Chasing Waterfalls on the Road to Hana: A Full-Day Adventure Through Maui’s Wild East
A full-day, small-group journey along the Hana Highway into Kipahulu’s waterfalls and bamboo forests.
By midmorning the wind off the Pacific smells of green—ferns, wet earth, a distant salt tang—like the island is exhaling. The van eases down hairpin after hairpin on the Hana Highway, each curve delivering another staged moment: a falls dropping into a roadside pool, a surf-battered headland, a lone taro patch that seems to have been growing here for a thousand years. When the pavement thins and the forest tightens into bamboo, the tempo slows. Shoes hit dirt. The day becomes a loop of trails, tide-sliced coast, and the steady, dramatic cadence of water.
Trail Wisdom
Start Early
Mornings offer softer light, cooler temperatures, and thinner crowds on trails and at popular viewpoints.
Wear Grippy Footwear
Trails and rocks near waterfalls get slippery—choose shoes with solid tread and quick-drying materials.
Respect Swim Advisories
Local conditions change quickly; heed posted warnings and your guide before entering pools or shorelines.
Pack for Rain
Light rain is common on the windward side—bring a packable rain shell and dry bag for electronics.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Kaihalulu (Red Sand Beach) — a dramatic, lesser-visited fallow of red volcanic sand (access is rugged)
- •Hana Cultural Center & Museum — a small local hub for crafts and history in Hana town
Wildlife
Nene (Hawaiian goose), Native forest birds such as 'i'iwi or 'apapane (seasonally)
Conservation Note
This coastal watershed supports endemic plants and fragile riparian zones—stay on trails, do not collect plants or shells, and pack out all trash to protect native habitat.
Kipahulu and its pools are within Haleakalā National Park’s Kipahulu District; the area contains traditional Hawaiian agricultural sites and culturally significant landscapes.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: Wildflowers and lush forest color, Moderate temperatures for hiking
Challenges: Occasional heavy showers, Higher stream flows making some pools unsafe
Spring brings verdant growth and comfortable temperatures, though the windward side still sees periodic rain and higher stream flows—check conditions.
summer
Best for: Drier weather windows, Long daylight for extended exploration
Challenges: Stronger sun on exposed sections, Crowds on weekends
Summer tends to offer more reliable days and longer daylight, but bring sun protection for exposed coastal stops and expect weekend traffic.
fall
Best for: Less crowded trails, Stable weather windows for photography
Challenges: Variable rain depending on storms, Cooler mornings
Early fall can be an ideal balance of lighter crowds and steady weather; mornings are cool and trails are still green.
winter
Best for: Dramatic surf and high-waterfalls, Off-season travel bargains
Challenges: Increased rainfall and stronger currents, Occasional road closures after storms
Winter delivers powerful waterfalls and surf but also greater risk of heavy rains, flashier streams, and potential road or trail advisories.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof hiking shoesEssential
Grip and water resistance help on wet boardwalks and streamside rocks.
Packable rain shellEssential
Windward showers are common; a light shell keeps you dry without bulk.
Water bottle or hydration bladder (2–3L)Essential
Sustained hiking and warm stretches require consistent hydration.
Dry bag or ziplock for electronics
Protect phones and cameras from spray near waterfalls and an unexpected shower.
Common Questions
How long is the hiking portion?
Expect roughly 4–4.5 miles within the Kipahulu/Ohe’o Gulch area if you include the Pipiwai Trail and the loop around the pools; pacing varies with stops and photography.
Is swimming allowed in the pools?
Swimming is permitted in designated areas when advisories are clear, but conditions change rapidly—always follow posted signs and your guide’s instructions.
Do I need a vehicle to join the tour?
No—this full-day tour is designed to include transportation; check pickup points when you book to confirm logistics.
Is the road to Hana safe to drive on my own?
The Hana Highway is navigable but narrow with many curves and one-lane bridges; inexperienced drivers may prefer a guided tour to avoid stress and parking limitations.
Are there restroom facilities on the route?
Yes—there are restrooms at larger stops like the Kipahulu Visitor Center; smaller roadside stops may not have facilities, so plan accordingly.
Will I get cell service on the trail?
Cell service is intermittent in the Hana/Kipahulu area; don’t rely on data for navigation once you leave more populated towns.
What to Pack
Waterproof hiking shoes — traction on wet rock; Rain shell — frequent showers on windward side; 2–3L water — dehydration risk on long day; Dry bag for electronics — protect cameras/phones from spray.
Did You Know
The Kipahulu District (Ohe’o Gulch) is part of Haleakalā National Park and protects native wet forest and cultural sites; the park is split into a summit district and the Kipahulu coastal district, separated by about 40 miles of island terrain.
Quick Travel Tips
Book a guided tour to avoid parking shortages; Start the day early for best light and fewer crowds; Carry cash for roadside stands selling banana bread or fruit; Check National Park advisories for trail or road closures before you go.
Local Flavor
After the hike, look for local banana bread stands and family-run cafes in Hana for coffee and shave ice; visit the Hana Cultural Center & Museum for community exhibits and local crafts—supporting small vendors helps keep tourism benefits local.
Logistics Snapshot
Closest airport: Kahului (OGG); Driving distance: Kahului to Hana ~2–3 hours without stops (the tour includes transportation); Cell service: intermittent in Kipahulu; Permits/fees: Haleakalā National Park entrance fee may apply—check NPS for current rates.
Sustainability Note
Kipahulu’s streams and pools support fragile native ecosystems—stick to trails, don’t remove rocks or plants, avoid single-use plastics, and pack out all trash.