Haleakala

Towering over the island of Maui and visible from just about any point, Haleakalā Crater is a force of nature in every sense. At 10,023 feet above sea level, this dormant volcano is the stage for a breathtaking range of landscapes—and skyscapes. Haleakalā means "house of the sun" in Hawaiian, and legend goes that the demigod Maui lassoed the sun from its journey across the sky as he stood on the volcano’s summit, slowing its descent to make the day last longer. Many visitors wake up early to drive to the Haleakalā Visitor Center, the best spot to watch what may be the most spectacular sunrise on earth. As the sun peeks over the horizon, an ever-changing swirl of color and light dances across the vast sea of clouds—a sight described by Mark Twain as “the most sublime spectacle I have ever witnessed.”

Perhaps just as impressive are Haleakalā’s sunsets and the bright, starry skies revealed at night. Remember, the National Park Service now requires a reservation for personal and rental vehicles to view the sunrise from the summit district. Your reservation is for parking at the summit and doesn’t include the required national Park entry fee. Drive times from Kāʻanapali and Wailea to reach the summit average 2 hours. Sunrises and sunsets are only two of the many reasons to pay Haleakalā National Park a visit on your trip to Maui. Spanning more than 30,000 acres of public land, the stunning landscapes range from Mars-like red deserts and rock gardens near the summit to lush waterfalls and streams in the park’s coastal Kīpahulu section near Hāna. There are numerous hiking trails that offer solitude and scenic vistas, while guided hikes and horseback rides provide an expert's insight in addition to the natural beauty. There are more endangered species here than any other park in the National Park Service, like blooming ʻāhinahina (silversword) and nēnē (Hawaiian goose), the state bird. Visitors can also camp here, with separate campgrounds and cabins available.

For information regarding Haleakalā sunrise viewing and reservations, visit the National Park Service's site.
For more in depth information, view the National Park Service's video, Haleakalā: A Rare and Sacred Landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions about Haleakala 

Can you go up to Haleakala without a reservation?

You can visit Haleakala National Park during regular hours without a reservation, but a reservation is required if you plan to enter the Summit District between 3:00 AM and 7:00 AM for sunrise viewing. Reservations can be booked up to 60 days in advance and are per vehicle, not per person.

Can I drive to the top of Haleakala?

Yes. You can drive all the way to the summit of Haleakala via Crater Road (Haleakala Highway). The road is paved and well-maintained, but it’s steep with many switchbacks, so take your time and use pullouts for photos. The summit sits just over 10,000 feet above sea level, offering incredible panoramic views across the island.

How cold is it at the top of Mount Haleakala?

Temperatures at the summit are typically 30–50°F (-1–10°C), and it can feel even colder with windchill, especially before sunrise. Dressing in warm layers, including a jacket, hat, and gloves, is highly recommended year-round.

When should I leave Kihei to reach Haleakala for sunrise?

Plan to leave Kihei about 2.5 to 3 hours before sunrise to allow time for the drive, the park entrance line, and parking. Check the sunrise time in advance and arrive at the summit at least 30 minutes early to get a good spot and enjoy the colors as they begin to change.