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Road Trip to Hana One Of the Best Ways To Experience Maui

Posted: Jul. 11th, 2012 | By Sara Cardoza

Among the many treasures found in Maui, the road trip to Hana has consistently ranked as one of the top things to do while visiting. The eastern coastline of the island is bordered by rolling green mountains alongside the crystalline waters of the Pacific Ocean. Made up of 52 winding miles, the route runs from Kahului to the town of Hana. Rainforests, waterfalls, and hiking opportunities border the entire drive, which makes the journey the most valued part of the experience.

The Pools of ‘Ohe’o, or the Seven Sacred Pools, is one of the drive’s most popular attractions. The stunning necklace of pools and waterfalls are part of Haleakala National Park where many can be found swimming, basking in the sun, or cliff jumping. Visitors may also enjoy visiting the Garden of Eden and Botanical Arboretum whose 25-acreage of indigenous flora served as a backdrop from the opening scenes of the Jurassic Park movie.

32 miles in, Waianapanapa State Park, with its black-sand beach and stretches of shore trails and sea caves makes the park a must-see excursion or a scenic place to stop for lunch. If staying a little longer, visitors enjoy snorkeling here and on occasion can witness the tides turning a deep red, due to the collection of millions of shrimp in its waters.