That said, preparation is key to enjoying a drive around the back side of Maui. Make sure that you have plenty of gas—at least half a tank when leaving Hana. Driving this road at night can be dangerous, and is pointless since you miss the expansive views. Keep an eye out for free-range cattle on the road.
People Also Ask
One of the main dangers on the Road to Hana is the narrow and winding nature of the road itself. The road is only two lanes wide, and it winds through the rainforest, with sharp turns and steep drop-offs. There are also many one-lane bridges along the route, which can be difficult to navigate.
The most dangerous road in Hawaii is commonly considered to be the Hana Highway (also known as the Road to Hana) on the island of Maui. The Hana Highway is a narrow, winding road that spans approximately 64 miles along the northeastern coast of Maui, with over 600 curves and dozens of one-lane bridges.
The safest and most pleasant way to travel on the Road to Hana is during daylight hours. Leaving around 7 am will leave you plenty of time for driving and a few interesting stops.
Yes, you can certainly drive the Road to Hana on your own. However, if you'd like some extra guidance on your trip, a driving guide from Action Tour Guide will make for the perfect travel buddy. Driving the Road to Hana is a thrilling and breathtaking experience.
Some call it the “Road to Hell” or the “Road to Divorce” because you will have to journey across 52 miles of winding road, hairpin turns and numerous one lane bridges to experience all of Hana. This treacherous drive causes couples to argue. Don't worry, it's not that bad. Just take your time and drive carefully.
A one night stay is absolutely worth it. It gives you the opportunity to not feel rushed on your journey and you can make as many stops as you want. Plus, you get the chance to do activities on the route home, like the Pipiwai Trail or the 'Ohe'o Gulch.
However, the Road to Hana is not dangerous in and of itself, and for seasoned drivers, the trip should be a breeze. The Road to Hana is about 65 miles long, but don't let this relatively short distance fool you. You'll want to budget your time for slow, careful driving and any stops that you might like to take.
This depends on what type of traveler you are and how much time you have. If you'd rather not drive, and you want a guide you can ask questions to, a Hana van tour is the best option. If you want a little more control over where you go, and you want to do your own research, driving is your best option.
There's really just one reason to take the Road to Hana: the spectacular scenery. A few of the must-see sights include the Garden of Eden Arboretum, the Hana Lava Tube, the Keanae Peninsula, Waianapanapa State Park, Hana Bay Beach Park, Hamoa Beach, Oheo Gulch, and the black sand beaches.
Tip 2: Take nausea medicine.I have a friend who took medicine before going on the Road to Hana and her group still had to turn back because she got so sick. Getting motion sickness is pretty common along this fairly wind-y road so if you can prepare in advance, that will help immensely.
There are over 600 hairpin curves and 59 one-lane bridges to cross. With all of those, numerous blind-spots and the 25mph speed limit (or slower), those 52 miles will take about two and a half hours if you don't run into any distractions. However, this road is FILLED with one incredible distraction after another!
The road is unpaved but well-graded dirt for five miles, and at some points it is only one lane wide and has precipitous drop-offs, but at no point is 4WD essential. The only time you would need 4WD is during a torrential rainstorm—and in that situation, you should stay off the road altogether.
Sundays and Thursdays are heavy travel days (arriving and leaving the island) so the road to Hana may be less crowded. Start early to get the most out of your day. This is one of the best things to do in Maui on a budget.