Road to Hana, Maui
The Hana Highway (HI-360) runs 52 miles from Kahului to Hana, with 620 curves and 59 bridges. It is narrow and winding, and works better as a full-day trip than as a transit road.
- State
- Hawaiʻi
- Length
- 52 miles from Kahului
- Suggested time
- 2–4 hours driving, better a full day
- Best season
- Year-round, take care in heavy rain
- Start / end
- Kahului – Hana
What should you know before visiting Road to Hana, Maui?
No toll roads expected for a car.
- The road has narrow one-lane bridges and hairpin turns. Allow two to four hours for the drive and go slowly.
- Park only in designated stalls. Vehicles that stick out onto the highway can be towed.
- Waiʻānapanapa State Park requires reservations for parking and entry. Check with the state parks division beforehand.
- Do not enter streams during heavy rain or flash flood conditions.
The drive
The Hana Highway (HI-360) starts at Kahului on the north side of Maui and ends at Hana on the east coast. Over about 52 miles the tourism authority counts 620 curves and 59 bridges, including narrow one-lane bridges and hairpin turns. Along the way are state parks, county rest areas, farms, botanical gardens and fruit stands. Permitted guided tours take over the driving. If you drive yourself, expect oncoming traffic and start early.
Planning
According to the tourism authority, Hana has services including the Hasegawa General Store and the Hāna Ranch Store. We found no information on fuel or other services along the road, so fill up and bring supplies beforehand. Check weather and road conditions in advance with the Hawaii Department of Transportation and the weather service. Because the road is narrow, drivers of large motorhomes should read their rental company’s terms.
Camping
At Waiʻānapanapa State Park, camping is by permit only through the state booking system, and there are also cabins. Parking and entry require a reservation, and the park is open daily during daytime hours. At Haleakalā National Park (Kīpahulu) the campground can be reserved, and overnight stays are allowed only in designated camping areas. We found no information on free camping along the road.
FAQs
How long does the drive to Hana take?
The tourism authority gives two to four hours because of narrow one-lane bridges, hairpin turns and photo stops. With breaks it usually becomes a full day.
Do I need reservations at Waiʻānapanapa State Park?
Yes, parking and entry require reservations. Camping also needs a permit. Current rules and notices are on the Hawaii state parks website.
Does a guided tour make sense?
The tourism authority recommends permitted guided tours: they remove the stress of driving and add cultural and local background. This is worth considering especially with a large vehicle.
