Embark on a scenic road trip along the Road to Hana in Maui with an engaging audio driving tour. Discover hidden gems, famous highlights, and local tips along the way.
Embark on a scenic road trip along the Road to Hana in Maui with an engaging audio driving tour. Discover hidden gems, famous highlights, and local tips along the way.
- Haleakalā National Park - A vast dormant volcano towering over Maui, renowned for its surreal crater and breathtaking sunrise views. With its lava landscapes and the lush Kīpahulu coast, it feels like two parks in one.
- Waialua - A tranquil East Maui community surrounded by verdant valleys and waterfalls. It offers a serene stretch along the…
- Haleakalā National Park - A vast dormant volcano towering over Maui, renowned for its surreal crater and breathtaking sunrise views. With its lava landscapes and the lush Kīpahulu coast, it feels like two parks in one.
- Waialua - A tranquil East Maui community surrounded by verdant valleys and waterfalls. It offers a serene stretch along the Road to Hāna, where rainforest scenery begins to dominate.
- Wailua Falls - The Road to Hāna drive is dotted with numerous waterfalls as it meanders through gulches and ravines along the side of the Haleakalā Volcano.
While beauty is subjective, many consider Wailua Falls to be the most picturesque.
Situated between Hāna and the ʻOheʻo Pools, it’s a must-stop for capturing classic photos at this stunning location.
- Wailua Valley State Wayside Park - Wailua Valley State Wayside Park offers a scenic overlook with sweeping views of Wailua Valley’s lush rainforest and distant waterfalls. It’s a quick pull-off with one of the most dramatic vistas along the Road to Hāna.
- Hanawī Falls - Hanawī Falls is a tall, tiered waterfall visible right from the roadside bridge. After heavy rain, it roars through the rainforest, making it one of the most dramatic cascades along the Road to Hāna.
- Ke’anae Arboretum - The Arboretum at Keʻanae is an easy, free location where visitors can see a collection of tropical plants and trees.
It takes less than 30 minutes to see and photograph the golden-stemmed bamboo, ginger, papaya, and hibiscus.
Continuing along the trail that follows the Piʻinaʻau Stream leads walkers to terraces created by ancient Hawaiians for taro cultivation.
Perhaps the highlight of the Arboretum is the opportunity to get up close to the Rainbow Eucalyptus trees with their brightly colored bark, which looks almost unreal.
- Keʻanae Road - The flat peninsula that extends into the ocean was formed by an outflow of volcanic lava from Haleakalā, which looms above. It left behind a small oasis, perfect for taro farming.
There is a charming small church made of coral and lava rock, built over a century and a half ago.
It’s delightful to watch the waves crash against the spire-like rocky outcrops, and visitors are almost guaranteed to find some coconuts along the shore.
- Honomanu Bay - Honomanu Bay is a secluded black-sand and rock bay nestled between steep green cliffs. Wild, windswept, and often rough, it’s more about the raw coastal scenery than swimming.
- Kaumahina State Wayside Park - Kaumahina State Wayside Park is a cliffside overlook with sweeping views of Maui’s northeastern coastline. Picnic tables and lush greenery make it a peaceful pause along the winding Road to Hāna.
- Puʻohokamoa Falls - Puʻohokamoa Falls is a tall, dramatic waterfall cascading through dense rainforest. Best viewed from above near the road, it’s one of the most impressive hidden gems along the Road to Hāna.
- Upper Waikani Falls - Waikani Falls, also known as the 3 Bears Falls, is one of the most popular falls on the Road to Hāna due to 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 three separate falls: one large, one medium, and one small.
- Puaʻa Kāʻa Falls - Puaʻa Kāʻa Falls is a pair of easily accessible waterfalls nestled inside a lush state wayside park. A short walk leads to cool pools beneath the falls, making it one of the most convenient swim stops on the Road to Hāna.
- Waiʻānapanapa State Park - Waiʻānapanapa State Park is home to Maui’s famous black sand beach, sea caves, and rugged lava cliffs. Dramatic coastal views and crashing waves make this one of the most iconic stops near Hāna.
- Kaihalulu Beach - Kaihalulu Beach is a striking red-sand cove tucked beneath steep cliffs near Hāna. The short, steep trail adds a bit of adventure, while the crescent-shaped bay offers a uniquely colorful coastal scene.
- Hāna - Hāna is a small, laid-back town at the end of the legendary Road to Hāna. Surrounded by rainforest, waterfalls, and rugged coastline, it feels worlds away from Maui’s resort crowds.
- Hāna Bay - Hāna Bay is a calm, crescent-shaped bay fronting the heart of Hāna town. It’s a peaceful spot for a stroll, picnic, or watching local life unfold by the water.
- Hāna Cultural Center - Hāna Cultural Center is a small museum preserving the history and heritage of East Maui. Exhibits highlight Hawaiian traditions, plantation life, and the unique story of Hāna’s tight-knit community.
- Hasegawa General Store - Hasegawa General Store is a beloved Hāna landmark that’s been serving locals and travelers for generations. It’s the go-to spot for snacks, souvenirs, and a bit of old-school small-town charm.
- Koki Beach Park - On the same turnoff that leads to Hamoa Beach, visitors can stop and enjoy the view of the ex-cinder cone that created the quirky-looking Alau Island, which 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.
- Hana Lava Tube - The Hana Lava Tube is a location where visitors 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, it’s lots of fun to explore. This is a paid attraction.
- Kahanu Garden, National Tropical Botanical Garden - Kahanu Garden is a lush botanical garden near Hāna featuring native Hawaiian plants and one of the largest ancient heiau (temples) in Polynesia. It’s a peaceful place where nature and culture meet. An entry fee applies.
- Pīpīwai Trail - Pīpīwai Trail is a stunning hike in the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā, leading through bamboo forest, past waterfalls, and up to the towering Waimoku Falls.
The full hike is a 4-mile loop trail, climbing 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, hikers are rewarded with views of the Makahiku 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 furthest point. Sections through bamboo forest are especially peaceful.
Since it is inside Haleakalā National Park, be aware that you will need to show your NPS pass for entry, or purchase one on arrival, and that you need to exit the Kīpahulu District by 5pm (last entry is at 4:30pm).
- Kīpahulu - Kīpahulu is a quiet coastal community and the eastern district of Haleakalā National Park. Known for lush valleys, ʻOheʻo Gulch pools, and access to the Pīpīwai Trail, it blends rainforest scenery with rugged shoreline.
- ʻOheʻo Gulch - At the end of the Road to Hāna drive lies the ʻOheʻo Gulch at Kīpahulu. This is the ocean-level extension of the Haleakalā National Park, which spans from the summit at over 10,000 feet down to this location at sea level.
The Kīpahulu District is open 9am - 5pm. The inbound gate into this area of the park will close at 4:30pm ahead of the 5pm closure. Please plan your trip accordingly and exit the park promptly by 5pm.
The favorite location in the gulch is the ʻOheʻo Pools, also known as the Seven Sacred Pools. Pools are opened and closed for swimming and wading depending on conditions, so it’s best to check ahead. There are also short walks available, including views of the wild ocean shore typical at this location. This is also the site of the trailhead for the Pīpīwai Trail.
Since the ʻOheʻo Gulch is within the National Park, you must pay for entry or show your existing National Park Pass. You can also use the same pass at the Haleakalā summit location within 3 days.
- Garden of Eden Arboretum & Botanical Garden - Garden of Eden Arboretum is a privately owned botanical garden overlooking the dramatic Road to Hāna coastline. Lush walking paths, tropical plants, and sweeping ocean viewpoints make it a popular scenic stop. An entry fee applies.
- Twin Falls Maui - Twin Falls is usually the first location along the Road to Hāna drive where visitors will want to get out of the car and enjoy a short hike.
The falls are picturesque, and you can cross the stream in many places, with bamboo forest seen along the 1.5-mile trail. There are choices about how far you want to go and what to see.
The trail is frequently muddy, so wear appropriate footwear. The farmstand is a great place to grab a morning tropical fruit smoothie.
Access to Twin Falls is restricted to Hawaiian residents only on Kama’āina Exclusive Days, on the first Saturday of every month.
- Black Sand Beach - Waiʻānapanapa Black Sand Beach Reservations: Reservations are required to access Waiʻānapanapa State Park (Black Sand Beach). Book your tickets well ahead as reservations sell out and must be booked at least 1 day in advance of travel on the gostateparks.hawaii.gov site. You cannot make same-day reservations. There are no alternative parking options. Expect to arrive around 3hrs - 4hrs after setting out from Pāʻia, or 1hr from ʻOheʻo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools). We’ll remind you of timing within the tour.
Waiʻānapanapa 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 offshore and find the blowhole. This is also a place steeped in Hawaiian legend. It’s a must-stop on our tour.
- Pāʻia - Pāʻia is a colorful North Shore surf town known for its laid-back vibe, boutique shops, and local cafés. It’s the traditional starting point for the Road to Hāna adventure.
- Nāhiku Marketplace - Nāhiku Marketplace is a small roadside stop offering fresh coconut, banana bread, and local treats in a lush rainforest setting. A quick, casual break along the Road to Hāna.
- Ching’s Pond - Ching’s Pond is a secluded freshwater swimming hole tucked along the Road to Hāna. Surrounded by rainforest and lava rock, it’s a peaceful spot to cool off when conditions are safe.
- Pēʻahi - Pēʻahi, better known as Jaws, is a legendary surf break on Maui’s North Shore famous for massive winter waves. When conditions align, it becomes one of the most thrilling big-wave surf spots in the world.
- Ulupalakua - Ulupalakua is a quiet Upcountry Maui community known for rolling ranchlands, cooler breezes, and wide-open views toward the ocean. It offers a peaceful contrast to the island’s busy beaches.
- MauiWine - MauiWine, located at historic ʻUlupalakua Ranch, is known for unique pineapple and estate-grown wines. Set in Maui’s scenic Upcountry, it’s a relaxed stop with sweeping views and local flavor.
- Manawainui Gulch - Manawainui Gulch is a deep, rugged ravine carved into the dry southern slopes of Haleakalā. Remote and dramatic, it marks one of the wilder stretches beyond Hāna along the Piʻilani Highway.
- Waikamoi Stream - Waikamoi Stream is a rainforest-fed stream crossed by several narrow bridges along the Road to Hāna. Surrounded by thick greenery and flowing water, it’s part of the lush scenery that defines East Maui.
- Waikamoi Ridge Trail - Waikamoi Ridge Trail is a short loop trail through native forest, offering a quiet break from the road. Shaded by ʻōhiʻa trees and ferns, it’s a peaceful way to experience Maui’s upland rainforest.
- Huakini Bay - Huakini Bay is a remote stretch of rugged coastline beyond Hāna, marked by rocky shores and sweeping ocean views. Quiet and windswept, it feels far removed from the busy resort areas.
- Fagan’s Cross - Fagan’s Cross is a white cross perched high above Hāna, offering sweeping views of the coastline and town below. A short uphill walk rewards you with one of East Maui’s best panoramic lookouts.
- Hāna Tropicals - Hāna Tropicals is a colorful roadside nursery and garden near Hāna featuring exotic tropical plants and flowers. A quick stop to wander among vibrant blooms and island greenery.
- Saint Joseph Church - Saint Joseph Church is a small, historic seaside church overlooking the ocean near Hāna. Its simple white structure and peaceful setting make it one of East Maui’s most photogenic landmarks.
- Uakea Road - Uakea Road is a small residential road in Hāna that leads toward coastal viewpoints and local spots. Quiet and tucked away, it offers a glimpse into everyday life in East Maui.
- Hamoa Beach - Undoubtedly the best beach in East Maui, and the best swimming beach along the Road to Hāna.
This sandy cove is often sheltered from direct ocean swells and strong winds. It’s well worth bringing your swimsuit just to enjoy Hamoa Beach.
However, always be aware of the conditions, and don’t go into the water or extend beyond your abilities if the conditions are not calm.
- Ho‘okipa - Located just outside of Pāʻia, Ho‘okipa has an excellent surf break.
On most days, as the trade winds begin to blow, kite and windsurfers will appear. Grab some take-away from Pāʻia or the local food trucks and watch from the elevated headland.
It’s also an excellent place to spot green sea turtles in the surf or as they come ashore to rest. Be sure to give them plenty of space. They are protected by the Endangered Species Act and also fiercely by locals.

- Support: Toll free phone, chat and email
- Free Trip Planners: In-app, web and PDF
- Bonus GuideAlong Backroad to Hana Audio Tour
- Easy To Use: Pre-download and tour offline
- Location Based: Stories, tips & directions that autoplay
- Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates
- GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide) Audio Tour: 140+ Points
- Flexible Routes: Suggested itineraries or create your own
- Support: Toll free phone, chat and email
- Free Trip Planners: In-app, web and PDF
- Bonus GuideAlong Backroad to Hana Audio Tour
- Easy To Use: Pre-download and tour offline
- Location Based: Stories, tips & directions that autoplay
- Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates
- GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide) Audio Tour: 140+ Points
- Flexible Routes: Suggested itineraries or create your own
- National Park Passes
- Timed Entry/Reservations
- National Park Passes
- Timed Entry/Reservations
Download GuideAlong’s (GyPSy Guide) self-guided Road to Hana audio tour to enhance your Maui road trip experience. Enjoy captivating behind-the-scenes stories, local insights, and directions that play automatically as you travel, all triggered by your location.
This tour will lead you to both the renowned highlights and hidden treasures of the area,…
Download GuideAlong’s (GyPSy Guide) self-guided Road to Hana audio tour to enhance your Maui road trip experience. Enjoy captivating behind-the-scenes stories, local insights, and directions that play automatically as you travel, all triggered by your location.
This tour will lead you to both the renowned highlights and hidden treasures of the area, including Maui’s iconic black sand beach, numerous stunning waterfalls, beaches where you can spot green sea turtles, and the best spot to view the vibrant Rainbow Eucalyptus trees.
Experience the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, allowing you to spend more time at places that captivate you and skip those that don’t.
✅ Stories, tips, and directions play automatically based on your location
✅ Travel at your own pace
✅ Tour offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi required
✅ Suggested itineraries for half, full, or multi-day use
✅ Purchase once, enjoy forever! No expiration, includes free updates.
✅ Includes 3 driving route options
Purchase one tour per vehicle.
- How to Access: After booking you’ll receive an email and text with instructions (search “Download Audio Tour”). Click the link in the email/text to sign in with your preferred Apple or Google account and redeem your voucher code ahead of time.
- Download The GuideAlong App: Download the free app over WiFi or cellular data and sign in with the same Apple or Google account.
- Download The Tour: Download the tour in the GuideAlong app under ‘My Tours’ over WiFi or cellular data.
- Start The Tour: Open the tour in the GuideAlong app to preview the start locations, tour route and trip planner, or start the tour.
- Location-Based Stories: Audio commentary plays automatically as you drive using your phone’s GPS chip. Wherever you are and whichever direction you’re going, you’ll hear the best stories and tips.
- Flexible Travel Date: Tours are a one-time purchase with no expiry or date/time limit. If your plans change to a different day, there’s no need to change your travel date.
- Tour at Your Leisure: With GuideAlong, you control the pace. Start, stop, and resume the tour any day, anytime, adapting it to your schedule.
- Driving Tours: Group Savings: One purchase covers everyone in the vehicle, making it a cost-effective way to explore.
- Works Offline: No internet or cell service is required once the audio tour is downloaded to your phone, so you can relax and tour offline.
- Bring A Charger: Pack a USB/C car charger for charging and easy sound connectivity, and make sure your device is fully charged.
- Technical Support: The GuideAlong support team is available daily by toll-free phone, online chat, and email.
- Audio: The app’s audio will play through your car’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto display, while the app’s map will display on your phone. You can connect your phone to the car via Bluetooth to listen to the commentary through the car stereo.
- Reservations are necessary for visiting Black Sand Beach at Wai’anapana State Park. Admission fees apply for the Garden of Eden and are not included in the tour price.
- Important Note: Please note that recent Kona storm impacts in Hawaiʻi have caused flooding, debris, and temporary road disruptions. Although conditions are getting better, some parts of Maui County and Hawaiʻi Island may still experience delays, cleanup work, or closures. Please review current road updates before your trip.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.