Famous Road to Hana Waterfalls and Lunch by Mercedes Van

The Famous Road to Hana Waterfalls and Lunch by Mercedes Van offers a full-day adventure through Maui’s most iconic landscapes for $229.99 per person. With a rating of 5.0 from 872 reviews, this tour is highly recommended by 93% of participants. The journey lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, and includes hotel pickup, making it a convenient way to explore the island’s highlights without the stress of driving along the winding, often challenging Hana Highway.

This tour is ideal for visitors seeking a comprehensive, guided experience that combines scenic views, cultural insights, and some of the best waterfalls and beaches Maui has to offer. The small group size—limited to 14 travelers—ensures a personalized and comfortable outing. Keep in mind, the tour departs early at 5:45 am, so early risers will appreciate this immersive full-day adventure.

Key Points

• All-inclusive guided tour featuring waterfalls, beaches, and cultural stops.
• Luxury Mercedes van with hotel pickup and drop-off in select locations.
• Expert driver-guide shares Hawaiian stories, history, and local tips.
• Visit 8-12 notable spots, including waterfalls, black sand beaches, and scenic viewpoints.
• Snacks, drinks, and a picnic lunch included, with options for ham, turkey, or veggie sandwiches.
• Tour is weather-dependent; cancellations for poor weather are fully refundable.

The Scenic Winding Route on Maui’s Famous Hana Highway

The tour starts bright and early with pickup from your Maui accommodation or a designated meeting point. The Mercedes van, air-conditioned and comfortable, takes you along the 64.4-mile-long Hana Highway, renowned as the world’s longest coastal scenic route. The driver expertly navigates 617 curves and 56 one-lane bridges, ensuring a smooth and engaging ride through lush rainforests and dramatic coastlines.

This route, most of which dates back to 1910, offers stunning views that are often missed when driving solo. The tour emphasizes the scenic journey over the destination, making each stop a curated experience designed to highlight Maui’s natural beauty and cultural significance.

Exploring Historic Pia on Maui’s North Coast

Just four miles into the drive, the small town of Pia welcomes travelers with its colorful, rustic storefronts and local art galleries. This former sugar cane plantation hub provides a glimpse into Maui’s past and offers a laid-back atmosphere. Visitors can stroll through shops, admire local artwork, and enjoy the hospitality that characterizes this charming community.

Watching Wind and Sea at Ho’okipa Beach Park

Known as the windsurfing capital of the world, Ho’okipa Beach draws crowds who marvel at windsurfers, kiteboarders, and surfers challenging the waves and winds. The beach is also a sanctuary for Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, with around 200-pound turtles often seen basking on the shoreline or feeding along the coast. The 15-minute stop allows plenty of time to observe this vibrant marine life and the energetic surf scene.

Waterfall and Nature Stops: Twin Falls and Haipua’ena Falls

The first accessible waterfalls of the trip are Twin Falls, offering a chance to see cascading waters and swim in their pools if desired. Not far along, Haipua’ena Falls presents a less-trafficked spot accessible via a short, sometimes muddy trail—ideal for those seeking quieter natural settings.

The Cultural and Culinary Experience at Keanae

Keanae Point is a small Hawaiian village where local farms grow taro, bananas, breadfruit, and more. Visitors can enjoy spectacular views of one of Hawaii’s largest taro farms from the overlook. The famous Half Way to Hana Snack Stand offers freshly baked banana bread, shave ice, and cold drinks, making it a perfect mid-morning refreshment.

Next, Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread has been a staple since 1983. Her family-owned stand serves hot, freshly baked banana bread, often hailed as a highlight of the journey. The focus on homemade, locally sourced treats continues this tour’s reputation for combining natural beauty with authentic tastes.

The Iconic Waterfalls: Upper Waikani and Wailua

Upper Waikani Falls, often called Three Bears, features three parallel waterfalls of varying heights, creating a striking photo opportunity. Nearby, Wailua Falls is easily visible from the road—no need to leave the van to admire its sweeping cascade. Both falls showcase the lush, tropical scenery that defines the Hana coast.

Lava Tubes and Geologic Wonders

The tour includes a visit to Kaeleku Cave, the largest accessible lava tube on Maui. Formed by ancient lava flows cooling on the surface while flowing underneath, these underground channels reveal the island’s volcanic past. With much of Maui’s surface long since eroded, these tubes provide rare insights into Hawaii’s geological history.

Relaxing at Hana Bay and Wainapanapa State Park

Hana Bay features a long black sand beach, protected by coral reefs and calm waters—perfect for swimming or relaxing. The black sand beach at Wainapanapa State Park is among Maui’s most photographed sites, with striking blue ocean contrasting against black lava rocks. The park offers nearly 360-degree panoramic views, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful walk or a scenic break.

Exploring Wailua Valley and the Ke’anae Peninsula

Wailua Valley State Wayside Park provides a glimpse into traditional Hawaiian land use, with ancient taro patches and native plant life. The viewpoint offers a landscape reminiscent of old Hawaii. Further along, the Honomanu Bay outlook presents dramatic views of Honomanu and Ke’anae, helping visitors appreciate Maui’s rugged coastline.

Unique Natural Features: Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees

The Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees add a splash of vibrant color to the landscape, with patches of green, blue, purple, orange, and maroon shedding from their bark throughout the year. These towering trees, sometimes reaching 200 feet, are considered among the most beautiful trees on earth and make for memorable photo stops.

The Guided Experience and Cultural Insights

Throughout the tour, the driver-guide shares stories about Hawaiian mythology, local history, and cultural traditions. Reviewers praise guides like Quinn, Dom, and Gaura for their knowledge, personable approach, and enthusiasm. The guides often go the extra mile, such as helping with photos, sharing personal stories, and engaging with the group.

Food and Refreshments on the Road

The tour includes a picnic-style lunch with homemade sandwiches—choices of ham, turkey, or veggie—along with fresh local fruit, snacks, and beverages like Hawaiian cane juice. The banana bread at Keanae is a standout, providing a tasty local treat that many guests regard as a highlight.

Practical Considerations and Group Size

This small-group tour caps at 14 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience. Pickup is available from most Maui accommodations, though not from Napili-Honokowai, Kahana, Kapalua, Makawao, Kula, or Paia—guests need to meet at Lahaina Cannery Mall or Kahului park n’ride. The tour departs at 5:45 am, so early risers are best suited to enjoy the full day.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

The tour is weather-dependent; if poor weather causes cancellations, a full refund or alternative date is offered. Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are fully refundable, while last-minute changes cannot be processed. Travelers should be prepared for a gentle, scenic ride on winding roads, with plenty of stops for photos and exploration.

Final Thoughts on the Road to Hana Tour

This guided excursion provides an excellent value for those wanting to experience Maui’s top sights without the hassle of driving. The expert guides, especially Quinn, Dom, and Gaura, are frequently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and attention to detail. The tour’s inclusion of waterfalls, beaches, cultural sites, and local foods makes it a well-rounded day.

The price of $229.99 reflects the full-day experience, including lunch, snacks, and hotel pickup. While some stops, like the pass-by waterfall or passenger capacity limitations, may not suit every traveler, the overall package delivers a memorable and stress-free way to see Maui’s natural and cultural treasures.

If you seek a guided, educational, and scenic journey along the Hana Highway, this tour offers a reliable, friendly option well-rated by past participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included if your accommodation is within designated areas; otherwise, you meet at Lahaina Cannery Mall or Kahului park n’ride.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 10 hours, starting at 5:45 am and ending back at the original meeting point.

Are food options vegetarian or vegan?
No, the picnic lunch options are ham, turkey, or veggie sandwiches. Special diets are not available; guests should bring their own food if needed.

What stops are included?
Stops include Pia, Ho’okipa Beach Park, Twin Falls, Haipua’ena Falls, Keanae, Banana Bread stand, Upper Waikani Falls, Wailua Falls, lava tubes, Hana Bay, Waianapanapa State Park, Pua’a Ka’a Waterfall, Wailua Valley, Honomanu, Rainbow Eucalyptus Trees, and scenic viewpoints.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate; however, the winding roads and walking over sometimes muddy trails may require a moderate level of mobility and comfort with scenic outdoor environments.

What should I bring?
Comfortable water shoes, a hat, sunscreen, a camera, and a sense of adventure. The tour provides a light picnic lunch, but guests should bring personal items or additional snacks if desired.

Can I skip stops or customize the itinerary?
Due to the structured nature of the tour, stops cannot be skipped or customized. The itinerary is designed to maximize sightseeing and cultural experiences.

What happens in case of bad weather?
Tours are subject to weather conditions; if canceled due to poor weather, a full refund or rescheduling is offered.

Are there any hidden fees or extra costs?
No, the $229.99 price covers all included stops, snacks, lunch, and transportation. Gratuity for the driver-guide is not included but is highly recommended.

How many people are in each tour group?
Limited to 14 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience with plenty of opportunity for questions and photos.