Although it’s a bucket list item for many Maui visitors, to some, the long drive can be an arduous experience, if you’re unprepared.
It takes about three to three-and-a-half hours to drive to Hana from Kahului or Lahaina, with the main attraction being 50 miles of rural, winding road — including 59 bridges, of which 46 are only one lane wide. It will take longer if you stop along the way, and it's highly recommended that you do, to take in the beauty and experience the journey.
One thing is certain, the drive, if properly executed and planned, will captivate you with waterfalls, ocean views, bamboo forests and quirky little food stands.
It’s best to do your research and plan to take an entire day or two for this excursion. It’s highly advisable you spend the night in Hana and drive back the next day. It’s not recommended to drive the road at night, as it will be pitch black with no street lights, so plan to start your journey to Hana at sunrise if you plan to return the same day.
The destination itself is beautiful, serene, and picturesque, but getting there is what it’s all about. Take your time, get out of the car, explore, and experience the beauty around you.
It helps to know about the history of the area and learn about the legendary stories associated with each spot along the way to make the most of your journey.