The world-famous Road to Hana hugs a jagged black lava shore. Just past mile marker 16 lies the Keanae Peninsula, where visitors can explore a traditional village, a stone church from 1856, and vast taro fields. The peninsula itself was formed by a massive lava flow from Haleakala, then softened by native Hawaiians, who carried soil down basket by basket to blanket the young rock. Today, the area is covered in lush greenery, which makes for an impressive sight against the turquoise sea and Maui’s famous North Shore waves. Before getting back on the road, be sure to stop at Aunty Sandy’s, one of the best banana bread stands along the Hana Highway, for a slice, a shaved ice, or a pork sandwich if you’re hungrier.
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Ke’anae Peninsula
The world-famous Road to Hana hugs a jagged black lava shore. Past mile marker 16, turn left and explore a traditional village and 1856 stone church, all girdled by taro fields. Centuries ago, Hawaiians carried this soil down—basket by basket—to soften the landscape of young rock, created by a massive flow from Haleakalā. The lush greenery makes for an impressive sight again the sapphire sea and Maui’s famous North Shore waves: photographers should pack plenty of memory cards! Keanae also attracts fishermen and foodies, who shouldn’t miss Aunt Sandy’s, one of the best banana bread stands along the Hana Highway (210 Keanae Rd). Stop for a slice and a shave ice—or a pork sandwich if you’re hungrier!
Splash!
The Road to Hana hugs tons of brilliant, jagged black lava shore. Around mile 16, pull of the road to explore the Keanae Peninsula. Thee’re an old Hawaiian village, taro patches, and a church that dates back to the 1850s. I love watching the waves crash against the lava pinacles - the contrast of the jet black stone against the turquoise water is just brilliant. Keanae is also home to Aunt Sandy’s, one of the best banana bread stands along the Hana Highway (you’ll see them about every half mile). Make sure you pick up a slice for the rest of the ride.
Lava Rock Peninsula
When the Haleakala Crater erupted hundreds of years ago, it created this lava rock peninsula a half mile past mile marker 16. Make a detour to visit the old Hawaiian village of Keanae, where you can watch locals harvest taro and pound it into the traditional dish poi. This appeared in the January/February 2014 issue.
