Hana is on the east side of Maui, the second largest of the Hawaiian islands. It's a popular tourist destination boasting unspoiled natural beauty, waterfalls and a beach park. Hana is isolated from the rest of the island and is a fair distance away from larger destinations on Maui with a 30-mile drive to Lahain or Kaanapali. It's well worth exploring the area if you're visiting Maui, but you'll need some form of transport to get there.
Visit the websites of local Maui tour companies that run trips to Hana from elsewhere on the island.
Review the details of each tour, see which one appeals most and get a quote based on the size of your party.
Book the tour of your choice once you've made your comparisons by returning to the website of the one you've chosen and entering your details. Most trips cost around $110 per adult, as of October 2010. Tour operators offer a pick-up service from most major hotels. You'll be sent a confirmation email once you've completed the booking process.
Wait for your tour bus at the specified time and place on the date of your booking.
Arrange to rent a car on the date of your planned trip to Hana by visiting the website of a car rental company that operates on Maui. You could book your car rental at the airport when you arrive on the island, but this is likely to be a more expensive option than booking online in advance. Book your car from Kahului Airport to enjoy the full Hana Highway experience. A four-door Chevy Aveo starts from $21 a day as of October 2010.
Collect your car from the rental company as specified during the booking process.
Drive east on Hawaii State Highway 36 to Haiku-Pauwela and then take Hawaii State Highway 360 to Hana. Much of the road is along the coast and takes in some of the most stunning scenery the island has to offer. The drive involves negotiating more than 600 turns. Despite being only 52 miles long, it can take up to three hours to complete.
Make the most of your time in Hana. With your own transport, you're not at the mercy of a timetabled tour so you'll have the freedom to explore the area on your own terms. It's best to bear in mind that you have a long drive back if you're only visiting for the day.
Rent a bicyle from a local shop along the Hana Highway. Prices start at $34.99 per day or $125 for a week as of October 2010.
Book a guest house along the route to Hana. Unless you're incredibly fit, it's unlikely that you'll want to cycle the whole route in one day. It's a great idea to break the journey up with an overnight stay along the way. The precise location you choose is going to depend upon your ability as a cyclist.
Cycle around Hana's beaches and parkland on arrival.
