Reverse Road to Hana: Luxury Full-Circle Tour from South Maui
Take the Road to Hana the local way — full circle and in reverse. This small‑group luxury tour from South Maui blends rainforest waterfalls, a family fruit stand, black sand beaches and a hot flower‑farm lunch into an 8–10 hour cultural drive.
The Experience
Before You Go
Prepare for motion sickness
Take anti‑nausea medication before pickup and use ginger chews provided on the tour; the route has 600+ turns and many one‑lane bridges.
Bring a swimsuit and towel
Weather permitting you may swim at a freshwater pond and a black sand beach — towels are provided but your own quick‑dry towel is convenient.
Pack small bills
Roadside stands and local vendors frequently accept cash only; a few dollars go a long way for banana bread and shave ice.
Layer for temperature shifts
Expect warm coastal air and much cooler, wet conditions in the rainforest and Upcountry; a lightweight rain shell and fleece are useful.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Halfway to Hana family fruit stand for original banana bread and shave ice
- •Flower farm picnic spot just outside Hana with local crafts and a quiet lei display
Wildlife
- •Native Hawaiian goose (nene) in the higher pasturelands
- •Tropical seabirds like the white tern along the coast
Conservation Note
Visitors are asked to respect private land and cultural sites, use reef‑safe sunscreen, and follow park rules to protect freshwater pools and shoreline habitats.
The Road to Hana follows old footpaths and plantation roads; indigenous communities and later sugar and pineapple industries shaped settlement patterns along its length.
Photographer's Notes
- • Lookouts along Haleakala Highway for sweeping slope views
- • Wailua Falls platform for mist shots
- • Black sand beach edge for contrast between sand and surf
What to Bring
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and the marine environment during beach and ocean stops.
Motion‑sickness medication or wristbandsEssential
Helpful for the winding sections of the Road to Hana.
Swimsuit and quick‑dry towelEssential
For pond and beach swims when weather permits.
Light rain shell and fleece
Keeps you comfortable through elevation and rainforest showers.
Common Questions
How long is the tour and what time should I expect to return?
The tour runs about 8–10 hours; exact pickup time is provided after booking and return to South Maui is typically late afternoon to early evening.
Is there time to swim at waterfalls and beaches?
Yes — stops for swimming are weather and safety dependent; towels and changing space are available when swims are permitted.
Can I bring my own food or buy snacks on the route?
A hot lunch and light breakfast are included, but small roadside vendors and the family fruit stand accept cash if you want extra snacks or souvenirs.
Is this tour suitable for children and older travelers?
The tour is suitable for most ages but involves long periods of driving; it’s not recommended for travelers with serious heart or spinal conditions or for pregnant guests.
Do I need to tip the guide and driver?
Tipping is customary; 15–20% of the tour cost shared between driver and guide is a common guideline for good service.
Will there be restroom access during the day?
Yes — stops include public restrooms in Hana and at selected parks, but facilities can be basic and sporadic along the route.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8–10 hours
Location
Hana, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; limited walking over short, uneven paths and swims in calm conditions.
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