PAIA GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Reverse the Road to Hana: A full-loop, private sweep from Paia through rainforest, crater slopes and leeward coastline
A private, fully customizable 9.5–10 hour Reverse Full Loop Tour around Haleakalā that pairs rainforest waterfalls and freshwater pools with leeward ranchland and local food stops; this guide explains what to expect and how to shape the day.
Reverse the Road to Hana: A full-loop, private sweep from Paia through rainforest, crater slopes and leeward coastline.
The Hana Reverse Full Loop Tour is a private, once‑in‑a‑lifetime exploration that runs the famed Road to Hana and continues around the base of Haleakalā, giving travelers access to both lush rainforest coastline and the drier, rolling leeward country in a single day.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
From jungle to upland pasture in one sweeping loop
This route traverses dramatic coastal rainforest on the Road to Hana, then transitions around the base of Haleakalā into open ranch land and broad coastal vistas, offering two distinct island landscapes in a single private tour.
A true reverse full loop — more of Maui in one day
Unlike standard Hana outings that retrace their route, this Reverse Full Loop option continues around Haleakalā’s leeward side when timing and conditions allow, making possible a fuller island panorama that includes rainforest, uplands and coastline.
Local flavors on the road — banana bread to Huli Huli chicken
The tour leaves room for local culinary stops: optional purchases of freshly baked banana bread and a range of lunch choices—from Huli Huli chicken to seafood shacks and wood‑fired pizza—are part of the flexible plan.
What the day feels like
What the day feels like
Across roughly a nine‑and‑a‑half to ten‑hour private day, expect a deliberate, customizable rhythm: frequent short stops for sights and swims, optional hikes to waterfalls and botanical groves, time to shop roadside treats, and choices about whether to return the same way or continue the loop around Haleakalā.
THE LANDSCAPE
From jungle to upland pasture in one sweeping loop
This route traverses dramatic coastal rainforest on the Road to Hana, then transitions around the base of Haleakalā into open ranch land and broad coastal vistas, offering two distinct island landscapes in a single private tour.
THE ROUTE
A true reverse full loop — more of Maui in one day
Unlike standard Hana outings that retrace their route, this Reverse Full Loop option continues around Haleakalā’s leeward side when timing and conditions allow, making possible a fuller island panorama that includes rainforest, uplands and coastline.
THE FOOD
Local flavors on the road — banana bread to Huli Huli chicken
The tour leaves room for local culinary stops: optional purchases of freshly baked banana bread and a range of lunch choices—from Huli Huli chicken to seafood shacks and wood‑fired pizza—are part of the flexible plan.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
Plan for a full day on the road; the tour offers optional swims and hikes and there will be chances to purchase snacks and fresh banana bread along the way.
Lunch is not included in the tour price. The guide will help choose from many local options en route—popular choices include Huli Huli chicken, seafood from Da Fish Shack, poke bowls, Thai and wood‑fired pizza—selected based on timing and group preference.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Reverse Full Loop Tour?
The experience runs approximately 9.5 to 10 hours as a private full‑day tour.
Where and when does the tour start?
The designated meeting location is Safeway – 1090 Ho‘okele St, Kahului with pickup at 8:00am; South Maui hotel pickup is approximately 7:30am.
Is lunch included?
Lunch is not included; there are plenty of local dining options along the route and the guide will select the best stop based on timing and the group’s preference.
Can we complete the full loop around Haleakalā?
Yes — unlike many rental companies that restrict full‑loop driving, Local Maui Tours offers the Reverse Full Loop private option to access both the rainforest and leeward sides, subject to timing and conditions.
Are there opportunities for wine tasting?
When timing and conditions allow, the itinerary may include a wine tasting at ʻUlupalakua Ranch / Tedeschi Winery during the full loop.