A Day Trip to Maui – Road to Hana

Introduction

Embarking on the iconic Road to Hana in Maui promises a day filled with breathtaking landscapes, delicious bites, and unforgettable moments. If you’re wondering how to make the most of this scenic journey in under 24 hours, here’s a budget-friendly itinerary to guide you. 

Island Hopping from Oahu to Maui

We island-hopped from Oahu to Maui with a pre-planned roundtrip airfare of just $80! The 23-minute flight from Honolulu to Maui was a breeze, and taking the earliest flight allowed us to beat the car rental lines and get a head start before the tourist rush.

Fueling Up at Pa’ia Coffee Bar

Our first stop after securing our car rental was Pa’ia Coffee Bar. We ordered breakfast and coffee from the outdoor window, savoring our meal on the go.

Pit Stop at Mile Marker 22

The initial plan was to drive directly to Hana and explore various stops on the return journey, but the winding roads prompted us to take brief breaks to prevent motion sickness. A delightful surprise awaited us at Mile Marker 22, where we discovered Pua’aka’a Falls and impeccably maintained bathrooms. Adjacent picnic tables provided an ideal spot to savor the natural surroundings, and a short walking trail led to a falls and a freshwater pool, adding an extra layer of enchantment to the experience.

Hana Beach Bliss

In Hana, we headed straight to the beach, capturing the beauty of the surroundings. Public restrooms were available for convenience.

Lunch at Huli Huli Chicken, Koki

A visit to Huli Huli Chicken at Koki for lunch was a must. Featured on Gordon Ramsay’s Uncharted, this hidden gem offers delicious chicken and spectacular views. Cash-only, with the chicken plate at $18 and the chicken and ribs plate at $25.

Exploring Wai’anapanapa State Park 

Next, we explored Wai’anapanapa State Park, walking along the beach where the sand is black because it was formed by volcanic materials and lava fragments, and exploring a lava tube. Reservations are necessary, and the $10 per vehicle parking fee, along with a $5 per person entry fee, is well worth the three-hour exploration time. Also, note that sand and rocks should not be taken as souvenirs, unless you want the wrath of Pele’s Curse.

Foodie Stops on the Drive Back

Our drive back turned into a foodie adventure with must-visit spots like Coconut Glen’s for vegan ice cream and Aunty Sandy’s Famous Banana Bread.

Wrapping Up in Pa’ia

Ending our road trip where it began, Pa’ia town offered souvenir shopping and a dinner at Pa’ia Fish Market, always bustling with a line out the door.

Final Thoughts and Tips:

• Wearing seasick bands spared us from motion sickness—a handy tip for those susceptible.
• Be sure to bring a phone charger and also note that service is spotty so also be sure to download maps and any other notes for places you want to visit.
• Even with stops available along the way, it’s still a good idea to pack a few snacks and drinks.
• Respect posted signs for safety and environmental preservation.
• Before returning our car rental, we fueled up at Costco and stopped in for affordable souvenirs and Hawaiian goodies.

Reflection on the Day:

While exploring various places and encountering roosters, stray cats, dogs, and cows, the absence of sea turtles was a disappointment. Despite this, these moments became highlights, making the adventure truly memorable. Looking ahead, we plan to stay a little longer for extended hikes and perhaps a tour on our next visit. Reflecting on our experiences, we boarded one of the last flights out of Maui to Oahu.

Have you ventured along the enchanting Road to Hana? Share your experiences, tips, or hidden gems in the comments below. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first Maui adventure, the Road to Hana beckons with its mesmerizing beauty and timeless allure.