Cruise Ship Shore Excursion: Kahului Heavenly Hana Tour

Explore Maui’s Stunning Road to Hana for $242 per Person

The Cruise Ship Shore Excursion: Kahului Heavenly Hana Tour offers a comprehensive way to experience one of Maui’s most celebrated routes. Priced at $242.00 per person, this 8.5-hour guided journey departs from MatsonPier 1 in Kahului at 8:30 am and takes care of all driving, allowing you to focus on the breathtaking scenery. The tour is limited to 20 travelers, making for an intimate experience, and includes pickup and drop-off service from the port, making logistics effortless for cruise passengers.

This tour is especially suited for those who want to see the best sights on the Road to Hana without the stress of navigating narrow, winding roads. The guides’ lively narration and detailed explanations help bring each stop to life, making the journey both educational and visually stunning. The tour features stops at well-loved locations like Hana Bay, Hookipa, Wainapanapa State Park, and Keanae Lookout, with the added bonus of seeing sea turtles and visiting waterfalls along the way.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $242, the tour lasts approximately 8.5 hours, offering a full day of exploring Maui’s East Coast.
• Comfort and Convenience: Pickup and drop-off are included, and transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• Expert Guide: The tour is led by a professional guide, known for their knowledge, passion, and engaging storytelling.
• Top Stops: Highlights include Hana Bay, Hookipa, Wainapanapa State Park, Keanae Lookout, and waterfalls like Waikani and Wailua Falls.
• Family Friendly: The tour is suitable for most travelers, with stops that require minimal physical exertion.
• Limited Group Size: The small group setting ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Starting Point and Easy Logistics in Kahului

The tour begins promptly at 8:30 am at MatsonPier 1 in Kahului Harbor. The pickup service simplifies logistics for cruise passengers, who only need to meet at the designated meeting point. The professional guide accompanies the group in a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, ensuring a pleasant ride through Maui’s varied landscape. Travelers should arrive a few minutes early to ensure a smooth start.

The Scenic Road to Hana: What Makes It Special

The Road to Hana covers 52 miles of twists and curves through the lush East Maui rainforest. The route features numerous waterfalls, including Waikani Falls and Wailua Falls, visible from the road, adding to the visual appeal. The journey is designed to be more than just a drive; it’s an overview of Maui’s natural beauty and environment.

Stop at Hookipa Beach for Surf and Wind Surfing

Just a short drive from Kahului, Ho’okipa Beach Park is famous for its powerful waves, reaching up to 25 feet in winter. This spot is ideal for watching surfing and windsurfing competitions, and the lively atmosphere makes it a favorite among visitors. The 15-minute stop is perfect for stretching legs and soaking in the energetic scene.

Keanae Lookout and Taro Fields

At the Keanae Lookout, travelers get a panoramic view of Maui’s rugged coastline, with black lava rocks contrasting against the lush green taro fields cultivated by local families. This 15-minute stop provides excellent photo opportunities and insight into traditional Hawaiian farming practices. The landscape’s diversity is a highlight of the journey.

Discover Wainapanapa State Park and Black Sand Beaches

Wainapanapa State Park stands out for its remarkable black sand beach, natural stone arch, and blowholes. Visitors also find freshwater streams, a legendary cave, and serene pools that invite exploration. The 15-minute stop here is highly praised for its natural beauty and unique geological features, making it a favorite among travelers.

Hana Bay and the Town of Hana

The trip continues toward Hana Bay, a peaceful spot where the tour often includes a lunch break at Tony & Caroline’s near Hana Bay. The town of Hana itself is rich in history, home to the Piilanihale Heiau, the largest heiau (Hawaiian temple) in Hawaii. The visit offers a glimpse into traditional Hawaiian culture and local life.

Waterfalls: Three Bears and Smaller Cascades

Along the route, the bus makes several waterfall stops, including Three Bears Falls, known for its three parallel waterfalls cascading from up to 1,000 feet. These sights add to the scenic variety, with multiple photography opportunities and the chance to appreciate Maui’s abundant water features.

Wainapanapa Park’s Rich Natural Features

Beyond the black sand beach, Wainapanapa State Park features a native hala forest, natural pools, a cave, and blowholes. The park’s diverse landscape makes it a highlight of the tour, offering opportunities for sightseeing, photography, and enjoying Hawaii’s unique volcanic scenery.

Authentic Local Experience at Hana and Beyond

The tour includes a visit to Piilanihale Heiau, the largest Hawaiian temple in the state, and a chance to see exotic flowers and local farms. The small group size and professional narration ensure that the experience feels personal and informative, enriching the scenic viewing with cultural insights.

Practical Details and Tips for the Tour

The air-conditioned bus and professional guide make the long day manageable, even for those sensitive to winding roads. The tour is designed with minimal physical exertion, making it accessible to most travelers. Lunch is provided at Tony & Caroline’s in Hana, with additional snacks and water available during stops.

What the Reviews Highlight About the Tour

The guide, Bjorn, earns praise for his knowledge, passion, and sense of humor, making the trip enjoyable despite the long hours. Travelers appreciate his storytelling, which enhances the scenic stops. Some note that the seats on the bus could be more comfortable, and a few express concerns about road conditions and limited stops at times.

A notable review recounts an incident with a flat tire that caused delays, illustrating that unforeseen issues can occur but are handled professionally. The value for money and scenic variety remain key strengths.

Final Thoughts: A Scenic Adventure for Maui Cruise Passengers

The Heavenly Hana Tour offers a well-rounded experience of Maui’s lush landscapes, waterfalls, and cultural sites, all while providing comfort and expert narration. It is an excellent choice for cruise passengers who want a comprehensive, guided trip to Hana’s highlights without the hassle of driving.

While the long day and some bus comfort issues might be considerations, the quality of the stops, scenery, and guides make this tour worthwhile. It appeals most to those eager to see Maui’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace, with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
Yes, lunch at Tony & Caroline’s in Hana is included, with the meal served at Hana Bay.

What stops will I visit during the tour?
You will visit Ho’okipa Beach, Kaumahina State Wayside Park, Keanae Lookout, Wainapanapa State Park, Hana Bay, and multiple waterfalls including Three Bears Falls.

Can I expect comfortable transportation?
The tour uses an air-conditioned bus. Some reviews mention that bus seats could be more comfortable, but overall, transportation is suitable for most guests.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Yes, as stops require minimal physical effort. The tour is designed for most travelers, including those with walking aids or mobility concerns.

What should I do if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the start are not eligible for a refund.

Explore the scenic beauty of Maui’s East Coast on this guided Road to Hana experience, where natural wonders and cultural sites combine into a memorable day.