Hana Highway
United States, north-america
84 km
330 m
moderate
Year-round, but driest conditions April-October
# The Hana Highway: Maui's Ultimate Coastal Adventure
Ready for one of the most breathtaking drives on the planet? The Hana Highway is calling your name. This 84-kilometer stretch hugs the northeast coast of Maui like it's holding onto a secret, and honestly, it kind of is. Buckle up for 620 curves and 59 bridges—many of them narrow, single-lane throwbacks to 1910 that'll make you feel like you're driving through history.
The scenery is absolutely next-level. You're talking dense tropical rainforest, cascading waterfalls that'll make your jaw drop, dramatic sea cliffs that plunge into the ocean, and those moody black sand beaches that look like they're from another world. It's the kind of road that makes you understand why people become travel photographers.
What really makes this drive special are the local touches. You'll roll through small communities that have barely changed in decades—the real Maui, basically—where roadside stands are loaded with fresh tropical fruit and local treats worth stopping for. Don't skip the Garden of Eden Arboretum, and definitely carve out time for Wai'anapanapa State Park's stunning volcanic black sand beach. If you're feeling adventurous, the pools at Ohe'o Gulch in Haleakala National Park are absolutely worth the detour.
Plan for 2-4 hours one way, depending on how many stops you make (spoiler: you'll want to make a lot).
Where is it?
Hana Highway is located in Hawaii, United States (north-america). Coordinates: 20.9201, -156.1552
Driving Tips
# Road Trip Tips to Keep Things Smooth
**Get going early** — aim to hit the road before 7 AM. You'll dodge most of the traffic rush and actually find decent parking at the cool spots you want to check out.
**Pack motion sickness meds if you need them.** These winding roads can get pretty twisty, so don't skip this if you're prone to feeling queasy. Better to be prepared!
**Gas up in Paia before you head out.** Once you're on the road, your options get pretty limited, so fill that tank up front. You don't want to be searching for a gas station when you're running low.
**Use those turnouts to let faster drivers pass.** If you notice someone riding your bumper, pull over at one of the designated spots. It keeps things chill for everyone and lets people go at their own pace.
Road Surface
Paved, narrow in sections with one-lane bridges
Road Details
- Country
- United States
- Continent
- north-america
- Region
- Hawaii
- Length
- 84 km
- Max Elevation
- 330 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Surface
- Paved, narrow in sections with one-lane bridges
- Best Season
- Year-round, but driest conditions April-October
- Coordinates
- 20.9201, -156.1552
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