Road to Hana

The north/east side of Maui (opposite side from where we were staying in Kihei) has a beautiful coast line drive that takes you through some amazing jungles filled with waterfalls, unique beaches and cool hikes. We got up early Saturday morning and drove to Wai'anapanapa State Park where there was a gorgeous Black Sand Beach. We had reservations from 7-10am and got to the Black sand Beach around 8:30am. I really wish we would have had a little more time at this beach it was super fun walking and playing in the black sand and exploring the rocks and surroundings. We had a lot of fun in this small cave reenacting the little mermaid scene. Haha I think Jeff won this competition. 

Next we headed for Kipahulu Haeakala National Park. The main thing to do there is hike the Pipiwai trail to a 400 foot Waimoku Falls. This 4 mile round trip hike was really beautiful lots of shade complete with bamboo forest, Huge trees, super pretty. We hike beyond the "stopping point" and got right up and under the waterfall. Very refreshing and an amazing hike. 

A few other cool stops included the Koki Beach Park - Red sand beach. This beach was beautiful but super rocky and I wish I would have taken my water shoes to help with the sharp rocks. You had a small hike down to the beautiful cove the beach had a camp ground feel with trees, dirt, rock with amazingly clear water . We got here later in the day so it was a little more chilly than I would have preferred, so we didn't stay long. 

Hamoa Beach was a beautiful white sand beach. super soft sand and a crescent shaped relaxing spot. Fun to explore, hang out and just play. I really wish this beach had been located closer to Kihei where we stayed.

The drive all along the way was just beautiful with breathtaking views and lots of fun stops. We stopped and bought some authentic Hawaiian Leis from a couple of adorable local children. Stopped at a local fruit stand in the town of Hana ate some yummy food (I was never so excited for GF French fries in my life!) and purchased some souvenir's.