Where to avoid driving in Maui?

Kahekili Highway One of the most dangerous roads in Maui is also considered one of the most dangerous roads in the country. This is Kahekili Highway, also known as State Highway 340. Drivers navigate rocks to one side and steep cliffs on the other for about 20 miles between Kapalua and Wailuku.



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Areas in West Maui that tourists should avoid include Lahaina, Napili, Kaanapali, and Kapalua, according to a press release from the Hawaii Tourism Authority.

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While this road is paved the entire way, for many miles it is extremely narrow, serpentine, and frankly dangerous to drive. Full of blind turns and sections where there is truly a single lane with no shoulder or guardrail, Hwy 340 is very challenging even for experienced drivers.

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This road is called Highway 340, but keeps its name of Kahekili Highway. It is this 13 km stretch that is known to be dangerous.

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This road is called Highway 340, but keeps its name of Kahekili Highway. It is this 13 km stretch that is known to be dangerous.

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We highy recommend doing a tour with large windows, an experienced local guide, and only going to safe, legal, epic spots! In order to truly experience Hana, it helps to know more about the history and legends of the area.

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On the back road to Hana you'll drive along some dirt roads, over cliffs with rusty guardrails and along narrow coastal roads.

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Maui is generally safe, but you can expect accounts of petty crime as with any tourist destination. Some visitors make the mistake of leaving valuables like cameras and purses visible in their car, only to come back from shopping or hiking to find their windows smashed.

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Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach located on Maui is known to have rough water and is reported to be one of a handful of red sand beaches around the world. Makena Beach in Maui has the nickname of “breakneck beach” because the surf breaks right on the shore, making it very dangerous to swim in.

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For a more authentic feel, skip the mega-resorts of West and South Maui and head to the North Shore, East Maui, or Upcountry, where you're more likely to interact with locals than with tourists. Upcountry is the least touristy area.

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The only sketchy part is if you're driving along the cliffs edge backwards into Hana on the waters edge. I wouldn't suggest driving through Kahakuloa to any tourists. A lot of locals go off the road in there even and die. Super dangerous.

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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.

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Yes – as long as your rental car agreement allows it. After exploring Hana, you'll continue to the Oheo Gulch, also known as the Seven Sacred Pools, and take the intermittently unpaved southern route via Highway 31 to follow the coastline and enjoy a beautiful sunset.

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Driving along the Road to Hana requires careful attention. The roads can be crowded with drivers who don't always know where they're going, and unexpected traffic backups around curves can lead to sudden stops and accidents.

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Cozy footwear is a must. Flip-flops are the best for the beach but don't forget to bring sneakers and socks for Hana hiking. Further, we suggest wearing a swimming suit under your clothes. Maui's hiking tracks usually lead to hidden lakes and stunning waterfalls – mainly along the Road to Hana.

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