Road to Hana Day Trip from Paia: Scenic Maui Drive with Farm Lunch
Spend a long, sensory day driving Maui’s famous Hana Highway—roughly a dozen hours of rainforest, black sand beaches, waterfall swims and a farm-to-table lunch in Hana. This guided tour is built for travelers who want local landscapes and stories without the driving stress.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring motion-sickness remedies
The road has about 600 curves—pack pills or acupressure bands if you’re prone to nausea.
Wear water-friendly shoes
Many stops involve wet rocks and sand; sturdy water shoes prevent slips when exploring pools and shorelines.
Pack a lightweight rain jacket
Weather shifts rapidly on the windward side; a small waterproof layer keeps you comfortable without bulk.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
You’ll likely swim or snorkel; oxybenzone-free sunscreen protects coral and complies with local conservation guidance.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Hamoa Beach - a quieter crescent stretch often less crowded than main Hana beaches
- •Hana Lava Tube - a short detour to explore subterranean lava formations away from the main stops
Wildlife
- •Honu (green sea turtles) near rocky shorelines
- •Seabirds and, in winter, humpback whales offshore
Conservation Note
This coastline is ecologically sensitive—use reef-safe sunscreen, stay on marked paths, and do not remove rocks or coral to protect habitats.
The highway follows routes used by native Hawaiians and later served plantation-era movement; Pa'ia was an important sugar-mill town that shaped settlement along the north shore.
Photographer's Notes
- • Ho'okipa overlook for windsurfer action
- • Black-sand beach lookout (near Waiʻanapanapa) for dramatic contrast
- • Hana Farms lunch terrace for farm-to-table portrait and landscape shots
What to Bring
Light rain shellEssential
Protects against sudden showers common on the windward side.
Sturdy water shoesEssential
Traction for rocky beaches, lava formations and waterfall pools.
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and Maui’s coral ecosystems when you swim or snorkel.
Small daypack with hydrationEssential
Carries snacks, water, camera, and layers for stops along the route.
Common Questions
Is pickup included?
Yes—pickup and drop-off from many Maui hotels are included; you must contact the operator at least 2 days before your tour to confirm exact pickup time and location.
Can I swim at the waterfall stops?
Often—swimming is weather- and safety-dependent; the guide will advise whether a particular pool is safe to enter that day.
Is this tour suitable for children and pregnant travelers?
Children are welcome but the long day and winding road can be difficult for some; the tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers due to the road’s curves.
How many people are on the tour?
Shared tours are capped (the operator lists up to around 22 passengers), providing personal space while keeping the group manageable.
What should I bring for lunch?
Lunch is provided at Hana Farms with farm-fresh options; bring snacks if you prefer extra choices or have specific dietary needs and confirm restrictions in advance.
What about bathrooms during the day?
Stops include restroom access at select viewpoints and at the lunch venue; expect limited facilities at natural stops.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
12–13 hours
Location
Hana, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Good stamina for a long day; minimal walking required but some uneven terrain at stops may challenge those with mobility concerns.
Ready to Explore Hana?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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