Hana, Maui, Hawaii

It’s been a while, but I am back out there. Started back with a pretty easy trip to Hawaii. Thought it would be a good place to spend time until this Covid thing finally blows over. I purchased a one-way ticket so I had a lot of flexibility. Because of all the unknowns posed by Covid, I decided to book only my first hotel. That way if the trip was scuttled I wouldn’t lose too much in the way of reservation deposits. There was availability all over the islands I chose to visit. I witnessed lots and rainbows, but never any rain. The temperatures at the beach was about 80 degrees fahrenheit. From the little beach town of Paia on the north shore, I drive my Mini Cooper rental to Hana. Although the trip is only 39 miles, it takes between 2.5 and 3 hours (with no stopping for views or problems). Due to the many one lane bridges, cars must stop many times and yield to oncoming traffic. It’s also I good idea to check for road closures before you depart. If the road to Hana closes you must turn around, no other options. One other important recommendation I would make is to stay in Hana at least 2 or 3 nights. The drive is so beautiful one feels compelled to stop many times along the way. A leisurely drive with just 4 or 5 stops can easily take upwards of 5 hours one way. Close to and in Hana are white, black, and red sand beaches. There are some great hikes and plenty of scenic opportunities.

Map of Maui. Hana is located at the extreme eastern tip.

One of the many waterfalls which can be seen along the way to Hana.

One of the 50 or so old one-lane bridges along the way.

I encountered a small group of old car collectors and their prized vehicles along the way.

Another shot of this very awesome creation.

My Mini which was a great choice for this experience.

Along the way to Hana, a view to yet another beach.

One of the many places to take a dip along the way. Fed by fresh rainfall from a much higher part of the island this pool was very refreshing.

Once in Hana I checked into my hotel in Hana. The population of Hana is only 1,526 people as of 2020 census. There is only one hotel. Formerly known as Travasa, and before that the Hana Hotel, it is now owned and operated by Hyatt. As you can imagine the hotel is quite small. However, it has a good restaurant and spa. There are other nice amenities to enjoy as well. So, not only is it “the” place to stay, it’s the only place to stay.

Welcome home to the Oceanfront bungalow. Super comfortable, and as a result of its close proximity to the ocean, you rarely if ever need air-conditioning.

Front view with the crashing ocean behind.

Odd juxtaposition with the horses and ocean. This is a view front my bungalow deck.

View of the oceanfront bungalows from my hike to the Red Sand Beach. With only screen doors in the bungalow, you hear the waves crashing all day and all night.

Take a short but dangerous hike from the hotel property to the Red Sand Beach. The bay is also known as Kaihalulu Bay. This is only one of a few red sand beaches in the world. The bay is shielded by the otherwise very rough ocean by a reef.