Road to Hana
One of the greatest mistakes that visitors to Maui can make, right up there with forgetting the sunscreen in the hotel room, is assuming that a 42-mile drive will take less than an hour.
With over 600 hairpin turns and 54 narrow bridges, the famous Road to Hana is much less a thoroughfare as it is a life lesson. Slow down. Enjoy the ride. Take time to smell the mangos.
From the whisper of bamboo groves to the rich, organic perfume of the rainforests, from plunging seaside cliffs to the delicate flavors of fresh fruit from a roadside stand – this is a journey to enliven all your senses.
There is literally a surprise around every corner… from dramatic ocean vistas to trees laden with guava fruit to ancient waterfalls carved through rock and fern. There are countless points of interest, but if you choose to stop and explore, be sure to park well off the road and respect private property signage.
Start your trip by fueling up in the wonderfully eccentric little town of Paia, and be sure to bring small bills for snacks. Most of the numerous fruit and flower stands work on the honor system (just leave your money in the basket.)
Tip: If you want to make the most of the trip, and avoid the midday traffic, depart just before sunrise. The rainforests are particularly magical in the morning light.
