Hana, isolated from the rest of the island, is truly the last undeveloped tropical paradise on Maui. Picturesque views of spectacular waterfalls, the rugged Hana shoreline, and some of the best beaches on the island can only begin to describe what awaits you on this journey. The 52 mile trip from Kahului Airport will take 2-4 hours depending on how often you stop along the Narrow, Winding Hana Highway (560). Explore the various parks and lookouts as you drive through Maui’s only coastal rainforest accessible by car. The charm of Hana is the fact that little has changed over the last 20 years. Untouched by the major developments of the other side of the island, the Hana community has managed to perpetuate the small town atmosphere, Hawaiian culture and most of all, its natural scenic beauty.
No trip to Hana should be without a stop at the famed Hasegawa General Store. Established in l910, this fourth generation family-owned business has been written up in numerous magazines, newspaper articles and travel guides. The store became famous in l961, when composer Paul Weston was so impressed with the variety of merchandise carried in this little store that he wrote a song entitled Hasegawa General Store. The song became an instant hit on local radio and since then has been recorded by several local musicians.
A trip to Hana is said to revitalize many local residents from the city life of the other side of the island. The natural beauty of the Hana experience will take you back in time and give you an idea of what the rest of Maui was like 30 years ago. Unspoiled, Serene and Mystical: Hana is truly Maui’s “Last Hawaiian Place.”
