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Before you begin your journey gas up in Paia as this is the last gas station until you reach Hana. Be sure to bring a lunch, snacks and beverages. Along the way you'll find stands selling tropical fruits, banana bread and fruit smoothies. The streams, waterfalls, and pools are pretty but the water isn't safe to drink. Stick to the bottled water you brought with you.
Take your time the drive is not just about the views, but about the places you stop along the way. If you find there is a pile of cars behind you perhaps you could pull off to the side of the road. The locals after all have to go to work and travel the road daily.
Hana is a small sleepy laid-back little town. Explore and enjoy as you have truly made the journey to Heavenly Hana.
TOP TEN THINGS TO SEE:
1. Twin Falls - Mile marker 2. Stop and smell the guavas on the short hike to these amazing waterfalls.
2. Waikamoi Nature Trail - Between mile markers 9 and 10. A short nature walk with creaking gorgeous bamboo forest, sounds like it's singing.
3. Garden of Eden Arboretum - Halfway between mile markers 10 and 11. Check out the natural beauty of the tropical flowers it is absolutely magnificent.
4. Keanae Peninsula - At the 17 mile marker. This point offers amazing views over Keanae's taro fields and notice the rustic serenity.
5. Pua'a Ka'a Park - It's about 1/2 mile past mile marker 22. There is a trail across from the parking lot that leads to the falls. Restrooms available.
6. Wai'anapanapa - Before you reach the town of Hana just past mile maker 32 you'll find a 120 acre park. Featuring the most famous black sand beach, fresh water caves, historical sites and blow holes. Restrooms available.
7. Hasegawa Store - This Hana's best known landmark the general store. Dates back from the early 20th century. You'll see a sign on the roadway.
8. Bamboo Forest - Park at the lot past mile marker 42. (There is a $10 fee, keep the receipt it will be valid to enter the Haleakala Park). You'll find the Pipiwai Trail about a mile up which starts at the Ohe'o Bridge. Allow yourself atleast 3 hours for this amazing hike.
9. Ohe'O Gulch - No need to drive from the last stop, just head towards the ocean. Often referred to as the Seven Sacred Pools, this is the highlight of the trip. Relax, enjoy and get ready for the drive home. Continue in the same direction as Kula. Warning! - the road is a one lane bumpy dirt road.
10. Wailua Falls - Just after mile maker 45 is this hue 200 foot waterfall viewable from the road, but even nicer if you would like to take a little hike. (Do not confuse this with Wialua Town back at mile marker 18).
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