This Historic Hawaiian Town With Scenic Hiking Is A Gateway To Haleakala National Park

Picture this: you're traveling down a highway in Maui, Hawaii, famously known as one of the windiest, narrowest, and most dangerous highways in the continental US, it's raining, it's nighttime, and your friend driving is squinting because although she is wearing her contacts, she finds it "hard to see in the dark". Okay, so maybe this only happened to me, but here's a life lesson: don't let your blind friend take the wheel while conquering the Road to Hana in the dark.

While this road can be dangerous if you're not paying attention, it's also popular for a reason, as it's an incredibly scenic drive: winding its way past the waterfalls, cliffsides, and jungles of Maui. However, many people (like myself) try to cram as much of the road into one day as possible, resulting in driving back at night. If you're looking to enjoy the different parts of the road but don't want to get stuck traveling after dark, one town in particular is peaceful, relaxing, and serves as the perfect gateway to exploring Haleakala National Park. 

Hana, a town located on Maui's eastern shore, is the perfect place to stay if you're looking to unwind and experience a more rugged part of the island, and one of the reasons you should consider Maui as your next vacation destination. It features jagged coastlines, irregular cell service, and a more local vibe. Considered by many to be the "real Hawaii" due to its less developed nature, time slows down here, and that's a good thing. Whether you're watching the sunrise at Haleakala National Park, soaking in a natural pool at the base of a hidden waterfall, or simply sipping coffee on a lanai surrounded by jungle sounds, Hana encourages you to disconnect and be present. 

The best part about staying in Hana is that, unlike those who choose to stay on the other side of the island, who have to cram everything into a couple days, you'll be able to take your time exploring.  One of the most popular things to do on the island is just a short drive away when you stay in Hana, climbing an inactive volcano at Haleakala National Park.

Haleakalā means "House of the Sun" in Hawaiian, and the summit is famously one of the best places to watch the sunrise. On a clear day, you can see the shadow of the volcano stretching across the clouds and even catch views of the Big Island. Visitors wishing to witness one of the famed sunrises must make a reservation ahead of time through recreation.gov. Make sure to pack warm clothing, no matter the time of year, as temperatures atop the summit can drop drastically. The park also has over 30 miles of hiking trails available for visitors to explore. Luckily, even if you can't get a coveted sunrise reservation, watching the sunrise from Hana or one of its beaches is a fabulous way to spend a morning.

There are also numerous other outdoor activities to experience near town.  You can explore the Ke'anae Peninsula, Pua'a Ka'a State Park, Wai'anapanapa State Park (Maui's black sand beach), Hana Farms, Pipiwai Trail, and the Pools of 'Ohe'o,  Hamoa Beach (one of Hawaii's best beaches), Koki Beach, the Hana Lava Tube, Kahanu Gardens, Hana Gold Cacao Plantation, and go snorkeling in Hana Bay. Hana's terrain is more rugged than that of the more popular tourist locations on Maui, so it's great for those looking to experience the more raw, off-the-grid side of Hawaii. 

Because Hana is secluded and small, lodging options are limited but wonderfully atmospheric. Most accommodations offer tranquil surroundings, local character, and proximity to the above-listed natural wonders and experiences. Be sure to book your lodging well in advance, especially if you're visiting during holidays or summer, as accommodations tend to fill up quickly due to limited availability.

Hana Maui Resort is an excellent choice for those seeking a more luxurious experience, offering pools, a spa, wellness treatments, and stunning ocean views. It's located right in the heart of Hana Town as well, with restaurants, shops, and beaches nearby. Hana Kai Maui is a great boutique beachfront condo ideal for longer stays. Or check out one of Hana's Airbnbs or vacation rentals, which include an eclectic mix of rainforest cottages, eco-friendly bungalows, and tiny homes nestled in the jungle.

Although there are a few grocery stores in the area, many travelers recommend purchasing groceries in the more populated parts of Maui before heading to Hana, as the stores here can be pricey. There are food truck options in town (like Braddah Hutt's and My Titas Cafe); however, many of the food stands tend to open early and close by early evening. Some great restaurant options in the area are Thai Food by Pranee, Hana Ranch Restaurant, Koki Beach Huli Huli Chicken, Kilos Kitchen, Hana Farms, Hana Bowls, and Troy's. One of the Road to Hana's legendary stops is just outside town in Ke'anae — Aunty Sandy's, where they serve up deliciously fresh banana bread. Staying in Hana transforms what could be a one-day checklist into a fantastic, memorable adventure. You'll experience cascading waterfalls in the quiet of dawn, relax on some of Hawaii's best beaches, and greet the sunrise in solitude.