The Road to Hana: a 2-day itinerary

When visiting Maui, The Road to Hana is usually at the top of everyone’s list. It’s a beautiful scenic drive with a huge amount to see. 

Unfortunately, most visitors only plan to spend one day on this adventure and end up being rushed and missing many of the sights. If you are lucky enough to have a bit of spare time in your Maui itinerary, I highly recommend making this a two-day excursion! 

Below you will find the ultimate two-day itinerary for the Road To Hana, along with interesting historical, cultural, and fun facts about each stop! 

Day 1 on the Road to Hana

Twin Falls (Mile Marker 2) 

Plan on arriving at Twin Falls right at or before 8:00 am. There are only 55 parking spots available and they fill up quickly! Parking does cost 10 dollars per car. 

After parking, you’ll see the trailhead just to the left of the fruit stand. The trail is a short 1.8-mile (round trip) trek to the famous Twin Falls. Spend some time admiring the falls or take a dip in the pool below (at your own risk).

Before leaving, grab some breakfast from the Wailele Farm Stand. 

History lesson! The Wailele Farm was first purchased by six shareholders in 1996. Over the years, they slowly began planting more and more species of plants (350+ species)  and making small improvements to the farm, trail, and parking lot.

What started as a small family-run farm has blossomed into a great tourist attraction for visitors to experience the beauty of Maui. It is still run by the children of the original purchasers. Today, the farm sees anywhere from 300-1500+ visitors each day.

Pua'a Ka'a State Wayside Park (Mile Marker 22)

Nestled within a 5-acre State Park, you’ll find a picturesque waterfall and swimming hole. The falls are just a short hike from the (extremely small) parking lot. 

If you do not find a parking spot right away, be patient as most people do not stay here too long. It is free to park and there are picnic tables and restrooms available. 

Hanawi Falls (Mile Marker 24) 

Less than 2 miles from Pua’a Ka’a State Park, you’ll find another amazing roadside waterfall. You can view Hanawi Falls right from the bridge. It’s a great stop for a couple of quick photos! 

Fun Fact! The water at these falls comes from the spring-fed Hanawi Stream which runs 9 miles down the mountainside to the remote village of Nahiku. George Harrison (former Beatles member) called this village home at one point. 

Hana Farms Roadside Stand (Mile Marker 31) 

After all your morning adventures, you’ve likely worked up an appetite. Luckily for you, Hana Farms is stocked full of delicious fresh foods! 

Situated on a 7-acre farm, you’ll find a roadside stand, a bakery, and a restaurant. 

History lesson! The land was first purchased in 1999 by two friends. What started as a simple roadside stand (just a white tent selling banana bread) has grown into a thriving business.

The founders strive to treat the sacred land with respect by building healthy soil and maximizing the potential to grow local produce. They want to give back to the town of Hana as much as possible.  

Wai’anapanapa State Park (Mile Marker 32) 

After you have filled your bellies, head to your final stop of the day, Wai’anapanapa State Park. Plan to spend more time at this stop as it is a true gem. 

The highlight of this state park is without a doubt the pristine black sand beach. Spend time taking in the view (the contrast of the black sand next to the vibrant green plants is out of this world) or splashing around in the water. 

In addition to the beach itself, the state park has over 120 acres to explore. Throughout the park, you’ll find natural arches, blowholes, caves, and Anchialine Pools. There are several hiking trails in the park that will take you past these natural wonders. 

Reservations are now required for this park and can be made online up to 30 days in advance (but no less than one day before your visit). 

Cultural Significance: Not only is Wai’anapanapa State Park breathtakingly beautiful, but it is also regarded as sacred to native Hawaiians.

It is said that Princess Popo’alaea hid out in the caves until she was murdered by her husband, Chief Ka’akea. Legend has it that the waters here appear to turn blood red each year on the anniversary of her death. 

Where to Stay: Town of Hana (Mile Marker 34) 

I know it’s called the “Road to Hana”, but there’s actually not a whole lot to do in the town of Hana. It’s more about the journey to get here. Anyway, it’s a great stopping point for the night to rest with several cute stays to choose from. 

Spend the night watching the sunset from your hotel and relaxing as you’ll have another busy day tomorrow! 

• Hana-Maui Resort: A luxurious option with oceanfront views.

• Bamboo Inn: This bed and breakfast has 3 cozy oceanfront suites to choose from. 

Day 2 on the Road to Hana:

After your restful night in Hana, get up bright and early (again) and start making your way back to Pai’a. Below are the recommended stops on Day 2! 

Mile Marker Side note: After the town of Hana, the mile markers jump to 51 and then go backwards. 

Pipiwai Trail (12 miles past Hana) 

This stop is actually 12 miles past Hana but is 100 percent worth it. One of the main benefits of spending the night in Hana ensures you will be one of the first visitors to the trail leading to a much more enjoyable and less crowded visit! 

Anyways, the Pipiwai trail is located inside the Kīpahulu District of Haleakala National Park. It’s an epic 3.8-mile hike that leads you to the base of the massive 400-ft Waimoku Falls. Throughout the hike, you’ll even get to trek through the famous bamboo forest! 

After your hike, be sure to stop and check out the nearby  Pools of ʻOheʻo along a quick .6-mile loop. 

Cultural Significance: The Kīpahulu District protects multiple intact ahupua'a or native Hawaiian land divisions. Native Hawaiians have lived on the land for over 1,000 years.

The Kipahulu District was actually home to many of the first Polynesian voyagers and the battleground between the chiefs of Maui and the chiefs of Hawaiʻi island. While hiking the Pipiwai Trail, you’ll even be able to see evidence of the Kīpahulu coastal village.

Wailua Falls (Mile Marker 45)

Another fun roadside waterfall to add to this Road To Hana bucket list! Wailua Falls is an amazing 80-ft waterfall with a swimming hole. You can see the falls from the road, or you can make the trek down to the bottom. It can be slippery, though, so be sure you are going slow, and you have the right footwear! 

Side note: If you didn’t pick up picnic foods in Hana, be sure to grab some snacks from the vendors at these falls! 

Hamoa Beach (Mile Marker 51)

Take the next hour or so to relax on this beautiful crescent-shaped beach. There are public bathrooms and showers available here. It is important to note that the walk down to the beach is short but steep. 

Maui’s Garden of Eden (Mile Marker 10) 

You’re almost back to the starting point, but not without one last stop at Maui’s Garden of Eden! 

The garden is a family-owned 26-acre haven for outdoor lovers. While visiting, you can stroll the 2.5-mile walking trail while you admire colorful collections of tropical flowers and trees. 

Although you do not need to make reservations, there is a $20 per person admission fee that can be paid upon arrival. 

If you are up for more of an adventure, you can even rappel down the waterfall in the garden. This does require an advanced reservation and can be done so here! 

Fun fact! The opening scene of Jurassic Park was filmed here. 

Dinner at Mama’s Fish House 

You’ve survived the twists and turns of the epic Road To Hana! Now time for a delicious dinner to celebrate! Head to the famous Mama’s Fish House in the town of Paia to indulge in some fresh seafood and a delicious tropical drink. 

Important! This restaurant is extremely popular (for a good reason), and books up months in advance! Be sure to make your reservation as early as possible! 

Sunset at Hookipa Beach

If you have any energy left after your two days of adventure, you can end with an amazing sunset at Hookipa Beach. It’s just 1-mile from Mama’s Fish House and a great place to relax, hang out with the resident sea turtles, and enjoy the beauty of Maui! 

Tip! Due to its close proximity to Mama’s Fish House, feel free to switch the two around to work around your reservation time at the restaurant.

Wow! What an adventure! I hope you found this Road to Hana itinerary extremely helpful in planning your road trip.