The Hawaiian island of Maui gleams brightly in the global consciousness as a tropical paradise celebrated for its resplendent landscapes, verdant greenery, rich cultural narratives, and pristine, crystal-clear waters.
Within this emerald retreat of serenity is a 64-mile-long (103 km) highway that takes you on a journey that imprints the iconic terrain of Maui on the postcard of your memories.
The famous Road to Hana from Kahului to the town of Hana, with its 59 single land bridges and 640 curves, treats you to a breathtaking journey through waterfalls, black sand beaches, lush landscapes, and quaint little Hamlets.
This article covers everything you must know before booking tickets to Road To Hana.
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What to expect at Road To Hana tour
From Kahului in Maui, you will depart on a 64-mile (103 km) long, meandering scenic drive along the coast that will take you through the otherworldly beauty of Maui’s eastern coastline.
Settle in for an extraordinary tour that will take you through ever-changing landscapes of wilderness, rainforest, beaches, waterfalls, civilization, cliffs, and single-lane bridges, with no less than 600 hairpin turns.
Keep your camera ready and ears primed as you sit glued to the luxury van’s windows as breathtaking terrain unfolds before you while your expert guide fills you in on fascinating stories of culture, mythology, and tradition that populate this land.
Enjoy watching windsurfers, kite boarders, and surfers as they contend with the ocean’s waves and coastal breezes at white sand Ho’okipa Beach, known as the “windsurfing capital of the world.”
Visit the Waikani “three bears” waterfall and swim in the stunning pools of Pua’a Ka’a State Park waterfalls.
Black lava boulders from a recent flow about 10,000 years ago and black sand surround the cobalt blue ocean at Wai’anapanapa State Park, where you can choose to stroll along or simply relax in the shade of a pleasant tree.
Explore the volcanic caverns and lava tubes coming to life, and if you’re lucky, you might see red shrimp appearing in spades, making the water red. Let our tour guides narrate the Princess Popoalaea legend to you.
Stop by the tallest waterfall on the highway, the Wailua Falls, and admire the misty rainbows and symphony of running water.
Walk through the towering bamboo groves that will fall on the way, with sunlight filtering through the dense foliage creating an ethereal atmosphere.
See the “painted forest” of beautiful rainbow eucalyptus trees at Huelo.
The outer bark of the eucalyptus trees peels down to reveal a layer of brilliant green underneath which gradually changes to a dark green hue, and then to blue, purple, pink, orange, and maroon before going back to brown.
As different layers on the same tree peel away at different times, each tree exhibits a “rainbow” of colors simultaneously.
Stop at the lovely Nahiku viewpoint in Kahuku district for charming views of the sea and rainforests.
Gorge on shaved ice, fresh coconut, and Aunty Sandy’s banana bread at the halfway point to Hana.
Enjoy a fantastic three-course authentic Hawaiian lunch at the Travassa in Hana.
Swing by the Kipahulu region, which is a photographer’s dream with its lush wilderness, waterfalls, ponds, mountain slopes, and panoramic ocean views.
Sample the fruit stand at Laulima Farm, a 13-acre organic family farm in the Kipahulu Valley.
Descend into the peaceful Taro fields, jagged lava rock jutting into the crystal blue Pacific, and the small Hawaiian villages doing their best to live like the Hawaiians of old around Ke‘anae Point.
Pay homage to the Palapala Ho’omau Church, built in 1857 and still standing near Maui’s lush coastline, well-known for being the final resting place of eminent pilot, inventor, explorer, novelist, and campaigner Charles Lindbergh.
See a completely different world of geography and terrain while you are driven through the back road of Hana, with sites of Kula upcountry and the backside of Haleakala, as you loop back to your starting point in Kahului.
Opt for a helicopter ride for your return to Kahului in Central Maui from Hana and see magnificent views of the Haleakala crater and the island’s rugged coast.
Where to book tickets
Tickets for Road to Hana Hawaii Tour are available online.
Booking online and traveling in group vans guided by professional guides will allow you to be free from the hassle of driving when you can just sit at a big window in a luxury van, enjoy the sites, and click photos to your heart’s content.
Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the venue.
When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the attraction’s ticket counters.
When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.
Furthermore, the Road to Hana presents a challenging drive, featuring narrow passages and sharp hairpin turns. If you’re traveling solo, your leisurely tourist pace can contribute to congestion on the highway.
Additionally, if you choose to drive independently, you’ll need to retrace your route back to Kahului, as the alternate route from the rear of Hana involves unpaved roads, narrow passes, and often lacks coverage under many rental car insurance policies for accidents in that area.
With a professional tour, you won’t have to miss these sites on the backside of Haleakala.
Booking early also helps avoid last-minute disappointments.
How do online tickets work
Go to the Road to Hana Tour booking page, select the number of tickets and preferred date, and buy the tickets immediately.
After the purchase, you will receive the tickets through your email.
There is no need to bring any printouts.
Show the e-ticket on your smartphone to the guide or staff involved.
Road to Hana ticket prices
For the Famous Road to Hana Waterfalls & Lunch by Mercedes Van, the ticket price for all ages is $230.
For the Small-Group Road to Hana Luxury Tour, the ticket price for all ages is $354, including breakfast and a small beach lunch.
If you select the option including breakfast and a three-course lunch meal, then the tickets will cost you US$399.
Infants under four are not allowed on this tour.
For the Small Group Road to Hana Adventure Tour with Pickup, the ticket price for all ages above 12 is US$220.
Seniors above sixty years and children aged between three and 11 can gain access at $US210.
Infants under three are not allowed.
For the Small Group Road to Hāna Tour 6 to 8 passengers, the ticket price for all ages is US$249.
For the Small-Group Road to Hana Luxury Limo-Van Tour with Helicopter Flight Reverse, the ticket price for all ages is $549.
Infants under four are not allowed on this tour.
Road to Hana tickets
For a Road To Hana Hawaii tour, you have a range of different options available, with varying modes of transportation, itineraries, and so on.
Please note that stoppage at a few crowded attractions on the way will be subject to parking space availability.
If you wish to bathe in the waterfall, carry a towel and change of clothes accordingly.
Famous Road to Hana Waterfalls & Lunch by Mercedes Van
You will be picked up early in the morning in a luxury van from your Maui accommodation with tickets to this tour.
With live guide commentary on board in your Van, you will set off on the Road to Hana, with Ho’okipa Beach Park being your first stop.
Pass by Bamboo Forest and Kaumahina State Wayside Park before arriving at Ke‘anae Point.
After having Aunty Sandy’s banana bread, you will pass by Upper Waikani Falls, stop at Wailua Falls, visit Pua’a Ka’a State Park, and then arrive at the black sand beaches of Wainapanapa.
WitnessHawaiian ruins, jagged lava rocks, and mile after mile of wild, uninhabited country considered the backside of Haleakala.
Begin your return journey on a circular route from the backside of Hana, passing through the Kula upcountry region, with a short visit to Harold Rice Park.
Lunch will be provided, and you can pick from turkey, ham, and veggie sandwiches.
If you are on a special diet, please carry your own food, as food alternatives aren’t provided.
Ticket Prices: US$230
Small-Group Road to Hana Luxury Tour
Tickets to this sightseeing excursion will get you access to a luxury limo van with a leather captain chair for each guest.
If you pick the option, both breakfast and lunch will be provided.
Time will be set aside for swim breaks.
Visit Kaumahina State Wayside Park, Ke‘anae Point, the black beaches at Wai’anapanapa State Park, and the freshwater pools under cascading waterfalls at Pua’a Ka’a State Park.
Pass by attractions such as Ho’okipa Beach Park and Upper Waikani Falls and take a similar route from the backside of Haleakala and the Kula upcountry region.
Ticket Prices
Tour with breakfast and small beach lunch: US$354
Tour with breakfast and three-course lunch meal: US$399
Small Group Road to Hana Adventure Tour with Pickup
The tickets to this tour will get you pickup access from a very wide range of locations in Maui.
You will travel in an air-conditioned shuttle with a professional guide.
Breakfast, snacks, a small lunch, and bottled water will be provided.
Special dietary requirements can be mentioned.
You will visit the Pua’a Ka’a State Park, Wai’anapanapa State Park, Kaena’e Point, and Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread.
Pass by attractions such as Ho’okipa Beach Park, Upper Waikani Falls, Wailua Falls, Charles Lindberg’s Grave, Maui Honey Bee Sanctuary, the landscapes of Kaupo, Laulima Farm, and the Ohe’o Gulch, known as the ‘Seven Sacred Pools.’
Ticket Prices
Adult Ticket (12 to 60 Years): US$220
Senior Ticket (61+ Years): US$210
Child Ticket (3 to 11 Years): US$210
Infant Ticket (0 to 2 Years): Not Allowed
Small Group Road to Hana Tour 6 to 8 passengers
Tickets to this tour will get you access to an excursion on the Road to Hana in a smaller, more focused group with only 6-8 passengers.
Pick-up will be from your location in Maui, and your air-conditioned excursion will include breakfast and lunch.
A professional guide will be present with you to fill you in on the stories of the land.
Visit the Ho’okipa Beach Park, the painted forest of Huelo, Pua’a Ka’a State Park, Wai’anapanapa State Park, Kaena’e Point, Koki Beach, Wailua Falls, Charles Lindbergh’s grave, and the sweeping valleys of Kiphalu.
Pass by the plantation-era town of Paia, Hanawi Falls, Hana Bay, St. Joseph Church, Nauki View Point, landscapes of Kaupo, the backside of Haleakala, and arrive in Kahului after a full circle.
Ticket Prices: US$249
Small-Group Road to Hana Luxury Limo-Van Tour with Helicopter Flight Reverse
Tickets to this excursion let you experience the Road to Hana from both the ground and the sky.
You will assemble at a meeting point, from where you will board a luxury Limo-van and set off on the Road to Hana with a professional guide.
Savor a delectable Pacific Rim lunch, elegantly served on linen tablecloths at a picturesque beachside setting.
You will visit the Wai’anapanapa State Park and Ke‘anae Point and pass by many gorgeous attractions and waterfalls.
Upon your return, you will board a helicopter for a 40-minute journey back to your initial departure point, soaring over the Haleakala Crater with the benefit of live commentary to enhance your experience.
Ticket Price: US$549
Save time and money! Explore Helicopter Tours in Hawaii and witness volcanoes, lush mountains, waterfalls, and pristine beaches from the sky. This bird’s eye experience is an opportunity to enjoy the thrill of your life. You might even land in the middle of a desert, winery, or snow!
Meeting point for Road To Hana tour
The Road to Hana starts from the Kahului area in Maui County, Hawaii.
Most tours provide shuttle/van pickups from any hotel or lodging in the Kahului and Lahaina areas of Maui County.
If your hotel is outside the pickup radius, you will be asked to assemble at a meeting point, the details and directions to which will be mailed to you once you make your bookings.
Road To Hana tour timings
The best time to start driving the Road to Hana highway is 6.30 am to 8 am.
It will allow you to get ahead of the traffic and get better parking spots.
The road is narrow and winding with many attractions, and you would ideally like to either circle back to Kahului or find a stay before nightfall, as there are no streetlights on the Road To Hana.
How long does the tour take
The Maui Road to Hana tour, with a drive from the back of Hana looping back to Kahului, will take you 10 hours to complete.
Please note it is only advisable to complete the trip in a day in a satisfactory manner if you have booked a touring shuttle.
If you plan to drive yourself, consider keeping two or more days for your trip.
Best time to visit Road To Hana
The best time to visit the Road to Hana is during the shoulder seasons of Spring (April to June) and Autumn (September to November).
During these periods, the weather is pleasant, and the crowds are less.
Stopping at some attractions is subject to the availability of parking since the road is narrow, and summer being the peak vacation time, can fill the highway with quite a bit of rush.
The winter (December-April) is also a great period to visit because the weather is cooler and rainy, which makes the waterfalls bloom even further, and also provides you a great getaway if the winters in your area are frigid.
Road to Hana map
Here is an interactive map that gives a detailed view of the Road to Hana, shows the Hana Highway, and also the back road through Kula upcountry that will have you loop back to Kahului on a circular ride.
Feel free to zoom in for a better view of the roads and attractions on the map.
FAQs about the Road to Hana
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Road to Hana Tours:
The Hana Highway, also known as the Road to Hana, encompasses Hawaii Routes 36 and 360, spanning a distance of 64.4 miles (103.6 km) from Kahului to the town of Hana in eastern Maui. This winding road features numerous hairpin turns and 60 single-lane bridges.
The highway is a microcosm of Hawaiian beauty, with countless waterfalls, stunning ocean vistas, lush rainforests, cultural legends, black sand beaches, and dramatic, rugged rainforests.
The Road to Hana starts from the Kahului area in Central Maui, Hawaii, and goes to the village of Hana in East Maui.
The Road to Hana is home to countless waterfalls and pools, with great sightseeing and swimming experiences.
Some of the most famous waterfalls are the Wailua Waterfall, the Waikani “Three Bears” Waterfalls, Pua’a Ka’a State Park Waterfalls, Makapipi Waterfall, and Hanawi Falls.
The Road to Hana can be very narrow in places and has over 600 hairpin curves over a 65-mile (105 km) drive.
The road does not have any streetlights, and it is really not advisable to drive at night.
The back road to Hana through Kula upcountry and Haleakala backside that loops back to Hana is the scariest part, with one-lane roads with no shoulder and a cliff.
Rental companies do not provide insurance coverage for cars on the back road.
It is strongly recommended to book a tour with a tour company that provides an air-conditioned van and a professional driver, while you can simply sit back and enjoy the sites without worry.
You can book a tour here.
Unfortunately, the Road for Hana Tours at this point cannot provide wheelchair access.
Not everyone on the Road to Hana is an awe-struck tourist. If the locals honk and need to pass, please pull over and let them pass, or you will cause a jam on the Road.
Please carry snacks and enough water if you drive yourself, the Road to Hana has eateries and shops, but they are relatively scarce.
If you are a tourist driving to Hana, it is advisable you do not take the back road and drive back to Kahului the same way you came.
Yes, most tours set aside time for swimming, but you must carry your own towels.
The road to Hana is a popular vacation attraction that can get crowded.
Since the road is narrow, the touring vehicle can only afford to stop for extended periods of time if parking space is available at the stop in question.
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