RTH with kids stay in Hana or Haiku

Question

Hello, we are traveling in Maui for 8 nights with our 2 kids 3 & 7. We have 5 nights in Kaanapali for a work conference and then would like to spend a few days on the other side of the island exploring the RTH. Deciding between staying in Hana for 3 nights (would require leaving our resort in Kaanapali around 12 and driving to reach Hana the first day) or basing the adventure out of Haiku and exploring the RTH from there. We want to do the Pipiwai trail and black sand beach and trail as well as visit waterfalls and enjoy some non resort more laid back vibe. Thoughts would be appreciated! Thank you.

Answer

Both Hana and Haiku offer great opportunities for exploring the Road to Hana (RTH) and its stunning natural beauty, and each has its advantages depending on your preferences for the trip. Let’s break down both options to help you decide where to stay with your kids and how to make the most of your time on the island.

Option 1: Staying in Hana for 3 Nights

Staying in Hana would put you right at the heart of the RTH experience. It’s a quieter, more remote area and provides the full experience of the Hana side of the island, including easier access to many of the waterfalls, beaches, and hiking trails that make this area so special. Here’s what staying in Hana would offer:

Proximity to Key Sites: Staying in Hana means you’re close to the Pipiwai Trail, the Black Sand Beach (Wai'anapanapa State Park), and other famous stops along the RTH. The drive to Hana is part of the adventure, and you'll get to enjoy the scenery and lush tropical environment right from your base.
More Remote and Laid-Back Atmosphere: Hana is less developed and less touristy than other parts of Maui, which could give you and your kids a chance to relax and unwind in a quieter, more peaceful setting. The town offers a slower pace of life, perfect for disconnecting from the hustle and bustle of the resort areas.
Longer Drive on Arrival: One downside of staying in Hana is the long drive from Kaanapali (around 3-4 hours, depending on stops and road conditions). You’ll be leaving Kaanapali around noon, which means you may not reach Hana until later in the afternoon. After a full day of travel, you may want to take it easy on your first night and settle in.
Fewer Amenities: Hana is more remote, so you’ll find fewer restaurants and shops compared to the resort areas. While there are some small local spots for dining and necessities, the selection is more limited, so you may need to plan ahead.

Option 2: Staying in Haiku and Exploring the RTH from There

Haiku is a good alternative to Hana as a base for exploring the RTH, offering a little more convenience and access to amenities while still being close to the sights. Haiku is located about halfway to Hana, making it a great option if you don’t want to commit to the longer drive to Hana for multiple nights. Here are some reasons to consider staying in Haiku:

Closer to Amenities and Services: Haiku has more options for dining, shopping, and other services compared to Hana, which could be helpful when traveling with young children. You’ll find local markets, casual restaurants, and even some small shops, so you have more flexibility if you need anything.
Shorter Drive to Hana: If you stay in Haiku, the drive to Hana is much shorter (around 1-1.5 hours) than from Kaanapali, making it easier to explore the RTH without the long commitment of the drive. You can make day trips to Hana and the nearby sights and still return to Haiku for the evening.
Access to the Upcountry and North Shore: Haiku is close to other great Maui destinations, like Paia, Hookipa Beach, and the North Shore. While this won’t directly impact your RTH explorations, it does provide some variety and gives you the option of visiting other less-touristy spots on the island.
More Kid-Friendly and Comfortable: Haiku is a bit more developed and comfortable for a family with young children. You’ll have more space, and the area is still fairly peaceful, so you can enjoy a quiet, laid-back vibe without feeling too remote. The drive to attractions like the Pipiwai Trail or Black Sand Beach would also be easier with kids in tow.

Things to Consider for Both Options:

Activity Planning: With either option, you can definitely visit the Pipiwai Trail, Black Sand Beach, and several waterfalls on your trip. Hana is the more direct route for those, but Haiku gives you a good starting point for exploring the island's less-visited areas and beaches as well.
Time and Energy: Since you’ll have young children (ages 3 and 7), consider how much driving is involved and how it fits with your kids’ energy levels. Hana can be an intense drive, but it offers the reward of being closer to the trailheads and beaches. Haiku allows for more leisurely exploration and gives you the option of breaking up your adventures.
Weather and Seasons: December is a great time to visit Maui, but be prepared for possible rain on the Hana side of the island, especially in the afternoons. The weather in Haiku is similar but may be slightly drier overall.

Conclusion: If you’re looking for a more immersive, peaceful experience right in the heart of the RTH with minimal driving, staying in Hana for 3 nights will be a great option. It will give you easy access to the sights and allow for a more relaxed pace. However, if you want a bit more flexibility, shorter drives, and better access to services and other parts of Maui, staying in Haiku may be a better choice. Both options will provide a beautiful, laid-back experience, so it really depends on your preference for convenience versus immersion in the RTH experience.

Whichever you choose, both locations will give you and your family the chance to explore the Road to Hana at your own pace, enjoy the natural beauty, and create wonderful memories.

RTH with kids stay in Hana or Haiku

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