Welcome to The Road to Hana, a scenic drive on the Hawaiian island of Maui. It is a 64-mile long road that takes you through lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls and breathtaking coastal views. The road is famous for its narrow bridges, hairpin turns, and stunning natural beauty.
The journey to Hana can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on how many stops you make along the way. Along the road, you will find several lookout points where you can stop and take in the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
One of the highlights of the Road to Hana is the Seven Sacred Pools, also known as Ohe’o Gulch. This series of waterfalls and pools is a popular spot for swimming and hiking. Another must-see attraction is the Wailua Falls, a 80-foot waterfall that cascades into a pool below.
The Road to Hana is not just about the destination but also about the journey and during that journey you will discover many things about the place, and even about yourself. It’s a route that will bring you and your companions closer together, and perhaps even help you conquer some of your greatest fears, such as taking the leap off of waterfalls.
But here are a couple of less known facts abot the road to Hana:
- The road was originally built in the early 1900s as a narrow footpath for native Hawaiians to access the remote town of Hana. Kind of a goat trail if you wish. It wasn’t until the 1960s that it was paved and opened to cars.
- The road has over 600 curves and 50 one-lane bridges, making it a challenging drive for even the most experienced drivers.
- The area surrounding the Road to Hana is home to many rare and endangered plant and animal species, including the Hawaiian monk seal, hawksbill turtle, and several species of birds.
- Along the road, you’ll find several fruit stands selling locally grown produce like mangoes, papayas, and coconuts. Some of these stands even offer fresh banana bread, a local delicacy.
- The Road to Hana is also known for its black sand beaches, which are formed from volcanic ash. One of the most popular is Wai’anapanapa State Park, where you can explore sea caves and lava tubes.
- The road is named after the town of Hana, which is located at the end of the drive. Hana is a small, remote town with a population of around 1,200 people. It is known for its laid-back vibe and stunning natural beauty.
As you learned so far The scenic Hana Highway features winding roads and renting a car allows visitors to take their time and enjoy the journey at their own pace. However, it’s important to note that the road can be narrow and winding, so it’s recommended to rent a smaller car for easier maneuverability. Additionally, visitors should be aware of the rental car company’s policies regarding driving on the Road to Hana, as some companies may have restrictions or additional fees.
I hope you found these facts interesting and E ʻike iā ʻoe ma laila (See you there!)