The scenic Road to Hāna winding through lush Hawaiian rainforest with coastal views

The Journey: A Mile-Marker Adventure

Curated stops truly worth your time—from waterfall swims to legendary banana bread

Jade Kawanui, local Maui expert and Road to Hāna guide

Written by a Local Expert

The Journey: A Mile-Marker Adventure Through Paradise

Mile Marker Confusion Warning

Mile markers can be very confusing. The numbering starts on Highway 36, then resets to zero near mile 16 when the road becomes Highway 360. After you pass Hāna town, markers jump to 51 and start counting down. My advice? Set your car's trip odometer to zero in Pāʻia or rely on a good GPS app to track your location.

Now for the fun part! This isn't a list of every single stop. This is my curated selection—the places truly worth your precious time.

Start

Pāʻia Town (The Starting Line)

This is your last taste of civilization before the rainforest takes over. Pāʻia is a vibrant, historic plantation town with a bohemian surf vibe.

My Take

Don't spend too much time here on your way out, but definitely grab what you need. Coffee and pastry from Paia Bay Coffee & Bar, picnic supplies at Mana Foods, and most importantly, get gas!

Why It's Special

It's the perfect place to get into the Maui mindset before beginning the drive.

Logistics

Plan 30-45 minutes. You'll find gas, food, shops, and restrooms here.

Mile 9

Hoʻokipa Lookout (Highway 36)

This quick but absolutely essential first stop offers a sweeping vista of one of the world's most famous windsurfing and surfing spots.

My Take

The energy here is incredible, especially when winter swells are up. My favorite time to stop is late afternoon on the way back, when you can often see our beloved honu (Hawaiian green sea turtles) hauling themselves onto the beach to rest for the night. Remember to give them plenty of space—it's the law, and it's the right thing to do.

Why It's Special

World-class water sports and frequent turtle sightings make this a must-see.

Logistics

Plan 15 minutes. No amenities at the lookout, but restrooms are at the beach park below.

Mile 2

Twin Falls (Highway 360)

As the first easily accessible waterfall on the road, this spot draws huge crowds. A farm stand at the entrance sells smoothies and fruit.

My Take

I'm going to be honest with you. This stop can be a tourist trap. Because it's the first waterfall, the parking lot is often full by 9 AM, causing traffic jams. If you see a line of cars, my advice is to skip it. There are dozens of more beautiful and less crowded waterfalls ahead. However, if you have very young children or mobility issues, the short, flat walk to the lower falls is a great, easy option.

Why It's Special

The most accessible waterfall on the road.

Logistics

Plan 30-60 minutes. Easy walk to lower falls, moderate hike to upper falls. Farm stand and portable toilets available.

Mile 7

Rainbow Eucalyptus Grove (Highway 360)

You'll see a small pull-off and a grove of what look like painted trees. The bark of Rainbow Eucalyptus naturally peels to reveal vibrant streaks of green, orange, red, and purple.

My Take

These trees are stunning, but it's crucial to know they're on private property. Please admire and photograph them from the safety of the roadside pullout. Don't cross the road or trespass onto the property for a selfie.

Why It's Special

A unique and beautiful natural wonder you won't see anywhere else.

Logistics

Plan 5 minutes. No amenities available.

Mile 16-17

Keʻanae Peninsula (Turnoff)

This detour is a journey back in time. A narrow road leads down to a peninsula formed by an ancient lava flow from Haleakalā.

My Take

This is a non-negotiable stop for me. The dramatic scene of brilliant blue Pacific crashing against jagged, black lava rock coastline captures the very essence of East Maui. This is also home to Aunty Sandy's, where you can get a loaf of the best banana bread on the island, served warm. Don't miss the old stone church from 1860, which was the only building to survive the 1946 tsunami that wiped out the village.

Why It's Special

Raw coastal beauty, fascinating history, and legendary banana bread.

Logistics

Plan 30-45 minutes. Easy walk. Food stand and public restrooms near the church.

Mile 18.8

Wailua Valley State Wayside

This quick stop offers a massive payoff. A short flight of stairs from the small parking area leads to a breathtaking overlook.

My Take

Don't blink or you might miss it! From here, you get a panoramic view of traditional Wailua village and its vibrant green kalo (taro) patches. On a clear day, you can look mauka (toward the mountain) and see the Koʻolau Gap, a massive valley leading into Haleakalā crater.

Why It's Special

A stunning, easily accessible viewpoint with deep cultural significance.

Logistics

Plan 10-15 minutes. No amenities available.

Mile 22.5

Puaʻa Kaʻa State Wayside Park

This park is a welcome oasis with rare amenities on the long drive.

My Take

This is my top recommendation for a safe and family-friendly waterfall swim. The falls are gentle, and the pool is easily accessible. More importantly, it has real restrooms and picnic tables, making it the perfect spot to stop and enjoy the lunch you packed.

Why It's Special

The safest and most convenient place to swim and have a picnic.

Logistics

Plan 30-60 minutes. Easy access. Restrooms, picnic tables, and ample parking available.

Mile 31

Hana Lava Tube / Kaʻelekū Caverns

This offers a completely different kind of adventure. Turn left on ʻUlaʻino Road to find this privately owned attraction.

My Take

For a small entrance fee (around $15 per person), you get a self-guided tour with flashlights through a massive, subterranean lava tube. It's a fascinating look at the volcanic geology that formed our island. It's also a great activity for a rainy day. The kids will love the Red Ti plant maze on the property, too.

Why It's Special

A unique, accessible geological wonder.

Logistics

Plan 45 minutes. Easy walk with some stairs. Restrooms and picnic area available.

Mile 32

Waiʻānapanapa State Park

This park is the crown jewel of the journey to Hāna, a place of stunning beauty and deep legends.

My Take

The black sand beach, Paʻiloa, is even more striking in person than in photos. But please don't just snap a picture and leave. Walk the ancient coastal trail for incredible views of the sea arch and blowhole. Explore the freshwater caves, where the legend of murdered Princess Popoʻalaea lives on—it's said the water turns red with shrimp in spring to commemorate her.