Can it be done? Should it be done? If you only have a short window of time to visit, we're going to tell you how to have one epic day on Maui exploring Haleakalā and the Road to Hāna! Buckle up for a long, adventurous, and dramatic road trip to the summit of a volcano and all the way around the rugged Road to Hāna!
Sunrise at Haleakalā
Haleakalā (House of the Sun) is a massive dormant shield volcano that makes up about 75% of Maui. The summit sits at just over 10,000 feet of elevation, which makes for a heavenly sunrise above the clouds.
If you're going to make it in time for sunrise, plan to arrive between 3am-7am. Yes, that's right... your adventure will need to start early in order to cram in all the adventures ahead. Make sure you book reservations, which open 60 days in advance and fill quickly!
While you're packing for this trip, do yourself a favor and take a few clothing layers - maybe a cozy jacket, leggings, and socks to go under your sandals. Temps at the top can drop to the low 30s and it can be windy! Also, grab fuel and snacks before you head up since there are no services at the summit.
Maybe the idea of a super early morning isn't your idea of a good time - but wow, that sunrise view is worth the early wakeup and chilly temps. Watching the peaks pop up like islands in a sea of clouds in a golden sky is unforgettable, and the expansive view of Maui down below is breathtaking. Take lots of pictures and look around for the silversword plant (it only grows on the high slopes of Haleakalā)!
There are trails and biking experiences that you could do if you planned to spend the entire morning on Haleakalā, but if you want to squeeze in the entire Road to Hāna, keep an eye on the time and head back down the mountain and head toward Kula after you've had your fill of the sunrise views.
Next up, you'll be exploring the Road to Hāna...backward!
Backward Road to Hāna
The backward Road to Hāna is known for being more rugged and less crowded. You'll take in views of coastal cliffs, lava fields, and the Hawaiian countryside. The roads are narrow and unpaved in places, which means this trip is not recommended in heavy rain or with nervous drivers. Use good judgment. It's also a great idea to make sure your rental car company will allow you to drive the car on this specific route (some companies prohibit it and others say you can drive it at your own risk). Sounding a little nerve-wracking? Aside from a few tight corners and one-lane sections, the drive isn't noticeably worse than the rest of the Road to Hāna.
There are plenty of scenic spots to visit along the way, and those adventures will be completely up to you based on your interests and energy level! Plan to stop in Hāna for lunch. You can find a few food trucks parked together that will give you a few options. If you're looking for waterfalls, hikes, and beaches, keep these spots in mind:
Alele Falls
This moderately challenging hike will take you anywhere from a half hour to an hour to do and involves crossing a shallow stream, but the reward is a 50-foot waterfall and a small pool to swim in!
Wailua Falls
Near mile marker #45, you'll catch sight of the picturesque Wailua Falls. Framed by a lush jungle, this waterfall falls into a small pool that you can take a swim in if you venture down the rocks. Otherwise, simply pull over into the parking area, stretch your legs, and take a few pictures before hopping back into the car.
'Ohe'o Gulch / Seven Sacred Pools
These beautiful cascading waterfalls that flow into the sea are worth the stop, even though you're not allowed to swim in the pools due to the potential for rockslides and flooding. There are trails that wind around the area, offering a peaceful walk as you take in different views of the pools.
Pipiwai Trail
This iconic trail takes you through a lush bamboo forest and along several waterfalls before ending at Waimoku Falls. The trail is 4 miles round trip and could take up a couple of hours. If you need to spend less time, do a shorter hike up to the famously huge banyan tree and back.
Wai'anapanapa State Park / Black Sand Beach
There are a couple of small black sand beach areas on the Road to Hana, but this one is the most popular and requires advance reservations. Whether it's here or at another stop, don't miss the chance to hold some black sand in your hand and watch it churn up in the ultra-blue waves.
Ke'anae Peninsula
For glorious views of the ocean waves crashing against black lava rocks, take a small detour to this peninsula. If you're ready for a snack, visit Aunty Sandy's Banana Bread. Their famous banana bread Is baked daily and sold until they run out.
Upper Waikani Falls (Three Bears)
You might only be able to manage to stop and take a quick picture before moving along, as parking can be tough to find at this triple set of waterfalls. But if you're up for a small adventure, you can navigate your way down the treacherous rocks and find yourself in the clear shallow pool!
Twin Falls
By the time you reach Twin Falls, one of the most popular stops, you may be low on time and energy - but if you make it here before it closes and crave another dip in a waterfall pool, it's an easy walk from the parking lot (finding parking may not be so easy). You also have the option to take the trail to the larger falls upstream - Rope and Caveman Falls. There's also a farmstand that sells fresh snacks and banana bread!
Ho'okipa Beach
If you make it here around sunset, take a relaxing walk along the reef and tide pools. Look closely at the boulders - they may actually be honu (turtles) who have come ashore to rest! Head up the road to Paia for dinner and/or a yummy scoop of gelato as the perfect way to end your epic day.
Take TOBIQ
Trust us - you'll want to take along our 30L bag for this road trip! Load it up with your layers for Haleakalā, a towel, and fill a section with assorted snacks and drinks. We hope you'll share your unforgettable experience with us on Instagram as you #takeTOBIQ to Maui! Aloha!