Maui’s Road to Hana: 10 things to know!
Maui’s Road to Hana is a spectacular, unique drive.
It’s full of amazing sites, natural wonders, and several things I wish I’d known before we set off!
I’ll get to the warnings in a moment, but if you plan to visit the stunning Black Sand Beach, you’ll need to apply for a permit! Recently, the State of Hawaii started limiting the number of cars allowed per day.
Let me be clear: the Road to Hana is well worth the hassles… but here are a few things to keep in mind:
Car Rental
A lot of people rent SUVs or convertibles, but I’d get a small car.
Some of the bridges are single-lane (photo down below), and it’s just easier to maneuver a small car around the curves. Plus, you’ll save money! We only spent $30 for gas (at $4.50 a gallon) after driving for seven hours.
Fill your tank
Make sure to fill the tank before leaving. There are a couple gas stations in Hana, but you’ll pay an extra couple dollars *per gallon.
Cell service
Cell service dies as soon as you leave the town of Paia. It really doesn’t pick back up until you get to Hana.
Make sure you keep your map app open on your phone, so you can follow along with blue dot.
Curvy roads
Take motion sickness medication before leaving (non drowsy!). I was driving, and even got queasy on the drive back to Lahaina.
Delays
Expect construction along the way. The road is so narrow, that any construction project will shut at least one lane down.
Traffic will take turns going in each direction.
Cash is king
Bring cash. The food trucks and stores along the way sometimes only accept cash. And things are expensive! Ice cream at Coconut Glen’s was $8 for two scoops. Delicious, though :)
Parking tickets
Park in legal spots as you walk off toward the beaches and waterfalls.
We saw officers in Hana handing out tickets, which start at $35, and go up from there.
Share the road
Especially at night, beware of animals crossing the road.
You’ll see dogs, cows, chickens, and more wandering around the highway, which has almost no lights.
9. It’s longer (and slower) than you think
Reserve the entire day. The earlier. you start, the better! For much of the drive, you won’t be able to go much faster than 15-20mph.
10. Patience, please
This is my weak spot. I hate traffic, and really don’t do well in overcrowded parking lots.
During high tourist season(s) be prepared for traffic on the Road to Hana to come to a standstill at times.
Parking at most locations is extremely limited, and some of the lots only fit a few cars at a time.
ALL THAT BEING SAID, the Road to Hana is well worth the challenges and frustrations that come along with a drive through paradise!
Check out my other blogs about some of our favorite stops, including the Red Sand Beach … and the famous rainbow eucalyptus trees.
