Any recommedations on inexpensive ($100/$125) places to stay near Hamoa Beach in off season? Also would like to take Hwy 31 on the return, any insight into taking the loop dirt drive back to Central Maui (ie how horrible are the roads, time, etc..)? Coming from Colorado not too scared of mtn roads, but don't know if 4x4 is necessary.

Any advice regarding overnight Hana area appreciated. Thanks.

Hi Bob,

Here is a web site you can look into for Hana lodging: http://www.hanamaui.com/lodging.html

Also, you can do a search on 'hana'.

Cathy

The most recent edition of Hawaii magazine (June 2000) has Hana as its cover story. In the article it lists approximately 10 different places to stay in all different price ranges. Those listed in your price range include:
Hana Kai Maui Resort ($125-145) 800-346-3772
Heavenly Hana Inn ($100 double studio) 808-248-8442
Aloha Cottages ($62-95) 808-248-8420
Hana Tradewinds cottage ($100) 800-327-8097
Waianapanapa State Park Cabins ($45) 808-984-8109

Ok, let me explain. I am looking for "recommendations" which, at the least, would include some sort of opinion, but hopefully offer some first hand knowledge from someone who has actually stayed at a place in Hana, not just the location of websites.

Again, any insight would be appreciated.

Thanks.

Hi Bob
Sorry,I can't help with places to stay however I have driving the complete loop around Hana.The key word is Rain,if there hasn't been any rain for a day or so you won't need a 4x4 to make the drive on the back side of the road to Hana(its all dirt and becomes quite muddy).The road is bumpy most of the way but if you're like me you'll be driving slow taking in the scenery and a regular car will be fine.Have fun!! ALOHA.

We did stay at the Aloha Cottages a year or so ago. Our family of five had plenty of room in the two bedroom cottage. It was quite comfortable, tho not the Ritz, it was clean and quiet. On a residential street just up the road from the bay. Mrs. Nakemura is a very pleasant lady, and her husband took us in his jeep down to the beach to retrieve coconuts for our kids. The one we picked up at the roadside stand was nowhere near ripe and he took us to get the real thing. Again, this is not fancy accomodations, just clean, quiet, and very reasonable. Hana is worth an overnighter, I cannot imagine driving out and back in one day.

Spent last week on Maui. We drove to Hana--great trip!--and came back via 31.
Did not have a 4x4 and had no problem. Having a convertable, we did have to stop a few times to raise the roof because of on and off showers.We met very little oncoming traffic and the views are terrific! The road narrows at turns and bridges so drive slow and always pull over if someone wants to pass. Stayed at Kapalua so to avoid the afternoon traffic we also drove the Kahekili Hwy.(340)from Wailuku to Kapalua--another great drive with narrow roads and bridges and spectacular scenery. Made for a long day but was very much worth it!
Patti

Aloha From Texas! I've stayed at Hana Kai Condos 4 times and obviously loved it! Awesome, awesome view! We kept the sliding doors open all night and listened to the waves roll in. These accomodations are the closest ones you'll find to the water. Stay at least 2 nights if you can, so you can enjoy a day of rest. I won't stay there less than 3 days because I also need a day for hiking Oheo Gulch! Stop at the Safeway in Kahului for groceries before heading out or else pay high prices at Hasegawa General Store in Hana. I must admit Hasegawa's is a neat little store! Once again, I really love these condos and I think they're a steal!

Anyone stay at the Hamoa Bay Bungalow?

We stayed at Waianapanapa--bare bones but great price and great location!