Explore Haleakala National Park: Maui's Volcano and Coastal Wonders

Discover the diverse landscapes of Haleakala National Park, from volcanic summits to coastal waterfalls, and immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Maui, Hawaii.

Last updated: Apr 2024

Visit Website

$30 for a 3-day vehicle pass, additional fees for sunrise reservations.
More than 500 Miles from you
National Star: Exceptional experiences within the country that are must-dos for adventurers
Learn more

Description

Haleakala National Park, located on the island of Maui, offers a unique adventure through a variety of landscapes. Start your journey in the Summit District, where you can watch a breathtaking sunrise from atop the dormant volcano and hike through the expansive crater carved by water erosion. The terrain here features colorful cinder cones, lava flows, and the rare silversword plant, making it a geological marvel.
Next, head to the Kipahulu District, a lush coastal area with bamboo forests and cascading waterfalls. Explore the Pipiwai Trail, where you'll pass through thick bamboo groves and encounter the stunning Waimoku Falls. You can also visit the 'Ohe'o Gulch, a series of pools and waterfalls that flow into the Pacific Ocean.
For a complete experience, plan to stay for sunset and stargazing in the Summit District, where you can witness one of the best views of the Milky Way. The high altitude and minimal light pollution make it ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.

What's included

Perfect for

For solo

For two

For groups

For parents and grownups

Outdoorsy

Unlock the Ultimate Bucket List

For Adventurers and Explorers

Epic

All Experience Levels Unlocked
Build and Manage your Bucket List
Exclusive EPIC Deals & Discounts
Gift 3 EPIC Guest Memberships

7 Days Free

$2.99/mo, cancel any time.
Billed annually

Basic

World-class Experiences Unlocked
Build and Manage your Bucket List

$0/mo

No credit card needed

TikTok videos

Itinerary

Start your visit at the Summit District for a sunrise view.
Visit the Haleakala Visitor Center to learn about the park's history and unique features.
Explore the hiking trails in the Summit District, including Sliding Sands and Halemau'u Trail.
Travel to the Kipahulu District to hike the Pipiwai Trail and visit 'Ohe'o Gulch.
Return to the Summit District for sunset and stargazing.
Camp or stay overnight in nearby accommodations for a more extended experience.

Location

Haleakalā National Park, Maui, Hawaii

Show directions

Packing List

Warm clothing and jackets (temperatures drop at high altitudes)
Comfortable hiking shoes
Sunscreen and hat for sun protection
Reusable water bottle
Snacks for day trips
Camera or smartphone for photos

4.9 ● Google reviews

The best place to go for sunrise 🌅 and sunsets 🌇. The evenings are crowded, but the mornings are great. Only registered visitors allowed. The views are stunning. Bring warm clothes. The drive is beautiful. It's a must.

Phenomenal place to be. Highly recommend the sunrise visit. Reservations required. The sunrise experience was the highlight with the park ranger explaining the origins of the name of the park and singing the sunrise song! Extremely well maintained park.

Watching the sunset from Haleakala Summit was truly an experience of a lifetime. It felt like stepping onto another planet, with a view that was absolutely out of this world. Every single kilometer up the volcano had its own unique beauty, and it’s a drive I’ll always remember. The winding road, the changing landscapes, and the anticipation made it even more special. Reaching the summit at sunset was, hands down, the highlight of our trip. There’s this quiet stillness up there, and then, as the sun starts dipping below the clouds, the colors explode across the sky—it’s indescribably beautiful. Pictures don’t do it justice; you really have to see it to believe it. Yes, it’s a bit cold up there, but honestly, it wasn’t bad at all—just a light jacket is all you need. The views are beyond worth it. If you’re ever in Maui, make this a must-do. Haleakala is pure magic.

Haleakalā National Park is absolutely mesmerizing, with its otherworldly volcanic landscapes and incredible sunrise views that feel like you’re on another planet. We explored the summit, hiked the Sliding Sands Trail, and marveled at the vibrant colors and unique rock formations. The stargazing at night was magical, with a sky so clear it felt infinite. A big plus is the variety of ecosystems—from lush greenery to desert-like craters—making every turn a surprise. The only downside is the chilly summit temperatures, so layers are a must. Overall, it was an unforgettable experience filled with natural beauty and adventure.

It’s a journey to get there, but it’s worth it. It’s another world at the top. Walking at the top feels like another planet. Definitely be prepared for cold temperatures and the altitude. The beginning of the sliding sands trail is spectacular.

Show all 10731 reviews