Road to Hana Full-Day Adventure: Waterfalls, Black Sand & Farm-to-Table Lunch
Drive one of America’s most famous coastal roads on a full-day guided tour that pairs rainforest waterfalls, a black-sand beach and a farm-to-table lunch in Hana. This Mercedes Sprinter excursion balances sight-seeing stops, cultural context, and included park admission for a single, long day of exploration.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate and carry snacks
Even with complimentary drinks and snacks on board, bring a refillable bottle and small snacks for between stops—facilities are limited along the route.
Layer for variable weather
Mornings can be warm on the leeward side and wet inland; pack a lightweight rain shell and a warm mid-layer.
Wear grippy shoes
Trail sections, black sand, and slippery lava rock demand sturdy footwear and reef shoes if you’ll wade.
Respect locals and private property
Stay on public trails, don’t block driveways or gates, and follow posted signs—this route passes through small, working communities.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Keanae Peninsula taro fields and Aunty Sandy’s banana bread stand
- •Mile-marker waterfall pullouts and small roadside fruit stands east of Paia
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtles (honu) at Ho'okipa
- •Native seabirds like shearwaters and noddies along the coast
Conservation Note
Waianapanapa entry is managed to limit visitor impact; stay on trails, pack out waste, and avoid taking sand or rocks to protect fragile coastal ecosystems.
The Road to Hana follows paths used for generations; Paia was a sugar-plantation town and Keanae preserves traditional taro cultivation that links modern residents to ancestral land use.
Photographer's Notes
- • Waianapanapa State Park black sand beach and sea arches
- • Keanae Peninsula shoreline for lava formations and taro fields
- • Roadside bamboo grove and nearby waterfall pullouts
What to Bring
DaypackEssential
Holds water, rain layer, camera and sunscreen for the day’s stops.
Light rain shellEssential
Essential in Maui’s rainforest sections where showers can start suddenly.
Sturdy trail or reef shoesEssential
Provides traction on wet rocks, lava and the black-sand beach; reef shoes useful for wading.
Sunscreen and hatEssential
Protection for exposed coastal viewpoints and mid-day sunlight.
Common Questions
What time is pickup and where?
Pickups occur early (typically between 5:50–6:30 AM) with hotel pickup options by zone; specify the correct side of the island when booking or use the central Kahului meeting point.
Is park admission included?
Yes—admission to Waianapanapa State Park (black sand beach) is included in the tour price.
Can I swim at waterfall stops and the black sand beach?
Swimming is at your own discretion; currents and submerged rocks can be hazardous—observe posted warnings and ask your guide about safe areas.
Are restrooms available on the route?
Restrooms are available at scheduled stops such as state parks and some roadside stops; plan accordingly for limited facilities between towns.
Is the drive suitable for people with motion sickness?
The Road to Hana has many curves; bring anti-nausea medication and sit near the front of the van if you are sensitive to motion.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated for the lunch?
The tour provides a farm-to-table meal—notify the operator of dietary restrictions at booking so they can accommodate alternatives when possible.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
9–11 hours
Location
Hana, Hawaii
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Appropriate for most fitness levels; requires sitting for a long day plus short, uneven walks to viewpoints and beaches
Topics
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