Road to Hana

Question

Aloha!

We did the trip a few years ago but didn't quite make it to Hana.

Just a couple of questions about the trip to Hana...

1. What is a good place in Hana to get breakfast/good coffee?

2. What is the name of the black sand beach that doesn't require a reservation to be able to visit?

Mahalo!

Answer

Aloha! The Road to Hana is a beautiful and scenic drive on Maui, and there are some great spots to stop for food and to enjoy the natural sights along the way.

1. For breakfast and good coffee in Hana itself, there are a few local favorites where you can enjoy a relaxed meal and fuel up for your day of exploring:

Hana Ranch Restaurant – Located at the Hana Ranch Store, this spot offers hearty breakfast options and local coffee in a charming, rustic setting.
Hana Fresh – A small cafe offering fresh smoothies, coffee, and breakfast items made with locally sourced ingredients. It’s a great choice if you want something quick and healthy.
Braddah Hutts BBQ Grill – While more famous for lunch, they do sometimes serve breakfast items in the morning. Great coffee and local vibes.

2. Regarding black sand beaches near Hana that do not require reservations, the most well-known and accessible one is:

Waianapanapa State Park Black Sand Beach – This is the iconic black sand beach near Hana. Note that while the park has a day-use fee, you do not need a reservation to visit the beach itself. You can park and walk down to enjoy the sand, sea arches, and coastal views. The park also has hiking trails, caves, and freshwater pools.

Other tips:

Arrive early if possible, especially on weekends, as parking can fill up quickly at Waianapanapa State Park.
Bring water and snacks, as Hana is quite remote and options for food are limited outside of town.
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore trails or caves near the beach.

Enjoy your Road to Hana adventure! It’s a long day but the scenery, waterfalls, and beaches are absolutely worth it.