6-Day Adventure in Maui - A Nature Lover's Itinerary

  1. Day 1: Road to Hana
    Starting Point: Kahului Airport
    Estimated Time and Distance from previous location: 3 hours (52 miles)

    Take a scenic drive to the town of Hana. This winding road will take you through lush rainforests, past cascading waterfalls, and to the serene black sand beaches.

  2. Day 2: Wai'anapanapa State Park
    Starting Point: Hana
    Estimated Time and Distance from previous location: 10 minutes (1 mile)

    This park is home to a stunning black sand beach, lava caves and sea arches. You can also take the Pipiwai Trail to experience bamboo forests and waterfalls.

  3. Day 3: Haleakala National Park
    Starting Point: Hana
    Estimated Time and Distance from previous location: 2 hrs 10 mins (56 miles)

    The park has a unique volcanic landscape that offers scenic hikes. The highlight of the park is the Haleakalā Crater, one of the most stunning natural wonders on the island. Make sure to attend the sunrise here, it's unforgettable!

  4. Day 4: Iao Valley State Park
    Starting Point: Kahului
    Estimated Time and Distance from previous location: 30 minutes (19 miles)

    Iao Needle, a 225-metre green-mantled volcanic rock peak towering over Iao Stream, attracts many visitors to this park. The park is serene, with emerald green trees and cascading waterfalls, along with great hiking tracks.

  5. Day 5: Molokini Crater
    Starting Point: Kihei
    Estimated Time and Distance from previous location: 25 minutes (10 miles)

    This marine preserve is home to over 250 species of fish, including some of Hawaii's most unique species. It's a great place for snorkeling or scuba diving. A morning tour is highly recommended

  6. Day 6: Road to Hana part 2
    Starting Point: Kahului
    Estimated Time and Distance from previous location: 3 hours (52 miles)

    Take another scenic drive on this winding road to stop at new places or revisit favorite spots.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Road to Hana - free
  • Wai'anapanapa State Park - $5 per vehicle
  • Haleakala National Park - $30 per vehicle
  • Iao Valley State Park - $5 per vehicle
  • Molokini Crater - $120 per person (Snorkeling tour with equipment)
  • Total Estimated Costs - $170 per person

Useful tips

If you have extra days, spend a night or two in Hana or visit the nearby town of Paia, known for its hippie culture and surf vibes. For shorter trip, you can do Road to Hana as a day trip. If you have already seen black sand beaches and waterfalls in earlier days, consider substituting those locations with whale watching tours or ziplining experiences.

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