6 Unforgettable Pitstops on Maui's Road to Hana
![Seven Sacred Pools](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/20x11/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/16040000203_7624c42134_k.webp)
There’s nothing quite like driving along the Hana Highway—a fact that local Hawaiians and visitors will certainly affirm.
The partially single-lane winding road sweeps across Maui with ocean views, bridges, hippie towns, and roadside waterfalls. Though many visitors try to stuff the entire adventure down Hana into one day, the area less traveled is overflowing with natural beauty and things to do.
From state parks and hiking trails, to botanical gardens and guided tours—it’s hard to see it all. We’ve broken down the six pitstops on Maui’s Road to Hana that you just can’t miss.
1. Wai‘anapanapa State Park
Natural Feature
![Waianapanapa black sand beach, Maui | © GE Keoni](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/img_1998.webp)
2. Na‘ili‘ili Haele Trail
Hiking Trail
![Bamboo Forest | © Max Delaquis/Flickr](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/28889382371_05a94af6dc_k.webp)
This easy walk also known as Bamboo Forest, passes through green groves of bamboo to reach a string of waterfalls and multiple swimming pools. The hike is a great little place to take a break from driving, though it is an infamous rescue spot because of the slippery river bed.
3. Hana Lava Tube
Natural Feature
![Entrance to Hana Lava Tubes | © Flavio Ensiki/Flickr](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/2129788533_ee75156898_b.webp)
Formed nearly 1,000 years ago, the Hana lava tube is the largest of its kind on the island. Visitors explore the caverns, view stalactites, and rock formations while learning about the different types of lava in Hawaii on a 40-minute guided tour.
4. Aunty Sandy's
Bakery, Smoothie Bar, Snack Bar, Healthy
![Banana Bread | © Jo del Corro/Flickr](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/6860441947_c2389d9e02_b.webp)
It’s impossible to drive the Road to Hana and not try local banana bread—it’s sold at every shop. Aunty Sandy’s has long been rumored to have the best on the entire island. The tiny family-run cafe has been baking this delicacy and serving up sandwiches and shave ice for over 30 years. Go there early because once they sell out for the day, they close their doors.
5. Wailua Falls
Natural Feature
![Wailua Falls, Maui | © James Brennan/Flickr](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/22154884531_770efb563f_k.webp)
Probably one of the most iconic and easily accessible pitstops along the Hana Highway, Wailua Falls—not to be confused with the waterfall on Kaua‘i with the same name—cascades down over 80-feet right next to the road. The frigid swimming pool at the bottom is usually filled with swimmers while the bridge up top is nearly always crowded with people trying to capture the perfect shot.
6. ‘Ohe‘o Gulch
Natural Feature, Park
![Seven Sacred Pools | © Joe Parks/Flickr](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/16040000203_7624c42134_k.webp)