Gateway Town in Hawaii, Famed for picturesque hiking, leads to Haleakala National Park - a renowned destination.
Nestled on the eastern shore of Maui, Hawaii, lies the picturesque town of Hana - a haven for those seeking a more raw, off-the-grid side of paradise. Known as the "real Hawaii" by many, Hana offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere, surrounded by rugged terrain and breathtaking natural beauty.
The Road to Hana, a legendary drive winding through lush rainforests and stunning coastlines, is a must-experience for any visitor to the area. For a truly memorable Road to Hana journey, consider staying in Hana itself. By doing so, you can avoid the long drive back in the same day and leisurely explore Hana's sights, beaches, and hiking trails at your own pace.
Among the top-rated accommodations in Hana, the Hana-Maui Resort stands out as the premier choice. Situated at the very end of the Road to Hana, this luxurious resort spans 66 acres and boasts Pacific Ocean views, lush surroundings, and amenities focused on wellness and adventure. From horseback riding and hiking to local cultural activities, Hana-Maui Resort offers an unparalleled experience for those seeking a truly immersive stay in East Maui.
Praised for its location, service, and overall guest experience, Hana-Maui Resort has earned the top ranking among Hana hotels on Tripadvisor. Other excellent options include Heavenly Hana Paradise, offering competitive pricing starting around $325, and Hana Kai Maui, both known for comfortable accommodations near Hana's key natural attractions.
For a more boutique or intimate experience, consider staying at Hamoa Bay Bungalow or Baby Pigs Crossing Bed & Breakfast. These charming accommodations offer a quiet and romantic getaway close to the pristine Hana coastline.
Just a short drive away from Hana lies Haleakala National Park, an inactive volcano boasting over 30 miles of hiking trails and offering stunning views of the Big Island on a clear day. Visitors wishing to witness a sunrise at the summit of Haleakala must make a reservation ahead of time through recreation.gov. On a clear day, the summit, known as "House of the Sun" in Hawaiian, offers a unique opportunity to see the shadow of the volcano stretching across the clouds.
While the Road to Hana can be particularly challenging to navigate at night, the daytime drive is well worth the effort. Along the way, visitors can explore the Ke'anae Peninsula, Pua'a Ka'a State Park, Pipiwai Trail, the Pools of 'Ohe'o, Hamoa Beach, Koki Beach, the Hana Lava Tube, Kahanu Gardens, Hana Gold Cacao Plantation, and snorkeling in Hana Bay.
When packing for a trip to Hana, remember to bring warm clothing, as temperatures atop the summit can drop drastically, even in the warmer months. With its rugged terrain and numerous outdoor activities, Hana is the perfect destination for those seeking adventure and a truly authentic Hawaiian experience.
References: [1] Hana-Maui Resort: https://www.hanamauiresort.com/ [2] Tripadvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotels-g155092-c0-h143023-Hana_Maui_Island_of_Maui_Hawaii.html [3] Maui Now: https://mauinow.com/2019/06/18/where-to-stay-on-mauis-road-to-hana/
- To make the most of your travel to Hana, Maui, consider consulting travel guides that feature recommendations for local food-and-drink, home-and-garden, and lifestyle experiences alongside road trip itineraries for the famous Road to Hana.
- After a day spent exploring the beauty of Hana, unwind with a meal at a local restaurant or café, where you can savor authentic Hawaiian cuisine – another facet of Hana's captivating lifestyle that travel guides often highlight.
