One of the highlights of our time on Maui was the road to Hana, including an over night in the remote town itself. During the only other time we were on Maui, the girls were too little to make the drive. We'd heard lots about this world famous road trip and I wanted to be able to enjoy it with kids that were old enough to also enjoy it (i.e. not needing frequent bathroom stops when there were none, not wanting to hike or make stops, napping through the good spots, getting bored and picking on one another; you know all the stuff that happens with wee ones!) So while Don and Amara would miss out, Havana and I set early in the morning, with lots of water, snacks and the Shaka app, which would be our guide.
Despite all the hoopla we'd heard about the road to Hana, nothing could compare to seeing and driving the road firsthand. The non-stop, winding roads, they reminded me of the country roads of Jamaica, which thrilled me to my core. Where most would hesitate (and were, we could tell by their slow, cautious driving), I was amped up with all the twists and turns that hugged rich, lush greenery, with frequent waterfalls just off the side of the road. Driving those roads was as equally exciting as the landscape and natural beauty that surrounded us.
We made frequent stops to for photo opts at some of those falls, to take in awe-inspiring views of the coastline and we even explored a cave. We hiked up a trail to take swim by swimming hole, fed by a crisp cool waterfall. Baptism by Mother Nature was heavenly. Havana snacked on vegan ice cream at food truck and we purchased local fruits from one of the many local fruit stands that sold by a good faith system. By the time we reached Hana, we were ready for a good meal. The food trucks by the center of the small town were okay. A later supper at a restaurant overlooking the ocean was more relaxed and tasty. Our sweet B&B (Hana Joe's) was the perfect location for a night of rest and recharge. With the windows cracked, the lush breeze helped us to sleep soundly. In the morning, while Havana slept, I went to see the glorious sunrise, praying and giving thanks for the blessing of being present in that sacred place. Back at the B&B, we had tea, bread and cheese, along with some bananas from the property (which they were more than abundant in and very generous in their sharing) before the long road back on the other side of the Hana Highway.
The ride back was remote and at other times, otherworldly. My good friend Roger told me to expect an almost out of this world experience but his description, while accurate, was not the same as being first hand in such a unusual and special place. The narrow, gravel roads, which reminded me so back of back a yard (Jamaica) but at the same time, it felt like we were at the edge of the planet (and we were literally on the edge of the road, with the ocean below us.) It truly was a magical experience.
When we got back in civilization, we were well tired but well nourished, in our hearts, minds, and bodies. I was also deeply grateful that Havana and I made this journey together. Sure, we missed the rest of the family. But with just the two of us, Havana being the navigator the whole time, as well as my encouragement when I felt tired, I felt that it made the whole journey all the more special. Together, we made those memories I had hoped for and those times together, they were priceless.
Lovely photos! It looks like it was a great bonding adventure.
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