Is the Sunset on the Summit of Haleakalā Worth the Trip?
While there are a lot of unique experiences to add to your list on the Island of Maui, watching the sunrise or sunset on the summit of Haleakalā is definitely a must see. You can drive to the top of this dormant volcano and see the sunrise or sunset above the clouds. When visiting the island several years ago, my family and I drove up for the sunset one night and it was beautiful. Let me share a few of my thoughts with you about our experience.
Fill your car’s gas tank up before you go
Because you are driving up to the summit of Halaekalā and back down during your visit, you will want to make sure that you have a full tank of gas before you go. A quick google search confirmed there are no gas stations within the park so make sure your tank is full before heading up.
Make sure you plan enough time
One of the most important things you want to consider before going is the time you need to get there. The trip to the top of Haleakalā can take a couple of hours and you will want to make sure you have enough time to get settled at the top. Also, a recent look at https://www.nps.gov/hale/planyourvisit/sunset.htm will tell you to make sure you arrive a minimum of 3 hours before sunset so you won’t get turned away due to the parking area being full. To help with timing, I might suggest you map out the distance and then add some extra time in case you want to stop and check out the scenery along the way. There are also lookouts that you can stop at with some incredible views. One of the neatest things to me was how the terrain changed as we drove to the top. Along with the scenery we were able to see a few animals and unique plants as well.
Plan for the drop in temperature
When we visited in October, we knew that as we climbed the volcano the temperature would drop the higher we got. Even though I was expecting it, it still took me by surprise. It was pretty cold. Remember to check what the temperature will be at the top of the summit when you go and bring jackets and cold weather gear with you. By the time the sun had set and we were headed back down the mountain (volcano), I was so thankful I brought things to keep warm.
Parking
When you first arrive at the top of Haleakalā and park in one of the lots, you will find a public bathroom available for use. Because of the temperature drop and these restrooms being outside, they are pretty cold to use. Depending on where you end up parking you may have a small but slightly steep walk up to the summit where you can set up to watch the sunset. (If you plan to visit early to see the sunrise you may need to make a reservation on the national park’s website). You will want to make sure to wear comfortable shoes like tennis shoes or hiking boots when you go in case you have to do some walking.
Stay to look at the stars
After the sunset, the summit can be an amazing place to look at the stars. One thing to remember, if you stick around, is that it can get pretty dark and may be hard to see your surroundings. If you prefer more light when headed back to your car, I suggest leaving right after or just before the sunset has traveled below the clouds.
This adventure is such a neat experience. I would recommend you try it. Make sure you do your research before you go and you may also want to check out these helpful tips on the Haleakalā National Park Website – https://www.nps.gov/hale/planyourvisit/sunset.htm
– Pepper and Passports
Thinking of visiting Hawaii and want to give surfing a try? See my thoughts here… https://pepperandpassports.com/surfing-on-waikiki-my-experience-from-a-non-surfer/
Love hiking? Try out a hike in Gatlinburg, Tennessee – https://suitcasesandsalt.com/hiking-the-gatlinburg-trail-and-cataract-falls/
And grab a free trip planner printout and bucket list maker below…
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