We want to do a day drive; we will be in Wailea for 3 nights, and Kanapali for 3 nights; if you were going for the day, where would you rather drive from/to?
thanks

From memory (it's been 5 years!), I think Wailea would be a little closer to Hana than Kanapalli. Not sure how much closer (20 minutes maybe?).

Wailea would be faster, I think, because the highway is a straight shot to Kahului, and you don't have to drive through the traffic nightmare of Lahaina, especially when you return.

Thanks so much; sounds like we have a plan from Wailea, based on what you said.
Sue

Just made the drive from Kaanapali a couple of weeks ago. I took us about 10 hours roundtrip. Stopped for 30-45 minutes each at Twin Falls and the 'Garden of Eden' botanical garden. Few more five minute photo op stops. Only went to Hana. Lahaina traffic was not horrible, went through town 5-6 times while we were there. I would not call it a nightmare, just some traffic and the ususal stop lights. I don't think the difference is more than 10-15 minutes from either town to Paia where "The Road" begins. Weather could be factor also. You can't go wrong from either town.

Thanks again! We will then "choose our day" based at least some on the weather, tho I am inclined to go from Wailea, if we can.
if you have a moment, would love to know if you thought the Botanical gardens was worth the stop; any others you wished you had time for?

My wife could have spent half a day there if we had the time. I would be glad so send some photos if you will provide an e-mail address.