Hana Travel Guide

Discover the best things to see, do, eat, and drink in Hana, Maui. Explore the town's rich culture, natural beauty, and exciting activities with our comprehensive travel guide.


The Ultimate Hana Travel Guide: Discovering the Hidden Gem of Maui

Nestled on the eastern shore of Maui, Hana is a secluded town that offers visitors an authentic taste of Polynesian culture and natural beauty. This charming town is home to numerous beaches, waterfalls, hiking trails, and lush forests, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll explore all the best things to see and do in Hana, from cultural attractions and outdoor adventures to the best local food and drink.

List of Places to Visit in Hana

Hana is a small town with a lot to offer. Here are some of the top attractions you shouldn’t miss:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hana Cultural Center and Museum: The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Hana and features exhibits on traditional Hawaiian crafts and practices.
  • Wananalua Congregational Church: This historic church showcases a unique blend of Polynesian and Christian influences in its architecture and design. It was built in the late 19th century and is still in use today.
  • Pi’ilanihale Heiau: This ancient temple complex is one of the largest heiaus (sacred temples) in Hawaii and is believed to have been built in the 13th century. It’s a fascinating place to explore and learn about Hawaiian spirituality and culture.

Natural Attractions of Hana: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Wai’anapanapa State Park: This stunning park is home to a dramatic black sand beach, sea caves, and hiking trails that showcase the rugged beauty of Maui’s eastern shore.
  • Haleakala National Park: This park encompasses the entire eastern half of Maui and includes the famous Haleakala Crater, as well as numerous hiking trails and waterfalls.
  • Pipiwai Trail and Waimoku Falls: This 4-mile hiking trail takes you through a bamboo forest to the breathtaking Waimoku Falls. The trail includes a boardwalk and a suspension bridge and is suitable for all skill levels.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hana

Hana is a paradise for hikers and bikers. Here are some of the best routes to explore:

  • Haleakala Crater: This famous volcanic crater offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and is a popular destination for hikers and bikers.
  • Kuloa Point Trail: This 1.5-mile hiking trail offers panoramic views of Hana Bay and the surrounding coastline.
  • Kaupo Trail: This challenging but rewarding 9.3-mile trail takes you through lush forests, past waterfalls, and to an isolated beach on Maui’s southeastern shore.

Best Things to Do in Hana: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy in Hana, such as:

  • Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: There are several excellent snorkeling and scuba diving spots near Hana, including Red Sand Beach and Hana Bay.
  • Whale Watching: From December to May, humpback whales are commonly spotted in the waters around Hana. Several companies offer whale watching tours.
  • Tropical Fruit Tasting: Hana is known for its tropical fruits, such as papaya, guava, and pineapple. Several farms offer fruit tasting tours.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hana

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Hana, here’s a sample itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore Hana Bay and the Wai’anapanapa State Park
2 Hike the Pipiwai Trail and visit Waimoku Falls
3 Visit Haleakala National Park and the summit of Haleakala Crater
4 Take a snorkeling or scuba diving tour
5 Bike the Kuloa Point Trail and visit Koki Beach
6 Enjoy a tropical fruit tasting tour
7 Relax and unwind on a secluded beach or explore some of the town’s hidden gems

Food and Drink Scene of Hana

Hana has a diverse culinary scene with plenty of delicious local dishes and drinks to try.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Poke: A Hawaiian dish made with marinated raw fish and vegetables.
  • Laulau: A traditional Hawaiian dish made with pork, fish, and taro leaves.
  • Malasada: A Portuguese dessert that’s similar to a doughnut and often filled with cream or fruit.

Local Beverages

  • Mai Tai: A classic Polynesian cocktail made with rum, orange curacao, lime juice, and orgeat syrup.
  • Kona Coffee: A smooth, rich coffee that’s grown in the volcanic soil of Hawaii’s Kona Coast.

Where to Stay in Hana: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Hana offers a range of accommodation options, from luxurious resorts to affordable guesthouses and hostels.

  • Travaasa Hana: A luxurious resort that offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape.
  • Hana Hostel: An affordable hostel located near Hana Bay.
  • Hana Kai Maui Resort: A beachfront resort that offers fully equipped apartments and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

What to Buy in Hana: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to buy in Hana:

  • Hawaiian Shirts: A classic souvenir that never goes out of style.
  • Maui Coffee: Maui’s rich volcanic soil and perfect weather conditions make it the perfect place to grow coffee.
  • Hawaiian Quilts: These colorful and intricately designed quilts are a unique and beautiful reminder of your trip to Hana.

Local Culture and Customs of Hana

Hana is a small and tight-knit community with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors should be respectful of the local customs and traditions, such as removing your shoes when entering someone’s home and showing proper respect for sacred sites and temples.

Best Time to Visit Hana

Hana is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry season, which runs from April to October. This is when temperatures are warm, and rainfall is light.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hana

Do:

  • Explore the town’s natural beauty.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local food and drink.
  • Pack plenty of sunscreen and bug spray.

Don’t:

  • Take anything from the beach or other natural areas.
  • Disrespect sacred sites or temples.
  • Leave valuables in an unsecured vehicle.

Safety and Health

Safety in Hana

Hana is generally a safe and peaceful town, but visitors should still take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings. It’s a good idea to lock your car and keep valuables out of sight. Watch out for slippery rocks and strong currents when swimming or exploring the coastline.

Health in Hana

Hana is a remote town, so it’s essential to bring any necessary medication and supplies with you. There are no hospitals in Hana, but there is a small clinic that can provide basic medical care. Visitors should also take precautions to protect themselves from insect bites and sunburn.

Getting to Hana: Transportation Options and Logistics

Hana is a small town that’s somewhat isolated from the rest of Maui, so getting there does take some planning. Some of the transportation options and logistics to keep in mind include:

Airports Near Hana

The closest major airport to Hana is Kahului Airport, which is about a 2.5-hour drive away. There is also a small airport in Hana, but flights are limited.

Bus Stations Near Hana

There is no public transportation in Hana, but several tour companies offer shuttle services to and from the town.

Other Options

Other transportation options to consider include renting a car or booking a private taxi or shuttle service.

How to Get Around in Hana

The best way to explore Hana is either by car or bike. There are several car rental companies in Maui, and bike rentals are also available in Hana. Some tour companies also offer guided tours of the town and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Hana: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

While Hana offers plenty of attractions and activities to keep visitors busy, there are also some exciting excursions and nearby destinations to explore, such as:

  • Haleakala National Park: This vast park offers numerous hiking trails, scenic vistas, and beautiful waterfalls.
  • Maui Ocean Center: Located in Wailuku, this world-class aquarium showcases the marine life found in Hawaii’s waters.
  • Lanai Island: Take a ferry from Maui to Lanai Island, a remote and beautiful destination that’s home to some of the best beaches and outdoor activities in Hawaii.

Conclusion

Hana is a hidden gem on Maui’s eastern shore, offering visitors a rich blend of natural beauty, culture, and adventure. By following this comprehensive travel guide, you’ll discover all the best things to see and do in Hana, from exploring the town’s cultural landmarks and natural wonders to enjoying the local food and drink and taking part in exciting activities and tours.