We are thinking about going to Hana and spending a night or 2 there for tranquility. Can we get there from the back way or will me miss too much of the "good" stuff along the way?

You have to go the beautiful ocean way!

You can make a giant loop and see all of it! It will take all day.

We have done it both ways and I think retracing your path on the lush, windward side is much better than doing the complete loop. The backside is dry and dusty.

We did exactly as Nancy is suggesting...front way, 2 nights in Hana, returned the "back way" - we loved the back way, even saw a seal sunning himself on a rocky shore there. Go for it!

P.S. You don't say whether you're a couple, but I can't resist a plug for where we stayed - the most romantic home I've ever been inside:

http://www.hamoabay.com/

We are leaving for Maui in a few days and are staying in Hana the last two night of our trip...plan to leave Thursday morning to see the first half of the highway, arrive at our hotel in Hana in the evening, see the sights below Hana on Friday, and stay a second night. We're really into hiking and the waterfalls and stuff, so we're excited about being able to take it slow in Hana. I'll post a trip report when I get back!

love
roxy

Roxy, I would love to hear how it goes for you. We too love hiking etc and will be doing much of it in N. Kauai.