The Red Sand Beach, Maui, Hawaii by Madeline Lu

Maui has been on my bucket list forever! You can imagine the thrill I felt when I finally got to visit this magical place! Maui is famous not only for its stunningly beautiful beaches on the Western side but also its lavish rainforest on the Eastern coast. Most of the visitors prefer to stay on the sunny West coast, but we decided to visit and stay on both sides during our one-week trip to maximize our experience. And it was the best decision ever!

We started our trip by driving along “road to Hana”. ". People say, the road to Hana is not just a road trip, it is a journey. They are absolutely right! The winding 50 miles of road passes taro patches, magnificent seascapes, waterfall pools, botanic gardens, rainforests, and then ends at one of the most beautiful tropical places in Hawaii. Along the way, we passed many many fruit stands, where we picked up some freshly produced local fruit and banana bread. I would highly recommend stopping at the Twin Falls, which as a cute food truck, where you can get fresh coconut water, pineapple popsicles and banana bread. Then pack a towel and swimsuit, and walk in. It is only about five minutes walk to the first waterfall and another five minutes to the second waterfall. The water is not cold, therefore making it the perfect spot for a quick dip before continuing on the road.

On the eastern coast, we stayed at Travaasa. Travaasa is everything we have expected and more. Tranquil, exquisite and serene. The resort has two areas. One is right by the ocean with each bungalow facing the sea, and other is surrounded by the beautiful botanic garden. We booked ourselves into the bungalow by the ocean, which has a great sea view. It was so wonderful to wake up watching the sunrise from the balcony and falling asleep listening to the waves. The food in Travaasa was sensational. All the ingredients were locally sourced and super fresh. For those who love fish, they will certainly enjoy the great choices of “catch of the day”. A big bonus point is that just 10 mins walk from Travaasa, you can reach the famous yet secret Red Sand beach. There are very few places in the world have the red sand beach, so you really don’t want to miss this one. Another great place to visit is the Seven Secret Pools and the hike to the Bamboo Forest.

Now we move to the topic of banana bread! Everywhere you go, you see banana bread. And seriously, they are so delicious. Through my research, I have found some best places to get the banana bread on Hana-side of Maui. Here are my recommendations:

Aunt Sandy's Banana Bread Shop (210 Keanae Rd, Haiku, HI 96708): This is the best banana bread we have tried on Maui. If you go there in the morning around 10 am, you will get freshly baked banana bread (still warm). Then just drive 200 meters further and enjoy them by the ocean. Best breakfast ever!
David's Banana Bread: I don't have the address for this one, but you will drive right pass him when you drive from Hana to Seven Sacred Pools. There are three stands along the road, right by a small narrow bridge. And you will see him. He is super nice and friendly.
Travaasa Welcome Banana Bread: every room is given a loaf of banana bread at Travaasa and it is super delicious. So make sure you enjoy them on your balcony with the ocean view.

There is still so much I can tell you about Hana, but a picture says thousands words. So please let my photos show you what we have done and hope this will inspire you explore Hana as well.