When we booked our trip to Maui this last year I immediately started planning. I like to have an itinerary, I do schedule “free time” so it’s not all go go go. But I like to have an idea of where we’re going when and what all we’re going to do. When I started planning this particular trip there was one thing that stuck out more than anything, that I most certainly want not going to miss out on. The Road to Hana.

Haipua’ena Falls

1 1/2 miles past the 10-mile marker

Small turnout on the far side of the bridge 

This waterfall is my favourite place that we stopped. It has a super small parking spot, two vehicles can fit there – if you’re lucky – so it is quiet. We were the only ones there when we saw it.

You have to walk about a 1/2 km to get to them but it’s worth it. I could have spent more time there easily. It was raining when I went but I think it would be a perfect place to do the once in a lifetime waterfall swim if the weather permitted.

Ke’anae

The ocean is such a powerful being, isn’t she? Once nearly wiped out by a tsunami in 1946, the only thing left standing is an old stone church.

I could have stayed at this place all day long and not have been bored. The ocean beating against the lava rock, each wave unique. The water is rough and beautiful here. Definitely somewhere you don’t want to miss. There is a banana bread stand here as well, we didn’t try it but it rumoured to be as good as the next one. These are also washrooms available for you to use here.

Halfway to Hana

1/3 mile past 17-mile marker sign

Not long after the Ke’anae, you come across this little food stand. All we Aunty Sandy’s We stopped here and had the banana bread. Probably one of the best I have ever eaten. It was warm out of the oven and came in large pieces. They also have some fruit and sandwiches and things. If you’re hungry and you don’t have anything packed this is where I suggest you grab some snacks.

Upper Waikani Falls / Three Bears Falls

Between 19 and 20 mile marker

Drive around the corner and park in the parking lot at the top of the hill. Do not ignore the “no parking” signs. They are there for a reason. We witnessed a rather loud argument between some locals and some tourists.

Anyways. There is a perfectly good view from the road, that I was perfectly happy with. But I am glad I built up the nerve to take the trail down. I use the term trail loosely because you are climbing over some rather large rocks. Also, the “trailhead” is found by climbing over a bridge railing and has a bit of a drop. Never the less, if you are able to get down there you can really see the size and power of these beautiful falls.

Wai’anapanapa Black Sand Beach

My experience with beaches, having lived in a landlocked province my whole life, has been pretty non-existent so I was really excited about the black sand beach. It was busy but the views were incredible, and the black sand, unlike everything I had ever seen.

They have cabins and restrooms, showers and picnic tables. We were here for quite a while walking around, exploring the caves and again just watching the ocean. This was the only place I spotted a turtle, riding the waves.

The Road to Hana was a bucket list item for me and I don’t regret doing it at all. It makes for a long day with countless incredible views and things to look at. There wasn’t a dull moment the entire drive and there was no room for boredom. These are just my favourites along the way.

Have you followed the Road to Hana? What was your favourite stop along the way?