Hana, Maui Should Not be Missed on Your Next Maui Vacation!

The town of Hana, Maui itself does not have a lot to see compared to larger communities like Lahaina. So why did we, along with so many others, take the time to drive there on our Maui, Hi vacation?

Because the views along the Hana Highway are truly some of the most beautiful on the entire island...

Because there are endless places to explore on the road to Hana...

Because even if Hana itself is not a big tourist town, the surrounding area is FULL of great sights that should not be missed...

It is TOTALLY WORTH THE TRIP!!

Here is a summary of some of the things to do and places to stay in Hana, Maui!

Things to Do in And Around Hana

But since we made the mistake of not spending a night in Hana, we ran out of time, and missed out on a few things. My things-to-do-around-Hana wish list is long, but here are some highlights:

• The Red Sand Beach (a.k.a. Kaihalulu):
Pictures I've seen of this beach are positively otherworldly!
• Waianapanapa Black Sand Beach: This beach is located in the state park of the same name, just off the Hana highway. It not only looks absolutely gorgeous, but has a lot of cool things to see there!
• Hamoa Beach: People say this is one of the nicest beaches they've ever seen. Due to it's tendency to have strong currents, it's not the best choice for swimming, but would be great for just soaking up the views! Drive about 1 mile past Hana - the beach is down a staircase off Haneo'o Road.
• Piilanihale Heiau: This is one of Hawaii's largest Hawaiian temples. Turn towards the ocean at Ulaino Road near mile marker 31... it's past the Hana Lava Tube - you'll see a stream - if it's not flooded, you can cross it and park beside the road. Hike through Kahanu Gardens to reach the temple.

Other things to see and do around Hana, Maui include:

• The Hana Cultural Center and Museum: 4974 Uakea Road, Hana
• Hana Gardenland: Botanical gardens located along the Road to Hana at mile parker 31, 3.5 miles before you reach Hana.
• The Kaia Ranch Tropical Botanical Gardens: Acres of exotic and native Hawaiian plants, flowers and fruits - located at 470 Ulaino Road, Hana
• Coastal Trail
• Kahanu Garden: 122 acres on the Hana coast, run by the National Tropical Botanical Garden
• Koki Beach: *Not a swimming beach due to the strong rip current! But, it's a great place to relax on the sand and drink in the views! (turn left at Haneoo Road approximately 1.5 miles south of Hana)
• Hasegawa General Store: This is a family-run business established in 1910 and it's said to be a great place to stop if you need to pick up some refreshments! (5165 Hana Highway, Hana)

Where to Stay in Hana, Maui

The Hotel Hana Maui is a 4-star property, and the glowing reviews of this place make it my first choice.

Of course, there are also many Hana bed and breakfasts, as well as vacation rental homes to choose from. Especially with the bed and breakfasts, you'll be able to save some money compared to staying at the Hotel Hana Maui.

Directions to Hana

Don't miss out on our top 5 travel tips for driving the road to Hana, Maui...

And, you may be interested in reading about our experience with driving the famed Hana highway...

Last, but not least...

Have you heard about driving the southern route to Hana? If you want to give this a try, you'll want to read all about our experience first!

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