Beaches Along Road to Hana

About the Road to Hana

The Road to Hana is one of the most famous drives in the world, winding 64 miles along Maui's northeastern coast through 620 curves and across 59 bridges. The route passes through dense rainforest, past waterfalls, and along dramatic sea cliffs, with scattered beaches and swimming holes along the way.

Beaches along the Hana Highway are dramatically different from the resort beaches on Maui's west and south shores. Volcanic black sand, cave-lined coves, and remote red sand beaches replace the wide golden crescents found in Kaʻānapali and Wailea. The east side of Maui receives heavy rainfall, so water quality at stream-influenced beaches can fluctuate significantly. Currents and surf can also be powerful along this exposed coast.

The Road to Hana is a full-day commitment — the drive takes roughly 2.5 hours one way without stops, and most visitors make numerous stops along the route. Hoʻokipa Beach is the first major stop, about 10 minutes past Paʻia. Black sand beaches appear at various points along the highway. Hamoa Beach and Red Sand Beach are both near the town of Hana, roughly at the road's end. Arrive early in Pāʻia to begin the drive by 8 AM and avoid congestion on the narrow, winding road.

Best for watching water sports: Hoʻokipa Beach (windsurfing, sea turtles). Most beautiful: Hamoa Beach (sheltered cove, powerful surf). Most unique: Kaihalulu Red Sand Beach (red volcanic cinder, hidden cove). Planning note: Start early, bring snacks and water, and respect the one-lane bridges.

After heavy rain, bacteria levels spike at beaches near streams and river mouths. If a brown water advisory is active near Road to Hana, East Maui:

• Wait 72 hours after rain stops before entering the water
• Avoid brown or murky water regardless of whether an advisory is posted
• Best rain-resistant option: Hamoa Beach (mile 52) (Southeast) — generally clearer after rain due to geography
• Check the Maui live advisories page for current conditions