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AUG 20: LAND @12:45

AUG 21: HAKALELALA SUNRISE // BEACH

AUG 22: SNORKELING //  PINEAPPLE TOUR

AUG 23: ROAD TO HANA (RAPPEL A WATERFALL

AUG 24: BEACH DAY

AUG 25: HELICOPTER // BEACH

AUG 26: BEACH // SURF // LUAU

AUG 27: FLY HOME @ 2:25

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The Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas

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Maui Resorts | The Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas | Maui Luxury Resorts

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The Westin Ka'anapali Ocean Resort Villas is an uncommonly luxurious Hawaii vacation ownership opportunity, offering unique residences that embrace both Westin's standard of quality and Maui's most spectacular oceanfront vistas. Each villa at this Maui resort is masterfully designed, richly furnished, and impeccably finished.

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Road to Hana Sights | Must-see spots to stop

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MUST SEE - We've complied a list of spots that are great to stop at and enjoy while driving the Road to Hana. Some include: Wai'anapanapa Black Sand Beach, Garden of Eden Arboretum, and the Ke'anae Peninsula.

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Bucket List Journey | Travel + Lifestyle Blog

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After spending a memorable night in the funky town of Paia in Maui, it was sadly time to leave. I will miss you Mopsey Kalua Pork Pizza and Sandy Beach Coconut gelato. But, on the flip side of the coin we were departing to drive the Road to Hana.

The Road to Hana is a picturesque, curvy road along Maui's northeastern shore.

It is loaded with hundreds of hairpin turns, waterfalls, bamboo and beauty.

Most travelers will take the 53 mile road to the town of Hana, then turn around and head back the same route they came. But, our adventurous travel plan was to do the continuous loop. All in one day. Even the unpaved, bumpy part of the road with the zigzagging turns that the tour books warn you about.

We left Paia at 8:30 in the morning and made a whopping 17 stops along the Road to Hana, 8 more stops than we made while driving Nova Scotia's Cabot Trail. That's a lot in one day! Most stops don't have signs, so the guides refer to their location by the mile markers they can be found at. Counting mile markers makes it even more tricky than driving the switchbacks.

Mile Marker 3.5 - Kaulanapueo Church

The very first stop was the Kaulanapueo Church built in 1853. At 8:45 in the morning, we were the only ones there, besides the spirits buried in the quaint cemetery, some dating back to 1940. The Protestant churches doors were locked, but the stop was worth a peak around the grounds.

Mile Marker 4.5 - Huelo Lookout

Early on the Road to Hana drive we decided that a fruit smoothie would be in order and one of the first stands was Huelo Lookout. I ordered a banana bliss smoothie, which was made with fresh papaya, coconut and bananas. If those ingredients don't say Hawaii, I'm not sure what does.

Mile Marker 9.5 - Waikamoi Nature Trail

The Wailamoi Nature Trail is an easy loop hike filled with ferns, tall trees and scenic overlooks. There are two hiking options; the long route and the short. Of course, we took the shorter of the two which was just under a mile. No regrets.

Mile Marker 10.2 - Ka Haku Smoke Shack

Ka Haku Smoke Shack is one of the funkiest food huts along the way to Hana and the ten buck chicken plate comes with a free coconut. Don't bother with the canned corn and rice sides that come with it. But the chicken, that is grilled right in front of you, is tender and flavorful. The fresh coconut juice washed it all down nicely.

Mile Marker 10.6 - Garden of Eden

The Garden of Eden is one of those pricey, touristy arboretums that I would typically pass up, but it is a great stop for identifying all the local plants that you will see during your Hawaiian travels. Plus, they have a couple of waterfall lookouts.

Mile Marker 10 8/10 - Puohokamoa Falls

Just like the guidebooks say, there is a waterfall lookout at lower Puohokamoa Falls, but what they don't say is that it has a no trespassing sign. The wire fence has a good size opening, which I took. I am not suggesting that you do the same. But, it was only a couple minute walk for a faraway waterfall glimpse.

The waterfall can more easily be seen inside the Garden of Eden.

Mile Marker 16.8 - Ching's Pond

Ching's Pond is a popular swimming hole that many people pass by without even knowing it is there. The brave locals cliff dive from the bridge, a 25 foot drop. The less adventurous leap from the lower portions. Jumping is absolutely, positively not recommended, but not taking the leap is also my biggest Road to Hana regret.

Mile Marker 17 1/3 - Halfway to Hana

Meh...the Halfway to Hana snack shop is certainly one of those places popular due to its name and it will probably not be the best banana bread along the way, but worth the stop just to say you've been. Almost like the Leaning Tower of Pisa.

Mile Marker 18.8 - Wailua Valley State Wayside

We took the stairs on the right of Wailua Valley State Wayside to the top and were treated to a view of Ke'anae Valley, Ko'olau Gap and the village of Wailua. It will be a quick stop, but worth the scene.

Mile Marker 19.5ish - Upper Waikani Falls

The Upper Waikani Falls is also known as Three Bear Falls and is one of the most popular waterfalls of all the Road to Hana stops. It's a quicky, right on the side of the road.

Mile Marker 23 - Lava Tube

An if-you-blink-you-miss-it lava tube can be found on the right side of the road after mile marker 23. This 140 foot cave takes some stooping to enter, but that didn't stop me. Not much in there, but at least I can say that I was.

Mile Marker 28.8 - Nahiku Marketplace

Nahiku Marketplace is a Hana shopping center, which consists of a tiny handful of Hawaiian product shops. This is where I discovered one of my absolute favorite Maui treats, coconut candy. The coconut is hand cut, sprinkled with brown sugar and slow baked. It was well worth the $5 a bag.

Mile Marker 32 - Luana Spa Retreat

After indulging on too much coconut candy, we made a quick stop at Luana Spa Retreat to get a tour of a yurt. Why? Because I had no idea what the heck a yurt was either. Turns out it's fancy smancy collapsible tent commonly used in Mongolia. But, you can sleep (or, even better, get a spa treatment) in one at Luana.

Mile Marker 32 - Nutcharee's Thai food

Right next to Luana Spa Retreat is Nutcharee's, a delicious and authentic outdoor Thai restaurant. Even though it is off the beaten path, this place sometimes gets so busy it has to turn away guests. Yep, it's that good.

Mile Marker 32.2- Waianapanapa Black Sand Beach

The Waianapanapa Black Sand Beach was my favorite stop along the Road to Hana. A short, yet steep, path led us to the beach which started with large coal colored rock, followed by shiny black sand with descending sizes of pebbles. Beautiful!

Bonus Stop at Mile Market 33: Hana Tropicals

Hana Tropicals is a exotic tropical flower farm and orchid nursery located in the charming town of Hana in East Maui. The farm is an homage to one of nature's most beautiful and distinct signatures around the island of Maui. The grounds are nestled away in a lush ethereal jungle, teeming with organic beauty. Hana Tropicals offers a free guided tour of their farm, provided by one of their young and passionate volunteer workers, or you may choose to explore the property at your own pace and interest.

Most people turn around at this point, heading back towards Paia, but we decided to do the full loop. Many of the tour books say that the unpaid roads are treacherous, but it really wasn't that bad. Actually, the unpaved section was compact from so many cars driving on it. It was few miles of bumpy paved road that sucked.

Past the town of Hana

Hamoa Beach

After passing the town of Hana we made a quick stop at Hamoa Beach, a a beautiful, crescent public beach. We just took a peak, but would have spent more time sunbathing if we didn't have to get back to Paia by dinner.

Ohe'o Gulch - Seven Sacred Pools

Our last stop on the Road to Hana loop was the Ohe'o Gulch, also known as the Seven Sacred Pools. There are several falls that flow through Ohe'o Gulch and they are popular. By the time we got there, around 2:30pm, it was loaded with tourists.

By then, after 17 Road to Hana stops, the 4 mile hike (in & out) of the bamboo forest was not gonna happen. Next time.

We returned back to the Paia Inn after 9 hours of adventure, exhausted.

Have you done any of the Road to Hana stops?

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After spending a memorable night in the funky town of Paia in Maui, it was sadly time to leave. I will miss you Mopsey Kalua Pork Pizza and Sandy Beach Coconut gelato. But, on the flip side of the coin we were departing to drive the Road to Hana.

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Twin Falls is the first easily accessible string of waterfalls and pools on the Road to Hana. It also has one of the better snack stands on the journey. Twin falls is typically underrated by guidebooks, and is a worthy stop.

Rating:

In a nutshell: Twin Falls is the first easily accessible string of waterfalls and pools on the Road to Hana. It also has one of the better snack stands on the journey. Twin falls is typically underrated by guidebooks, and is a worthy stop.
Minuses: You must budget your time properly here if you are cramming the Road to Hana into only one day.
Sound-bite: "How much further to the falls?"

DETAILS:
Okay, why in the world does the most popular guidebook for Maui tell you this place is nothing special? The only answer I can think of is that the author performed the same quick in-and-out drive-by that, quite unfortunately, many less informed visitors will as well. I'm going to set the record straight and detail why Twin Falls is well worth at least an hour of your Road to Hana time, and why it is always a must see on my list.

The first thing you should know is that when you drive by, chances are the parking lot will be packed with cars. Don't let that point alone mislead you, because Twin Falls is a pretty big place, and is often uncrowded even when the parking lot is packed. Most visitors will rush in with cameras blazing, thinking they have seen all there is to see after they capture a photo the first falls they happen to find. They will also be kind enough to leave the rest of the place much more serene for the visitors who took the time to plan their Road to Hana trip (like you!)

In the past couple of years Hike Maui has been bringing a lot of their guided tours through here, and they definitely know where to go. So when they have more than one or two vans there, that is when it can start to get crowded at the pools and falls. (Don't think you're in the clear because you see none of their green vans in the parking lot, because you won't - they park inside a private gated lot that you can't see.)
Note: Please be aware of unsafe high water or flash-flooding that may be present during periods of heavy extended rainfall. Signs are frequently posted at the entry gate during these times.

Twin Falls has an access road for residents that travels the better part of a mile alongside Ho'olawa Stream. A jungle largely restored by the residents over years of loving care accompanies you as you hike uphill on the well maintained graded and graveled path/road. After about a half mile or so, the wide path splits off into two foot-paths that fork in the general direction of Ho'olawa's two main tributary streams. To the left lies Ho'olawa li'ili'i (Little Ho'olawa) Stream, and to the right Ho'olawa nui (Big Ho'olawa) Stream. Both streams are tapped at this point by EMI irrigation ditches.

Ho'olawa li'ili'i (the left fork)
Hang a left at the fork, and the foot-path will take you to one of the more popular falls, commonly called "Caveman" by local residents.

As you make your way you'll first come to an irrigation ditch, then cross a funky old rock masonry weir (kids love to try and release the water with the now nonfunctional levers and gears.) Now you'll either need to wade across the stream, or walk along the ditch wall.

Ahhh! Look at that! A picture-perfect waterfall oasis spills over a prehistoric looking cave dripping in vines and greenery - complete with a caveman swimming hole. (looks like the caveman was kind enough to provide a perfectly positioned swinging rope, too.) Update: The rope has been removed.

Not only are these falls a great swimming break - you can get a postcard perfect photo in front of the falls (either standing, or swinging Tarzan style) for you Facebook profile (or your desk, for old-school paper-print-photo types!)

After you're tired of playing here, you can continue on by climbing up a path to the right (as you face the falls) - and through the jungle. This path continues in a loop, passing more waterfalls as it loops back down via Ho'olawa nui Stream. (More on that below.)

Ho'olawa nui (the right fork)
If you follow the right fork you will soon cross over the main ditch and follow another ditch for a pretty cool mini example of a hand-dug ditch tunnel through the rock. After you admire the handiwork (and hard labor) of old Hawaii, you continue on to another set of falls that are nice for photos and swimming. If you climb up the rock wall to the right and follow the path, you will end up at a rarely populated set of falls that have relatively safe opportunities for different heights of rock-jumping (do your homework in any pool you decide to jump in first, and definitely look before you leap!)

Off to the left (as you are facing the falls) a wonderful (sometimes hidden/confusing) trail meanders through the jungle, eventually taking you to Ho'olawa li'ili'i Stream, and to the falls listed above (under Ho'olawa li'ili'i.) Note: This is probably not a good trail to try and follow if you never hike or get lost easily. If you do feel lost, you actually can't stray too far so long as you remember these simple points: 1) "Out" is downhill ( makai - toward the ocean.) 2) Don't cross any streams 'till you know where you are. (If you stray form the trail too far East (right) you're going to run into Ho'olawa li'ili'i Stream (which is what you're looking for- so follow it!) If you stray too far West (left) you will run into Ho'olawa nui. Just follow either downstream and you'll find your way back.)
Keys to Having Fun at Twin Falls

1. Wear clothes and shoes that you won't care if they get wet or dirty.

2. Bring a towel.

3. Wear swim gear. (Don't be shocked if you stumble upon a nude bather along the way!)

4. There are several falls accessible along the trail. Listen for waterfalls as you walk and explore! (the stream flows to the left of the main path.)

5. Once you have stumbled on "the" falls (and when most people turn back to head to the car) realize that there are many sets of falls here, that you have only just begun!

6. It is easy to end up wondering where "it" is if you stay on the main trail without following the small foot paths down to the stream. "It", is everywhere, and if you haven't seen many different pools, multiple waterfalls of all different sizes, caves, water diversion ditches with amazing history (more on this coming soon), and stunning jungle wonders on your hike, then you haven't been off the trail! There really is so much to do here that you can literally spend an entire day here if you want. (I know I have!)

Note: It is also important to remember that even though you probably won't see them, a number of families do live on this land. If you are exploring and come upon an area that looks like someone may live there, they do!

The snack stand is right in the parking lot, and is really worth a stop. They have tasty and fresh home-grown fruits (many grown right on this land), smoothies, cane juice, and home-made baked goods, to name a few.

Note: There is no charge to enter even though much of the access to Twin Falls is on private Hui (cooperative) land. The owners generously develop and actively maintain trails, pay for port-a-potties, and maintain access for all who wish to visit. Please be sure to give an equally generous donation at the donation box - these people have chosen to allow nature to be open to all.

Key Info:
Mile Marker: #2.1 (Hana Hwy aka Hwy 360)
GPS Coordinates: 20.911658,-156.243954
Facilities: Port-a-potties, snack stand
Get directions

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Rating: In a nutshell: Twin Falls is the first easily accessible string of waterfalls and pools on the Road to Hana. It also has one of the better snack stands on the journey. Twin falls is typically underrated by guidebooks, and is a worthy stop.

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A picturesque bay, and your first option for ocean goodness on the Road to Hana since Ho'okipa!

Rating:

In a nutshell: A picturesque bay, and your first option for ocean goodness on the Road to Hana since Ho'okipa!
Minuses: Poor swimming and rocky beach.
Sound-bite: "See, honey, I told you getting a Jeep was going to be a practical necessity!"

Description
This bay is nestled inside a dramatic, verdant valley that first reveals itself from the road between mile markers 12 & 13, and there are a couple of worthy lookouts to pull over and savor the view or snap a photo before you descend into the valley.

This is the first time since Ho'okipa Beach Park that the road passes by an accessible beach. Ignore guidebooks that say there is a road to access the bay around mm13.5 as you descend to the valley floor (that road is no longer accessible.) Once you begin your ascent on the other side of the valley, there is a sharp turn onto a rough access road (mm14.1) that will take you just under a half mile to to a parking area immediately alongside the beach. Currently this access road is navigable by any vehicle, but it goes through periods of disrepair. If you've got a compellingly good reason to drive on the beach, there is easy access from the parking area - you will frequently see fishermen and/or local families exercising this option. (Sorry, getting your money's worth from the Jeep rental really isn't a good enough reason to drive onto the beach!)

This beach is a favorite of local families, fishermen and surfers. When the surf is breaking, this is a less known, expert-level surf break that draws a small local surf crowd. But even if you can rip with the best of 'em, the crowd that surfs here likely won't let you get into the lineup. Besides the localism, the break is sketchy to say the least. Sharks, lots of hidden reef and strong rip currents exist here. Visitors shouldn't consider this a viable surf spot.

The beach itself is mostly small rounded rock, mixed with minimal amounts of black sand - not good for laying out on. The offshore waters are also rocky, and this isn't a good place for the kind of ocean fun most visitors associate with Maui beaches. When winter swells come in this bay becomes rough and currents run directly back out to sea - definitely not the safest scenario.

A stream flows year-round through the valley and into the bay, often forming a large pool of fresh water on the mauka side of the beach. The pool is fun if you have kids in tow, but otherwise may not be an overly tempting swim for most.

Poor swimming and a beach not made for laying out, you may be questioning if it is worth a drive in. The best views are looking down into the bay from the road, though looking up into the valley from the bay is also spectacular, and can only be appreciated from the beach. This is a great place to stretch your legs, have a picnic lunch, take a quick dip or just explore.

Key Info:
Mile Marker: #14.1 (Hana Hwy aka Hwy 360)
GPS Coordinates: 20.861388,-156.166384
Facilities: None.
Get directions

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Rating: In a nutshell: A picturesque bay, and your first option for ocean goodness on the Road to Hana since Ho'okipa! Minuses: Poor swimming and rocky beach. Sound-bite: "See, honey, I told you getting a Jeep was going to be a practical necessity!"

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A visitor named Shelby emailed me, telling me about a wonderful memory she had visiting 'Ohe'o as a child, and hiking the Pipiwai trail. She wanted to hand down the gift of such fond family memories to her children, and generously gave a gift to sponsor my writing. I have written a full-day MauiGuidebook.com article for her to maximize time at 'Ohe'o and since she is staying in Wailea the whole time, the best way to have her do both was to split off the rest of the Road to Hana into its own day. This is that part of their itinerary.
Please note that Shelby communicated that the whole family is athletic, in good shape and strong swimmers. The children are not typical for their ages, but much advanced in hiking and swimming ability. This itinerary will need to be adjusted appropriately for those who don't fit this fit description - please be aware that Maui is natural, rugged, and you can be unprotected. Survey the environment and proceed appropriately. If you are ever in doubt as to something being safe, skip it. Don't become a tragic addition to the stories of people who didn't give the respect to the power of our ocean and land.

First things first, if you are planning on driving the Road to Hana, but don't know anything about it - check out this quick overview: Road to Hana - Quick Summary

Items To Bring
- Everything will get wet and muddy.
- Food & Water (cooler?)
- Backpack(s)
- Sunscreen
- Consider mosquito repellent & a simple first-aid kit
- Pocket Knife (for fruits you may find)
- Bathing Suits
- Changes of clothing
- Camera
- Towels
- Plastic trash bags for wet/muddy clothing
- Ziplocks for camera/phone/etc.
- Good footwear for mud and water.
- Flashlight
- Printouts of all the articles suggested below (there is no Internet/cell service in most areas.)

Notes on driving:
- Pull over to let locals pass you. This is the only road, and most want to get through their long "commute" faster than you'll expect is possible.
- Rental car breakins are known all over Maui. Do not leave any valuables in your car (out-of-sight and trunk are no safer.) I suggest that you leave your car doors unlocked, and if it is dry, even consider leaving your windows open - it will save you from broken glass.

One Day Road To Hana
(note: this skips 'Ohe'o (aka Seven Sacred Pools) which is done on another day)

The Road to Hana can take a lifetime to explore, every time is a unique adventure. Don't allow a desire to "see it all" overcome your moments, the Road to Hana has a way of unfolding before you (if you let it!) Stay connected to the inspiration that will guide you as you move along the framework below - you may find yourself somewhere not even listed, or spending much longer at one of these places - when this inspiration happens, embrace it - that is the magic of the Road to Hana.

I have laid out a rough time-table - the times are not for creating a rigid schedule - more a tool to understand expected timing between/at locations of interest. You are encouraged to take/leave/adjust items as your day unfolds.

The Night Before
Top off gas tank the end of day before the trip. (You can also conveniently top off in Paia in the am of your trip.)
Pack your stuff (list at top.)

~6:45 am - Depart hotel for Paia Town
~45 Minutes

~7:30 am - Paia Town (most shops closed in am - come back to explore North Shore shops, restaurants & beaches another day!)
If you don't have at least 3/4 tank of gas, first gas station on the right, fill up your tank.
Just after the gas station (also on the right) is Anthony's Coffee Company (opens at 5:30 am) - go here for breakfast. (you can also grab some really cute souvenirs here.) Guaranteed delicious breakfast. Seriously consider getting the picnic lunch here, it is worth every penny - order that before you order breakfast, that way it will be put together while you eat!
~30 Minutes

~8:00 am - Mana Foods (Right at traffic light, Baldwin Ave, just up the road from Hana Hwy in Paia)
Stock up on all the other food/beverage needs for the trip here.
This is the best grocery store on Maui for price, quality and selection, so overstocking here will pay off on your following days!
(*important: they open at 8am, so if you start off earlier, or skip Anthony's, they won't be open and you will need to have set up your snack & drink needs ahead of time. There are also a few funky simple places of convenience to stop on the way, so you won't starve!)
~20 Minutes

~8:20 to ~11:00 - Paia to Waianapanapa
You won't have enough time on a one-day trip to stop at the longer adventures in this area, and will be bound more to the roadside attractions and the view from the road - there is roughly an hour outside the car allotted in this schedule, though you could easily spend more than the whole day at just a few of these sites. That said, there are quite a number of roadside sights - so you will have a full day and be satisfied observing many of the sights on this part of the trip in a drive-through fashion.

You will see many roadside waterfalls and sights not listed below. Trust your intuition, stop and explore on a whim!

Some worthy considerations, in geographic order:
*note, mile markers reset at the first mile marker 16, which is ~8 miles after Paia.

[2.1 mm] - Twin Falls (Well maintained, easy hike to many waterfalls and pools. Parking. Great fruit stand. By donation.)

[6.7 mm] - Na'ili'ili-Haele Stream & Waterfalls (Moderately difficult/slippery hike through bamboo, pools & waterfalls)

[10.5 mm] - Garden of Eden (Very well maintained arboretum. Trails & drive-though options. Parking. Snack stand. Kids love feeding the ducks. Picnic tables. $15/person.)

[14.1 mm] - Honomanu Bay (You can see from the road, make the call to stop when you drive-by)

[16.7 mm] - Ke'anae Arboretum (Public arboretum, easy walking trail, part paved.)

[16.8 mm] - Ke'anae Peninsula (Very scenic, rugged, drive-up shoreline area. Good snack stand.)

[16.8 mm] - Wailua & Wailua Valley State Wayside (Great views of Wailua Valley from road, if you want to stop, best place is to pull into the very tiny wayside where you will have great views both mauka and makai.)

[19.6 mm] - Upper Waikani Falls (Great view from road. You can decide to stop and swim here if it looks tempting!)

[~28 mm] - Nahiku Marketplace - (the jungle's shack version of a "stripmall" - several good snack stands and a few little shops)

~2 Hours 40 Minutes

~11:00 - [32 mm] Waianapanapa Park
Don't miss this one. Definitely have your kids do the swim in the caves (it is cold, but go with them!) This is where the flashlight will come in handy. Check out the coastline and ocean-side cliff views, visit the black sand beach and the kids will love going in the cave down there, too.
~1 Hour 30 Minutes

~12:30 - Lunch
You can eat your picnic lunch at Waianapanapa if you brought one.
If you wanted to buy lunch I suggest stopping at Bruddah Hut's roadside (literally someone's front yard) BBQ, which is just past Hasegawa Store and the gas station on the far side of Hana Town. (Hana Town is small...you can't miss it!) Hasegawa Store is a good place to get staples (water, snacks, etc) you may have forgotten. Hasegawa is a Hana institution; a cluttered old-time General Store. It is worth a stop if you need to grab something, but expect "middle of nowhere" pricing and odd selection.
~45 Minutes

1:30 - Red Sand Beach
Read the article carefully. You will need the map & directions to find it.
~1 Hour 15 Minutes

~2:45 - Hana to Kipahulu
Note: Mile Markers reset after 35 - the following marker is 51 and the go down from here.

Notable:
[50.1mm] - Koki Beach & Hamoa Beach
[48.1mm] - Waioka Pond (not suitable for most visitors, please read article carefully!)
[44.8mm] - Wailua Falls (May be crowded. Stop anyway, the falls are pretty and Auntie Sharon and other vendors here are nice to talk to and buy a thing or two from!)

Return:
You can return on the backside or the way you came. If you did your Kipahulu day first (suggested) this will be an easy decision. It is roughly the same drive time either way; all things being equal, I suggest the backside as you will have a nice sunset view and the road opens up as it gets dark.

Map:
This Map has highlights which I have written articles about on a map, so you can see the order of the sites.

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Itinerary: Shelby's One-Day Road to Hana Adventure | Maui Guidebook

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Background A visitor named Shelby emailed me, telling me about a wonderful memory she had visiting 'Ohe'o as a child, and hiking the Pipiwai trail. She wanted to hand down the gift of such fond family memories to her children, and generously gave a gift to sponsor my writing.

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Rating:

In a nutshell: An easy 30-minute hike can turn into a spectacular multi-hour moderately easy-going hiking adventure. Graded un-paved access road passes for miles through an undeveloped Eden of Maui rainforest and watershed.
Minuses: Access may require permission from EMI. On weekends you might encounter boar hunters and their pit bulls.
Sound-bite: "Yesterday I found the best hike on Maui that I've done."

DETAILS:
You can make this hike what you want of it. You can dip in a cool, fresh pool complete with dramatic waterfall in as little as a half an hour round-trip. Or take the better part of a day to hike into largely untouched and spectacular rainforest.

This location is little more than a side-note in guidebooks - in fact, to my knowledge only the first set of falls have been detailed in print, and as a result virtually all turn back at that point.

If you continue, the Wailua and Ke'anae valleys slowly unfurl an endlessly changing panorama so spectacular, it almost feels as if you've stepped into a dream. Steep valley walls, countless cascading waterfalls, tropical flowers and plants in every hue of the rainbow are painted onto scenic vistas that are so vast, and so awe-inspiringly beautiful, they're sure to invoke a special feeling inside that can only be accurately described by invoking Hawaiian: This is Aloha O Ka 'Aina.

If you're a nature lover, without a doubt you should be staying somewhere close to the Road to Hana for at least a few days. So if you have made the time, devote at least a couple of hours here. When I visited this Eden for the first time, I was transported to a place where there was no where else in the world
I wanted to be. The hike, as it revealed itself was narcotic. I did, in fact, have somewhere else to be, but I kept finding my pulse quickening, and my desire to just go a bit further irresistible.
Important Notes: Please be aware of unsafe high water or flash-flooding that commonly occur in East Maui streams. Portions of this hike are on EMI easements leased from the government. Please see the EMI page for more information.

[The following is excerpted from a 2001 newsgroup post by hiker Eric Stelene]
Yesterday I found the best hike on Maui that I've done so far and I've named it Wailua-Keanae. This 12 mile round-trip hike on easy dirt roads takes you past no fewer than 20 waterfalls as it parallels the Hana Highway then descends gradually down the sheer pali into Keanae Valley. A short walk along the broad valley floor then leads to a stunning climb straight up the back of an amphitheater on a long-forgotten trail to a notch in the pali with thundering waterfalls. You'll also get an up-close view of the East Maui irrigation system that takes water to central and upcountry Maui. All you'll need is a wavier from East Maui Irrigation to access the land (not that I had one or anything)

The trail for this hike is actually a century-old 4WD road (Wailua Iki Rd.), which is still used by EMI and (more regularly) by wild boar hunters. (Even if you're a PETA member, understand that hunting wild boar is a greater good for the environment here. They are an invasive introduced species, and are responsible for significant destruction to the native ecosystem.)

Follow the trail uphill until you see another well defined path/road on the left. Keep right at this juncture. You will soon start downhill and be treated to a scenic view of two large pools, and at least one set of roaring falls just prior to where the water is diverted. Compare these falls with the almost dry streambed just after the diversion. Now you know why environmentalists and Native Hawaiians in the Taro fields of Keanae and Wailua (downstream) have been fighting long and hard to have some of the East Maui watershed flow restored to the streams.

As you continue downhill toward this first diversion, you will come to a concrete bridge, and a closer view of interesting water diversion structures and ditch system. This pool is cool and refreshing, and there are several places to jump should you be so inclined. ( It should go without saying, but I'll repeat my mantra anyway: always check landing areas before jumping.)

As you continue on the hike, the path will zig and zag at around 1200′ elevation for about three miles. (There are elevation changes, but nothing major.)

After you pass the second bridge, the valley starts to really open up, and you will soon begin to have vantage points of a chain of falls that will make you realize how utterly limited my photographs are at conveying the majesty and awe-inspiring beauty of this valley. Depending on the cloud cover, you will also begin to be able to view Ko'olau Gap and the ridges that form Haleakala Crater.

Throughout this hike you will pass various implementations of water diversion, all feeding the main artery of the EMI ditch system. Much of this construction is very interesting - especially considering it was originally built by hand, without the aid of heavy machinery (as were the road you're hiking, and the bridges you're crossing.) Speaking of bridges, by their design, they appear to be constructed by the same folks that made the older Hana Hwy bridges. Most are marked with "A.D. 1923."

As you continue, you'll pass many more waterfalls and pools until you reach Waiokamilo Falls, which is raging most of the time. Views from the bridge are stunning and expansive. Ke'anae Peninsula and the deep blue Pacific Ocean beyond, beckoning. Eric Stelene noted that this bridge had the year 1922 on it, and deduced that the road was constructed beginning at the valley floor, and up steep cliffs (rather than down into the valley from above.) I would agree - and, from this perspective, I marvel at the impressive ingenuity, combined with a work ethic of kryptonite that must have gone into accomplishing this engineering feat.

After the 1922 bridge, the incline (which you have been slowly descending) begins to become more significant. Thanks to the increase in grade, you're soon on the floor of the Wailua Valley. A good place to continue Eric's perfect description of his hike:

Go around the gate and reach the junction with Piinaau Road. There is something that looks like a headstone here with Chinese writing on it...Turn left onto Piinaau Road and follow it up a short ways. Another road comes in on the left by a concrete bridge. Go left and cross the bridge, you'll soon see waterfalls hundreds of feet high cascading over the valley walls. Follow this road to the back of a deep amphitheater. The road suddenly ends. Look carefully and you'll notice a faint path leading up the embankment just before the end of the road. The path widens a bit and starts to switchback up and up. 600 feet straight up the pali. It's overgrown and very narrow in places. I could just tell that I was the first person to use this trail in a long time. The blanket of leaves on the ground looked undisturbed, so did the thick carpet of moss on the loose rocks. I decided to name this the Lost Pali Trail (LPT). In less than 30 mins I came to the last switch back and a notch in the pali with a powerful waterfall. Above that, two waterfalls tumbled about 200 feet from the plateau above in to a plunge pool which fed the lower waterfall. There were some parts of the irrigation system all the way up here - a small concrete structure and and tunnel leading into the mountain.

For the unobservant hiker, the pool here would be great to jump into after the steep climb. You may notice all the water flows into the pool yet none flows back out. There must be some kinda of tunnel in the pool itself that could suck a swimmer to his death.

I rested here a while, it only took a little over 2 hours to get here. I waived at a tour helicopter flying low overhead. The pilot circled around and came lower apparently to see if I needed to be rescued! I bet he was a little surprised to see someone all the way up here.

I had my rest then headed back down the the LPT and got to the bottom in about 20 minutes. I was soon climbing back out of Keanae Valley and at the Waiokamilo Falls bridge. I took another short rest at the top then was back in the Jeep in less than 5 hours total. Thanks to the easy roads, I was in very good condition considering the distance I traveled and the terrain I crossed.

Now, looking at a terrain map, it would seem one could continue downhill, down Piinaau Rd. to Hana Hwy at Ke'anae - but I'm not actually sure how far that would be, and then you'd have to hitch-hike ~3 miles back to your car as walking on Hana Hwy is not advisable. I'm going to do that in the future and I'll post my findings.

Key Info:
Mile Marker: #21.2 (Hana Hwy aka Hwy 360)
GPS Coordinates: 20.821843,-156.137974
Facilities: No facilities
Get directions

View Wailua & Ke'anae Valley Hike in a larger map

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Wailua & Ke'anae Valley Hike | Maui Guidebook

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Rating: In a nutshell: An easy 30-minute hike can turn into a spectacular multi-hour moderately easy-going hiking adventure. Graded un-paved access road passes for miles through an undeveloped Eden of Maui rainforest and watershed. Minuses: Access may require permission from EMI. On weekends you might encounter boar hunters and their pit bulls.

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A sweet ~70' drive-up triple waterfall and plunge pool.

Rating:

In a nutshell: A sweet ~70′ drive-up triple waterfall and plunge pool.
Minuses: Parking & the first step is a doozy!
Sound-bite: "Hey, how did you get down there?"

A very popular set of falls because it is photogenic and situated like a drive-thru right on the road.

Most folks drive up and snap a photo and drive off - mainly because there are few places to stop and park. If you'd like more than a drive-by view, you should drive about 1/10 mile past the falls - there is a small parking area (though you will have to walk back along the narrow road with no shoulder.)

When these falls are at a safe flow rate (like in the photos) you can take a short hike down from the road and swim. There is a bit of a sketchy drop down to the trail from the bridge (left side mauka or makai the bridge, so pick your poison!) Judge your ability and condition of the landing spots when you're there - you *definitely* don't want to slip - though once you're past those initial couple steps and have your footing the rest of the trail is far more forgiving.

Once down at the falls it is a gorgeous scene, and besides the envious gawkers up at the bridge who are wondering how the heck you got down there, you may have the pool all to yourself.

The water on these falls is often exceptionally clear. You can stand under the waterfalls for a great photo as it's shallow with good footing at the edge. While it's deep enough to swim in, there aren't any places without rocks/hazards which make this poole unsafe for cliff jumping or diving.

Red torch ginger is abundant on the trail, and as of March 2012 the trail has been rearranged by a landslide, so you'll be navigating around stray boulders, trees and clumps of mud.

Video: Down At The Falls

Key Info:
Mile Marker: #19.6 (Hana Hwy aka Hwy 360)
GPS Coordinates: 20.832342,-156.138918
Facilities: No facilities
Get directions

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Upper Waikani Falls (aka Three Bears) | Maui Guidebook

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Rating: In a nutshell: A sweet ~70′ drive-up triple waterfall and plunge pool. Minuses: Parking & the first step is a doozy! Sound-bite: "Hey, how did you get down there?" A very popular set of falls because it is photogenic and situated like a drive-thru right on the road.

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Rating:

In a nutshell: Spectacular views of rugged shoreline, sea arches, black sand beach, and more.
Minuses: Swimming is often marginal.
Sound-bite: "Sir, you should probably stand back from that blowhole." (...wait for it...)

DETAILS:
Simply stated, Wai'anapanapa State Park is among the very best of the Road to Hana sites. It offers outstanding nearly 360-degree sweeping panoramic views. On land, the hills and valleys of green jungle give way to rugged and dramatic black basalt lava coastline. Out to sea, the deep blue ocean and white cresting waves are dramatically blasted into spray and mist as they pound against the jagged cliffs. This place looks like a living postcard from heaven.

While a fair amount of people stop here, most do the "park, snap photo, see the black sand, leave" thing, so it is rarely crowded, and what looks like full parking, turns over quickly and without much waiting. There are also plenty of friendly visitors at the most convenient overlooks who you can enlist to snap the perfect postcard photo of you and your honey in front of the heavenly backdrops.

Besides the outstanding scenery there are hikes, easy walks, a blowhole, a black sand beach (and several black-boulder beaches), ocean caves, sea arches, islets, cliff diving, fresh water pools, pre-contact archeological remnants, camping, cabins and more. [stops, takes breath...] Whew! With so much packed in one stop, Wai'anapanapa should be a "must see" destination on practically every Road to Hana trip. (It always is on mine...)

The name Wai'anapanapa means "glistening water", and while it easily could refer to the beautiful ocean vistas that grace this area, the Hawaiian word specifically applies only to fresh water. One scholar of Hawaiian history told me that it refers to a specific spot within a nearby stream where the features of the stream cause sunlight to reflect in such a way that there is an unusual glistening effect. Others believe it refers to the crystal clear waters in the anchialine pools found in the park's caves. But any way you slice it, there is no shortage of glistening water in Wai'anapanapa!

Black Sand Beach (Pa'iloa Beach)
The Black Sand beach at Wai'anapanapa is the biggest draw for visitors - there is something about black sand that fascinates folks. Most of this beach is actually less like "sand" and more like "small black pebbles", so this isn't a beach you'll want to lay out on. And unless you know the conditions well, surf can often be too strong for casual swimmers and poor swimmers will not be treated kindly. This area is also frequented by jellyfish and Portuguese man o war. That said, even during rough surf, there are always those that consider themselves uniquely qualified - and you'll likely see one or two of these weekend warriors impressing themselves here.

There is also a cool little cave here that the ocean laps up into. To find the cave, go to the right side (as you face the ocean) and look for a small hole in the cliff wall. Duck down and go in - soon the ceiling opens up to allow you to stand. You'll see some holes in the ceiling which allow light through, and the other end of the cave opens into the ocean. If you're really adventurous, you can climb through one of the further large holes to pop out on the cliff outside.

Cliff Jumping
You also might see some daring folks jumping form one of the the islets that towers in the bay just east of the black sand beach. For those considering participating, the biggest deciding factor here is your swimming ability and the surf - as long as the ocean is calm, I don't think you're taking unseen risks (assuming you look well before you leap.) Since the water is clear when the ocean is calm, you can probably see hazards in the water. As the surf gets rougher, you won't be able to see where it is safe to jump, and risks of "extreme exfoliation" will become proportionally greater as you try and climb out of the ocean on to that giant jagged pumice stone.

Anchialine Pool Caves
There is a well marked short loop trail from the black-sand-beach overlook area to these two pools and lava tubes.

If you follow the trail counter-clockwise you will follow stone steps down through a cut-out in an otherwise impenetrable thicket of hau and come to an open cave area. This first pool has somewhat stagnant water that is shallow and not suitable for swimming. Continue along the trail, you'll go up some steps this time, and you will come to a short trail to the left that leads to the second pool.

The water here is crystal-clear, clean, and spring-fed. It is also relatively cold (though not unbearably so.) Like pulling off the wax for your bikini-line, the best way into a cold pool is the fast and decisive way! There is the perfect jump-off point for such an entry right in front of you. But the highlight here isn't the swimming or jumping, but the hidden caves just under what appear to be the main caves walls. (Hope you brought your flashlight?!)

The water level fluctuates with the ocean tides, so depending on your timing you may have visual hints as to where the caves are. If not, you'll have to duck your head just below the water as you enter them. Having a flashlight is optimal, because depending on the time of day (earlier is better) the caves get quite dark just beyond the openings. The larger cave is directly across from the highest jumping platform.

If you brought a flashlight, you'll be able to see several caves, including the largest, complete with the legendary princess rock seat, and the seat of her maid. Like most everything in Maui, nothing is roped off or protected - so feel free to sit like a princess. (You'll find Hawaiian Princesses were clearly less fussy about seating than their picky European counterparts!)

Back in the main cave, there is a second, more narrow cave (to the left of the princess cave) that snakes back a bit, terminating a a man-sized opening into another larger cave. I have heard form several sources that you can go beyond that pool as well, but a less claustrophobic spelunker/diver is going to have to verify that one - or perhaps I'll get a bit crazier and pass through it next time around!

Blowhole
The blowhole is a bit further east on the paved path from the overlook for the islet above.

A blowhole is hole in the ground that connects to an underground, partially submerged ocean cave. The cave and opening are shaped in such a way that when the ocean rises or waves crash into it, a jet of water and air is violently forced out through the hole. Some blowholes are regular and very impressive. This blowhole is not a regular, and only delivers sound and small sprays most of the time. But when the surf and tide is right (like when I took this photo sequence) this blowhole can become impressive.

Warning - begin safety lecture: Now, please don't be one of the idiots in the picture! Stay back a bit - oh, and never put your head directly above or into the hole! Now, to be fair, the guys in the photo were outside of the "dangerously close" zone - all they got was a complete soaking. But the point is, they had no idea what all the fuss was about when I tried explaining they should move- they watched what they thought was a wimpy bubbler of a blowhole bubble up and lightly mist a bunch of times and deduced it was nothing to avoid, shrugging off my warning. Now these warnings may sound silly - but living on the real-end of paradise can look quite different than the visiting end - just be sure to keep your head on your shoulders. End lecture

Hikes
There are two main hikes you can take from Wai'anapanapa. Both are on the King's Trail.

East toward Hana: This trail starts with the paved walkways, and passes a Hawaiian cemetery and then the blowhole as it proceeds east. You can make this as short as you want, or up to a five-mile hike. After the blowhole you'll pass through a grove of native hala trees. After about 3/4 of a mile you'll reach the Ohala Heiau (there is a sign.) Be mindful that it is disrespectful to climb on the heiau or touch offerings that may be found. Many visitors are not aware that it is also considered disrespectful for them to stack stones or create their own offerings.

There are also burial mounds (known and unknown) all around this area. Unlike must culturally significant areas of archeological value you may have visited elsewhere, much of the Hawaiian historical remnants on Maui remain unmarked and unprotected. It is important that you do not disturb any rocks in these areas for this reason - especially if they appear in mounds, stacks or other man-made formations.

After the heiau, the trail continues on toward Kainalimu Bay. The trail is deteriorated and hiking quickly shifts form easy to strenuous. This is the point where most choose to turn back.

If you are prepared for a strenuous hike, you can continue on. At points now the trail will become difficult to trace. One of the methods you can employ to find the trail is to look for the tell-tail smooth rocks inlaid into the rough 'a'a lavarocks. These are remnants of the original King's Trail, and when you spot them, you know you're on the right path. As you continue you'll be rewarded with impressive lava spires that twist up to the sky, and the ocean views continue to be highly dramatic.

As you hike further you will notice the lava has changed from 'a'a (like piles of propane grill rocks) to pahoehoe (smoother sheets or "sculpted" flows) and the trail becomes indistinguishable. The trick here is to look for the rock piles that have been placed to mark the trail - follow from pile to pile through the pahoehoe. This area has many lava tubes and caves - you should be somewhat careful when walking around as some areas may be just a thin, crumbling sheet above a cave.

After the lava, at around 2 1/2 miles you'll pass the "Waianapanapa 3 miles" sign (yeah, I know...) and you'll come to a green jungle gulch. Follow the trail into the gulch, and down to Kainalimu Bay. You'll usually have the bay practically all to yourself - so enjoy!

Unless you don't care about getting your car and the practicality of continuing on, this is probably the turn-back point. Even if you'd like to continue your coastal King's Trail trek, you should seriously consider heading back on the trail to Wai'anapanapa and driving your car somewhere closer, like Hana Bay.

North toward Hana Airport: this section of the King's Trail is called Kipapa O Kihapi'ilani Trail. The trail is somewhat strenuous and 2.75 miles round-trip. Noted sites on this portion of trail: Kapukaulua burial site, two black rock coves, a large lava tube, ruins, and Pukaulua Point which is the site of a heiau and burial mounds. The original trail passed through the area that is now the Hana Airport, so, as you can imagine, nowadays the trail ends abruptly at the airport security fence.

To begin on this trail, go to the North (far) end of the black sand beach, look for the trail, and continue to the black-stone cove just adjacent. At this point where to continue on the trail will become apparent. A bit further the trail will fork, the right fork soon takes you to the Kapukaulua burial site. Backtracking to take the left fork continues the trail. The trail continues on to a second cove. The cove itself is part of the trail, and the trail picks up toward the other side.

If Driving The Road Is Going To Stop You
For some people a day of planned around driving a windy narrow jungle road doesn't sound like fun. If that's you, take a peek at my article about Valley Isle Excursions - a great local company that offers reasonably priced small guided van tours packed with so much information and aloha. Don't skip visiting this treasure while you're here!

Key Info:
Mile Marker: #32 (Hana Hwy aka Hwy 360)
GPS Coordinates: 20.788616,-156.003687
Facilities: camping, cabins, picnic tables, bbq's, bathrooms, showers.
State of Hawaii DNLR page where you can book the cabins.
Get directions

View Waianapanapa State Park in a larger map

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Wai'anapanapa State Park | Maui Guidebook

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Rating: In a nutshell: Spectacular views of rugged shoreline, sea arches, black sand beach, and more. Minuses: Swimming is often marginal. Sound-bite: "Sir, you should probably stand back from that blowhole." (...wait for it...) DETAILS: Simply stated, Wai'anapanapa State Park is among the very best of the Road to Hana sites.

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Wailua Falls is a stunning side-of-the road ~80' waterfall and plunge pool.

Rating:

In a nutshell: Wailua Falls is a stunning side-of-the road ~80′ waterfall and plunge pool.
Minuses: Maui's "most photographed waterfall" is usually crowded.
Sound-bite: "Did that car just say something!?!"

DETAILS:
The stunning Wailua Falls are impossible to miss - right smack next to the road. Don't worry about consulting the map when you're close to here - the crowd likely standing on the bridge snapping photos will almost guarantee that you'll turn your head!

Often called the most photographed waterfall on Maui, it is not in Wailua Valley - not even on Waliua Stream (which was the stream just prior to this); Wailua Falls is located past Hana, en route to the Pools of 'Ohe'o on Honolewa Stream.

Unlike most of the roadside waterfalls you have passed so far, there is plenty of parking here. That also means that most visitors (and all the guided van tours) stop here as well. But if you are willing to spend a little time, you'll be surprised how fast the crowd turns over, giving some peace in between. (It can also become deserted later in the day.)

The parking lot usually has some vendors set up selling trinkets for you to bring back home. One of these vendors, Auntie Sharon, is loaded with so much Aloha, that you absolutely must spend some time talking story with her. Auntie is very easy to spot, as she is Maui's biggest Elvis fan! (Also check out her Elvis-themed Firebird - it has a secret surprise for you!)

There is a nice plunge pool at the base of the falls if you want to take a dip - surprisingly very few of the folks grabbing snapshots from the bridge take the few extra steps down to the pool (so even if you're not swimming, it is usually much less crowded down there.)

Key Info:
Mile Marker: #44.8 (Hana Hwy aka Hwy 31)
GPS Coordinates: 20.683220,-156.030305
Facilities: None
Get directions

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Rating: In a nutshell: Wailua Falls is a stunning side-of-the road ~80′ waterfall and plunge pool. Minuses: Maui's "most photographed waterfall" is usually crowded. Sound-bite: "Did that car just say something!?!" DETAILS: The stunning Wailua Falls are impossible to miss - right smack next to the road.

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A beautiful crescent beach with a reliable surf break.

Rating:

In a nutshell: A beautiful crescent beach with a reliable surf break.
Minuses: Currents can be strong.
Sound-bite: "Am I sticking out too far in the road?"

Summary
This beach is often ranked up there with the famous beaches in the resort areas of Maui, and deservingly so. A postcard-perfect 100′ wide by 1000′ long crescent.

Hamoa Beach is surrounded by cliffs, with two points of public access - stairs leading down from the hotel shuttle dropoff and a small service road at the other end. (walk, don't drive on this)

Hamoa Beach is also a popular surf break - in fact this break has been surfed by Hawaiians since ancient times. Boogie boarding and bodysurfing are also popular here. Snorkeling can be good around the left of the cove, however this beach is exposed to open ocean; be aware that powerful currents and surf can often be present - especially toward the ends of the beach.

This beach was sort-of taken over by Hotel Hana Maui in the 1930's - in fact they are the ones that started calling it Hamoa (it used to be called Mokae.) They maintain the beach and landscaping, provide guests with shuttle service, beach chairs and accessories, and have additional facilities for guests. It used to be you would find primarily hotel guests and a few local residents here, but in recent years many other folks have found Hamoa.

Parking can be less than simple on nice days, as there is only on-street parallel parking, and the road is narrow.

Mokae Cove has another beach just to the south. If seas are calm, you can swim around the south point and you'll probably be the only one there.

Key Info:
Location: Haneo'o Rd (Loop road; access @ Hana Hwy mm 50.1 & 49.1)
GPS Coordinates: 20.718954,-155.987449
Facilities: Showers, bathrooms, other facilities for Hotel Hana Maui guest use.
Get directions

View Hamoa Beach & Mokae Cove in a larger map

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Rating: In a nutshell: A beautiful crescent beach with a reliable surf break. Minuses: Currents can be strong. Sound-bite: "Am I sticking out too far in the road?" Summary This beach is often ranked up there with the famous beaches in the resort areas of Maui, and deservingly so.

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My Maps makes it easy for you to create beautiful maps and share them with others.

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Kalua Pua'a - Pork roasted in our beachside Imu; the Hawaiian underground oven

Lau Lau - Pork wrapped in Luau leaf steamed to perfection

Maui Style Mahi-Mahi - Chef's Special Preparation

Pulehu Steak - Tenderloin Style Steak grilled to perfection

Chicken Long Rice - Shredded chicken, Maui onions, ginger and rice bean noodles in broth

Island Style Chicken - Chicken marinated with guava sauce garnished with fresh pineapples and toasted sesame seeds

Stir Fry Vegetables - Zucchini, Maui onions, carrots, broccoli, sugar snap peas, and baby corn

Local-Style Fried Rice - Fried rice with green onions, peas, and sesame oil

Sweet Potato - Warm sliced Big Island sweet potatoes

Island Crab Salad - Crab, shrimp and water chestnuts

Taro Salad - Taro and spinach folded in coconut sauce

Pohole Salad - Fern shoots, Maui onions and tomatoes served in a vinaigrette sauce

Lomi-Lomi Salmon - Tomatoes, Maui onions, and salted salmon

Ahi Poke - Fresh raw ahi (yellow fin tuna) with green onions and Maui onions

Poi - Made from boiling and mashing the root of the taro plant

Poi Rolls, Sweet Bread Rolls, Whole wheat Rolls - Freshly baked rolls

Fresh Island Fruit and Banana Bread

Fresh Island Green Salad - Served with Maui onion or papaya seed dressing

Assorted Island Desserts - Chocolate Mac Nut Brownie, Maui Macadamia Nut Tart, Lilikoi Mousse Chocolate Cups, and Coconut Haupia

Premium Open Bar includes (subject to change): Liquor Brands:

Bacardi Light

Hana Bay Dark Rum

Seagram's Vodka

Cuervo Tequila

Bombay Gin

Dewar's Scotch

Wild Turkey Bourbon

Triple Sec

Blue Curacao

Beer and Wine:

Budweiser and Bud Light

Mirassou -Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon

Soda: Juices: Tropical and Special Cocktails:

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Kalua Pua'a - Pork roasted in our beachside Imu; the Hawaiian underground oven Lau Lau - Pork wrapped in Luau leaf steamed to perfection Maui Style Mahi-Mahi - Chef's Special Preparation Pulehu Steak - Tenderloin Style Steak grilled to perfection Chicken Long Rice - Shredded chicken, Maui onions, ginger and

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Maui Pineapple Tours | One of the many fun family activities or things to do on Maui! Maui Tour | Tours In Maui

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The Maui Pineapple Tour

Join us upcountry on our beautiful Hali'imaile farm to experience a working pineapple field/operation first hand. You'll learn about the growing cycle and cultivation techniques, tasting the stages as you learn them. Best of all, you get a FREE PINEAPPLE with every tour! It's truly a fun and delicious tour for all ages!

"This tour was one of our Maui highlights! We thoroughly enjoyed the day, our very informative tour guide made our day very pleasant!"
- Steve B, TripAdvisor

Requirements

You must sign a waiver (Preview Here).

You must be able to walk on uneven terrain, climb stairs & be in good physical condition to handle bumpy tour ride in fields.

Children must be 5 years old to participate.

Cancellation policy is 24 hours prior to the tour.

Park and check in at 883 Hali'imaile Road, Hali'imaile HI

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Pineapple Tour - Maui Pineapple Tours | One of the many fun family activities or things to do on Maui! Maui Tour | Tours In Maui

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Maui Pineapple Tours - Fun for the whole family! One of the many great things to do on Maui. If you need a Maui Tour, or some ideas for tours in Maui, try the Maui Pineapple Tour! It's one of our favorite things to do in Maui.

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Maui sightseeing is not complete without Na Pali Coast helicopter tours. Blue Hawaiian helicopter tours include Maui helicopter rides to waterfalls, mountains and more.

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Haleakala National Park Summit Sunrise Reservations, HI

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Haleakala National Park is home to Maui's highest peak. Rising 10,023 (3,005 m) feet above sea level, Haleakala means "house of the sun" and is where demigod Maui lassoed the sun, slowing its passage so people had more time to dry kapa (cloth) and grow food.

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Cashless Payments

Beginning on July 1, 2023, Haleakalā National Park will be moving to cashless payments at entrances for all fees and payments.

Credit/debit cards and digital forms of payment are accepted. Consider purchasing your pass ahead of time on Recreation.gov.

Moving to a cashless system helps to reduce wait times at the park's entrance stations and helps increase the amount of fee revenue available to support visitor services.

Key Information

Reservations and Timed Entry

Summit District of Haleakalā National Park + Sunrise Reservation

Required to attend sunrise at Haleakalā National Park.

A reservation is required for each vehicle entering the park from 3:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. You may book a reservation up to 60 days in advance and 2 days in advance of the start date.

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Choosing an Entrance Pass

Do you have or qualify for a discounted America the Beautiful Pass?

If you already have an America the Beautiful-the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass, that's the only entrance pass you need. Seniors, military, visitors with a permanent disability, and families with a 4th grader are eligible for a free or discounted America the Beautiful pass.
America the Beautiful Pass
How often do you plan to visit national parks in the next 12 months?

If you don't qualify for a discounted America the Beautiful pass, we recommend choosing an entrance pass based on your trip plans.

Entrance Passes

Standard Entrance Pass

$15.00-$30.00

Fee-free entrance days do not include sunrise reservations or admittance to the park between the hours of 3:00 am-7:00 am. People planning to view the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park must make sunrise viewing reservations for $1.00 in advance at https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/253731.

For Organizations & Businesses

$30.00 plus, $15.00 per person for road based tour vehicles, such as sedans, with a passenger carrying capacity of 1-7 people.

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Annual Entrance - Park

Valid for 12 months from purchase date. Admits the pass holders and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle (14 max capacity or less) to Haleakalā National Park, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and Puʻuhonua ʻO Hōnaunau National Historical Park. All other National Park sites in the state of Hawaiʻi do not charge an entrance fee.

In-person Purchase Locations

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America the Beautiful-the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass

Covers entrance fees and standard amenity (day-use) fees at lands managed by

National Park Service

US Fish & Wildlife Service

US Forest Service

Bureau of Land Management

Bureau of Reclamation

US Army of Corps of Engineers

Depending on the type of entrance fee charged at a site, covers
One private vehicle fee
or
Four per person fees

America the Beautiful Passes are non-refundable, non-transferable and cannot be replaced if lost or stolen. Passholders must show valid photo identification (ID) with each pass.

How to Get an America the Beautiful Pass

Order Online, Receive by Mail

To receive your pass by mail, order online at the USGS Online Store or by phone: 1-888-275-8747, extension 1. Hours of operation are 8 am to 4 pm Mountain Time.

2024 Free Entrance Days in the National Parks

Come experience the national parks! All National Park Service sites that charge an entrance fee will offer free admission to everyone (other fees may apply). Mark your calendar for these entrance fee-free dates:

Fee Free Day Information

Fee-free entrance days do not include sunrise reservations or admittance to the park between the hours of 3:00 am-7:00 am. People planning to view the sunrise at Haleakalā National Park must make sunrise viewing reservations for $1.00 in advance at https://www.recreation.gov/ticket/facility/253731.

Automated self pay machine next to the Summit District Entrance Station.
NPS

After Hours Automated Self-Pay Machine

If you arrive at the Summit or Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā National Park and the entrance station is closed, please use the automated self-pay machine located next to the entrance station. The machines only accept credit cards as payment. Visitors with a valid 3 day receipt from the Summit or Kīpahulu District, a valid Hawaiʻi Tri-Park Pass, or an America the Beautiful National Parks Pass that is currently valid do not need to pay at the self-pay machine and may proceed into the park.

Annual Passes
Annual passes are available to the general public including international visitors. Passes are valid for 12 months from purchase date and are non-transferable.

Hawaiʻi Tri-Park Annual Pass - $55.00

Valid for 12 months from purchase date. Admits the pass holders and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle (14 max capacity or less) to Haleakalā National Park, Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and Puʻuhonua ʻO Hōnaunau National Historical Park. All other National Park sites in the state of Hawaiʻi do not charge an entrance fee.

Interagency Annual Pass - $80.00

Valid for 12 months from purchase date. This pass provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity Fee*. The pass admits the pass holder/s and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee areas. At per person fee areas, it admits the pass holder + 3 adults. The pass can be obtained in person at Haleakalā entrance stations, at other National Park sites, via the Internet at https://store.usgs.gov/pass or by calling 1-888-ASK-USGS, Extension 1.

Annual Pass for U.S. Military - FREE

Available to U.S. active military members and dependents in the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard and also, Reserve and National Guard members. Must be obtained in person at a Federal recreation site by showing a Common Access Card (CAC) or Military ID (Form 1173). Frequently Asked Questions about the Annual Pass for U.S. Military

4th Grade Annual Pass - FREE

Available to U.S. 4th graders (including home-schooled and free-choice learners 10 years of age) with a valid Every Kid Outdoors paper pass. The pass is valid for the duration of the 4th grade school year through the following summer (September-August). Paper passes can be obtained by visiting the Every Kid Outdoors website and can be exchanged for the Annual 4th Grade Pass at Federal recreation sites that charge Entrance or Standard Amenity fees . Digital version of the paper pass (such as on smart phones or tablets) will not be accepted to exchange for an Annual 4th Grade Pass. The pass is non-transferable. Educators can also be involved! Learn more at the Every Kid Outdoors website .

Additional Details about the Annual 4th Grade Pass

Volunteer Pass - FREE with 250 Volunteer Hours Served

Valid for 12 months. This pass is for volunteers acquiring 500 service hours on a cumulative basis. This pass provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity Fee. This pass admits the holder and passengers in a non commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee areas and pass holder + 3 adults at per person fee areas. Click here to learn about volunteer opportunities at Haleakalā National Park.

Lifetime Passes
Lifetime passes are available to U.S. Citizens or Permanent Residents. Some restrictions apply. Passes are non-transferable and must be obtained in person.
Interagency Senior Pass - $80

Valid for life. This is a lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents age 62 or over. This pass provides access to, and use of Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity Fee*. The pass admits the pass holder and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle fee areas and pass holder+ 3 adults at per person fee areas. The cost to upgrade to a Interagency Senior Pass is $10 from a plastic Golden Age Passport or FREE from a paper Golden Age Passport. If a Golden Age Passport holder wishes to hold on to their pass, their pass will remain VALID throughout the lifetime of the holder.

What if a senior citizen is on a fixed budget?
Legislation establishes an annual Senior Pass for $20. That pass is valid for one year from the date of issuance. Learn more about changes to the Senior Pass.

Interagency Access Pass - FREE

Valid for life. This is a lifetime pass for U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. Documentation is required to obtain the pass. Acceptable documentation includes: statement by licensed physician;document issued by a Federal agency such as the Veteran's Administration, Social Security Disability Income or Supplemental Security Income; or document issued by a state agency. This pass provides access to, and use of, Federal recreation sites that charge an Entrance or Standard Amenity Fee*. The pass admits the pass holder and passengers in a non-commercial vehicle at per vehicle areas and the pass holder + 3 adults at per person fee areas. The Golden Access Passport will remain VALID throughout the lifetime of the holder. The cost to upgrade to the Interagency Access Pass is FREE from a paper or plastic Golden Access Passport.

Educational Fee Waivers

National Park Service regulations allow school groups and other bona fide national and international educational institutions to obtain a waiver of park entrance fees, provided that the visit is for educational or scientific purposes, and the resources or facilities the group proposes to use support those purposes.

Educational fee waivers are not granted automatically. Applicant groups must show they qualify for the waiver.

Learn more about how to schedule a field trip to the park.

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Fees & Passes - Haleakalā National Park (U.S. National Park Service)

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Cashless Payments Beginning on July 1, 2023, Haleakalā National Park will be moving to cashless payments at entrances for all fees and payments. Credit/debit cards and digital forms of payment are accepted. Consider purchasing your pass ahead of time on Recreation.gov.

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Feast At Lele - Oceanfront Polynesian Luau in Lahaina