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Road to Hana Full-Day Shore Excursion from Kahului — Waterfalls, Black Sand & Coastal Lookouts - Kahului

Road to Hana Full-Day Shore Excursion from Kahului — Waterfalls, Black Sand & Coastal Lookouts

Hanaeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

8–9 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; requires ability to board a bus and walk short uneven trails

Overview

Take the iconic Road to Hana in a single day from Kahului: 68 miles, nearly 600 curves, lush rainforest lookouts, black-sand beaches and a local lunch in Hana. This guided shore excursion packs East Maui’s highlights into an organized, narrative-driven day.

Road to Hana Full-Day Shore Excursion from Kahului — Waterfalls, Black Sand & Coastal Lookouts

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Bus Tour

The bus eases out of Kahului harbor before dawn, headlights cutting through the soft offshore haze as Maui unfurls to the east. Window seats are prime real estate on this 68-mile coastal ribbon — the Road to Hana — where hairpins number in the hundreds and the landscape keeps changing like scenes in a slow film: raw lava cliffs, steep taro terraces, and rainforest gullies where waterfalls push themselves over the edges.

Adventure Photos

Road to Hana Full-Day Shore Excursion from Kahului — Waterfalls, Black Sand & Coastal Lookouts photo 1

Adventure Tips

Motion comfort and seating

Choose a forward-facing seat where you can see the road and bring ginger chews or anti-nausea medication; the route has many tight curves.

Sun and rain protection

East-facing exposure and sudden showers mean a sun hat, sunscreen, and a light waterproof layer are smart all-day choices.

Respect private property

Not all scenic pullouts are public — follow your guide’s instructions and avoid parking on private driveways or walking past fences.

Carry small cash and snacks

While lunch is included at Tony’s Place, small roadside stands and donation boxes may be cash-only—bring a few bills.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Hawaiian green sea turtle (honu) seen on rocky shores
  • Native seabirds like the ʻuaʻu (wedge-tailed shearwater) off the coast

History

Hana and its surrounding ahupuaʻa (land divisions) retain deep ancestral significance; Piilanihale Heiau nearby is the largest known pre-contact temple complex in Hawaii.

Conservation

East Maui’s ecosystems are fragile — stick to marked paths, avoid removing shells or plants, and support local vendors who follow sustainable harvesting and fishing practices.

Adventure Hotspots in Kahului

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sturdy walking shoes

Essential

Short trails, rocky beaches and natural pools require supportive footwear.

Light rain jacket

Essential

Tropical showers can arrive suddenly along the coast and in rainforest areas.

spring specific

Sun hat and sunscreen

Essential

Open coastal lookouts expose you to strong sun; protection reduces fatigue and sunburn.

summer specific

Refillable water bottle

Essential

Keep hydrated on the long day; water refill options are limited in remote spots.