Halfway to Hana Private Tour — Black Sand Beaches, Waterfalls & Turtles from Kahului
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness for short uneven walks, climbing in/out of pools, and brief hikes; not suitable for those with serious heart conditions.
Overview
Spend a private day along Maui’s famous Road to Hana with stops at remote black sand beaches, jungle waterfalls with swim-friendly pools, and sun-basking green sea turtles. This 7½-hour tour from Kahului balances comfort, local insight, and the best photo stops without the stress of driving yourself.
Halfway to Hana Private Tour — Black Sand Beaches, Waterfalls & Turtles from Kahului
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You step into the day under a low, forgiving sun at the Maui Mall, a line of green umbrellas marking the start of a drive that feels more like a moving island story than a sightseeing trip. The Lincoln Navigator eases onto Highway 36 and the Shoreline peels away into the winding Road to Hana: a ribbon of asphalt threaded through jungle, cliffs, and the sudden hush of waterfalls. By the time the first overlook opens up on the Keanae peninsula, the salt in the air and the green of taro paddies pull focus; the island begins to reveal its long history in layered views.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Oahu reefs and local regulations favor mineral, reef-safe formulas—avoid chemical sunscreens that harm coral and marine life.
Wear water shoes
Pools and beach entries are rocky and sometimes slippery; quick-drying water shoes make swims and short hikes safer and more comfortable.
Cash for roadside vendors
Small family stands sell banana bread, mac nut brittle, and cold drinks—carry small bills to support local vendors.
Leave turtles undisturbed
Keep at least 10 feet from basking turtles and never touch or chase them; violations can carry fines and stress the animals.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtles (honu)
- Native seabirds circling the cliffs
History
Keanae and its taro lo‘i reflect centuries of Hawaiian agriculture and settlement; many coastal communities along Hana preserve cultural practices older than Western contact.
Conservation
Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid walking on coral or turtle haul-out zones, and support local vendors to help keep cultural landscapes viable.
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Adventure Hotspots in Kahului
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Water shoes
Protects feet on rocky beach entries and slippery waterfall edges.
summer specific
Light rain jacket
Quick showers are common in Maui’s rainforest microclimates—pack one to stay dry between stops.
winter specific
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
You’ll likely want to swim at Pua'a Ka'a waterfalls and splash around the black sand beach.
all specific
Small daypack with water bottle
Carry snacks, reef-safe sunscreen, a camera, and any personal items comfortably during stops.
all specific