Famous for its unblemished landscapes and towering waterfalls, one of the best ways to explore the Road to Hana is on one of the many guided tours on offer.
(Photo: Dynamic Tour USA / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
Stretching for some 64 glorious miles, the scenic highway on the Hawaiian island of Maui is a major tourist attraction and draws huge numbers of visitors every year. If you’d like to embark on the famous road trip for yourself, there are several organised tours available that include your own driver, allowing you to kick back and enjoy the majestic views. We’ve picked out 5 of the best below.
Road to Hana Adventure with Breakfast & Lunch
Packed with stops along the way, this full-day tour follows a popular loop, first heading south inland via Keokea, before turning eastwards and connecting with Route 360 towards Hana. From there, it’s back up the Hana Highway to Kahului. Visiting the rolling pastures of Kaupo Ranch first, you’ll get to see Maui’s rural, wilder side. After passing the impressive Wailua waterfall, you’ll then enter the Road to Hana, stopping for a picnic lunch at Koki Beach, Hana Bay and the black sand beach of Wainapanapa. More waterfalls and freshwater pools await, with the chance to swim in Pua’a Ka’a State Park. Among the many other stops, a visit to a traditional Hawaiian village is another highlight. From $199 per person.
Full-Day Upcountry Tour with Sunset
(Photo: Maui Seasons / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
Drive along the Road to Hana, view turtles at Ho’okipa, explore tranquil botanical gardens, and catch a magical sunset on this captivating full-day tour. After a morning hotel pick-up, you’ll travel to Ho’okipa (Turtle Beach), known for its waves and reef. Next, it’s on to the Garden of Eden Arboretum and Botanical garden to see some of the 700-plus species that reside here. Over the rest of the day, you’ll visit the Twin Falls trail in Maui, known for its beautiful waterfalls, and the small town of Paia. Your final stop is Rice Park, a great place to watch the sunset as the sun dips behind the West Maui Mountains. The tour price includes pick-up and drop-off, plus lunch and dinner. From $1,595 per group (max 20 people).
Road To Hana: Audio-Driving Tour
Ideal for independent travellers on a budget, if you like the prospect of seeing the Road to Hana at your own pace without being rushed or forced to make stops, this self-guided audio-driving tour from Kahului could be for you. You’ll be given an itinerary of the legendary drive with step-by-step directions and commentary about the area, its history, and what makes the road so special. During your tour, you’ll have the chance to see a black-sand beach, numerous waterfalls, and much more, while listening to behind-the-scenes stories and local tips as you drive. Stop and start as you please and skip stops if you fancy. . From $10 per person.
Road to Hana Helicopter & Waterfall Tour with Landing
(Photo: Maverick Helicopters Hawaii / Courtesy GetYourGuide)
When time’s at a premium but money less so, an alternative way to see the Road to Hana is from the air. Departing from Kahului Airport, this 40-minute helicopter flight sweeps over the lush rainforest south towards Hana, taking in the coastline, the winding road and some stunning waterfalls. Touching down on an old taro plantation in the Wailua Valley rainforest, you’ll have 30 minutes (in addition to 40 minutes air time) to explore this remote stretch of land, with its banana trees and wild flowers. Back in the air, you’ll return via a different route. Your pilot will also provide in-flight commentary along the way putting names to the beautiful places below. From $358 per person.
Private Luxury Road to Hana Tour with Included Meals
Set off on a stress-free private luxury tour of Maui and the Road to Hana in the comfort of a Cadillac Escalade. Starting with a hotel collection, during the exclusive 11-hour trip you’ll get to stop off to see waterfalls, jungles and beaches, with options for swimming along the way, too. There’ll also be a light breakfast and lunch, to keep energy levels up. Splash around in breath-taking waterfalls, learn about the local culture and history from your guide, and visit some of the lesser-known parts of the island before being dropped off back at your hotel. From $2,595 per group (max 6 people).