Be prepared to take your time getting there, as the road to Hana Maui offers some of the most spectacular scenery found anywhere in the Hawaiian islands, but the road is long and winding, with over 600 curves and 54 bridges. It's only 53 miles from Kahului Airport to Hana Maui, but it usually takes about 2½ to 3 hours to make the drive, of course that depends on how often you stop.
If you enjoy old churches, you may want to drive through Keanae and nearby Wailua to see some of the oldest churches on Maui. You will have seen many beautiful waterfalls by now, both large and small, and fresh water pools that you might want to take a swim in. Just before Hana Maui town, take a short drive down to Wainapanapa State Park.
It's just a quick walk in the park to see a wonderful black sand beach, and you can hike through some small caves. Swimming here is only recommended for the strongest of swimmers, as the waves are often very large and the currents very strong.
Next stop is Hana Maui, town, a very sleepy little town with the charm of old style Hawai'i. There is a quaint little museum here, a cute little homestyle take out restaurant down at Hana Bay, an expensive place to stay and eat called the Hotel Hana Maui, and Fagan's cross on the hill. Mr. Fagan founded the hotel, and if you want to hike up to the cross, ask at the hotel desk for a key to the gate.
You will need to travel another 45 minutes or so down the road to reach Oheo Gulch, better known as the "Seven Sacred Pools", but it's worth it. The pools are located in Haleakala National Park, and you can swim in the pools if it's not raining. If you have the time, there is a great rainforest hike to some upper waterfalls, but it takes 2 hours to reach the farthest and biggest one.
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