Small Group Road to Hna Tour 6 to 8 passengers

Key Points

• Small group size of 6 to 8 passengers offers personalized attention
• Includes breakfast, lunch, and snacks to keep you energized throughout the day
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off from your Maui accommodation
• Stops at iconic locations like Ho’okipa Park, Hanawi Falls, and Wai’anapanapa State Park
• Tour duration of approximately 10 hours with a relaxed pace and plenty of photo opportunities
• Rated 4.6/5 with 900 reviews, highly recommended by 90% of previous participants

Start in Kahului with Pickup and Scenic Drive

This small-group Road to Hana tour departs from 270 Dairy Rd in Kahului at 7:00 am, offering a convenient start for visitors staying in Maui. The tour begins with hotel pickup, eliminating the stress of self-driving through the winding, narrow roads. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the approximately 10-hour day.

As the group heads out, the guide shares insights about Maui’s history, geography, and culture. The small size—limited to 6 to 8 passengers—means more personalized interaction and fewer crowds at each stop. This setup is ideal for those who prefer a relaxed, informative experience rather than a large tour with many participants.

Exploring the Eclectic Town of Paia

The first stop is Paia, an old plantation-era town that offers a glimpse of Maui’s vibrant local character. Though brief, this visit sets the tone for the day, highlighting the island’s blend of history and modern life before heading towards the scenic coast.

From here, the tour quickly shifts toward iconic natural sights, with the guide providing background stories and context, making each location more meaningful. The drive along the coast introduces the lush, mountainous landscape that makes Maui’s scenery so distinctive.

Ho’okipa Park: World-Famous Windsurfing Spot

At Ho‘okipa Beach Park, visitors find spectacular white sand beaches and perfect windsurfing conditions. The overlook provides stunning views of the waves and windsurfers challenging themselves on the water. The stop lasts about 10 minutes and is free of charge, making it an excellent photo spot.

This location showcases Maui’s famous ocean activity scene, with the powerful surf framed by the backdrop of lush green hills. It’s an Instagram-worthy moment and a chance to appreciate the island’s active coastal culture.

Huelo: Rainbow Eucalyptus and Ocean Vistas

Next, the tour pauses at Huelo, a historic area renowned for its bamboo vistas, rugged cliffs, and breathtaking ocean views. Here, the highlight is the “painted forest” of rainbow eucalyptus trees, which display striking multicolored bark.

The stop lasts about 15 minutes and is free of charge. Visitors get a chance to photograph the vibrant trees and take in the sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean. The guide shares stories about the area’s heritage, making this a peaceful, scenic stretch along the coast.

Keanae Village and Banana Bread at Aunty Sandy’s

A highlight of the tour is Keanae, a small community on an old lava flow peninsula. Visitors explore the Keanae Congregational Church, built from lava rocks in 1860, and enjoy some of the best banana bread in Maui, served fresh at Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread Stand.

The 40-minute stop offers a relaxed walk through the historic village and a delicious treat. The banana bread has been featured on Gordon Ramsay’s Uncharted, making it a must-try for food lovers. Visitors might also catch a glimpse of Hawaiian sea turtles in Keanae Bay.

Pua’a Ka’a State Park: Waterfalls and Swimming

Continuing along the route, the tour visits Pua’a Ka’a State Park, known for its scenic waterfalls and pools. You get about 45 minutes to explore, with options to swim or relax by the water.

The park’s lush surroundings and gentle waterfalls make it an ideal spot for photos and a refreshing break. The natural setting showcases Maui’s volcanic landscape and rich greenery, giving visitors a peaceful respite amidst the adventure.

Wai’anapanapa State Park: Black Sand Beach and Sea Caves

One of the most memorable stops is Wai’anapanapa State Park, home to Honokalani Beach, a striking black sand beach set among lava cliffs. Visitors can explore sea caves, sea arches, and lava tubes, all carved by the ocean’s ceaseless power.

The 1-hour stop includes snorkeling opportunities, and the vivid scenery combines bright green jungle foliage with blue waters. The trail leading to the beach is an ancient Hawaiian footpath, adding a sense of history to the landscape.

Hana Bay and Koki Beach: Coastal Views and Photo Ops

The tour proceeds to Hana Bay, where the black sand and relaxed vibe highlight Maui’s coastal beauty. Local outrigger canoe clubs are often practicing here, adding to the lively scene.

At Koki Beach, visitors see the eroding cinder cone known as Ka Iwi o Pele. The overlook offers stunning views of Alau Island, a seabird sanctuary. This location is perfect for photo opportunities and appreciating the island’s volcanic origins.

Exploring Hana Town and Wailua Falls

In Hana, the group has a brief 20-minute stop for shopping and restroom breaks, before heading to Wailua Falls. The 80-foot cascade is one of Maui’s most photographed waterfalls, with a beautiful plunge pool inviting photos.

Wailua Falls is a iconic natural feature, with the guide sharing stories about its significance. The lush surroundings and powerful water make this a highlight of the day.

Visiting Haleakala National Park: Closure and Alternatives

The original itinerary includes a visit to O’heo Gulch, also known as The Seven Sacred Pools, in Haleakala National Park. However, access to the pools is currently closed by the National Park Service. The tour adapts to this closure, offering photo stops in Kipahulu with waterfalls, rainforests, and ocean views instead.

The Kipahulu area provides ample opportunities for photos and enjoying the lush landscape, despite the absence of the pools. The guide shares insights into the area’s flora and fauna during these stops.

Charles Lindbergh’s Grave and Kipahulu’s Cultural Heritage

Next, the tour visits Charles Lindbergh’s grave, located at Palapala Hoomau Church in Kipahulu. Lindbergh spent his last days on Maui, and his resting place offers a peaceful scene amid tropical surroundings.

A short 5-minute stop allows for reflection and appreciation of the island’s historical figures. Nearby, St. Joseph Catholic Church, built in 1862, showcases Maui’s early missionary history.

Driving Through Kaupo and Upcountry Maui

The journey continues through Kaupo, with its rugged coastline and unpaved roads reminiscent of an adventure film. Stops here highlight Maui’s untouched landscape and scenic vistas.

The tour then reaches Kula, a picturesque area on Haleakala’s slopes. Notable is the Holy Ghost Church, a white octagonal building from 1894, and sweeping views of Maui and the Pacific Ocean. Visitors have time for photo opportunities and a quick restroom break.

Finally, the group passes through Makawao, a historic Paniolo town known for its cowboy culture, before heading back toward Kahului, completing the full-day experience.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

This small-group tour stands out for its personalized attention, with a maximum of 8 travelers, and expert guides such as Louie, Georg, or Larry—each praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling. The delicious included meals—a continental breakfast and hot Hawaiian BBQ lunch—add great value.

The tour’s careful pacing allows ample time at each stop, avoiding the rush common in larger groups. Visitors appreciate the comfortable vehicle with big windows and the avoiding of driving on the winding roads themselves, making it suitable for those prone to motion sickness.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour offers excellent value, it’s costly at around $250 per person. Some stops, like O’heo Gulch, are currently inaccessible due to park closures, but the guide compensates with alternative scenic visits. The tour requires moderate physical fitness to enjoy walking and exploring, and large luggage is not permitted onboard.

Plus, weather conditions can influence stops and accessibility, so flexibility is key. The tour starts early at 7:00 am and lasts about 10 hours, requiring a full-day commitment.

Who Will Love This Tour Most?

This tour appeals to travelers seeking a relaxed, guided experience with small group intimacy. It’s ideal for those who want to learn about Hawaiian culture, capture beautiful photos, and enjoy delicious local food without the stress of driving. It’s especially suited for families with children over 6, small groups of friends, or anyone who prefers personalized attention and local insights.

Final Thoughts on the Small Group Road to Hna Tour

This small-group journey along the Road to Hana delivers an engaging, well-paced experience that showcases Maui’s most stunning sights and cultural highlights. The expert guides, delicious included meals, and comfortable vehicle make it a strong choice for those wanting to explore Maui without the hassle of navigating winding roads themselves.

While some stops are affected by park closures, the guides skillfully replace them with equally captivating scenery, ensuring a memorable day. The personalized vibe and attention to detail from Mahalo Tours help create a worthwhile adventure that many visitors rate highly.

In essence, this tour offers a comprehensive, relaxed way to experience the beauty and charm of Maui’s east coast, making it a worthy addition to any Maui itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours, starting at 7:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, breakfast, lunch, snacks, bottled water, all fees and taxes, and a professional guide.

Are there any physical requirements?
Participants should have a moderate physical fitness level. Walking is involved at various stops, and facilities may be limited.

Can children under 6 participate?
Children under 6 are not recommended unless they are in a size-appropriate safety seat, which must be provided by the parent or guardian.

What if the parks are closed?
The O’heo Gulch pools are currently closed, but the guide offers alternative scenic stops in Kipahulu to ensure a full and beautiful experience.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuities are not included, and tipping the guide is appreciated for excellent service.