Road to Hana - Hana

A mere 2.4mi (3.8km) further from Upper Waikani Falls is the Wailua Iki Falls. More of a cascade visible from the road to the right, the flow is part of West Wailua Iki Stream coming from up north. The stream, making up the Lower Wailua Iki Falls, plunges 150ft (45m) beneath the bridge into a pool below. This part is easily missed on the way to Hana as it’s not visible from the road unless travelling in the opposite direction. A good view from the road is 528ft (160m) after the bridge looking back and even better is to hike down to the stream via the Wailua Iki Trail that’s nearby. The impressiveness of the falls is dependent on the amount of rain that has fallen which dictates the strength of the flow. Seeing the flow of the cascade on the right would be an indicator if it’s worth looking for the waterfall downstream.

The next roadside waterfall is Hanawi Falls. Fed by the ample waters of Hanawi Stream, this year-round cascade flows beneath a nearly century old bridge continuing 9mi (14km) downstream into the Pacific Ocean. Surrounded by dense vegetation, the stream is home to an endangered damselfly species (similar to dragonfly) that feeds plants such as white ginger, the endemic koa tree and sandalwood. Groups of hala trees with its pineapple-shaped fruit are dotted throughout. Culturally significant many parts of the hala tree are used such as: the fruit, eaten fresh or preserved; the trunk as building materials; and the most common use are the leaves that are weaved into goods like baskets, mats or hats. One of the most pristine streams in Hawaii, the swimming hole is inviting but can be extremely cold.

Arriving in Hana is where the Road to Hana driving tour ends. However, this journey continues on along Hana Hwy for another 14mi (23km) or so along the east coast of Maui. Hana is a small community and one of the most isolated towns on the whole island. Settled by Polynesian people between the 6th-9th centuries, Hana was home to sugarcane plantations from the mid-1800s until 1949 when the last plantation closed. With the opening of the first inn, in the same year, Hana’s economy moved towards tourism which was further boosted with the construction of Hana Hwy.

Exploring Hana Bay along its black sand, a result of eroded lava that washed ashore, leads to Hana pier on the east side with views of Hana town and Haleakala Mountain in the background. Even more interesting is a meander along Kaihalulu Beach with its red-sand beach and whilst very rocky in some areas there is a sheltered swimmable area amongst its jagged ruggedness.



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