If you are the sort who feels invigorated by navigating very narrow, windy roads don't miss a drive along the Kahekili Highway, Route 340. Following the contours of the coastal region north of Kahului, spectacular views vie with twists and turns of the road for attention—and if you're the driver the curves win. This road has only recently become a 'through' road, though with regular single-lane stretches and tortuously slow going, 'through' may be a slight exaggeration. Some rental car companies won't even allow their vehicles on this stretch of road.

However, if you have the time and are up for an adrenaline rush, this route provides the opportunity to see small Hawaiian villages and swooping landscapes.

Kahakuloa, a small village roughly a lot of curves away from both Lahaina and Kahului is also, not surprisingly, one of the island's most isolated areas. However, isolation breeds some spectacularly un-peopled views of the rugged coast. For the sound of sea crashing against the rocky cliffs and some serious spume, stop at Nakalele blowhole past the village, or for safe swimming hike the Waihee Valley Trail to the pool at the end.

There are no opportunities to buy gas along this route so tank up before hitting the road. Route 340 runs for 16.9 miles north of Kahului before it widens into Route 30 and ribbons on to Kapalua.