On a typical morning on Maui a commuter-style convoy of rental cars embarks on the serpentine Hana Highway, crossing dozens of one-lane bridges before reaching the quiet town and then pressing on to the Pools of Oheo at the lower part of Haleakala National Park. Then they turn around for the long drive back to Kihei and Lahaina. 

An alternative: Consider exploring the Hana Highway as a day unto itself, and leave the drive to Hana for a second day—and on that day continue around south Maui and make a circle instead of doing the return run. That way you can see places like the Keanae Arboretum (above) and the village of Keanae.

Most of the lush forest reserves along the Hana Highway go unseen by visitors.

Don’t get suckered into stopping every time you see cars parked. Maui has a lot of monkey-see, monkey-do tourism. This tropical coastline is full of trails to call your own.

Before jumping in the car, take a look at Maui Trailblazer, which has dozens of places to see along the way that are not on the tourist radar. Indpendent, active travelers wishing to create their own adventures will find this guide to be essential.