with the cliche of crowded tour buses and offer a personalized experience. View our most popular tours now

Aloha! You’ve found the best tour on Maui! We hope we don’t need to ever change this, but we are the ONLY tour on Maui with nothing but 5 star reviews. Why sit through a group tour with predesignated stops, all while strangers are looking more and more green in the face behind you?

We offer affordable, completely custom tours… Think of us as your friends on the island taking you out for the best day of your vacay! You see something interesting and want to stop for that perfect family photo, we do it. You see the most beautiful waterfall you’ve ever seen and want to jump in for a swim? You got it! Grandma wants to cliff jump? Well… It wouldn’t be the first time!

We like to say we’ve never done the same tour twice, and it’s true. We only do private tours; it will be you, your party, and one of our highly experienced, knowledgeable guides, and that’s it! Our reviews speak for themselves, and we have just as much fun as our guests/new friends on our adventures. Our specialty is seamlessly tailoring the best day possible according to your interests, abilities, and group dynamics, whether it be three generations of family, the golden years mai tai crew, or avid hikers/adventurers.

We look forward to meeting you! Aloha from Maui Tour Co., and we look forward to chatting soon!

-Marty and Guides

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GUIDED HĀNA & HALEAKALĀ TOURS IN MAUI, HAWAII

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Valley Isle Excursions

Guided van tours in maui, hawaii, best road to hāna & haleakalā tours.

Be prepared to sit back and relax in an elevated captain’s chair and be captured by the beauty of Maui through oversized windows. Tour Maui in safety, comfort, and with a local style!

We serve BOTH the traveler and the destination! When you choose Valley Isle to be your Maui tour guide, you align yourself (and your dollars) with values centered around PEOPLE, CULTURE, and ENVIRONMENT.

Aloha from the Valley Isle of Maui! We cannot wait to welcome and show you around our beautiful and unique island home. There is so much to share! It is our passion to help visitors to Maui, whom we refer to as guests, not only have fun and memorable experiences during their visit but also to travel pono and travel with aloha while doing so. We are big on people, culture, environment, and everything that makes Maui unique. Hosting you on the incredible Road to Hāna or viewing the majestic Haleakalā Sunrise is our way of serving our community. Taking an educational tour is an excellent way for you, our guests, to help mālama Maui. If you value sustainable Hawai’i, allow us to help you see the best of Maui in a stress-free, educational, respectful, and sustainable manner. We look forward to seeing you soon!

ROAD TO HĀNA TOUR

Why not take an unusual opportunity to treat yourself while on Maui? Avoid feeling exhausted from driving all day on the 68-mile Road to Hāna! 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!

AGES: All Ages PRICE: Starting at $244.99 DURATION: Approx. 10 hours AVAILABILITY: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Sunday

Featured stops and activities.

AGES: All Ages PRICE: Starting at $219.99 DURATION: Approx. 9 hours AVAILABILITY: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday.

Ages: all ages price: starting at $194.99 duration: approx. 9 hours availability: tuesday, wednesday, thursday, & friday., haleakalā sunrise tour.

Greeting the sunrise in Haleakalā National Park is one of the most popular things to do on Maui. Experience perhaps the most beautiful sunrise on Earth with our professional, local guides on our Haleakalā Sunrise Tour. Come with us as we explore the stories of this enchanted realm. Be inspired by the National Park landscape, and immerse yourself in the sacredness of Haleakalā’s summit.

WHY CHOOSE VALLEY ISLE AS YOUR MAUI TOUR GUIDE?

For over two decades, Valley Isle Excursions has provided high-quality, safe and comfortable, Maui tours everywhere on the island. Our custom cruisers are built for Maui’s roads, meaning your elevated captain chairs and oversized windows give you the best and safest views on the road.

The key to a perfect Maui vacation is relaxation – and we want you to enjoy the beautiful island of Maui in comfort and style. You’ve spent a lot of time and money to get here, and now you deserve fabulous and affordable Hāna and Haleakalā tours. Our guides’ top priority is making sure that guests are relaxed, comfortable and enjoying Maui’s peaceful, aloha vibe. We’re serious about making it your “best day on Maui”!

OVER 1,800 5-STAR REVIEWS!

We had a great time on this tour! Billy was our driver (a great driver) and he was very friendly, fun, informative and accommodating. When they offer the poncho, take it! You will be glad you did!! We ended with a delicious breakfast at Maui Tropical Plantation.

I always wanted to do Road to Hāna but was always intimidated by driving the daunting, windy, wet roads on my own. So I decided to book this trip and I was very grateful I did! Joe the tour guide was wonderful. He explained things along the drive so it was informative! We stopped at different spots to take pictures/use bathroom. There were three main stops, one for lunch and then the black sand beach and a gorgeous fresh waterfall lagoon. It was paradise and I’m glad I was able to have Joe drive while I could enjoy the views! Highly recommend!

Our trip was fabulous! Billy and Alika were amazing tour guides/drivers! They helped us understand the Hawaiian culture more. They go the extra mile to make the excursion amazing, including providing jackets at the top! Highly recommend using Valley Isle Tours!

The whole experience was excellent. The tour itself was beautiful, scenic, and a must-do for anyone traveling to Maui. And our guide, Travis, was fantastic! He knew every detail of the roads, was an excellent driver, provided tons of relevant history and information, and kept everyone engaged and having fun. He also seemed to know everyone along the way (relatives and friends), and provided lots of good tips about following the rules posted on signs, being respectful, etc. He really did make the trip one to remember.

We had an amazing day. The beauty of what we saw is beyond words. Moa was the best guide. He made it fun and kept us laughing g and informed the whole way. Swimming at Black Sand Beach and in the waterfall were so much fun.

Yvonne our guide was the best! Witty, fantastic fund of knowledge. Brought all the great Hawaiian vibe that is needed for this day long road trip! Yvonne you exceeded our expectations!

Billy picked me up at my hotel and drove us up to the volcano rim for this beautiful experience. Abe gave u a lot of good info as well as kept us warm with coat like ponchos. Of course the sunrise was just breathtaking. A one in a life time experience. Then, we had a very good breakfast, at a great restaurant. I wasn't expecting that! I am so glad I did this tour!

This trip was incredible. Billy our driver was great. He was informative, funny, and most importantly friendly. We became ohana right from the beginning. Billy got us the best spot to watch the sunrise. He’s been doing the Haleakala tour for a long time and his love of his job shows. I would highly recommend Valley Isle to anyone. We did the road to Hana with them earlier in the week and that was awesome too. The sunrise tour is a must do if you visit Maui. I’d also recommend requesting Billy as your driver. You won’t be disappointed.

THE TRUE MEANING OF 'OHANA

Our guides will treat you like ‘ohana (family), and share their knowledge of Maui’s culture and lifestyle in a way no guidebook, CD or GPS app ever could. We m ā lama (take care of) the ‘ ā ina (land) by recycling everything possible… right down to the ice in the coolers! We believe the true spirit of aloha is in the sharing of your heart and your gift. Our gift is the privilege of showing you some of the rarest and most unique places on Earth.

A tour with Valley Isle Excursions also shows you the true meaning of a stress-free experience as we take you across Maui in air-conditioned comfort. Our 12 and 24-passenger, custom designed, luxury vans (AKA custom comfort cruisers) means you will experience paradise as it was meant to be… temperature controlled with plenty of legroom! We have designed our cruisers to maximize enjoyment on Maui’s demanding roads, without sacrificing safety. Our elevated captain chairs and oversized windows allow you to sit back and relax (no uncomfortable bench seats here!).

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Road to Hana

Hana highway tips & checklist.

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

Must see & do on the hana highway.

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

— article continued below —

Wailua Falls beyond Hana town

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

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

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

Waikamoi Ridge Trail

Road to Hana Guided Tour

Valley Isle Excursions

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

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

Road to Hana Tour

Hana Highway - Mile by Mile Guidebook

Road to hana - 8th edition update.

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

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

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

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

Now available in both digital and print editions!

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Pipiwai Trail at the Oheo Gulch in Kipahulu

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

Road to Hana Introduction

Rated one of hawaii's best scenic drives.

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

Traffic Conditions Advisory

How to help mitigate visitor impact on road to hana.

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

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

Hana Highway Q&A »

Road to Hana Checklist »

Waianapanapa State Park & Black Sand Beach

Road to Hana Highway Map

Hana highway map - mile by mile....

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

The Highway to Heaven...

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

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

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

Hana Highway Q & A

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

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

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

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

Keanae Peninsula

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

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

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

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

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

Featured Road to Hana Tours

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

Black Sand Beach at Waianapanapa

Road to Hana Checklist

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

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

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

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

Waimoku Falls - End of Pipiwai Trail

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

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

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

Hamoa Beach Beyond Hana Town

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

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

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

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

Honomanu Bay

Hana Highway

Explore all points of interest.

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

  Hana Highway Attractions  

Road to Hana - 8th Edition: 2023 Update

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

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

Both hard copy and digital editions now available!

Backside of Haleakala - Road beyond Hana

Hana Highway Closures & News

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

Road to Hana Hwy Closures, Maintenance, and Updates →

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

Road to Hana Highway Code of Conduct

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

Road to Hana Reviews

Guidereview:, road to hana photo gallery.

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Recommended maui tours, terms of use & disclosures.

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Article Published/Updated: 06-01-2024

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Road to Hana Tour

Duration: 9-12 hours

8 max (for shared tour)

Fitness: Easy

• Famous coastal drive includes ocean views, waterfalls, black/red sand beaches, rainforest, and much more
• Go all the way around (no retracing) to observe old lava flows on the backside of the volcano
• Enjoy the scenery more without the stress of driving the windy road yourself
• Local guide entertains you and provides insight into Hawaiian life and history
• Small group shared tour of only 8 guests max (larger / private groups also possible)
• Comfortable new vans customized for route; door-to-door service included

The famous “Road to Hana” (or Hana Highway) winds along the undeveloped eastern coast of Maui with cliffs above the Pacific Ocean on one side and lush rainforest full of majestic waterfalls on the other. See the highlights with a full day tour which allows you to efficiently fit in much more than one could do on one’s own, and to learn about the sights, history, and Hawaiian culture from a knowledgeable and fun local guide. By doing a tour, you can also relax while taking in the scenery rather than driving yourself many hours on the long narrow windy and sometimes bumpy road.

You will be picked up from your lodging and safely transported to many stops while receiving personalized attention with only a maximum of 8 people on the tour in a roomy modern air-conditioned van designed for 14 (note: larger / private groups also possible). Highlights include waterfalls, beaches (including black and red sand beaches), lava tubes, remote towns, swimming off beaches (optional), Charles Lindbergh’s grave, and of course many lookouts and ocean views along the way. This is a "full circle" tour, so you will not be turning around in Hana but instead return via the southern loop with very different terrain and unique views of the backside of the volcano.*

TravelShack's Choice

WHY WE RECOMMEND THIS OPTION OVER OTHERS

• More personal tour with only 8 passenger maximum (sometimes ends up being less), in a van designed for 14
• A party of only 2 will usually have their own row, with an unobstructed left window view where the best views are, whereas other tours you will likely share row (4 people per row) and have obstructed view if sitting on right side
• Does the full loop, rather than turn around at Hana, so you see very different terrain and don’t have to retrace the same windy road back (backside road is much straighter)
• Hawaiian style — fun local Polynesian guide with roots in the area (all are from Maui) will provide insight into the real Hawaii
• Pick-up/drop-off at lodgings throughout Maui
• Swimming opportunities (black sand beach and waterfalls)
• Hot BBQ lunch cooked fresh at local gem
• More stops by far (others just drive by them) (see full list below)

AVAILABILITY

Especially within a week of the tour date, you may see limited availability; however, if you are a party of 5+ (or are willing to pay for 5 seats), please contact us since we can likely open up another van for your group. Please also enter 5+ people in the booking form to see if more dates show as available.

More generally, if the currently shown dates do not work for you, you can check back since new openings do occur, and you can submit our waitlist form . 

Note: when booking within a week of the tour date when spots can be limited and availability can change quickly, sometimes there are issues confirming your selected date. You would either get a confirmation email or be contacted asap if there is an issue.

* Loop Status - June Update Due to ongoing road maintenance past Hana due to storm erosion, the tour cannot guarantee the loop at this time, although some of the tour vans are getting through. Temporary closures are common and without notice, and it's not known if a specific tour van will get through until they reach the area. If the tour cannot do the loop, it would turn around after Hana, with the main missed stop Lindbergh's grave. Guests would still see virtually the entire popular Road Hana Tour route, with the scenic coastal views, black sand beach and waterfalls (including swimming opportunities), and more; it just would return the way it came (on the better maintained road). 

Key Details

• Continental breakfast (fresh local pastries & fruit)
• Cooked-to-order local BBQ lunch in Hana
• Fresh fruit, local snacks, and all-day drinks
• Pick-up/drop-off at your lodging (in most cases)
• Black sand beach (Waianapanapa) limited reservations and admission fees
• All other admission fees
• Everyone can relax and enjoy the views and commentary rather than focus on safely navigating the narrow and windy road
• Most people do not stay in Hana (limited lodging and remote), so there is a lot of ground to cover during daylight hours, and a tour is usually much more effective in maximizing the number and quality of stops
• Cars can get broken into (tour vans know how to properly minimize this)
• Tour guides who drive this route multiple times a week, often for years, know how to drive it safely and in a way that reduces motion sickness
• Local tour guides add a lot of interesting context regarding the culture and history of Hawaii, and their humor adds to the fun of the day
• Rental car companies (with the exception of those specializing in 4wd vehicles) prohibit driving on unpaved surfaces, which includes part of the backside/loop. Note: there is some grey area/debate in terms of legal/financial risk, but nevertheless needing assistance in this remote area could not only be very expensive but also a protracted headache, especially since cellphone reception is often non-existent and the nearest tow truck is at least a hour away.

This map shows a general representation of the Road to Hana route for this tour, with the tour going clockwise around the eastern half of Maui. This map does not show the free pick-ups/drop-offs from lodgings around the island (i.e. West Maui / South Maui), the Pride of America cruise ship port in Kahului, and the airport in Kahului.

The following are a mixture of stops ("S"), quick photo opportunities ("P"), and drive throughs ("D"), listed in chronological order. Stops in bold are typically longer (20-60 minutes), whereas others are 5-20 minutes. There may be other photo ops and brief stops not listed below at the discretion of the guide based on the pace of the tour, crowds, makeup of group, etc.

Sugar Mill Town of Paia (D) Ho'okipa Windsurfing Lookout (S) Huelo Lookout & Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees (S) Bamboo Forest (D) (used to be stop but now illegal to trespass) Keanae Valley Peninsula (S) (with option to buy fresh banana bread at famous Aunty Sandy's) Pua'a Ka'a State Park Waterfalls (S)  (swimming opportunity) Hanawi Falls (P) Waianapanapa Black Sand Beach (S) (swimming opportunity, and small lava tube / sea cave you can walk in) Quaint Hana Town (D) Hana Bay Black Sand Beach (P) Hamoa Beach (D) Koki Red Sand Beach (S) Aunty Vergies' Flower Farm (S) (bathroom & shopping opportunity) Wailua Falls (S) Ohe'o Gulch / Seven Sacred Pools (D) (more details in FAQ below) Charles Lindbergh's Grave / Palapala Hoomau Church (built in 1857) (S) Kipahulu scenic ocean views, waterfalls, and rainforest (P) St. Joseph Church (built in 1862) (D) Kaupo Ranchlands / Haleakala backside views / Sea Arch / Cliffs (P) Maui's Last Lava Flows (D) Maui's Upcountry / Kula (S) (views of Maui, and bathroom break)

Please note that this itinerary cannot be guaranteed depending on weather, unexpected closures, and timing. 

The schedule and stops have been set to deliver an optimal and accurate experience to all guests on this tour and to stay on track given some constraints (e.g., pre-arranged lunch, paid reservations at the black sand beach, not returning at dark, avoiding peak crowds). Private tours (8+ paid seats) are still expected to follow the general itinerary, and any flexibility is at the discretion of the guide/driver and need to also take into account where the tour vehicle can legally stop.

The tour picks up at virtually all hotels and condos, including in Lahaina, Ka'anapali, Kihei, Wailea, and elsewhere. The exact pick-up time will be provided to you with the email confirmation, based on the lodging you provide at checkout. A list of the most common lodgings with pickups can be found as part of the online booking process. It will likely be around 7-8 am, with a return around 5-7 pm. However, If you are staying in a residential area (e.g., private house or community), you will likely have to meet at a designated public location nearby due to government regulations (feel free to make a note at checkout whether you prefer a short walk or drive). 

If you are staying in Paia, Haiku, or Upcountry (Makawao, Pukalani, Kula), you will need to meet in Kahului at a shopping center (Maui Marketplace, with free parking), although exceptions may be possible, especially for larger groups.

If you are staying in Hana, unfortunately this tour is not a good fit.

For those flying in for the day from another island, this tour starts conveniently near the start of the Road to Hana in Kahului. Since it isn't allowed to pickup directly at the airport, pickup is at 7:45 am at the Maui Marketplace shopping center only a couple of miles from the airport via taxi/Uber/Lyft. It's a small airport, and your flight can arrive as late as 7:30 am for this tour (there is a grace period with the 7:45 am pickup). The tour can drop off directly at the airport after the tour around 5-5:30 pm, so departing flights should be after 6:45-7 pm. 

For those flying to outside Hawaii, we generally recommend if possible to do this full day tour not on your travel day. However, if you are flying out after 8:30 pm, you should be able to do the full tour. You would return to your hotel by 5-7 pm (depending on hotel). Possible traffic, as well as possible 1+ hour airport security lines, is why only such a late flight is advised. 

Please note the tour cannot store or handle any luggage; you can only bring a day bag that fits in your seat on the van. If you have a car rental, you could meet the tour for pick-up at Maui Marketplace in Kahului (near the airport), and you could keep your luggage in your car and afterwards you could drive to the airport after being dropped off at your car around 5-6 pm. For storage solutions in Kahului near the airport, you can check an app .

Cruise Ship

For the Norwegian Cruise Line Pride of America , the tour picks up passengers from this ship every Sunday. It's actually quite close to where the tour naturally begins. Pick-up time is upon arrival of the ship around 8 am, and the van will be there when you arrive and disembark the ship. Please ensure you choose the first day you're on Maui (Sunday), since the tour concludes in the evening (around 4:30-6 pm) and therefore Monday doesn't work. 

For the  Norwegian Spirit or Sun , the tour is compatible and bookable (if still available) in 2024 on May 16, June 14, Oct 9, Oct 19, Nov 5, Nov 6, Nov 7, and Nov 21.

If you're coming in to port at Kahului on another cruise ship , if  it arrives 7 am or earlier and departs 7 pm or later, as listed in the official port schedule , then the standard tour would work  and you can proceed with booking.

For other ships that arrive after 7 am or depart before 7 pm, you would need to contact us to inquire. If it's close, it may still work with the standard tour. Otherwise, it may require a custom excursion whereby 8 seats will need to be paid for, whether you buy out the van as a private tour or recruit others from your ship as has been done successfully using online cruise forums. For custom excursions outside the standard tour times, depending on the pick-up time, the required return time, and the pace of the tour, it will likely have to return shortly after Hana (like most other tours) rather than do the full loop; most stops will still be made with the exception of Lindbergh's grave. The return time to Kahului for the standard tour is around 5-6 pm, or it can be 4-5 pm if doing a modified tour that turns around near Hana.

Please note that although a concerted effort will be made to return you to the port with plenty of time to spare for your cruise departure, in the event of an unexpected delay for any reason (e.g., road closure, weather disaster, van breakdown, guest medical emergency), the tour cannot be held liable for any costs incurred with missing your cruise ship, and a waiver will need to be signed confirming this. Missing a cruise ship departure has never happened before, though.

On Sundays, this tour serves those coming in to Kahului on the Pride of America cruise ship! Pickup is around 8 am (synced with the ship's arrival) and dropoff is around 5 pm at the cruise terminal. Please note that Sundays often book up weeks or months in advance, and the price is $299/person. If you don't see availability, please submit our waitlist form ; if it's at least a few weeks away, there is a solid chance we could open up another van, or if it's within a few weeks, cancellations from others do happen, including last-minute.

Unlike the larger bus tour provided through the cruise ship that includes only a box lunch and turns around in Hana to go back the same windy way, our tour is small group (8 max), includes a made-to-order hearty hot lunch at a local favorite near Hana, and does a loop around the entire eastern side of the island of Maui (no turning around).

Please choose the second option (not Standard) in the booking form; however, if the Standard option is also showing on a Sunday, which may be the case on rare occasions within the next couple of weeks, feel free to book the Standard option for a lower price (still with pickup at the cruise ship).

$239/person for this small group tour (or $299 for Sundays / Pride of America cruise ship option).

Due to the small size of the tour (8 people or less, unless private) and that a car seat is legally required for ages 5 & under (therefore taking up at least one seat), children are the same price as adults.

To book a private tour, simply book at least 8 seats (for 1-12 people in your own van), and it will be private. The tour usually sells out all year round, so a private tour without booking 8 seats is otherwise unlikely; the remaining seats would likely be filled by others. For parties more than 12, please see FAQ below for more details.

• Within 48 hours of the tour date? Our booking calendar above is generally kept up-to-date and will show any availability until ~5 pm the day before. If showing, please proceed with booking online at your earliest. Or if you prefer, feel free to text us to doublecheck since last-minute availability can change quickly.
• If you can only do a Sunday and are not coming in on the Pride of America cruise ship, please go ahead and book Option 2: Pride of America cruise ship and just make a note at checkout of your lodging. The tour is the same and you can be picked up at your lodging.
• All else being equal, it is suggested to book this tour in the middle of your trip. If the first day, you risk a flight delay/cancellation impacting your arrival and missing the tour (trip insurance would be advised for these situations). If at the end of your trip, if it is cancelled due to a storm (on occasion in the winter but not common) or other unforeseen circumstances (rare), it's less likely you could be rescheduled.
• Owned and operated by Native Hawaiian family, so you are more directly supporting the local community. This small business prides itself on sharing the culture and history of the islands in an intimate and authentic way.
• Guides are all born on Maui and many are from Hana area
• Voluntarily caps number of vans, despite higher demand, to keep in check the environmental and community impacts

Traveler Reviews

Customer Rating:

(1008 Reviews)

5 out of 5 stars

Also rated on:

TripAdvisor

Guidebook Reviews

Maui Revealed Guidebook:

The road to Hana is without question the most famous road in all Hawai’i, the crown jewel. A slow, winding road through a lush paradise. The Hawaii of your dreams, the tropical fantasy that becomes reality.

Driving all the way to Hana and then turning around — which the vast majority of visitors do — is like a shave ice without the ice cream on the bottom. It means missing the incredibly expansive views of the coastline, the impossibly blue sky against the brown and red upper slopes of the volcano, and the utter lack of civilized development — these are the things that make a drive along the bottom part of the island (the loop) worthwhile.

Car break-ins can occur at scenic spots [if you drive yourselves]

Lonely Planet Guidebook:

Hawaii’s Top 20: Road to Hana. Hold on tight! Of all the jaw-droppingly dramatic drives in Hawaii, this is the Big Kahuna. A roller coaster of a ride, it twists down into jungly valleys and back up towering cliffs, curling around 600 twists and turns along the way. 54 one-lane bridges cross nearly as many waterfalls. It’s ravishingly gorgeous, but certainly not easy.

Smash-and-grab thefts do occur [if you drive yourselves]

Fodor's Guidebook:

Maui’s Top 15 Attractions. The stunning Road to Hana is an iconic, winding road with dramatic coastal views and can be the highlight of a trip. It is a Hawaii pilgrimage and is one of Hawaii’s best experiences. It is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful drives on the planet.

Moon Guidebook:

Arguably the most beautiful place on earth. Devote a full day to the experience. Don’t drive back the same way you came in: Following the back road all the way around the island, you are graced with new views as your surroundings change to windswept, arid lava flows. If you question your ability to drive narrow, mountainous roads, then take a guided van tour. Local guides can provide insights into Hawaiian history, culture, and personal anecdotes which add humor to the lengthy drive.

Can you accommodate my group that is larger than 8?

Yes, individual groups that are larger than 8 can be accommodated. The 8 person maximum only applies for groups that are mixed with others. A single van has 12 seats, although in general no more than 10 is recommended on one van for optimal comfort on this full day tour, unless you have younger children and don't mind being cozy. If you have more than 10-12, we can put you on an additional van(s), pending availability, in which case please note at checkout the number count for each van. Again, you would need to pay for 8 seats on each van for them each to be private.

Please note that if your group does more than one van, not all stops will be made together. About 60% of the stops can be made together, including all the longer stops, but many of the shorter stops don't have enough room for both vans to safely park at the same time. This is true for all Road to Hana tours.

Does this tour stop at "the Red Sand Beach"?

Like other Road to Hana Tours, this tour does not stop at the Red Sand Beach (Kaihalulu) due to a precarious cliff-side trail to get to it. Injuries are common involving tourists trying to reach this beach (example 1 ,  2  &  3 ). The tour does stop at Koki Beach, which has a mixture of red, black, and white sand.

Does the tour stop at O’heo Gulch (often known as “Seven Sacred Pools”)?

It has been closed off for many years with metal fencing. Swimming is not permitted due to often hazardous conditions and multiple injuries and deaths that have occurred in the recent past (although not on this tour). No tour companies stop here, but our tour that does the full loop passes by it and includes a view down of the pools from the bridge directly above it for a photo op. There are many other scenic and memorable waterfalls on the tour, including for swimming.

What is breakfast?

Fresh baked goods made with local tropical ingredients from a famous bakery, with flavors including Coconut Macnut, Strawberry Guava, Banana Macnut, and Pineapple. Also fresh Maui-grown fruit served include premium Maui Gold pineapple and strawberries from Kula Maui. Note: the pastries have gluten, so only fresh fruit would be available for those avoiding gluten. Hot coffee is not served and shouldn't be brought on the tour due to safety/liability issues.

What is lunch?

Lunch is a hot and made-to-order Hawaiian BBQ with 3-4 choices, including a favorite hulihuli chicken and daily specials, from a popular local food stand in Hana that has been featured on Gordon Ramsey's  Uncharted tv show. 

Vegetarians can be accommodated; please answer the dietary restrictions question at checkout since advance notice is required (generally 48 hours). The vegetarian meal is generally a veggie pattie, corn, rice, and salad, although this can vary. Vegans might want to consider bringing some of their own food, since a fully vegan meal is not currently offered. For gluten-free eaters (also note in advance), the main protein and rice would be fine, but the side mac salad would be skipped (or may be replaced with a green salad).

What van is used?

The tour uses the popular Ford Transit touring van. They are designed for 14 people, but the tour only has 8 passengers max (on non-private tours). Comfortable seats, customized enhanced suspension system, and large windows. Not a low-ceiling cargo van like some other tour companies. Seating is mostly attached, but individual seats are molded. 

Couples usually end up having their own row (since there are 4 rows with 3-4 seats in each row for a total of only 8 passengers) which is better for maneuverability and comfort than if it was stand-alone "captain seats" and so they can easily see views on either side -- no risk of being stuck on a side with limited views. 

Photos of the van can be seen in the photo gallery (note: you need to scroll through to the end). Vans are maintained daily and replaced annually. Safety and comfort are a top priority.

What is the age minimum?

While there is no age minimum, you are responsible for providing a child car seat for any child age 5 & under, as required by law. Please consider the length of the tour (9-12 hours), much of it in a van, in determining whether this tour is a good fit for your child and that your child won't significantly detract from the experience of other passengers (if non-private tour).

Any recommendations on which day to book?

For all our outdoor tours, we recommend early in your trip in case weather cancels it and therefore you have a better chance of being able to reschedule. If you're not coming in on a cruise ship, we recommend avoiding Sundays, which are the busiest day due to the large Pride of America cruise ship in port every Sunday. Saturdays and Mondays may also be busier than average, although there may also be large conferences/conventions and other cruise ships on other days too. The tour starts early and plans stops strategically to best mitigate crowd issues.

Are there restroom stops along the way?

Yes, the tour has restroom stops planned throughout the day, as needed. If you require frequent access to a bathroom, this 12-hour tour may not be for you, since there are usually only about 5-6 restroom stops, with the longest gap being 2-2.5 hours. However, by request, 3 more bathroom stops could be added, and the longest gap reduced to 1.5 hours.

Are there swimming opportunities?

On most tours, there is at least one swimming opportunity at a beach (black, red, or white sand beach, depending on conditions) and/or waterfall for those who wish to swim. If interested, it is recommended to wear a bathing suit and bring a towel.

In some cases, recent or current rains may prevent swimming, which can often be the case during the wet season (Nov-Apr). If swimming is important to you, you can always inquire about conditions at least 48 hours prior to the tour (so you can reschedule/cancel if you wish without penalty). You should also tell your tour guide when you start the tour of your swimming preference, and they will do their best to accommodate. 

How much physical exertion is on this tour?

Minimal. There are some possible short trails, including to a bamboo forest and some waterfalls, but these are optional and the tour guide will use their judgment in determining which stops are most appropriate for the guests on the tour. At the time of booking, there is a place to indicate any physical limitations, and some effort is made to combine parties with similar physical abilities. All guests must be able to get on and off the van without assistance from the driver.

There is a weight maximum of 320 lbs / 145 kgs, as above that has damaged the vehicle. This policy is strictly enforced and refunds are not given if the guest cannot participate and it's within 48 hours of the tour.  Weight is subject to being checked at pickup.

Is this tour appropriate for wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, or strollers?

No. Federal/state law prevents the tour from taking these items onboard because it is not an ADA-compliant van and these objects can serve as hazardous projectiles. Since ADA vans are wider, most, if not all, Road to Hana Tours have this restriction (if operated legally). Canes are permitted but not walking sticks. There is a low step to get on the van, and all guests must be able to get on and off the van without assistance from the driver. Note: sitting in the front passenger seat (next to the driver) is prohibited by law for safety reasons.

In addition to comfortable seating on the van with large windows, there are benches and tables at some of the stops, particularly those where the tour stops for an extended period.

Anyone who should not go on this tour?

It is not recommended if you are pregnant (2nd or 3rd trimester) or have a bad back due to a rough section of the road past Hana which is over 10 miles long and takes about a hour to get through. If you still decide to go, you will need to sign a waiver at check-in. Due to van restrictions and safety concerns, those over 320 lbs / 145 kg unfortunately will not be able to participate. Finally, guests should be able to enter/exit the van without assistance from the guide/driver and in a timely manner.

Is alcohol allowed on this tour?

Alcohol is not permitted on the tour, per government regulations. This is the case for all tours on the Road to Hana.

Will I get motion sick?

The drivers are highly trained and experienced, and even guests who typically get motion sick are pleasantly surprised how they don't in the vans customized for this route (a benefit of taking a tour). In addition, doing the loop route means you are not coming back the more windy way you took to Hana; the backside return is much more straight. 

To minimize, you should also try to sit near the front and perhaps consider taking medicine (such as Dramamine, or Hana Tonic that can be found at ABC Stores on the island). 

Seating is not assigned and passengers are usually picked up at different times and locations depending on the final makeup of the tour that isn't known until the day before, so seating requests cannot be accommodated and seating is first-come, first-served. However, feel free to make a note at checkout so the tour is aware.

Will I be on the same van as others traveling with me if they book separately?

There are multiple vans that go out on the same day and that don't generally stay together. Therefore, if booking separately, please answer the question at checkout about you being with another party so we can ensure you are on the same van.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Although passing showers are not uncommon on the lush rainforest side of the island, if there is a storm forecast or any other situation that would make the tour possibly unsafe for the driver and passengers, the tour will be cancelled. You will be contacted and asked to reschedule or receive a full refund.

What more can you tell me about the tour operator?

The tour operator has been in business for over 15 years as one of the most popular and highly rated ways to experience the Road to Hana with an authentic local guide. The operator's name and phone number will be provided with your detailed confirmation email. They are a fully permitted & insured operator.

Taxes added at checkout

• 4.712% Hawaii sales tax (GET)

Cancellation policy

• Fully refundable or changeable until 48 hours prior to pick-up time (72 hours for parties of 5+, 4 days for a private tour, 7 days for private tour with 2 vans)
• If members of your party get sick, a Maui-based doctor's note will be requested and a refund considered only for those sick. The tour operator requires as much notice as possible to try to fill your seats. Morning-of cancellations cannot be refunded, and therefore travel insurance is suggested. 
• As this is a small group tour that usually sells out well in advance, a flight delay/cancellation from your point of origin will not lead to a refund unless the tour is able to resell your seats; therefore, you may not want to schedule this tour on your first day, or you may want to purchase trip insurance. 
• If there is a weather cancellation, you will be contacted to reschedule or receive a full refund.

Restrictions

• If you are pregnant (2nd & 3rd trimesters) or have a bad back, this tour is not recommended due to a short rough section of the road which is over 10 miles long and takes about a hour to get through. If you still go, you will need to sign a waiver at check-in.
• Wheelchairs, scooters, walkers, and strollers are not allowed, even collapsible ones. Canes are permitted, but not walking sticks. 
• Guests should be able to enter/exit the van without assistance from the guide/driver and in a timely manner.
• You must provide an appropriate-sized car seat for any children age 5 & under, as required by law. Not having one at pickup will lead to a denial of boarding.
• Maximum weight of 320 lbs / 145 kg per person. Weight is subject to being checked at pickup.

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FAMOUS ROAD TO HANA WATERFALLS & LUNCH

• Organizational
• Sandwiches included

$ 239.99 Original price was: $239.99. $ 199.99 Current price is: $199.99.

The Best Deal of Hana Tour with Mercedes Sprinter You Can Get on Maui – Guaranteed!

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• Description
• Reviews (73)

Famous Road to Hana Waterfalls & Lunch

Experience the ultimate Road to Hana Waterfalls Tour with Stardust Hawaii! Our renowned ‘Famous Road to Hana Waterfalls & Lunch’ excursion is designed to immerse you in the unparalleled beauty of this iconic journey. As a premier tourist guide, we specialize in providing a safe and unforgettable Road to Hana Tour, navigating through 620 curves and 54 one-lane bridges with expertise and finesse.

Hana Maui is a treasure trove of natural wonders, but it’s not without its challenges. Occasional rocks and mudslides can pose significant obstacles, leading to stress and exhaustion for the unprepared traveler. That’s where we come in. With over a decade of experience, Stardust Hawaii is your trusted partner in exploring all the marvels of the Road to Hana, ensuring your journey is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

What Sets Us Apart?

Our Road to Hana Tour is far from ordinary. Sit back and relax as we treat you like a VIP guest, showcasing the breathtaking beauty of Hana waterfalls along the way. But the adventure doesn’t stop there. We’ll also make stops at the famous Black sand beach where you can take a refreshing swim if the weather permits.

Indulge in luxury as our expert driver selects the perfect spot for a sumptuous lunch, ensuring you get the best homemade food that is as memorable as the journey itself. The road to Hana is a mesmerizing blend of stunning landscapes and untouched natural beauty, but navigating it alone can be daunting. Fear not, for Stardust Hawaii provides the solution. Travel in style and comfort in our advanced Mercedes Sprinter Van, accompanied by a professional driver and guide who will lead you on an unforgettable adventure.

Embark on a voyage through time as we regale you with historic tales and legendary stories that have shaped the islands. With Stardust Hawaii, the Best Road to Hana Tour is within your reach, promising an experience that will leave you in awe of the splendor of waterfalls on road to Hana. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary journey – book your excursion with us today and discover the magic of the Road to Hana like never before.

Road To Hana Tour Highlights:

• Light Breakfast Onboard: Start your day of adventure on the Road to Hana with a delightful light breakfast served onboard our Mercedes Sprinter Van. Indulge in freshly baked pastries and refreshing bottled water as you prepare to embark on the Best Road to Hana Tour.
• Small Group Experience: To ensure an intimate and personalized journey, our tours are limited to small groups of up to 14 people. This exclusive setting allows us to provide individualized attention and ensure that every guest has an exceptional experience exploring the Hana waterfalls and beyond.
• Professionally Trained Staff/Drivers: Our team consists of professionally trained and knowledgeable staff/drivers who are passionate about showcasing the wonders of the Road to Hana. With their expertise and dedication, you can trust that you’re in capable hands throughout the tour.
• Strategic Bathroom Stops: Safety and comfort are paramount on our Road to Hana Tour. Our Mercedes Sprinter Van will make strategic stops at well-maintained bathrooms along the route, ensuring convenience and peace of mind for all travelers.
• Abundant Photo Opportunities: Prepare your camera for an abundance of photo opportunities as we explore historical, cultural, and biological Hana waterfalls . From majestic cascades to lush landscapes, every turn of the journey offers a picturesque moment to capture and cherish.
• Snacks & Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Stay refreshed and energized throughout the excursion with complimentary snacks and a selection of non-alcoholic beverages provided onboard. It’s the perfect way to fuel your adventure along the Road to Hana.
• Visit to Famous Banana Bread Stand: Experience the flavors of Maui with a stop at a famous Banana Bread stand along the Road to Hana. Treat your taste buds to this local delicacy and savor the unique culinary delights of the island.
• Swimming at Black Sand Beach & Pua’a Ka’a Hana Waterfalls: Weather permitting, indulge in a memorable swimming experience at the most famous Black sand beach & Pua’a Ka’a Hana waterfalls . Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Maui, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of cascading waterfalls and pristine beaches.

Road to Hana Tour Route:

• Paia town – pass
• Hookipa – stop (portable restrooms)
• Maliko gulch – pass
• Twin Falls – pass
• Waikamoi Falls – pass
• Haipua’ena Falls – pass
• Keanae Peninsula – stop (brick & mortar restrooms)
• Aunty Sandy’s (Banana bread) – stop
• Chings Pond – pass
• Keanae Lookout – stop
• Upper Waikani Falls – pass
• Wailua Iki Falls – pass
• Lava tubes – Pass
• Hana Bay/Hana town – Pass
• Waianapanapa Black sand – stop, swimming (weather permitted), lunch, brick & mortar restrooms
• Pua’a Ka’a Falls – stop, swimming (weather permitted) (brick & mortar restrooms)
• Wailua Valley lookout – stop
• Kaumahina wayside park – stop (brick & mortar restrooms)
• Rainbow Eucalyptus Forest – stop
• Operates : Daily – pickup from Maui’s major hotels for Hana tour.
• Departure Point : Pick-up & drop-off at major resorts or pick-up at the Park’ and ride in Kahului or Ma’alaea.
• Duration : up to 10hrs of Road to Hana tour depending on traffic
• Inclusions : Breakfast – Pastry, Lunch, Snacks, Granola bars, locally grown fresh fruit, Non-alcoholic Beverages.
• Lunch : Fresh homemade sandwiches made in the local Deli with local fruit, granola bars, chips, and a choice of beverage – bottled water and Hawaiian drinks available during the whole tour to Hana.
• Equipment : Travel aboard our luxury Mercedes S-Class sedan or luxury Mercedes Sprinter Van
• Restrictions : Rough road; not recommended for pregnant women and those with back problems, not recommended for kids younger than 6.

Mercedes Benz Sprinter High & Long Version

73 reviews for FAMOUS ROAD TO HANA WATERFALLS & LUNCH

John/nancy gumb – January 5, 2024

We were fortunate to have Quinn as our guide. He was informative, VERY knowledgeable and kept things moving with a great sense of humor. The scenery was breathtaking, and although the roads were potentially treacherous Quinn’s driving was incredibly good and after a while you didn’t even have to think about the roadways and were just able to enjoy the scenery. This was definitely one of the highlights of the trip. The only thing I might have liked would have been maybe some introduction to our tour mates so you know who you are riding with. Of course that could have been on us as well. I would like a neighbor like him.

LolliPa – December 18, 2023

We took The Road to Hana Tour with Quinn. By far, the best tour guide we ever encountered. He was very professional with us from the first Hola to the Mahalo, when he dropped us off at Pao. (sp). His vast knowledge of the island and story telling was interesting and actually took our minds off certain parts of the drive. I really didn’t see any of the driving hazards, friends had told us about. The stops along the way and way back, at certain landmarks and shops, was perfect. Quinn really made this whole experience a big Plus for us. Wish we would have had time for him to marry me and my fiancé’. Thanks Quinn

EJM – November 2, 2023

Eric was a wonderful host—full of information and stories. He was generous in stopping for photos and made our trip one to remember!

HelmineK – June 24, 2023

Eric made this tour a great success. He ensured we had great views and opportunities to take photos while showing us the highlights and keeping us entertained with his repartee. A great tour, well worth taking to avoid driving this difficult road. We had time to explore and enjoy the stops along the way.

Raegan Radke – April 22, 2023

Dom was a great tour guide with tons of knowledge about the island. It’s clear he has a love for what he does in sharing experience along with education. The tour is amazing however we wish he would have asked us where we wanted to stop as we wanted to stop at fruit stands

jbaldwin – April 14, 2023

We had a fantastic time on this tour. It was breathtaking. Our guide Eric was knowledgeable and interesting. He made suggestions that made our trip even better. It is an all-day adventure, sit back and relax. Our family trip included ten people of all ages, and everyone had a wonderful time.

JEANETTE BALDWIN – March 30, 2023

Ok, this was a fantastic experience. Our driver Eric was terrific and knowledgeable, he made suggestions and recommendations about the trip and places to stop that made the trip more accommodating to our group. It is a long trip, so just go with it. There is so many beautiful things to see and do. It’s well worth the time.

John Swain Jr. – March 12, 2023

Wow!!!! Our road to Hana trip was an amazing experience. From the natural beauty of the land to our guide Quinn to the amazing van, it really set the tone for our entire vacation. Quinn’s attention to detail, willingness to share his abundant knowledge of Hawaii, personal attention, and smooth driving made the trip truly enjoyable. My wife and I are so glad we left the driving to Quinn and took this trip first because it gave us a really good overview of Hawaiian life and culture that we built on during the rest of our trip. It gave us an opportunity to really see and enjoy the trip rather than arguing and nervously navigating the entire drive. The cost was more than most but the value was sooooooo worth it!!! I can’t recommend Quinn and the tour enough!!!!

Carol Thiel – March 2, 2023

Omgosh, took The Road to Hana trip today. It was incredibly beautiful. You could not beat the sites! Our tour guide was Quinn; I’m sure the best guide ever! He has such a warm, inviting personality, and as importantly an immense knowledge about Maui and the Hawaiian history and culture. Quinn was a very delightful guide and made the whole trip very enjoyable.

Gary Hoolsema – February 26, 2023

Had a great Hana Road Tour today with Stardust. Eric our driver and guide kept us well informed on the events for the day. He provided a wealth of information on everything about the Road To Hana and Maui and Hawaiian history. His years of experience in tourism gave us a trip not to be forgotten. Glad I decided not to drive the road and let Stardust give us a great day. Thanks Eric.

Kelly Price – December 8, 2022

We took the Road ro Hana tour with Quinn and Robbin. It was amazing! They were both so knowledgeable and fun. We enjoyed being able to sit back and take in the sights and not have to deal with driving the road. Quinn did an amazing job with the driving and still was able to share lots of great info with us. We saw many amazing sights and learned so much about the culture and area. I highly recommend this tour! Mahalo Quinn and Robbin for an amazing experience we will never forget, Aloha.

Robyn Johnston – November 29, 2022

We took three tours while in Hawaii and the Stardust Road To Hana was by far the best. Organized, well-planned, and amazing stops. Our guide was Quinn and I’m so glad we had him! He is so incredibly knowledgeable about Hawaiian history, culture, and environment that I came away with so much context for the rest of our trip. A+ dad jokes too. Would definitely recommend it.

Tamra Howell – November 9, 2022

Just returned back to our resort from the Road trip to Hana. Eric our driver was fantastic and very knowledgeable about the history of Maui. I would recommend Eric if your a history buff. The road to Hana is narrow and nothing but switchbacks and best left to the professionals who know the road. Stopped at various places for great photo opportunities and had lunch at a park with a black sand beach. So many beautiful locations to see. FYI…The rest areas are just above primitive along the way and I recommend having some of your own toilet paper. One stop area was out of TP. There are many options with various tour companies all going to the same place but I recommend Stardust Hawaii. Mahalo Eric!

Glynis Callaway – September 6, 2022

We had an amazing time on The Road to Hana tour!! Everything about this tour was wonderful from the comfortable van, scenery, and our amazing tour guide, Quinn!! If you take this tour make sure to ask for Quinn. You will not be disappointed!!

Amante Legaspi – August 26, 2022

This was an incredible experience. Quinn (our driver/Maui historian) made our tour go from good to wonderful. I will recommend Stardust to all my friends that visit Maui and hopefully they get as great a guide as Quinn.

Michael stern – August 6, 2022

What a nice guy to have as a tour guide!My brother and I totally enjoyed the tour, Eric is incredibly knowledgeable tourguide, and was a wealth of information about the tour and Maui.Thank again Eric, Mike & Hannah

James Lee – July 23, 2022

Quinn was absolutely the perfect guide. His knowledge of the Road to Hana and ability to weave in the history of the Island, coupled with constant attention to our needs was outstanding and beyond our wildest expectations. I say give Quinn a raise. Mahalo Quinn.

Michelle Akridge – June 25, 2022

My husband and I decided to do this tour during our honeymoon to see the sights of Maui and we were not disappointed! Our guide Rich was the perfect blend of insightful and hilarious to help us through the long excursion. It was absolutely worth the time and money spent!

Unfortunately, my debit card got lost as we were stopping at one of the roadside markets during the tour. As Rich, the best human on the planet, was on a tour with another group the following day, he found our card, called me, and was able to bring it back to our hotel.

Corinne – June 15, 2022

This tour is absolutely wonderful! If you’re able to request a guide by name, Quinn is the one to choose. His education, knowledge and genuine passion for Maui and the Hawaiian Islands is unmatched. He is a wealth of information, not hesitant to field any question you have and finds a way to engage every member of his group. A guided tour of Hana is the way to go! Thank you again Quinn! A Hui Hou, Corinne & Ryan

Lonny – June 10, 2022

We loved the Road to Hana tour. Quinn was very informative and respectful of the Hawaiian history and traditions. I would highly recommend this tour!

Mark Zanders Jr. -CPT – May 10, 2022

We took the Road to Hana tour with Tom. It was an amazing experience! Tom was just awesome. Very friendly, knowledgeable, and accommodating. He went out of his way to engage with everyone on the tour and just did a great job making us feel comfortable. Highly recommended!!

Corinne – March 12, 2022

This tour is absolutely wonderful! If you’re able to request a guide by name, Quinn is the one to choose. His education, knowledge and genuine passion for Maui and the Hawaiian Islands is unmatched. He is a wealth of information, not hesitant to field any question you have and finds a way to engage every member of his group. A guided tour of Hana is the way to go! Thank you again Quinn! A Hui Hou, Corinne & Ryan

selan_robert – January 6, 2022

Waterfalls were amazing. The guide Eric shared great stories of Hawaiian culture and history. Lunch was a little disappointing but I do Recommend this tour

orlando_b – January 3, 2022

Thank you Quinn for an amazing experience! We are so glad we decided to go with a tour. We definitely would not Have experienced everything we did if we went on our own. Definitely ask for Quinn as your tour guide he is someone who loves Maui and will give you the best experience and was great with keeping my kids interested.

Gianna_mc – January 3, 2022

Quinn was. A great guide, full of history, nature. Very friendly , the time flew. The black sand beach was great fun and the swim in the waterfalls was sublime

susanna13 – December 29, 2021

Quinn is an amazing guide. He kept the long drive entertaining with fun facts and great story telling. He was kind, personable and super educational. He was also spot on with timing and ensured we got to fully enjoy each destination while staying on track with schedule/beating traffic.

The tour itself was also really fun. Highlights of the trip were swimming in the waterfall and in the black sand beach. Scenery was gorgeous throughout the entire trip, would highly recommend trying this excursion.

Bobbi_s – December 24, 2021

Had a great time on tour with Quinn. I love the narration throughout the tour, entertaining and educating at the same time.

Robin – December 23, 2021

Road to Hana trip was amazing. So worth sitting back to let someone with experience drive. Much more enjoyable than having to watch the road! Our driver,Quinn, was fun and full of knowledge. Kept the trip fun!

Phil517 – December 23, 2021

We had Quinn yesterday 12/22/21, OMGOSH, He was Amazing. Quinn is very educated on the history of Maui and Hawaii in general. We had a fantastic time and aside from a rainy day it was Amazing. Quinn did a Great job, keep up the Great work.

Xiong_X – December 23, 2021

I really like how Tom made our trip so smooth, gentle and very informative. I wish the time at Black sand beach would be longer, and the trip would include sometime at the Pipiwai trail!

Sandra – December 21, 2021

Being able to see a whole new world inside of Maui. I loved all the information and history that was told during the tour

Irne – December 13, 2021

We had Quinn! I loved him and he was so knowledgeable about the rainforest! He was so enthusiastic and really fun to be around! 🙂

sona_p – December 6, 2021

Beautiful scenery . Eric was a wonderful guide and he gave a lot of local history. Highly recommend this trip.

Frances_ZB – December 6, 2021

We had a great trip with Quinn as our tour guide. He drove us expertly around the tight twists and turns of Hana Highway and the Mercedes van handles the extremely bumpy roads.

Quinn was very knowledgeable and had facts and information from the time we boarded until we returned. He also came with an endless supply of “dad jokes” and bad, but funny puns. Our group of 9 all had a great time and we highly recommend a tour with Quinn.

Jana Raven – November 2, 2021

Black sand beach was breathtaking! 1 hour not enough 2 hours better. Quinn was an excellent tour guide

Vera Dvorak – October 24, 2021

Not having to drive those narrow one lane bridges on blind corners. Much more relaxing. Also enjoyed commentary.

Applebear – October 14, 2021

Waterfalls were awesome, driver did a great job, saw a lot of awesome sights, lots of animals and learned a lot

Scorpie23 – October 3, 2021

We had a great time, the sights were absolutely beautiful and our guide was informative, knowledgeable and friendly. Highly recommend.

MarshallFrank – September 30, 2021

My wife and I enjoyed this tour and seeing all that Maui has to offer.

Karim P. – September 22, 2021

Thomas, the driver from Stardust Hawaii, was excellent! He had great knowledge of the road to Hana, kept us on time, and had superb driving skills on the road.

Jill Holley – September 14, 2021

Eric was a great tour guide. He was very knowledgeable on the history of Maui. We stopped for Aunt Sandy’s famous banana bread, which was delicious, had the opportunity to swim under a waterfall, and walk on a beautiful black sand beach.

The road to Hana is definitely a trip that should be experienced when in Maui. I will recommend Eric to anyone that wants to take this tour.

Teresa Woods – September 3, 2021

Our tour which began at 6 a.m. was delayed by about 10 minutes , but our guide Eric, called us to let us know his new arrival time, Great communication! Thank you. He proved a very knowledgeable and caring guide. Interesting information about celebrities’ who moved to Maui and their acceptance or not by the locals and reasons why.

Paul Meinzer – August 28, 2021

Very informal and helpful! This tour was one of the highlights of our trip!

Maryann Asher – August 6, 2021

Oh my goodness! What an ADVENTURE. Once in a lifetime opportunity. Beautiful views, gorgeous moments. I also felt very clean and very safe while on tour. Roads are indeed windy but thanks to our trusty fun guide QUINN he made the experience unforgettable.

There are so many excursions out there but this is by far, the best one out there. You won’t regret picking this tour, I assure you. And if you happen to get Quinn he’ll enhance the experience with laughter, jokes, and tons of amusement. He truly embodies the tour guide spirit and makes you feel top notch VIP travelers. He loves what he does and it shows! Thanks Quinn for showing us the best sights in Maui!! They really need more people like you in the tourism industry.

Duwayne C. – August 2, 2021

Quinn was an excellent guide in this tour. Extremely knowledgeable, by knowledgeable he knows many specific facts, not general conversational comments. He kept the van engaged for the 10 hours engaging everyone. Always ensured comfort and kept schedule without being rushed. He says all his tours are unique and I believe it. He clearly loves his job.

They start early, which actually makes this trip even better. Deal with the early rise in order to have the best experience. Well done!!

Betsy1 – July 22, 2021

Road to Hana exceeded my expectations. Would never do it any other way!

Mathew Robles – July 10, 2021

All day adventure. Fun for the whole family. Driver Quinn was very knowledgeable and accommodating. Highly recommended.

Kaye Howard – June 24, 2021

Quinn was overboard knowledgeable!! Amazing trip!

Cindy Young – April 14, 2021

We had Pete today! He’s much more than excellent! He reads and understands his tourists! Ask for him! You will now be disappointed! Favorite tour guide EVER!!!

Gabriell – April 2, 2021

Great Trip! Our tour guide was Tom, he was fabulous! We stayed on our schedule the entire trip and was always willing to assist with whatever needs we had. My sister and I traveled from Michigan and could not find a road to Hana tour as they were already sold out, somehow we were able to book this tour the day before and we are so happy we did!

Natalie – April 1, 2021

Amazing experience. Tom was our tour guide, he was very knowledgeable and answered everyone’s questions happily. He definitely made us feel safe during that drive! The hours just flew by!

P341C – March 28, 2021

Hana all day small group Awesome driver Kieli who grew up on Maui and knew everything and everybody during trip, friendly as well. Trip thru Hana highway exceeded my expectations by a mile

Yoges – March 25, 2021

Road to Paradise Hana … This was an amazing tour into Hana Valley. Very comfortable with stops every now and then to see beautiful falls and highlight was black sand beach. Beauty of this place is out of the world. Our tour leader Tom was a great host and super safe driver. He gave nice commentary on what was where and best was his safety instructions that were very valuable. Lunch was really good sandwich wigh fruit and Hawaiian drink. Aloha and Mahalo

Sofia R – March 24, 2021

Memorable family time Every minute was memorable, a Safe, enjoyable and friendly time spend the driver Tom. This was a great experience and the best part was being driven to every destination with no hassle:)

Oscar M – March 13, 2021

Once in a lifetime Tom was an amazing driver. We’re so thankful we booked or we would never have gotten to experience such a fantastic ride. Tom was such a good driver that my 10 year old felt safe enough to sleep on the scariest part of the drive. Thank you so much!

Denise N – February 14, 2021

A perfect Road Trip! It was our second time going to Hana. The first time we were by ourselves. This time we went on a luxury Mercedes van with Stardust Hawaii tour company. And boy, let me tell you it made a huge difference. Instead of paying attention to the road and trying not to fall off a cliff, we could actually enjoy the scenery and soak it all in. The drive itself is long and thanks to our driver/guide Tom we could see places we didn’t even know existed. We swam at hidden waterfalls, tasted local banana bread, visited the black sand beach (my favorite) and took about a gazillion spectacular photos. It’s a must!

Ian M – February 12, 2021

Good trip Our family took the full day tour and it was an experience to treasure. Even though we had a hired car we wouldn’t have been able to navigate the treacherous driving conditions- the Winding roads were steep and narrow, and in some cases single lane only – definitely not for the faint-hearted. If you want to enjoy the scenery then there is no point of doing the driving yourself. Anyway the tour was wonderful with a well experienced driver/tour guide. He had a world of knowledge and was very informative. He stopped at all the interesting scenic spots including waterfalls and beaches and gave us ample time to explore the surroundings. The lunch provided was tasty and more than enough for everyone. Overall it was a tour worth joining and all of us had an enjoyable day.

Rustic G – February 5, 2021

Amazing Road to Hana trip with Ray 5 years ago I drove the entire road to Hana and back and while that was an amazing trip, this was even better with our guide Ray. The Mercedes very comfortable, even for the winding and rocky road to Hana. The 2 highlights of the trip were swimming in a waterfall and actually driving around the backside of the mountain (something you are unable to do with a car rental). Our guide was knowledgeable of the entire island and the history of the Polynesian people. This was by far our best trip in Hawaii.

Ken B – January 27, 2021

Road to Hana Very exciting with some precarious narrow roads, a must-do when visiting Hawaii. Please don’t drive there, go with a professional driver as we did – you will see what I mean. Plan trip for the entire day, it’s so beautiful.

Spencerfam – January 7, 2021

Our tour guide was the best This was such a fun experience! We had the best driver! Lots of stops and info on the Hawaii! He made it a very memorable trip! Read less

Tiana Garland – January 6, 2021

Quinn was an excellent tour guide. Not only was he super friendly, but extremely knowledgeable as well. Very impressive and was so kind to everyone. We are on our honeymoon and we are so glad we didn’t drive and had Quinn as a tour guide! He was the safest driver and knew the roads like the back of his hand, which lead us to sit back, relax, and enjoy the views. I wish we could multiple Quinn by a million and move the Quinn’s to the Chicagoland area, because you just don’t find tour guides like him anymore :’) So far this was the best part of our trip! Very few things in life are worth waking up at 5am, but this was totally worth it. 10/10 recommend, a big thank you to Quinn!

peter_cj – January 4, 2021

If it’s your first time to Hanna I highly recommend. I also would recommend requesting Quinn. His knowledge of Hanna past president (he actually lives there) future history is not only impressive it is passionate. You can tell Quinn loves what he dose and it shows.

UmborB – December 22, 2020

Long But Fun Day a MUST SEE Make sure you take your own food or eat at the first halfway mark. The chicken that we got at the restaurant that we stopped at was not very good and the vegetables were half cooked and the rice was very cold and you had no choice of what you were going to get. Luckily we took some protein bars and ate some banana bread at the midway point. Ray was an excellent guide and had a vast amount of information. My husband felt like he got on complete information overload and would have liked to of had some brief or a little bit longer moments of silence The stops are absolutely amazing and the view is breathtaking and exciting as far as the waterfalls are concerned I would’ve rather just done a brief stop at that, and in fact our entire group did not get in the water there. There are signs everywhere saying that you’re not allowed to get in the water there. We knew this would be a very long day, it was around 11 1/2 hours with hotel pick up and drop off. Only other suggestions were that many of us needed a bathroom break towards the end and that was difficult to find. Ray even had ginger candy available for people that might get nauseous and make frequent stops and kept the air up so that people would not get nauseated. Thank you Ray from your Tennessee couple.

Cam-an59 – December 20, 2020

An excellent way to see a lot of the island without the hassle of driving the road yourself Ray is an excellent guide, he’s been driving the road for a long time and knows all the places to go and people to see. Going on a tour is an wonderful way to see the sights without having to drive what can be a tricky road yourself. With this trip you get an excellent guide and you go to some wonderful places

Lupe G – March 20, 2020

Trip road to hana It was great wish I could do it again mostly cuz our tour guide was informative courteous funny n just made it that much more enjoyable definitely recommend it. Read less

Michelle M – February 26, 2020

Road to Hana We had a great tour with the most experienced driver and extremely knowledgable of the island history and volcanos. We learned so much while experiencing a great trip!! We had great bbq chicken.. wow! The views are breathtaking and the black sand beach was incredible!! Read less

Didi L – February 20, 2020

Our last day was the best day with Rory! We spent two wonderful weeks in Maui and on our last day we took the Road to Hana tour with Rory. It was the best tour I’ve ever taken and I took this tour ten years ago and only remember one location. Our guide was so knowledgeable and answered every question from all 11 passengers. Rory is considerate, smart, caring, and just plain fun. He explained so many things about the Polynesian people that amazed us and educated us. I hope to return and bring my family members so that they can experience this tour. Thank you Rory, and bless you in all your endeavors. Keep doing what you do!

LizJul – November 27, 2019

A MUST DO WHEN VISITING MAUI We had many tour companies to do this tour with. However, we decided to go with Stardust. Everything that was offered in the package was delivered 100%. We swam at the waterfall which was a great spot for photos. We visited the black sand beach as promised. Amazing for photos. We even stopped in areas that were not mentioned when we booked the tour. Our tour guide was Rory, who is incredibly knowledgeable and provided so much history of not only Maui but of all other islands as well. Rory went out of his way to make sure that we had a good lunch being that we do not eat meat. He even purchased a special canoe, which had many fruits the locals eat. He certainly made us feel special. He made a twelve our trip so much fun and go by so fast. This is a trip that must be done if you are in Maui. However, do it with Rory from Stardust. You will not only get to see all the beautiful spots on the road to Hana. You will leave there with more history of Hawaii than when you arrived there. Read less

Maka686 – November 22, 2018

Nice, many sites, very informative, great Lunch and looong trip. I would never drive there alone!

Lisa Panos – November 7, 2018

Nice trip. Very knowledgeable guide. Only 6 of us so we had a more personal tour. Waterfalls were great. A bit confused about lunch since we had to pre-order our sandwiches when booking the tour, but we ate at a huli chicken place on side of the road. No one told us about the change. Trip was 13 hours, but well worth it. Much better to have someone else do the driving.

[email protected] – December 12, 2017

Charlie Konkolsky It was beyond our expectations! The luxury ride beated it all. Have done Road to Hana before by renting a car and driving and will never do the same mistake again. The Mercedes ride was such a great experience. We didn’t have to worry about the traffic, food, drinks, and we had the vehicle to our selves only. Our guide was super cool and showed us things we would never be able to see on our own.

CITYGRL – December 7, 2017

City girl, New York, NY I am a city girl and I am very picky. I was traveling with my girlfriend and it was my last trip as a single before getting because married in November. It was my second trip to Hawaii, but first time in Maui. We went on a Hana adventure with Stardust Hawaii in their luxury car. Our guide Tom was awesome. He greeted us with a bottle of a champagne and as Hawaiian call it “pupus”, appetizers. During our ride we saw many beautiful waterfalls, were able to swim in a lagoon, jump of a cliff in seven sacred pools, buy local banana bread, and saw some amazing scenery’s. Tom was taking plenty of pictures and I’m so grateful for that. Now I have some amazing memories for my bachelor trip to Maui Hawaii. I want to come back with my husband this time, and do it again so I can share my great experience with him. Big mahalo Stardust Hawaii.

Andyk1628 – November 23, 2017

Incredible views, beautiful nature, black beach sand, waterfalls, truly a real paradise. Thank you Tom, you were a great chauffer. Will come back for another tour. *****

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Locus Online

The Magazine of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Field

Liz Bourke Reviews Road to Ruin by Hana Lee

For a debut novel, Hana Lee’s Road to Ruin is a tour de force. Inventive and entertaining, it kept me on the edge of my seat the whole way through.

Jin-Lu makes her living crossing the wasteland. She’s a courier, one of the few who travel outside the safety of the walled cities known as kerinas, delivering goods and letters and dodging danger­ous mana storms, outlaw raiders, and aggressive dinosaur-like beasts. These cities are the last remnants of civilisation in the aftermath of a vast, long-ago apocalypse: Only ruins from the time of the Road-Builders remain. In the cities, the Talented use their magical gifts to preserve their communities: Bloomweavers make plants grow, shieldcasters use their power to shield the city against the destructive mana storms, and sparkriders use their talent to power the mage­bikes that are the best and fastest way to cross the waste. The Talentless, on the other hand, are largely viewed by the Talented ruling class as a drain on limited resources. Most cities afford them few rights; some sterilise them, or even kill them outright. Kerina Sol is the only city where they aren’t seen as intrinsically lesser. But the Talented birthrate has dropped in the last generations, and this crisis-level issue is a rumbling backdrop to the events of the novel.

For the last several years, Jin has been the con­duit for covert correspondence between Prince Kadrin of Kerina Sol and Princess Yi-Nereen of Kerina Rut. The correspondence has developed into love letters, and in the course of being the mouthpiece of their affections, Jin herself has fallen in love with both of them. It’s an impos­sible love: Not only is Jin a low-class courier, one who fled Kerina Tez with her Talentless mother and came to Kerina Sol for refuge, but the two of them already have each other.

In Kerina Rut, women, even Talented ones, are second-class citizens, valued primarily for their ability to breed more Talented children. Yi-Nereen is a powerful shieldcaster, but her marriage has been arranged without her consent. Rather than be a broodmare – one who risks being involuntarily sterilised if she produces more than two Talentless children – she asks for Jin’s help to escape to Kerina Sol. Jin’s feelings for Yi-Nereen means she can’t help but agree, even though if they’re caught, Yi-Nereen might be killed and Jin definitely will.

But their flight across the wasteland doesn’t go smoothly. Forced to detour because of a storm, they’re given shelter by a tiny, insular community surviving out in the wastes who speak a language neither of them can understand, and who might be descendants of the long-gone Road-Builders. Yi-Nereen is fascinated. Jin is suspicious. But the storm isn’t long over before they discover that they’ve been pursued: Yi-Nereen’s fiancé, Sou-Zell, has hired a bounty hunter, one of the raiders that haunt the wastes, to chase them down. This raider is a figure from Jin’s past, a woman with a whole heap of grudges. Once upon a time, she was Jin’s first love. Now she means to use Yi-Nereen to bring down the kerinas.

When Yi-Nereen is captured, Jin’s only hope to save her is that she can reach Kadrin and he can bring the resources of Kerina Sol to bear for a rescue. But when the ruling council of Kerina Sol declines to assist, it’s up to Jin, Kadrin, and an unexpected ally in the form of Sou-Zell – much disturbed by Yi-Nereen’s father’s reaction to her flight – to follow Yi-Nereen’s abductors’ trail into the heart of the wasteland, to secrets of the Road-Builders, of inheritance, of magic, and of the wasteland itself, with the storm of the century promising to wreak destruction on all their heads. The climax is by turns thrilling and nerve-wracking, while the conclusion leaves matters of the heart complicated and unsettled, but nonetheless with the possibility open for everyone’s future romantic happiness.

When I heard Road to Ruin ’s premise, my reaction was this will be either great or terrible . From the very first page, when a juvenile flying lizard swooped out of the sky to knock Jin off her bike, I knew I was going to come down on the great side. Lee’s debut gives me the impression that Mad Max: Fury Road is a formative part of its DNA, but it recollects, too, something of our ongoing climate disaster moment. The landscape of the wastes is deeply atmospheric, and Lee’s fantastical postapocalyptic worldbuilding feels fresh and vivid. The language is taut and evocative, and the action barrels forward at a nail-biting clip, mounting in tension and intensity right through to the conclusion.

Jin is an appealing character, a scruffy vaga­bond with a heart of gold and a complicated past, most at home on her magebike in the wilderness, prickly but prone to unexpected gestures of hero­ism or compassion. Yi-Nereen and Kadrin emerge more gradually. Lee puts one of their letters at the end of every chapter, so that we see their relation­ship (and Jin’s parenthetical emergence into it) develop, as well as Yi-Nereen’s investigation into why the Talented birthrate has fallen. Yi-Nereen is a complex, compelling woman, trapped by the patriarchal strictures of Kerina Rut into a state of fury and despair. She’s been manipulating both Jin and Kadrin in order to give herself options for escape that don’t involve dying , and has found her­self developing real feelings for them both despite herself. Kadrin initially comes across as a more whimsical, less effectual sort of person, whose Talentless status relegates him to a decorative role within his influential family, and who worries that his feelings for Jin are a kind of transference of his feelings for Yi-Nereen. But it becomes clear that he has a core of steel.

Lee has a deft hand with characterisation. Even Jin’s bounty-hunter ex-lover and Sou-Zell come across as whole, complicated people: They may be assholes, but they’re not without their sym­pathetic points.

If I have one complaint, it’s that I wanted more. Road to Ruin is an impressive debut: It’s an incredibly fun book, and a really satisfying one. I want to read a sequel as soon as possible, and I’m looking forward to seeing where Lee’s career goes in future.

Liz Bourke is a cranky queer person who reads books. She holds a Ph.D in Classics from Trinity College, Dublin. Her first book, Sleeping With Monsters , a collection of reviews and criticism, is out now from Aqueduct Press. Find her at her blog , her Patreon , or Twitter . She supports the work of the Irish Refugee Council and the Abortion Rights Campaign .

This review and more like it in the May 2024 issue of Locus .

©Locus Magazine. Copyrighted material may not be republished without permission of LSFF.

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