Haleakalā Summit Viewpoint — Local services in Maui

Haleakalā Summit is one of the most stunning and otherworldly places you can visit in all of Hawaiʻi. Most people come for the famous sunrise — and can be spectacular! — but if you want clear skies and fewer crowds, I highly recommend visiting in the mid-morning. You’ll have a better chance of those brilliant blue skies, and the lighting is gorgeous for photos!

A lot of people refer to Haleakalā as a “crater,” but geologically speaking, it’s actually a massive erosional basin, not a true volcanic crater. It’s approximately 3,000 feet deep and filled with dramatic 1,000-foot cinder cones, making it feel like you’ve landed on another planet. Crossing the basin on foot would take 2–3 days, and there are hiking trails if you want to explore up close.

It’s only about 60–75 minutes from Kahului Airport (depending on how often you stop to take pictures), and well worth the drive. (no street lights FYI, and very edge of the cliff with no guard rails as you get closer to the summit) Be sure to bring layers — it can be cold and windy at the top, even when it’s warm at sea level. It’s all about the windchill if we have our normal tradewinds it’s super cold up there but these last few years it hasn’t been so bad but you never know when it’s going to be so you can watch the weather as far as the wind is concerned. Even if they’re calling for rain, it’s a 95% chance it’s not gonna happen or only for a few minutes. (probably a slight exaggeration as I don’t really know the percentage )

This is a U.S. National Park, so there is a $30 entrance fee per vehicle, good for three days. If you have a National Park Pass or Senior Pass, it’s included. Don’t forget to check the park’s website if you plan to visit for sunrise — reservations are required for early morning access.

Whether you’re interested in Hawaiian history, geology, photography, or just incredible views, Haleakalā Summit is a must-see. Truly a sacred and awe-inspiring place. And did I mention 10,000 feet in one hour? !! The first half is gradual the second half is switchbacks with no guard rails! on most of the drive. Which is why so many people want to take a taxi or a tour up there. Ubers are not...

The sunset it is easy to attend taking than the sunrise. Anyhow half of the way will be done by night.

We observed the sunset from the summit so I cannot tell how it is the scenery from Visitors Center. For the evening (sunset) if you do not stay very much on the summit after the sunset a long sleeve shirt and vest can do if the wind is not blowing with more than 15-20 knots.

You have to bear in mind that in 80% of the days you will be not able to see the ocean due to the compact layer of clouds surrounding the Haleakala volcano. So actually the sun is coming out or going down from/into the clouds. However the visual effects are beautiful and impressive. Admiring the Sunset/sunrise from Haleakala summit is the 3rd MUST TO DO activity after snorkeling and the Road to Hana. Tip: at the end of the astronomical event try to leave as soon as possible in order to avoid a overcrowded road descent. It is also advisable to use the manual gear option of the automatic transmission in order to go down smoothly in low gear without overheating your car breaks for the first 20 miles of...

It takes about 1.5 hours to get up to the peak (which is just slightly above 10,000'). The views on the way up are amazing. There are several places to stop and take pictures. Also, various trailheads provide entry to the park's extensive hiking and backcountry camping. Once at the summit, you get another amazing view, often above the clouds, and an epic sunset (or sunrise). Once the sun is down is gets bitterly cold immediately. If you prepare for extreme cold, the stargazing is very, very good. Bring lots of water, a flashlight, and snacks. For clothes you will ideally want full winter clothing including a good wind breaking layer and multiple warmth layers. If you are prepared, spending the night up here can be a romantic adventure. There is a park bathroom nearby with running water. Entrance fee to the park is $20. People sensitive to high altitudes may want to ascend gradually. Visiting the summit can easily be an all day (and all night) activity, but if you time it right, a great experience can be had in 4-5 hours...