Maui - The Road to Hana
While in Maui, Hawaii, you've got to take a trip on the Road to Hana! The entire drive is about 2 1/2 hours non-stop, but there are some hidden gems along the way, so you might want to stop and take a look at them! One of the popular pit stops is Waikamoi Ridge and Overlook, which is a bit past Mile 9 on the Road to Hana, and is a great place to stop and stretch your legs. There are trails and lovely views to behold, such as pristine turquoise-blue water!
For the film buffs, check out the Garden of Eden botanical park, where you can not only find beautiful flora, but you can also step on the same soil where the movie Jurassic Park was filmed! Hanauma Bay is another place worth checking out, and for good reason. Everything is so vivid and vibrant, the greens of the trees, the blue of the sky, and the colorful plants and birds. It's all a lot to take in and enjoy!
The color and beauty doesn't stop there. Along the route you will spot eucalyptus trees, which are easy to distinguish thanks to their multi-colored bark. So pretty, like a painting!
Another piece of advice is to stop and see the waterfalls! Just enjoy your drive on the road to Hana and make sure you get out of your car for a fabulous view of at least one of the several waterfalls along the path. You won't regret it! You might even want to pack a picnic lunch and take your time on the journey.
If you forgot to pack food, not to worry, because around Mile 26 on the Road to Hana, you'll find a place that serves coconut milk ice cream, as well as a spot to grab yummy food like fish tacos and even Thai cuisine! Yummy!
After filling your belly, hit the black sand beach of Waianapanapa. Yes, black sand! It originated from a flow of lava hundreds of years ago. It's pretty cool, but it's a tourist destination, so if you want to avoid the crowds, try to get there early! If you go for a short 10-minute hike (watch out, it's a bit steep!) you'll find a red sand beach, Kaihalulu. There is a big red rock that is actually a jagged wall of lava rock! You'll be so glad you did this because the red beaches are marvelous; you've never seen anything like it!
Once you get to Hana, you have the choice to continue on and go all the way into town, or you can call it a day and turn back. More magnificent waterfalls and hiking trails await you if you continue on!
On the way back, you can choose to just double-back, or take an alternative route, one that is considered a bit more off-road and risky. Going a different way gives you more varied views to see as well as more memories. All in all, you're looking at about 12 hours of journeying, so some good advice is to bring food and snacks! Trust us, the Road to Hana is beautiful and a must-see if you're in Maui. Take the path less traveled because life is short!