A Voyage on the Road to Hana

Just a little over 20 minutes past Paia lies your first stop(s) on the Road to Hana: Hoolawa Valley and Twin Falls. The hiking trails there lead to multiple waterfalls, and you can tour the hospitable Wailele Farm.

Your second stop is a drive-thru arboretum and botanical garden worthy of its name. A stunning spread of impeccably-maintained flora, the Garden of Eden is full of “earthly delights” like captivating ocean views, a local art gallery, and a 100 year old mango tree. You might even recognize the Keopuka Rock Overlook from the first Jurassic Park movie

You don’t have to camp to enjoy what many consider to be the best campground on Maui. You can swim on a striking black sand beach, hike gorgeous trails, dip in freshwater ponds and explore the more than 30 ancient relics there.

You have to see the “Hana” of “Road To Hana” fame; a place often mentioned in history and legends. Many call Hana “the real Hawaii,” because the town hasn’t changed very much since the days of the Kingdom of Hawaii. Learn all about Hana by visiting its cultural center, and stock up on goods at the Hasegawa General Store.

Brake for a beach that is near perfect. The cream-colored sand feels like satin, the unpolluted water is remarkably clear, and the Hala tree-lined shores provide plenty of shade from the sun. You will appreciate amenities like showers and foot-washing stations before the next leg of your drive.

Ample parking makes it easy to stop and marvel at the 80 foot waterfall. But don’t just look at it. Enjoy the natural swimming pool and then refuel with a bite from a friendly local vendor before hitting the road again.

Your seventh and final stop on the Road to Hana is a palatial reserve of natural beauty on the eastern coastal side of Haleakala. Hike the Pipiwai trail, stop by the 184 foot Makahiku falls, and see how many ancient Hawaiian ruins you can count.