Drive the Reverse Road to Hana: Kula-to-Paia Audio Tour Guide
Start in Upcountry Kula and drive east toward Paia on the island’s Reverse Road to Hana—an audio-guided, GPS-triggered way to hit waterfalls, beaches, and viewpoints in one flexible day. This guide explains what to expect, where to stop, and how to prepare.
The Experience
Before You Go
Download the tour before you go
Download the Shaka Guide tour over Wi‑Fi and test the GPS prompts to avoid needing mobile data on the route.
Fuel up in Paia or Kula
Fill your tank before you start; gas stations are sparse between Kula and Hana and you’ll want a full tank for the return.
Watch for narrow bridges and single-lane sections
Drive cautiously on narrow, one-lane bridges and be prepared to yield; allow extra time for slower vehicles and stops.
Respect private property and safety signs
Many popular viewpoints require short walks across fragile ground—use official pullouts and respect closed or posted areas to protect ecosystems.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Nahiku Marketplace food stalls and shaded picnic spots
- •Manawainui Gulch viewpoints just off the main highway for dramatic cliff views
Wildlife
- •Nēnē (Hawaiian goose) in upland pastures
- •Humpback whales offshore in winter months (watch from coastal viewpoints)
Conservation Note
Stick to marked trails and avoid stepping on native vegetation; support local vendors and respect private property to reduce environmental and social impacts.
The Hana corridor preserves Hawaiian land divisions (ahupuaʻa) where communities traditionally managed resources from mountain forests to reef fisheries; many roadside stands are run by families with multi‑generational ties.
Photographer's Notes
- • Wailua Falls overlook
- • Kaumahina State Wayside (coastal panorama)
- • Ohe'o Gulch/Seven Sacred Pools rim
What to Bring
Phone with Shaka Guide app and offline tour downloadedEssential
The audio GPS narration and turn-by-turn directions require the app and offline files.
Phone car mountEssential
Keeps your device visible and hands-free while driving the winding highway.
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Short hikes to falls and viewpoints often have slippery, uneven ground.
Light rain jacket
Quick showers are common—layering keeps you comfortable during coastal and upland stops.
Common Questions
How long is the Reverse Road to Hana tour?
Plan on 10–12 hours if you stop at multiple attractions; the app lists many suggested stop durations so you can tailor the day.
Do I need cell service to use the tour?
No—download the tour over Wi‑Fi beforehand; the app’s GPS-triggered audio and maps work offline.
Can I do the route any day of the week?
Currently this reverse route is limited to weekends due to a road closure; check the app or provider email for up-to-date availability.
Is the drive suitable for large vehicles or RVs?
Many sections have narrow, single-lane bridges and tight turns—large RVs may struggle; smaller vehicles are recommended.
Are fees or permits required for stops like Ohe’o Gulch?
Some areas within national or state parks may charge parking or entrance fees—check specific sites such as Haleakalā National Park’s Kipahulu district before you go.
Is the route child- and pet-friendly?
Short walks and roadside stops are suitable for families, but leash laws and park rules vary; service animals are allowed but pets may be restricted at certain trailheads and pools.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
10–12 hours
Location
Hana, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Light-to-moderate fitness for short hikes and uneven shoreline access; mostly a driving tour with intermittent walking.
Ready to Explore Hana?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now