Hana activities

We are spending 2 nights in Hana the 1st week of March. I was hoping to get some feed back on visiting the Hana Lava Tubes and taking the Hana Gold chocolate plantation tour. We will visit the state and national parks. Anything else we should not miss? Thanks!

Spending two nights in Hana is a fantastic way to experience the peaceful, remote beauty of Maui’s eastern coast. The Hana area offers a unique mix of natural wonders, cultural experiences, and stunning landscapes. Your plan to visit the Hana Lava Tubes and the Hana Gold chocolate plantation is a great start. Here’s a detailed guide to make the most of your time in Hana, along with a few additional must-see spots:

1. Hana Lava Tubes: The Hana Lava Tubes (also known as Ka’eleku Caverns) are an excellent choice for a unique experience. These underground tunnels were formed by lava flows, and you can walk through them to explore the amazing rock formations. The tour will take you through the caves, where you’ll see stalactites, stalagmites, and other fascinating features. It’s a relatively short but memorable activity that allows you to experience a different side of Maui’s volcanic history.

• Location: East of Hana town, near the Hana Highway
• Experience: Self-guided or guided tours available
• Duration: Approximately 30-45 minutes

2. Hana Gold Chocolate Plantation Tour: The Hana Gold plantation offers a delightful and delicious experience for chocolate lovers. The plantation produces organic, single-origin chocolate, and the tour allows you to learn about the chocolate-making process, from the cacao trees to the final product. After the tour, you can sample a variety of their chocolates, which are locally made and have a unique flavor influenced by the rich volcanic soil of Hana. It’s a sweet experience that pairs well with the laid-back vibe of Hana.

• Location: Hana Highway, near the Hana Airport
• Experience: Educational tour with chocolate tastings
• Duration: About 1 hour

3. Hana State and National Parks: Hana is known for its natural beauty, and you can’t visit without exploring its parks. Here are some must-see spots:

• Haleakalā National Park (Kīpahulu District): This park offers breathtaking scenery, including the stunning Pools of ‘Ohe’o (Seven Sacred Pools), waterfalls, and lush tropical rainforests. There are a variety of hiking trails, from easy walks to more challenging hikes, such as the Pipiwai Trail, which takes you through bamboo forests and leads to the impressive Waimoku Falls.
• Hana Bay: A beautiful black sand beach that’s perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing by the water. It’s a peaceful spot that’s often less crowded than other beaches in Maui.
• Wainapanapa State Park: A must-visit for its dramatic black sand beach, sea caves, and natural arches. There’s also a short trail along the coast offering fantastic views of the coastline. This park is a great spot for a picnic or a quiet walk by the ocean.

4. Additional Activities and Experiences in Hana: Besides the lava tubes, chocolate plantation, and parks, Hana offers some other unique and relaxing experiences:

• Hana Town: Take some time to explore Hana itself. It’s a small, charming town with a rich cultural history. You can visit the Hana Cultural Center & Museum to learn more about the area’s heritage and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere.
• Hamoa Beach: A stunning crescent-shaped beach just outside Hana, known for its crystal-clear waters and beautiful scenery. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, or simply taking in the views.
• Road to Hana:: While you’ve likely planned the famous “Road to Hana,” make sure to take some time to stop at the various waterfalls, beaches, and scenic pullouts along the way. Some of the highlights include Twin Falls, Upper Waikani Falls, and the black sand beach at Koki Beach.