Running just over 64 miles between Kahului and Hana, the Road to Hana should be at the top of every visitor’s list of things to do. This winding road is filled with gardens and waterfalls, beaches, and food stands. Simply put, the Road to Hana is the epitome of the saying, “It’s all about the journey, not the destination.” 

For the best experience, take your time. That could mean driving from dawn until dusk or staying overnight in Hana.

Toward the end of the Road to Hana, you’ll come across the beautiful Waiʻānapanapa State Park. This one park has a lot going for it: It's home to one of the rare black-sand beaches on the island, Honokalani Beach. Lounge on the obsidian shoreline while gazing at the blue Pacific Ocean. But this beach is just the beginning of the noteworthy sites at Waiʻānapanapa State Park, including forests of hala, a type of evergreen native to Hawai‘i, heiau (ancient Hawaiian temples).

Note: Waiʻānapanapa State Park requires visitors to reserve timed tickets in advance through the Hawai‘i State Parks website.

Haleakalā National Park is split into two sections, the more famous being the Summit District. As the name implies, this is where you’ll find the peak of this 10,023-foot dormant volcano. Native Hawaiians past and present revere this site because of its perceived proximity to the gods.

Beyond its connection to Native Hawaiian deities, the Haleakalā Summit is a naturally stunning place. Every year, one million visitors venture up the peak to get a glimpse of rare native plants and animals or tackle the unique Kenoeheʻeheʻe (Sliding Sands) Trail. That said, the most popular Haleakalā Summit activities are watching the sunrise and sunset as pastel colors paint the sky. Add a thrill to your sunrise-watching experience by biking down the peak as the sun comes up.

The other section of Haleakalā National Park is the Kīpahulu District, which is where you’ll find the lovely Pīpīwai Trail. About 10 miles past Hana on the Road to Hana, this 4-mile round-trip hike is moderately challenging, given its 800 feet of elevation. But the effort is worth it to admire rushing waterfalls, massive banyan trees, and serene bamboo forests along the way.

Note: While you may pass various natural pools along the Pīpīwai Trail, the National Park service doesn’t recommend swimming in them, as there are dangers of flash floods and rockslides.

Adjacent to the Hyatt Vacation Club^® resort, this 3-mile Maui shoreline has long been a favorite with visitors. Spend days snorkeling near the shallow reef, surfing beginner-friendly swells, and strolling along the Kāʻanapali Beach Boardwalk. For a bite to eat, the Asian-influenced plates from Hale Moʻolelo and the locally sourced dishes from ʻUlu Kitchen are sure to please.

If you feel inclined to assist Lāhainā as it rebuilds from the August 2023 wildfires, you can volunteer a few hours of your vacation to help those who have been displaced. Check with your Concierge at Kāʻanapali Beach for the best ways to help. 

The dream of beautiful ocean views, relaxing amenities, and service with genuine care are alive and well at this beachfront resort.

Unwind in the hot tub or one of four pools, including a heated infinity-edge relaxation pool, zero-entry lagoon pool, and kids’ pool. Or rent a beach cabana for the day and enjoy pampering at its finest.

Get a bite and a refreshing cocktail at Pau Huakaʻi Tiki Bar, pick up the essentials at Lāhainā Provision Company, or gather your party for a cookout around the grills. 

Immerse yourself in Hawaiian culture at Drums of the Pacific Lūʻau, featuring dinner, music, dance, and a traditional ceremony at the adjacent Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa.**

Work up a sweat at the 24-hour Ikaika Fitness Center, featuring cardio and strength-training equipment, or play a friendly game of football, soccer, or bocce.

Hyatt Vacation Club writer Heidi Ekey contributed to this article.

Sarah Etinas is an O‘ahu-based freelance travel writer. Her work has been featured in Lonely Planet, Tripadvisor, and TimeOut, among others.

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^* No inquiry has been made into the off-site locations, activities, services, or events, or the qualifications, safety, or quality of the off-site locations, activities, services, or events, and WHV Resort Group, Inc. and HV Global Group, Inc. (collectively, “HVC”) make no warranty, express or implied, as to the condition, capacity, performance, or any other aspect of such off-site locations, activities, events, or service providers listed herein. Do not consider this an endorsement of or recommendation for any of the off-site locations, activities, services, events, or providers. Neither WHV Resort Group, Inc. nor HV Global Group, Inc. assumes liability for attendance at, or visits to, any off-site locations, or the products, activities, or services furnished by independent service providers. Additional fees and costs may apply. Activities and events are subject to change. Some activities or events may require the participant to be in good health and have a certain level of skill.