Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: Road to Hana, Maui
84 Reviews
4.79 out of 5 stars Based on 84 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and TripAdvisor
|
Recommended by 96% of reviewers
|
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards.
Maui, USA
8 to 18 hours (approx.)
Mobile ticket
Instant confirmation
Offered in: English
Overview
Download GuideAlong's (GyPSy Guide) self-guided Road to Hana audio tour and you'll discover more on your Maui road trip. Hear fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, local tips and directions play automatically along the route, all based on your location.
You'll be guided to all of the area's famous highlights and lessor known gems including Maui's most famous black sand beach, numerous picturesque waterfalls, green sea turtle spotting beaches, and the best place to see the brightly colored Rainbow Eucalyptus trees.
Enjoy the freedom to explore offline at your own pace, spending more time at places that interest you, and bypass any that don’t.
✅ Stories, tips and directions play automatically based on your location
✅ Travel at your own pace
✅ Tour offline using GPS, no cell service or WiFi needed
✅ Suggested itineraries for half, full or multi day use
✅ Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates.
✅ Includes 3 driving route options
Purchase one tour per vehicle.
What's Included
- Support: Toll free phone, chat and email
- Free Trip Planners: In-app, web and PDF
- Easy To Use: Pre-download and tour offline
- Location Based: Stories, tips & directions that autoplay
- Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates
- Flexible Routes: Suggested itineraries or create your own
- GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide) Audio Tour: 140+ Points
- Bonus GuideAlong Backroad to Hana Audio Tour
- National Park Passes
- Timed Entry/Reservations
Meeting Location
Meeting point
Kahului
HI, USA
Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.
End point
Paia
HI 96779, USA
Commentary plays automatically based on your location, so you have flexibility on where and when you want to start and end your tour anywhere along the tour route. The tour goes to Kipahulu (past Hana), and includes stories on your return to Paia and Kahului.
What To Expect
Book Online
Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your activity begins.
Safe & secure • Easy breezy • Hassle-free
Haleakala National Park (pass by)
A massive dormant volcano rising above Maui, famous for its otherworldly crater and unforgettable sunrise views. From lava landscapes to lush Kipahulu coast, it feels like two parks in one.
Waialua (pass by)
A quiet East Maui community surrounded by lush valleys and waterfalls. It’s a peaceful stretch along the Road to Hāna, where rainforest scenery begins to take over.
Wailua Falls
There are almost countless waterfalls along the Road to Hana drive, as it winds it's way through gulches and ravines along the side of the Haleakala Volcano.Beauty can be arbitary, but for many, Wailua Falls is the most picturesque.Located between Hana and the Oheo Pools, be sure to stop and capture some classic pictures at this beautiful location.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Wailua Valley State Wayside Park
Wailua Valley State Wayside Park — a scenic overlook offering sweeping views of Wailua Valley’s lush rainforest and distant waterfalls. A quick pull-off with one of the most dramatic vistas along the Road to Hāna.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Hanawi Falls
Hanawī Falls — a tall, tiered waterfall visible right from the roadside bridge. After heavy rain, it roars through the rainforest, making it one of the most dramatic cascades along the Road to Hāna.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Ke'anae Arboretum
The Arboretum at Keanae is an easy, no-cost location where you can see a collection of tropical plants and trees.It takes less than 30 minutes see and get pictures of the golden-stemmed bamboo, ginger, papaya and hibiscus.Continuing along the trail the follows the Piinaau Stream, leads walkers to to terraces that were created by ancient Hawaiians for taro cultivation.Perhaps the star of the show at the Arboretum is that you can get up close to the Rainbow Eucalyptus trees with its brightly colored bark, that looks too good to be true.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Keanae Road
The flat peninsula that juts out into the ocean was created by an outflow of volcanic lava from Haleakala which looms above us. It left behind a little oasis, ideal for taro farming.There is a picturesque small church made out of coral and lava rock, more than a century and a half ago.It's nice to watch the waves pound away at the spire-like rocky outcrops for a while and you are almost guaranteed of being able to find some coconuts along the shore.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Honomanū Bay (pass by)
Honomanu Bay — a secluded black-sand and rock bay tucked between steep green cliffs. Wild, windswept, and often rough, it’s more about the raw coastal scenery than swimming.
Kaumahina State Wayside Park
Kaumahina State Wayside Park — a cliffside overlook with sweeping views of Maui’s northeastern coastline. Picnic tables and lush greenery make it a peaceful pause along the winding Road to Hāna.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Puohokamoa Falls (pass by)
Puʻohokamoa Falls — a tall, dramatic waterfall cascading through dense rainforest. Best viewed from above near the road, it’s one of the most impressive hidden gems along the Road to Hāna.
Upper Waikani Falls
Waikani Falls is also called the 3 Bears Falls and it is one of the most popular falls on the Road to Hana because of its fun interpretationAfter heavy rain, water cascades over the falls in one big, thick stream - one big bear. But when less water is flowing, it turns into 3 separate falls, one large, one medium and one small.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Pua'a Ka'a Falls
Puaʻa Kāʻa Falls — a pair of easily accessible waterfalls nestled inside a lush state wayside park. A short walk leads to cool pools beneath the falls, making it one of the most convenient swim stops on the Road to Hāna.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Waiʻānapanapa State Park
Waiʻānapanapa State Park — home to Maui’s famous black sand beach, sea caves, and rugged lava cliffs. Dramatic coastal views and crashing waves make this one of the most iconic stops near Hāna.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Kaihalulu Beach (pass by)
Kaihalulu Beach — a striking red-sand cove tucked beneath steep cliffs near Hāna. The short, steep trail adds a bit of adventure, while the crescent-shaped bay offers a uniquely colorful coastal scene.
Hana (pass by)
Hāna — a small, laid-back town at the end of the legendary Road to Hāna. Surrounded by rainforest, waterfalls, and rugged coastline, it feels worlds away from Maui’s resort crowds.
Hana Bay
Hāna Bay — a calm, crescent-shaped bay fronting the heart of Hāna town. It’s a peaceful spot for a stroll, picnic, or watching local life unfold by the water.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Hana Cultural Center
Hāna Cultural Center — a small museum preserving the history and heritage of East Maui. Exhibits highlight Hawaiian traditions, plantation life, and the unique story of Hāna’s tight-knit community.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Hasegawa's General Store
Hasegawa General Store — a beloved Hāna landmark that’s been serving locals and travelers for generations. It’s the go-to spot for snacks, souvenirs, and a bit of old-school small-town charm.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Koki Beach Park
On the same turnoff that takes us to Hamoa Beach, we can stop and enjoy the view to the ex-cindercone that created the quirky-looking Alau Island, that sits about a quarter mile off Koki Beach.Not just a fun photo, this location is also steeped in Ancient Hawaiian legends about Pele - the Goddess of Volcanoes, and the demigod Maui.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Hana Lava Tube
The Hana Lava Tube is a location where you can enter Maui's most accessible lava tube. You don't have to go all the way inside if you find caves claustrophobic - but if you are comfortable with it, its lots of fun to explore. This is a paid attraction.
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Kahanu Garden, National Tropical Botanical Garden
Kahanu Garden — a lush botanical garden near Hāna featuring native Hawaiian plants and one of the largest ancient heiau (temples) in Polynesia. It’s a peaceful place where nature and culture meet. An entry fee applies.
20 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Pipiwai Trail
Pīpīwai Trail — a stunning hike in the Kīpahulu District of Haleakalā, leading through bamboo forest, past waterfalls, and up to the towePipiwai Trail would have to be the favorite hiking trail on the Road to Hana. It is located at the Oheo Gulch area of Kipahulu, at the end of the drive. Since it is inside Haleakala National Park, be aware that you will need to show your NPS pass for entry, or purchase one on arrival, and that you need to exit the Kipahulu District by 5pm (last entry is at 4:30pm).The full hike is a 4-mile loop trail, that climbs 650 feet of elevation. This is a moderate hike, but if conditions are hot, it can feel strenuous. Part of the way along the trail, you will be rewarded with views of the Makihiku Falls. If finding the hike difficult, this is a good place to turn back. Most will continue the hike to Waimoku Falls, the highlight and furthermost point. Sections through bamboo forest are especially peaceful.
2 hours • Admission Ticket Free
Kipahulu (pass by)
Kīpahulu — a quiet coastal community and the eastern district of Haleakalā National Park. Known for lush valleys, ʻOheʻo Gulch pools, and access to the Pīpīwai Trail, it blends rainforest scenery with rugged shoreline.
ʻOheʻo Gulch
At the end of the Road to Hana drive lies the Oheo Gulch at Kipahulu. This is the ocean level extension of the Haleakala National Park, which spans from the summit at over 10,000 feet, down to this location at sea level.The Kipahulu District is open 9am - 5 pm. The inbound gate into this area of the park will close at 4:30pm ahead of the 5pm closure. Please plan your trip accordingly and exit the park promptly by 5pm.The favorite location in the gulch are the Oheo Pools, which are also known as the Seven Sacred Pools. Pools are opened and closed for swimming and wading depending on conditions, so best to check ahead. There are also short walks available, including views to the wild ocean shore that is typical at this location. This is also the site of the trailhead for the Pipiwai Trail.Since the Oheo Gulch is within the National Park, you must pay for entry, or show your existing National Park Pass. You can also use the same pass at the Haleakala summit location within 3 days.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Garden of Eden Arboretum & Botanical Garden
Garden of Eden Arboretum — a privately owned botanical garden overlooking the dramatic Road to Hāna coastline. Lush walking paths, tropical plants, and sweeping ocean viewpoints make it a popular scenic stop. An entry fee applies.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Twin Falls Maui
Twin Falls is usually the first location along the Road to Hana drive where you will want to get out of the car and enjoy a short hike.The falls are picturesque, you can cross the stream in many places and bamboo forest is seen along the 1.5 mile trail. There are choices about how far you want to go and what to see.Trail is frequently muddy so wear appropriate footwear. The farmstand is a great place to grab a morning tropical fruit smoothie.Access to Twin Falls is restricted to Hawaiian residents only on Kama'aina Exclusive Days, on the first Saturday of every month.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Black Sand Beach
Wai'anapanapa Black Sand Beach Reservations: Reservations are required to access Wai'anapanapa State Park (Black Sand Beach). Book your tickets well ahead as reservations sell out, and must be booked at least 1 day in advance of travel on the gostateparks.hawaii.gov site. You cannot make same day reservations. There are no alternative parking options. Expect to arrive around 3hrs - 4hrs after setting out from Paia, or 1hr from Oheo Gulch (Seven Sacred Pools). We'll remind of timing within the tour.Wai'anapanapa State Park is home to Maui's most famous black sand beach and a park that includes several excellent examples of Maui's volcanic coast. Follow the signs to explore along the beach to spot the sea arch off shore and find the blowhole. This is also a place steeped in Hawaiian legend. It's a must-stop on our tour.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Paia (pass by)
Pāʻia — a colorful North Shore surf town known for its laid-back vibe, boutique shops, and local cafés. It’s the traditional starting point for the Road to Hāna adventure.
Nahiku Marketplace
Nāhiku Marketplace — a small roadside stop offering fresh coconut, banana bread, and local treats in a lush rainforest setting. A quick, casual break along the Road to Hāna.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Ching's Pond
Ching’s Pond — a secluded freshwater swimming hole tucked along the Road to Hāna. Surrounded by rainforest and lava rock, it’s a peaceful spot to cool off when conditions are safe.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Peahi (pass by)
Pēʻahi — better known as Jaws, this legendary surf break on Maui’s North Shore is famous for massive winter waves. When conditions align, it becomes one of the most thrilling big-wave surf spots in the world.
Ulupalakua (pass by)
Ulupalakua — a quiet Upcountry Maui community known for rolling ranchlands, cooler breezes, and wide-open views toward the ocean. It offers a peaceful contrast to the island’s busy beaches.
MauiWine
MauiWine — located at historic ʻUlupalakua Ranch, this island winery is known for unique pineapple and estate-grown wines. Set in Maui’s scenic Upcountry, it’s a relaxed stop with sweeping views and local flavor.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Manawainui Gulch
Manawainui Gulch — a deep, rugged ravine carved into the dry southern slopes of Haleakalā. Remote and dramatic, it marks one of the wilder stretches beyond Hāna along the Piʻilani Highway.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Waikamoi Stream (pass by)
Waikamoi Stream — a rainforest-fed stream crossed by several narrow bridges along the Road to Hāna. Surrounded by thick greenery and flowing water, it’s part of the lush scenery that defines East Maui.
Waikamoi Ridge Trail
Waikamoi Ridge Trail — a short loop trail through native forest, offering a quiet break from the road. Shaded by ʻōhiʻa trees and ferns, it’s a peaceful way to experience Maui’s upland rainforest.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Huakini Bay (pass by)
Huakini Bay — a remote stretch of rugged coastline beyond Hāna, marked by rocky shores and sweeping ocean views. Quiet and windswept, it feels far removed from the busy resort areas.
Fagan's Cross
Fagan’s Cross — a white cross perched high above Hāna, offering sweeping views of the coastline and town below. A short uphill walk rewards you with one of East Maui’s best panoramic lookouts.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Hana Tropicals
Hāna Tropicals — a colorful roadside nursery and garden near Hāna featuring exotic tropical plants and flowers. A quick stop to wander among vibrant blooms and island greenery.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Saint Joseph Church
Saint Joseph Church — a small, historic seaside church overlooking the ocean near Hāna. Its simple white structure and peaceful setting make it one of East Maui’s most photogenic landmarks.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Uakea Road (pass by)
Uakea Road — a small residential road in Hāna that leads toward coastal viewpoints and local spots. Quiet and tucked away, it offers a glimpse into everyday life in East Maui.
Hamoa Beach
Without a doubt the best beach in east Maui, and the best swimming beach along the Road to Hana.This sandy cove is often sheltered from direct ocean swells and from strong winds. It's well worth bringing your swimsuit just to enjoy Hamoa Beach.But, always be aware of the conditions, and don't go into the the water or extend beyond your abilities if the conditions are not calm.
10 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Ho‘okipa
Located just outside of Paia, Ho'okipa has an excellent surf break.On most days, as the tradewinds begin to blow, that'll bring out the kite and windsurfers. Grab some take-away from Paia or the local food trucks and watch from the elevated headland.It's also an excellent place to spot green sea turtles in the surf or as they come ashore to rest. Be sure to give them plenty of space. They are protected by the Endangered Species Act and also fiercely by locals.
15 minutes • Admission Ticket Free
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- How to Access: After booking you’ll receive an email and text with instructions (search “Download Audio Tour”). Click the link in the email/text to sign in with your preferred Apple or Google account and redeem your voucher code ahead of time.
- Download The GuideAlong App: Download the free app over WiFi or cellular data and sign in with the same Apple or Google account.
- Download The Tour: Download the tour in the GuideAlong app under 'My Tours' over WiFi or cellular data.
- Start The Tour: Open the tour in the GuideAlong app to preview the start locations, tour route and trip planner, or start the tour.
- Location-Based Stories: Audio commentary plays automatically as you drive using your phone’s GPS chip. Wherever you are and whichever direction you’re going, you’ll hear the best stories and tips.
- Flexible Travel Date: Tours are a one-time purchase with no expiry or date/time limit. If your plans change to a different day, there’s no need to change your travel date.
- Tour at Your Leisure: With GuideAlong, you control the pace. Start, stop, and resume the tour any day, anytime, adapting it to your schedule.
- Driving Tours: Group Savings: One purchase covers everyone in the vehicle, making it a cost-effective way to explore.
- Works Offline: No internet or cell service is required once the audio tour is downloaded to your phone, so you can relax and tour offline.
- Bring A Charger: Pack a USB/C car charger for charging and easy sound connectivity, and make sure your device is fully charged.
- Technical Support: The GuideAlong support team is available daily by toll-free phone, online chat, and email.
- Audio: The app’s audio will play through your car’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto display, while the app’s map will display on your phone. You can connect your phone to the car via Bluetooth to listen to the commentary through the car stereo.
- Reservations are necessary for visiting Black Sand Beach at Wai'anapana State Park. Admission fees apply for the Garden of Eden and are not included in the tour price.
- Important Note: Please note that recent Kona storm impacts in Hawaiʻi have caused flooding, debris, and temporary road disruptions. Although conditions are getting better, some parts of Maui County and Hawaiʻi Island may still experience delays, cleanup work, or closures. Please review current road updates before your trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
(6)Q: What is the cancellation policy for the Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: Road to Hana, Maui?
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the activity for a full refund.
Still have questions?
We're here to help.
Activity code: C-309754P22
Traveler Photos
Reviews
4.79
84 reviews
Average 4.79 out of 5 stars based on 84 traveler reviews collected by Cool Hawaii and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor
5 stars
75
4 stars
6
3 stars
0
2 stars
0
1 star
3
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Frequently Asked Questions (6)
The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Hawaii customers.
Filter by:
Q:
What is the cancellation policy for the Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: Road to Hana, Maui?
A:Apr 2025
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the activity for a full refund.
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the activity start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the activity start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the activity start time will not be accepted.
- Cut-off times are based on the activity local time (HST).
Q:
What's included in the price?
A:
Apr 2025
The following is included:
- Support: Toll free phone, chat and email.
- Free Trip Planners: In-app, web and PDF.
- Easy To Use: Pre-download and tour offline.
- Location Based: Stories, tips & directions that autoplay.
- Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates.
- Flexible Routes: Suggested itineraries or create your own.
- GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide) Audio Tour: 140+ Points.
- Bonus GuideAlong Backroad to Hana Audio Tour.
The following is NOT included:
- National Park Passes.
- Timed Entry/Reservations.
Q:
What is the minimum age for this activity?
A:
There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure..
Apr 2025
Q:
My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:
If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.
If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.
Apr 2025
Q:
Is this an accessible activity?
A:Apr 2025
Accessibility information for the Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: Road to Hana, Maui is as follows:
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Q:
Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:
Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour: Road to Hana, Maui will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Hawaii. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!
Mar 2024What's Included
- Support: Toll free phone, chat and email
- Free Trip Planners: In-app, web and PDF
- Easy To Use: Pre-download and tour offline
- Location Based: Stories, tips & directions that autoplay
- Buy once, use forever! No expiry, includes free updates
- Flexible Routes: Suggested itineraries or create your own
- GuideAlong (GyPSy Guide) Audio Tour: 140+ Points
- Bonus GuideAlong Backroad to Hana Audio Tour
- National Park Passes
- Timed Entry/Reservations
Additional Info
- Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- How to Access: After booking you’ll receive an email and text with instructions (search “Download Audio Tour”). Click the link in the email/text to sign in with your preferred Apple or Google account and redeem your voucher code ahead of time.
- Download The GuideAlong App: Download the free app over WiFi or cellular data and sign in with the same Apple or Google account.
- Download The Tour: Download the tour in the GuideAlong app under 'My Tours' over WiFi or cellular data.
- Start The Tour: Open the tour in the GuideAlong app to preview the start locations, tour route and trip planner, or start the tour.
- Location-Based Stories: Audio commentary plays automatically as you drive using your phone’s GPS chip. Wherever you are and whichever direction you’re going, you’ll hear the best stories and tips.
- Flexible Travel Date: Tours are a one-time purchase with no expiry or date/time limit. If your plans change to a different day, there’s no need to change your travel date.
- Tour at Your Leisure: With GuideAlong, you control the pace. Start, stop, and resume the tour any day, anytime, adapting it to your schedule.
- Driving Tours: Group Savings: One purchase covers everyone in the vehicle, making it a cost-effective way to explore.
- Works Offline: No internet or cell service is required once the audio tour is downloaded to your phone, so you can relax and tour offline.
- Bring A Charger: Pack a USB/C car charger for charging and easy sound connectivity, and make sure your device is fully charged.
- Technical Support: The GuideAlong support team is available daily by toll-free phone, online chat, and email.
- Audio: The app’s audio will play through your car’s Apple CarPlay and Android Auto display, while the app’s map will display on your phone. You can connect your phone to the car via Bluetooth to listen to the commentary through the car stereo.
- Reservations are necessary for visiting Black Sand Beach at Wai'anapana State Park. Admission fees apply for the Garden of Eden and are not included in the tour price.
- Important Note: Please note that recent Kona storm impacts in Hawaiʻi have caused flooding, debris, and temporary road disruptions. Although conditions are getting better, some parts of Maui County and Hawaiʻi Island may still experience delays, cleanup work, or closures. Please review current road updates before your trip.
