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Top 8 Scenic Drives in Maui, Hawaii (HI)
The Hawaiian island of Maui is a destination for true nature lovers. The ethereal bamboo forest and churning waterfalls in Haleakala National Park can be explored via the Waimoku Falls Trail. Stretch out on warm, golden sands or hit the surf for an unforgettable windsurfing or snorkeling session. Driving the scenic road to Hana along the island’s northeastern shore will be among the most spectacular journeys of your life. Time stands still at the Hawaiian village of Keanae, definitely worth a visit.
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1. Hana Highway - Road to Hana
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9,634 reviews
A scenic and often dangerous road popular with the more adventurous visitor.
Reviewed By MauiSteve96713 - Hana, United States
Ok, I see a lot of mixed reviews on this Road To Hana, and while some are valid, others are not. A lot of people seem to 'not get it'., so here I am...as a resident reviewing my side of the island. The road to Hana is just that. Nothing more. Hana itself is not the destination. The draw to the attraction IS the road and all it has to offer...NOT what's at the end. Keep an open mind, leave for your drive as early as possible...even sunrise or before...and get a jump on traffic and crowds. Get your gas tank topped off in Paia, and bring a cooler of drinks and some snacks. As far as the nightmares you've heard about the local drivers tailgating, all you need to do is slow down or pull over and motion them to let them pass. We've all seen it, we live here and it's a long drive for us to even go to Walmart. Most of us can drive this road blindfolded since we've done it so many times. We want you to enjoy your drive at your leisure, but we don't appreciate other drivers not allowing us to pass. Wave to us as we pass...we'll wave back! Appreciate your day. If it's raining, it's Maui. Can't have waterfalls without the rain. If it's sunny, then many of the waterfalls may not be flowing. Best time to drive it? The first sunny day after a few days of rain. Sun AND waterfalls! Take it easy and slow. There is no rush. Consider spending the night in Hana. LOTS to do and see along the drive and in Hana and further. Pace yourself. If you make no stops, it's still nearly two hours to Hana from Paia. Consider a CD tour or book that gives you the sights by mile-marker. They are not all there, but enough to know where you are. Some of the best waterfalls are back toward the Nahiku area and Hana. Make the stops and take lots of photos. If you need facilities, there are three along the way at wayside stops, The Half Way to Hana stand, Ka'ahumina wayside, and one between MM 22/23....but you won't be arrested if you need a privacy tree in an emergency. There are plenty of those. The drive has access to plenty of waterfall views and hikes, oceanfront areas in Ka'anae, an arboretum, quaint early 1800's churches, pounding surf, gorgeous views, delicious banana bread, flowers and flower farms, quaint neighborhoods, fruit stands, black-sand beach, caves, BBQ stands, gift shops, coffee shop, Nahiku Tropical flower farm, Glenn's organic and vegan ice cream stand, bamboo hikes, Seven Pools, several absolutely delicious food trucks in Hana, Red Sand Beach, Hana Bay,...the list goes on... Main thing is to come early, take your time and relax in Hawaiian Time like no other...and yes, consider spending the night. Many places don't need reservations, as many folks have bungalows out back you can inquire about. And if you need to pass, just give your horn two little taps. Beep Beep...as you pass. and don't forget to wave! Enjoy!
2. Haleakala Highway (Crater Road)
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 272 reviews
Reviewed By hpcle
The road up to the top was a reasonably easy drive, given that I come from the flatlands where switchbacks are almost unknown. Views from the top were spectacular. Clouds moved past occasionally but changes in lighting made the scenery that much more interesting. We arrived at the visitor center in time for a ranger talk about the volcanic history of the islands, well done. We walked a short trail from the visitor center but wished we could have walked a part of the longer sliding sands trail. On the way down we stopped at some of the overlooks we missed earlier and took time for the nature trail at Hosmer Grove, getting good looks at some of the birds we were hoping to see. A great day.
3. North Loop Coastline Road Hwy 30
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 145 reviews
Reviewed By M3755XCmaryc - Fairbanks, United States
We weighed our decision to drive all the way around the North Coast vs turning around at the Blowhole and read all the comments pro and con before finally deciding to venture forth past the Blowhole. It was an incredible driving experience and really worth the trouble for the driver. It seems to me that this trip is best enjoyed with an SUV or jeep. It is also important to relax and drive as slow as the speed limit suggests. Be prepared to back up or move on to the side wherever you see a pull-out when approaching an oncoming car. Sharing the road with a single lane was a new experience. We just loved the drive. The next day we drove around Haleakala and that road was even more challenging and also worth it.
4. West Maui Circle Drive
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 129 reviews
Reviewed By davemG7395TC - Milwaukee, United States
Many single lane areas and bridges, and hikes and views along way. Be careful if you try to squeeze past in the wrong place- road was blocked on one switch back because one fool had his wheels hanging over the ocean side ledge. Sometimes you have to back up, slowly, and when a sign says honk horn to warn blind approaching traffic, do so.
5. Hana Bay
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 207 reviews
Located in the town of Hana, Maui, Hana bay is known for great swimming and snorkeling.
Reviewed By BAShannon1 - Clay, United States
A picnic lunch was provided by our tour guide on the Road to Hana Adventure. This location is scenic, relaxing.
6. Manawainui Gulch
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1 reviews
7. Highway Route 340
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 172 reviews
Maui's northern coastal scenic route.
Reviewed By jonathank918 - Princeton, United States
I am 61. I have moderated acrophobia. I am not especially brave, nor am I a very confident driver or a thrill seeker. Yet this road was fine. Narrow at times, and we had to back up once, but unless you are especially averse to some moderately challenging and adventurous driving you shouldn't find it hair-raising. And it is stunningly lovely; one of the nicest drives I have ever experienced. Just take a deep breath, go slow and if at all possible, drive the loop clockwise.
8. Kahekili Highway
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 187 reviews
Reviewed By must_travel_soon_10 - Mississauga, Canada
The road to Hana is more rain forest like and more tree canopy covered. This route is more open and has so many amazing views. Round trip circumnavigating the north part of Maui takes about 3 hours. Yes the driving can be intimidating, but dangerous. Although we had to stop suddenly when a school van speeding around a blind corner, gave us little time to react. Lots of interesting stops along the route. We went counter clockwise and saw the blowhole from a distance, so beautiful! The road conditions were quite good, unlike some of the southern sections of the road to Hana near Kaupo. Karen Lei's gallery is a great stop.
