View from the Road to Hana

View from the Road to Hana

The Road to Hana is one of the top things and do in Maui and almost all of My Vacation Lady’s clients will make this drive during their stay in Maui.

It’s the one place that you’ll see 55+ one lane bridges, water falls, black sand beaches, a bamboo forest and some of the most beautiful sights and scenery on earth.

The first things to think about is:

  1. Do you want to do the drive yourself?  It can be pretty scary- especially if you aren’t an experienced driver.
  2. How much do you want to explore?  The road actually can go around most of the island but most rental car companies will not allow you to drive along the unpaved part of the road (just a few miles past the Seven Pools.
  3. Do you want to stay in Hana for a night or 2 to explore more of the Road to Hana?

So once you decide that you are going to drive the Road to Hana, what should you do?

1.  Make sure you have a full tank of gas.  The last gas station you’ll see is in Paia but it will be the most expensive.  So gas up near the airport or in West Maui before heading out.

2.  Bring a picnic lunch.  You can buy a picnic lunch from most hotels but we find it best to stop at the supermarket and get sandwiches and sodas.  You can also buy an insulated bag to keep them cool.

3. Bring some gum, peppermint candy, ginger ale or other anti nausea treatments in case you get car sick.  This road is very windy and can some people queasy.

4. Bring a rain poncho- it is the rainier side of the island.  You might want to bring some ziplock bags for your camera and phone, just in case.

5.  Bring your bathing suit and beach towel — the waterfalls and beaches may call your name.

6.  Bring mosquito repellent– you’ll be in a tropical rain forest.

7.  Wear sneakers or hiking boots.  The trails can muddy and slippery.  We saw many people trying to navigate some of the trails in flip flops.  That can be dangerous.

8.  Be a respectful driver and if someone wants to pass you, pull over and let them pass.

9.  Leave EARLY.  This is a full day trip.  If you can be on the road by 7am, you might beat some of the crowds.

10.  Respect the signs– if it says NO Swimming or No Jumping into the water, Just DON’T do it.  The currents can be stronger than you might think.

DO 

Take your time and enjoy the sights along the Road to Hana.  While you may be back in Hawaii again, your first time on the Road to Hana is always the most memorable.

My Vacation Lady is a Hawaii Destination Specialist and we have been to Hawaii eight times so far.  We can help you make the most of your time during your vacation or honeymoon to Hawaii.