Driving the Road to Hana was perhaps the most challenging item on our "Must-Do" list. This iconic 51-mile stretch of the Hana Highway begins in Kahului, winds through the quaint hippie surf town of Paia, and meanders past lush rainforests before reaching the serene town of Hana on Maui’s eastern coast.

The journey is as breathtaking as it is demanding. The highway boasts over 600 bends, many of them sharp and blind corners, making it a nerve-wracking yet unforgettable drive. Covering such a short distance can easily take up to three hours due to the winding roads and the need to drive slowly and carefully. Adding to the adventure are the dramatic ocean cliffs and more than 50 narrow, single-lane bridges that dot the route.

The scenery is nothing short of spectacular. Dense rainforests line the road, while waterfalls cascade down the cliffs, offering countless photo opportunities. There are reportedly 13 waterfalls along the way, though not all are visible from the road. We were lucky to catch glimpses of the Wailua Falls and the Ohe’o Gulch Waterfalls, famously known as the Seven Sacred Pools.

A highlight of the drive was the famous black sand beach, a striking contrast to the lush greenery and turquoise ocean. The Road to Hana is more than a drive—it's an experience that immerses you in Maui’s natural beauty, one curve and one stop at a time.