Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour in Road To Hana

As the audio guides play commentary based on your gps location, you can create your own itinerary along the tour route(s) to match your interests and schedule. Or you can use our trip planners for our suggestions on half, full or multi day itineraries. Some of the many highlights are listed below;

The Arboretum at Keanae is an easy, no-cost location where you can see a collection of tropical plants and trees. It takes less than 30 minutes to see and get pictures of the golden-stemmed bamboo, ginger, papaya and hibiscus. Continuing along the trail the follows the Piinaau Stream, leads walkers to to terraces that were created by ancient Hawaiians for taro cultivation. Perhaps the star of the show at the Arboretum is that you can get up close to the Rainbow Eucalyptus trees with its brightly colored bark, that looks too good to be true.

The Hana Lava Tube is a location where you can enter Maui's most accessible lava tube. You don't have to go all the way inside if you find caves claustrophobic - but if you are comfortable with it, its lots of fun to explore.

Not recommended for swimming due to constant winds and currents, but a spectacular place to chill and watch world class windsurfers. At the far right of the beach you’ll often find turtles snoozing on the beach. Did you know they can also sleep in the water? Give them plenty of space and remember - never touch. There's also washrooms, showers and some picnic areas.

Ke'anae Point is on a flat peninsula that juts out into the ocean was created by an outflow of volcanic lava from Haleakala which looms above us. It left behind a little oasis, ideal for taro farming. There is a picturesque small church made out of coral and lava rock, more than a century and a half ago. It's nice to watch the waves pound away at the spire-like rocky outcrops for a while and you are almost guaranteed of being able to find some coconuts along the shore.

Twin Falls is usually the first location along the Road to Hana drive where you will want to get out of the car and enjoy a short hike. The falls are picturesque, you can cross the stream in many places and bamboo forest is seen along the 1.5 mile trail. There are choices about how far you want to go and what to see. Trail is frequently muddy so wear appropriate footwear. The farmstand is a great place to grab a morning tropical fruit smoothie.

There are almost countless waterfalls along the Road to Hana drive, as it winds its way through gulches and ravines along the side of the Haleakala Volcano. Beauty can be arbitrary, but for many, Wailua Falls is the most picturesque. Located between Hana and the Oheo Pools, be sure to stop and capture some classic pictures at this beautiful location.

Waikani Falls is also called the 3 Bears Falls and it is one of the most popular falls on the Road to Hana because of its fun interpretation. After heavy rain, water cascades over the falls in one big, thick stream - one big bear. But when less water is flowing, it turns into 3 separate falls, one large, one medium and one small.

On the same turnoff that takes us to Hamoa Beach, we can stop and enjoy the view to the ex-cindercone that created the quirky-looking Alau Island, that sits about a quarter mile off Koki Beach. Not just a fun photo, this location is also steeped in Ancient Hawaiian legends about Pele - the Goddess of Volcanoes, and the demigod Maui.

Yes, you have your choice of beaches on the Road to Hana, but this little crescent shaped sandy beach is timed perfectly on the drive to stretch your legs and cool off or rest under a tree. While there are public bathrooms and showers, there are no lifeguards. When conditions are calm, it's family friendly, but always keep a close eye on the younger members of your party.

Wai'anapanapa State Park is home to Maui's most famous black sand beach and a park that includes several excellent examples of Maui's volcanic coast. Follow the signs to explore along the beach to spot the sea arch off shore and find the blowhole. This is also a place steeped in Hawaiian legend. It's a must-stop on the tour, with reservations required for entry.

Pipiwai Trail would have to be the favorite hiking trail on the Road to Hana. It is located at the Oheo Gulch area of Kipahulu, at the end of the drive. Since it is inside Haleakala National Park, be aware that you will need to show your NPS pass for entry, or purchase one on arrival. The full hike is a 4-mile loop trail, that climbs 650 feet of elevation. This is a moderate hike, but if conditions are hot, it can feel strenuous. Part of the way along the trail, you will be rewarded with views of the Makihiku Falls. If finding the hike difficult, this is a good place to turn back. Most will continue the hike to Waimoku Falls, the highlight and furthermost point. Sections through bamboo forest are especially peaceful. Expect the hike to take 2+ hours depending on your fitness level. So as long as you arrive at the trail by 2pm, you will have lots of time to hike and then drive back.

At the end of the Road to Hana drive lies the Oheo Gulch at Kipahulu. This is the ocean level extension of the Haleakala National Park, which spans from the summit at over 10,000 feet, down to this location at sea level. The favorite location in the gulch are the Oheo Pools, which are also known as the Seven Sacred Pools. Pools are opened and closed for swimming and wading depending on conditions, so best to check ahead. There are also short walks available, including views to the wild ocean shore that is typical at this location. This is also the location of the trailhead for the Pipiwai Trail. Since the Oheo Gulch is within the National Park you must pay for entry, or show your existing National Park Pass.