Local’s Guide to Visiting Haleakalā National Park
Your head will ABSOLUTELY be in the clouds with this one! In this guide we cover the best parts of Haleakalā National Park, starting with Maui’s one-and-only volcano: Haleakalā.
Standing at 10,023 feet, and covering over half of the island, Haleakalā is one of the largest volcanos in the world. And though the volcano is currently dormant (the last eruption was between 1480-1600!), it is still considered active as scientists believe there is the possibility of an eruption in the far future.
But don’t take our word for it! Let yourself be mesmerized by the setting (or rising!) sun as you admire Maui from above the clouds, or take a hike and see the incredible silversword plants and swirling colors of the crater. Regardless of when you go, Haleakalā is sure to capture the heart of all visitors.
For more information, please visit the National Park website here.
Basic Info
Entrance is $30 per vehicle (with the exception of National Park Pass holders) and can be paid upon entrance by credit card. *The pass is good for 3 days- so make sure you hold on to it for yourself or a friend to visit again!*
The drive from Wailuku/Kahului area to the summit is about 1.5 hours
Haleakalā means “House of the Sun” & is believed by some to be the Heart Chakra of the world
There are two distinct parts to access the park: The Summit (best for seeing sunrise/sunset), and Kipahulu (on the Road to Hana).
The Summit
This observatory, one of the world’s best, is closed to the public, but this is where you’ll get the best view for sunset. You will have a view of approximately 75% of the entire sky- and when we said you’d be above the clouds, we weren’t kidding!
For Sunrise
For sunrise, you DO need a reservation from 3:00 AM to 7:00 AM. They cost $1 and can be made by clicking here. Refunds are not made for weather conditions, and you must present a photo ID to match the name on your reservation.
For Sunset
You DO NOT need a reservation for sunset! Just pay the entrance fee to the park and you’re set to watch the most stunning sunset of your life! This is our recommendation, as it’s just as beautiful and more convenient to access!
Kīpahulu
This area is accessible via the Road to Hana drive, which is also a must while on Maui!
Seven Sacred Pools and the Pīpīwai Trail can also be accessed from here.
*Please note that the pools are currently closed for swimming.
Hiking
Seven Sacred Pools is a short walk from the Kipahulu parking lot, and is only just over half of a mile loop!
Pīpīwai Trail is a favorite hike (pictured left) with waterfall views, a beautiful big banyan tree, and a breathtaking bamboo forest.
Also, while there are many easy walks to overlook points, Keonehe‘ehe‘e (Sliding Sands) at 11 miles long isn’t for the faint of heart! Camp overnight, or do it all in one day if you’re feeling brave!
What to Bring
Okay, we know that it’s Hawai’i, but it gets chilly here- about 20-30 degrees colder than at sea level! Temperatures can drop to 30°F (-1°C) at the summit, and although it is rare, Haleakalā sometimes does see snow!
TIPS:
Bring warm clothes/blanket
Don’t forget sunscreen!
Supportive shoes
Fill up on gas before you start your trip
Bring your camera & portable charger
Pack snacks/drinks for the road trip!
Nature
Did you know that five different climates can be found here?
The only native mammals found here are bats and seals, and sea turtles as far as native reptiles are concerned. Many endangered species also make their homes here, including:
the silversword (plant)
the nēnē bird
Kiwikiu (Maui Parrotbill),
'Ākohekohe (Crested Honeycreeper)
'I'iwi (Scarlet Honeycreeper).
the 'ua'u (Hawaiian Petrel)
Stargazing
Don’t forget that the sky still offers so much after nightfall! Check out some of the best stargazing Maui has to offer!
One Request!
We want you to enjoy your time here, but keep only memories. Please— do NOT litter, deface structures or property, or destroy natural landscapes. Do NOT take rocks from the park. Not only should you respect the natural resources, but legend has it that you will be cursed if you don’t obey!
We can’t wait to have you experience Maui for yourself!
Looking for a little more guidance? Feel free to stop by the Howzit Hostel reception desk. Our staff can provide more customized tips to help you make the most of your Maui vacation.