One of the most awe-inspiring experiences on Maui is watching the sunrise from the summit of Mount Haleakalā. Sitting nearly 10,000 feet above sea level, this dormant volcano offers front-row seats to a dramatic natural spectacle as the sun rises above the clouds.
Whether you’re planning your very first visit to Haleakalā National Park or returning for another breathtaking morning, we’ve compiled expert sunrise tips geared towards this experience—including how to get a reservation, what time to leave, and where to stay.
Haleakalā, meaning “house of the sun” in Hawaiian, offers an unforgettable experience perched above Maui’s clouds. On a clear morning, you can expect views of vibrant, shifting colors as the sun rises over Haleakalā crater and lights up the vast Pacific Ocean and island landscapes around you. Depending on the visibility, this mountain sunrise also offers panoramic views of neighboring islands like Lanai and Molokai.
Because of the altitude (grab that hot cocoa!), the viscosity of colors during sunrise is more vivid and saturated than at sea level. It’s no wonder it’s frequently considered one of the most beautiful sunrise views on Earth.
Access to the park’s summit for sunrise viewing requires a special reservation from the National Park Service. The cost isn't much per vehicle, but availability is limited, especially during busy travel seasons. You can secure your Haleakalā sunrise reservation up to 60 days in advance on Recreation.gov.
Important to note:
The summit of Haleakalā is chilly year-round. At 10,000 feet, temperatures can dip below freezing before sunrise. While sunrise in Maui might conjure images of flip-flops and shorts, you’ll want to bundle up in layers for this mountain-top excursion.
Our packing suggestions:
Altitude sickness at Haleakalā affects some visitors, especially those coming straight from sea level. Symptoms include dizziness, nausea, and headaches. Though most travelers are fine for a quick sunrise trip, it’s best to stay hydrated and limit alcohol the day before.
Also, the winding roads and switchbacks up the mountain can cause motion sickness—especially in the dark. Consider bringing over-the-counter nausea remedies if you’re prone to it.
One of the most common questions we get: What time is sunrise at Haleakalā? It depends on the season:
Use Google or check the park’s official website to see exact Haleakalā sunrise times for your visit.
What time should I get to Haleakalā for sunrise?
Plan to arrive 60–90 minutes before sunrise to secure parking, acclimate to the altitude, and find a spot at Haleakalā Sunrise Point. Depending on where you're staying on Maui, that could mean leaving as early as 2:00 a.m.
There are two main sunrise viewing areas: the Summit Building and the Haleakalā Visitor Center. Both offer sweeping views, but parking is limited. Arrive early to ensure you get a spot and don’t have to walk too far in the cold.
Quick parking tips:
There’s no food, water, or gas up at the summit, so plan ahead. Many visitors bring a small snack and hot drink to enjoy while watching the sunrise. Afterward, stop at a local spot for a well-earned breakfast.
Popular places for breakfast after the Haleakalā sunrise:
Staying closer to the Haleakalā summit can make your early morning much easier. While the summit itself isn’t surrounded by accommodations, choosing a vacation rental in South or Central Maui can save you time and effort before sunrise.
Best areas to stay for Haleakalā sunrise access:
Featured photo courtesy of James Huckaby. Additional images courtesy of Krishna Santhanam, Jessie Hodge, and versello.
