It’s one of Hawaii’s most breathtaking spots, and an underrated destination on Maui. From stunning beaches and gorgeous waterfalls and cultural experiences, here’s a list of the best things to do in Hana, Maui!
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Hana, Hawaii is home to amazing activities. It’s such an underrated region of the island, too. Thousands of visitors do the adventurous Road to Hana as a day trip.
Which is great – but there’s so much to be explored beyond a few hours’ time!
From incredible beaches to unique attractions, this region has so much to offer visitors, and it’s often less crowded than other spots on the island like west Maui or even Kihei Maui.
Whether you’re staying the day or a week, here are the very best things to do in Hana!
👉 Hit the easy button for planning your trip to Maui! Here’s a complete Maui vacation guide for exactly what to see and do in Maui.
Map of the best things to do in Hana
Tips for visiting Hana
This part of Maui is a little unique compared to the main tourist areas. Keep these tips in mind as you plan your trip to Maui!
- Plan an early dinner. Since so many people do Hana as a day trip, most restaurants are closed by 6:00pm.
- Layer on the bug spray. This dense, lush region of Maui is incredible, but it also comes with mosquitos. This is my favorite all natural bug spray that I’ve used in Maui and it works great.
- Plan your day(s) on island time. Many places have limited hours and are not open every day.
What to pack
- Water shoes. This is an essential item in Hawaii, and you’ll especially want it for the black sand beach and any waterfalls you may want to visit.
- Satellite communicator. Most of the region of Hana and the road there does not have service. In case of emergency, this Garmin InReach Mini is amazing, with 2-way communication for help to a loved one or emergency services.
- Rain jacket or umbrella. Hana gets 250+ inches of rain each year so be prepared.
Check out these travel guides for a complete Hawaii packing list and what to wear in Hawaii for mid size women.
Things to do in Hana
Whether you’re a nature lover, culture enthusiast, or beachgoer, Hana has something for every traveler. Let’s dive into the best things to do in this gorgeous and fun part of Maui!
1. Wai’anapanapa State Park (Black Sand Beach)
You’re likely going to Hana to experience this bucket-list road trip views, and to see the famous black sand beach. So let’s start this list off right!
Wai’anapanapa State Park is a highlight of your time in Hana, and likely all of Maui! You’ll need to plan in advance for this though, as a reservation is needed to enter the park. This was introduced to reduce congestion and preserve the park’s natural resources.
Similar to hiking the Kalalau Trail on Kauai, you’ll need to reserve this through the state park system, and reservations are available 30 days in advance. Set your alarm, and remember the time change, because tickets sell out extremely fast.
It actually reminds me of getting reservations to visit the lakes at Glacier National Park – they go super fast!
Anyway, be sure to consider the timing of your park reservation if you’re coming from west or central Maui, and account for lots of extra drive time!
Once in the park, you’ll want to spend some time at the famous Pailoa Bay, where the black sand is just simply stunning! The black sand goes from large smooth rocks to pebbles to semi-fine sand. It’s such a sight to see.
After hanging out on the beach, you can check out the nearby cave where you’ll see water rushing in – so fun!
Also take the short hiking trail beyond the beach to get more views of the beach, and a cool blow hole up top. If you want to continue down the hiking trail, you’ll get more coastal views, which are pretty incredible.
Black Sand Beach Hana tips
- Wear water shoes! My first time at this beach I didn’t and I regretted it! Each time since I’ve visited, water shoes have been such a game changer.
- Don’t take any sand or rocks. Not only is it against the law in Hawaii, but many who have taken sand share stories of back luck until the sand is returned!
- The waves are typically really strong here. Use caution if you’re swimming in the water or with children.
By the way, if you’re into unique beaches, be sure to check out the Black Sand Beach in Vieques, Puerto Rico as well!
2. Hana Lava Tube
One of the most unique things to do in Hana and all of Maui is visiting the old lava tube. This cave-like experience is fun for all ages.
Located near the black sand beach, this attraction will take most people 30 minutes to an hour to explore. There is an entrance fee, and it includes a flashlight for the lava tube.
You’ll descend into the cave and can walk about 0.25 miles in, before returning back to the same exit. The informational signs along the way provide fun facts about how the lava tube cave was formed, and unique structures within it.
Watch your step as you make the way through the cave, but the good news is you won’t have to worry about bats here! There’s one low section of the cave that’s clearly marked. This is near the end, where the private property stops.
However, the cave actually goes on for miles! So cool.
3. Garden Maze (a favorite on this list of the best things to do in Hana)
Sharing the property as the Hana Lava Tube, this garden maze is included with your admission. It’s worthy of its own spot on this list because it’s such a unique, cool attraction in Hana!
Start near the entrance of the farm and zig and zag until you make it through the garden! The bright, vivid color of the Hawaiian plants are mesmerizing and truly a joy for every age.
Pro tip: if you start early in the day, watch for spider webs across the trees. They thrive in Hana and not a lot of fun to put your face in.😆
4. Wailua Falls
Ready to see a stunning waterfall in east Maui? Visiting Wailua Falls is by far one of the most fun things to do in Hana, and worth the visit.
This large, 80-foot waterfall is a breathtaking sight, and easy to access. You can see it from the road or get a closer look with a short hike to the falls. It’s located between the town of Hana and the Seven Sacred Pools (see #8 below).
Pro tip: be sure to have bug spray and sturdy water shoes if you’re going for a wet hike to the falls!
5. Hamoa Beach (absolute best Hana things to do)
Honestly, this is one of the best beaches in Maui, and a really fun one in Hana. Hamoa Beach is a beautiful oasis in a region of rocky beaches. Most of the beaches in Hana aren’t very soft under toe, and Hamoa is a gem!
This palm-tree lined cove is as beautiful as it is relaxing. Hamoa Beach is a public beach that draws local surfers, those doing the Road to Hana in a single day, and those who are hanging around Hana for a few days (or more).
Park along the road (avoid private property, of course) and walk the steps down to the beach. The wide cove is full of soft, tan sand that’s perfect for spending the afternoon.
Use caution as the waves are a bit strong here, which is common on this side of the island. Swimming here is one of my absolute favorite things to do in Hana! Each time I’ve visited Hana and Hamoa Beach, it’s been a highlight.
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6. Pipiwai Trail
One of the best things to do in Hana and east Maui, this fun, interactive hiking trail in Haleakala’s Kīpahulu District takes you through a bamboo forest and to a 400 foot waterfall, Waimoku Falls!
The Pipiwai Trail is an adventure in itself, leading you through a bamboo forest, past banyan trees, and ultimately to the stunning 400-foot Waimoku Falls. This 4-mile round-trip hike can be on the challenging side, but it’s well-marked and offers a variety scenery that’s worth the effort.
The bamboo forest is particularly enchanting, with stalks clacking together in the wind, which is a fun and unique experience in Hawaii. Pack water, wear good hiking shoes (these are the hiking shoes that come with me on every Hawaii trip), and be prepared for muddy conditions if it’s rained recently.
7. Road to Hana
Of course visiting Hana means you’ll get to experience driving the road to Hana. But definitely make sure you take the time to enjoy the journey. I’ve visited Hawaii and Maui many times, and have done the Road to Hana 4 times now. Taking your time is the #1 tip I tell newbies to Maui!
I always recommend staying at least one night in Hana so you’re not rushed to complete all the things on the Road to Hana and back the same day. Don’t miss these highlights!
Best Road to Hana stops
- Twin Falls
- Honomanu Bay
- Ke’anae Peninsula
- Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread
- Wai’anapanapa State Park (#1 above)
- Wailua Falls (#4 above)
With just 52 miles and 619 hairpin turns on the Road to Hana, take your time and enjoy the journey!
More things to do in Hana
Gah! Can you even believe this list?! Hana is such an underrated spot in Maui, with so much to see and do. Let’s keep going.
8. Pools of ‘Ohe’o – Seven Sacred Pools (one of the top things to do in Hana Hawaii)
Located in the ‘Ohe’o Gulch, these pools offer a series of lovely waterfalls in a beautiful setting. Connected by cascading waterfalls, the pools are so pretty.
The area is part of the Haleakalā National Park, so there’s an entrance fee, but it’s well worth it for the access to well-maintained trails and spectacular natural beauty. Hiking up the trail will give you a great view of the pools from above and the lush surrounding forest.
Pro tip: I always recommend the annual America the Beautiful pass. It gets you into the US National Parks and federally protected lands for an entire year. It also ensures you’ll be able to explore Haleakala’s Kīpahulu District without having to worry about a pass, or scheduling your adventures within a finite number of days.
9. Red Sand Beach
Fun fact: did you know that Maui not only has black, white and tan sand, but also red? Visiting a red sand beach is another unique experience, and one of the best things to do in Hana.
Okay, so this is not THE red sand beach, otherwise known as Kaihalulu Beach, which you’ll see chatted about in many Facebook groups. That one’s on private property and not available for tourists to visit.
However, there is another red sand beach in the area. This one’s next to Koki Beach, and close to Huli Huli Chicken.
This red sand beach isn’t one I’d recommend hanging out for awhile on, because the beach is shallow and there’s a lot of rocks, preventing you from swimming. This is more like an awesome stop to see some really cool sand.
By the way, remember it’s the law in Hawaii to not bring sand back home with you. 😉
10. Hana Cultural Center
Back in the town of Hana, there are some fun activities that shouldn’t be missed. One of them is the Hana Cultural Center.
This museum houses artifacts, photographs and stories of Hana’s rich heritage and the Hawaiian culture. This modest museum gives visitors a deep understanding of the community’s history and traditions through its exhibits.
It’s a great place to visit early in your trip to truly appreciate the cultural context of the other sites you’ll explore in Hana.
Note: be sure to check the hours and days the museum is open and plan accordingly.
11. Hana Coast Gallery
A fun attraction for art lovers, the Hana Coast Gallery is a unique find in eastern Maui. This art gallery displays all kinds of works of art by local artisans.
Featuring everything from paintings to handcrafted woodwork, this is a fantastic place to find unique souvenirs that are hand-made and truly representative of Hana’s artistic community. The gallery also offers a peaceful ambiance that reflects the tranquil and inspirational nature of Hana.
12. Fagan’s Cross
Stay active during your trip to Maui and hike up to Fagan’s Cross. The entrance to the hiking trail is located just across from the Hana Coast Gallery.
Perched on a hill above Hana, Fagan’s Cross is a memorial to Paul Fagan, a man who played a significant role in modernizing Hana. The hike to the cross is short but steep, and from the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Hana Bay and the surrounding coastline.
Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular times to visit.
13. Kahanu Garden, National Tropical Botanical Garden (another must-do on this list of Hana things to do)
The north and east side of Maui along the Road to Hana is incredibly gorgeous. The vibrant coastline is stunning, and the variety of foliage and plant life is so beautiful.
That beauty continues into the Kahanu Garden, National Tropical Botanical Garden in Hana.
Home to the Pi’ilanihale Heiau, a massive lava-rock structure believed to be the largest ancient temple in Polynesia, Kahanu Garden has an incredible history. The garden itself is lush, filled with plants important to Hawaiian culture.
It’s so easy to feel the energy of a place like this – something I always try to do on each visit to Hawaii. Understanding local history and culture are so important when truly experiencing a place.
Note: online reservations are recommended to secure your spot, especially if you’re looking for a guided tour.
14. Hana Beach Park
Yet another fabulous beach option, Hana Beach Park is a great spot to enjoy some Hana sunshine! There are several picnic tables and places to set up for the day here, including basic amenities like restrooms.
With a local’s vibe, this beach is great for gatherings, if you happen to come to Hawaii with a group!
Otherwise, enjoy Hana Beach Park as a great alternative to the other beaches in the area.
15. Shave ice
How can this list be complete without mentioning shave ice?! It’s a staple in Hawaii, and anytime you visit Maui shave ice must certainly be consumed. 😉
The best shave ice in Hana is at Estrella’s Hana Maui. A food truck offering breakfast and lunch, this is a great hangout and great place to enjoy a refreshing treat! They also have acai drinks, smoothies and even milkshakes.
If you’re traveling with kids, they’ll enjoy the small playground nearby and the oversized yard games.
16. Local festivities
Check out the board at Hasegawa general store to see what’s happening during your time in Hana! From free hula classes to an archery tournament, a cultural craft and artisan fair, there’s a ton of fun things to do in Hana!
From cultural shows at the Coconut Grove Hana to the farmer’s market in the town center, each of the activities on the board are seasonal, so be sure to visit the store and see what’s happening in Hana town while you’re there.
Best things to do in Hana
The Road to Hana experience, coupled with spending more time in the area is sure to leave lasting memories for you and those you’re traveling with. Hana, Hawaii is a very special place full of adventure and relaxation!
Let’s recap the best activites in Hana one more time, in a more succinct manner.
Hana, Maui things to do – a recap
- Wai’anapanapa State Park (Black Sand Beach)
- Hana Lava Tube
- Garden Maze
- Wailua Falls
- Hamoa Beach
- Pipiwai Trail
- Road to Hana
- Pools of ‘Ohe’o (Seven Sacred Pools)
- Red Sand Beach
- Hana Cultural Center
- Hana Coast Gallery
- Fagan’s Cross
- Kahanu Garden, National Tropical Botanical Garden
- Hana Beach Park
- Shave ice
- Local festivities
Related content you might like:
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