When you are traveling to Maui on a budget, one activity that does not require the outlay of much cash would be a road trip to the town of Hana. It's interesting that you will see T shirts declaring that "I have survived the road to Hana" or words to that effect. You might wonder why this statement.
The road to Hana sounds very simple. It is only 52 miles from Pi'ia to Hana. However, there are 617 tight turns (that's about 12 turns per mile), 54 bridges (mostly one way) and some of the most scenic ocean views that you will see in Hawaii.
The road was built during the 1920's and tourist traffic was not a consideration. It was built to support the sugar industry in Hana at that time. Today, the road connects Hana to the rest of the Island, along with several small communities.
Traveling the road you will see a jungle paradise with views of a bewitching variety of rainforest plants and trees, some unique to the island. Another thing that is in abundance are waterfalls. Depending on the season and the recent rainfall, some waterfalls might be mere trickles, while at other times the falls will be in their full glory with plentiful displays of water volume. Some of these are very striking and well worth stopping to hike off the road to view them up close and personal.
A few words about the trip itself. It will take at least three hours to make the trip one way, depending on traffic and weather. If it is raining or busy with tourist traffic, it may take longer. There are no "short cuts". This is the only road on this part of Maui.
There are no gas stations, stores or other conveniences on the road to Hana. Be sure that you have enough fuel in your car to make it to Hana, where you can refuel. Also, there are no food items available, with the exception of a few road side stands selling local tropical fruits and banana bread.
Speaking of conveniences, the only restrooms on the road are at the Pua'a Ka'a State park, located about half way to Hana.
Another caution is the fact that the driver will soon find that the drive is far from relaxing. In fact they will need to pay very strict attention to their driving, what with the many twists and turns of the road. Some of the turns will actually turn back on them selves, making for very active driving. Also, most of the bridges are one way, meaning that you must observe the traffic coming in the opposite direction and giving way and taking turns crossing the bridges. You will commonly see signs warning to "sound your horn" while negotiating tight turns and bridge crossings.
After getting to Hana, you will find a very quiet, scenic town. There are several small restaurants, a very fine luxury hotel a few gas stations and in general a town about 30 years removed from the present.
Even with these trials and travails of traveling the road to Hana and back, I think that you would find the experience rewarding and truly unique. You will discover why the T shirts claiming survival of the road to Hana are worn with pride.
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