Road to Hana
Hawaii
The Road to Hana, officially known as the Hāna Highway, is a 64.4-mile stretch connecting Kahului to the town of Hana on the island of Maui, Hawaii. This iconic route is famous for its narrow, winding mountain roads, featuring approximately 620 curves and 59 bridges, many of which are one lane wide and date back to the early 20th century. The highway traverses dense tropical rainforests, offering travelers breathtaking views of waterfalls, lush landscapes, and coastal vistas. Beyond Hana, the road continues as Maui County Road 31, leading to the ʻOheʻo Gulch and the Seven Sacred Pools within Haleakala National Park's Kipahulu area. The route is celebrated for its rich cultural history, including the ancient Alaloa road built by King Pi'ilani in the 16th century. The Road to Hana provides a unique blend of natural splendor and historic significance, making it a must-visit attraction for those exploring Maui's eastern coast.
Plan your trip to United States with AI
Create a detailed itinerary in minutes. AI suggests the best places, restaurants, and an optimized route.
Tip: Visitors should plan to drive the Road to Hana during daylight hours to fully appreciate the scenic views and ensure safety on the narrow, winding roads. It's recommended to start early in the morning to avoid heavy traffic and allow ample time for stops at waterfalls and lookouts. Purchasing tickets or booking guided tours in advance is advisable during peak tourist seasons. Travelers should respect private property and heed signage to avoid trespassing. All beaches along the route are public, offering opportunities for swimming and picnics. Be prepared for occasional road closures due to landslides, especially on the unpaved sections beyond Hana.
Interesting facts
- •The Road to Hana features approximately 620 curves and 59 bridges, 46 of which are one lane wide.
- •Many of the concrete and steel bridges along the route date back to 1910 and remain in use today.
- •The highway was designated the Hāna Millennium Legacy Trail by President Bill Clinton in 2000.
- •The original ancient road, Alaloa, built by King Pi'ilani, was paved with hand-fitted basalt rocks stretching 138 miles.
- •Beyond Hana, the road leads to the Seven Sacred Pools located in the Kipahulu Area of Haleakala National Park.
History
The origins of the Road to Hana trace back to the 16th century when Maui's King Pi'ilani constructed the Alaloa, a 138-mile basalt-paved road connecting West Maui to East Maui, including the Hana district.
This ancient path allowed travelers to navigate the island's streams using vine ropes.
Modern road construction began in the 1870s to support irrigation projects for Maui's sugarcane industry.
The full paved highway was officially opened in 1926, with bridge construction continuing into the 1930s and final paving completed in the 1960s.
In 2000, the highway was designated the Hāna Millennium Legacy Trail, and in 2001 it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places, recognizing its cultural and historical importance.
Place Guide
Wailua Falls
A picturesque waterfall near the Seven Sacred Pools, accessible via scenic turnouts along the Road to Hana, offering stunning views and photo opportunities.
Seven Sacred Pools (ʻOheʻo Gulch)
A series of cascading pools and waterfalls within Haleakala National Park's Kipahulu area, famous for swimming and natural beauty at the end of the Road to Hana.
