Hana

A 3,600-acre working ranch that hugs most of the eastern side of the island, Hana Ranch is worth a trip for the epic views alone. The sustainable ranch is home to 1,500 cattle, and it supplies much of the grass-fed meat on so many menus on the island. But even vegetarians would love Hana Ranch: It also offers world-class picnics, horseback riding, mountain biking, and personalized off-roading tours.

The moment you set foot on the property, you’ll be entranced. This quintessential Maui hotel is perched on the far eastern tip of the island, making it an ideal location to relax and replenish. And did we mention? It’s moments away from the black sand beaches and ocean-view hikes. Other activities include biking from your room to a yoga class that overlooks the ocean, or working for your dinner and casting a net into the water for fish. And then there’s the spa: A wide array of organic, bioenergetic treatments make it all too easy to spend an afternoon—or a day—there. The whole place conspires to quiet the mind and instill a sense of calm like you’ve never experienced before.

The perfect ending point on the road to Hana, ‘Ohe’o Gulch is also called the “Seven Sacred Pools,” and its not surprising—the seven swimming pools linked by stunning waterfalls and surrounded by lush green jungle look like something out of Avatar. The name is a bit misleading, as there are many more than seven pools, all of which are ripe for climbing, swimming, and exploring. Don’t be surprised if you see locals and tourists alike climbing the slick rocks to jump from the cliffs—to be clear, we don’t recommend it, as there are several warning signs, and there have been a few deaths here over the years. Check with your concierge before you make the trip; the area can get dangerous in wet weather, when it’s vulnerable to flooding.

Driving the road to Hana is either billed as a little touristy, or the best way to see “the real Hawaii.” (It’s actually a little of both.) It’s 50 miles from Kahului (Maui’s main airport) to Hana on Highway 36 (which turns into 370). Note: this includes some tight-hugging curves. Depending on traffic, the drive itself is only a few hours, so it makes a great day-trip (in which case it’s best to leave before sunrise). But as the old adage goes, this adventure is largely about the journey, which means taking the time to stop and enjoy everything you’re passing—e.g. Maui’s magnificent coastline, rich rainforest landscapes, waterfalls cascading into blue pools, tropical foliage galore. There are also two standout beaches near Hana: the black sand beach at Wai'anapanapa State Park, called Pa'iloa, because it’s such a sight; and Hamoa Beach, because it’s likewise pretty and a relatively easy swimming spot. If you want to make a bigger trip of it, consider staying the night in Hana; Travaasa is a solid hotel option, and there are also some fun Airbnbs in the surrounding area.