Road to Hana (Hana Highway)

The Road to Hana follows Maui's lush northeastern coast from Kahului to Hana, with rainforest scenery, waterfalls, ocean cliffs, one-lane bridges, black-sand beach access and a full-day driving pace.

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Road to Hana, Maui

The Road to Hana, also known as the Hana Highway, is one of Maui’s most popular attractions. You can either drive this adventurous road yourself or book a road to Hana tour with one of the local activity companies. Both options have advantages. If you drive yourself, you can stop wherever you wish and as often as you want. If you’re on a tour bus, you can relax and let your tour guide do the driving while you sit back and enjoy the views.

Even though this legendary road is just 52 miles (84 km) long (from Kahului to Hana), it takes around three hours and can be quite a challenge to navigate. That’s because it is narrow and winding. There are about 620 curves and 59 bridges, 46 of which are one-lane bridges. It can take a toll on one’s nerves, especially if one is used to driving on wide, multiple-lane highways. That’s why the Road to Hana is also known as the “Divorce Highway,” because it has caused quite a few arguments among some couples.

The drive is very much worth it though and offers many scenic views of Maui’s northern coastline, rainforests, black-sand beaches, waterfalls and lush, tropical vegetation. The Road to Hana is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Hana itself is a sleepy little town. There is a luxurious hotel, the Travaasa Hana, an art gallery and some small shops, eateries and road stands.

So in case you plan to drive yourself, just take your time and make an entire day of this road trip. Stop at the scenic lookout points and take in all the views. Also, stop at some of the roadside stands that sell local foods, including really good banana breads and Hawaiian coffee.

Just south of Hana is another popular attraction, the Oheo Gulch, also known as the Seven Sacred Pools. The road continues as a dirt road, the Piilani Highway (Highway 31).

Key Features

Classic Maui drive: Scenic route from Kahului to Hana
Drive length: About 52 miles one way, but usually a full-day trip
Road character: More than 600 curves, many bridges and narrow sections
Major scenery: Rainforest, waterfalls, ocean cliffs, valleys and black-sand beach access
Popular stops: Hana town, Wai'anapanapa area, roadside waterfalls and coastal lookouts
Reservation note: Wai'anapanapa State Park requires advance reservations for nonresidents
Safety note: Check weather, closures, flash-flood risk and daylight before driving

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Road to Hana?

The classic drive from Kahului to Hana is about 52 miles. Because the road has many curves, bridges and scenic stops, most visitors should plan for a full day.

Is the Road to Hana difficult to drive?

It can be tiring. The route has narrow sections, more than 600 curves, many bridges, one-lane crossings, local traffic and limited parking at popular stops.

Should visitors drive themselves or book a tour?

Self-driving gives you flexibility, but the driver must focus on the road. A guided tour can be easier if you want to relax, avoid parking stress and learn more along the way.

Do any Road to Hana stops require reservations?

Yes. Wai'anapanapa State Park requires advance reservations for nonresident visitors. Check current rules, time slots and availability before you drive out.

What should visitors check before going?

Check current road closures, flash-flood risk, weather, park reservations, fuel, daylight and return-drive plans before starting the Road to Hana.