One of the great natural experiences in America — watch sunrise from the 10,023-foot summit of Haleakalā volcano, above the cloud layer, as the first light illuminates a vast volcanic landscape that stretches to Maui's coastline below.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
The Haleakalā sunrise is on every serious traveler's bucket list for Hawaii — standing at 10,023 feet at the summit of a dormant shield volcano, above the clouds, watching the first light of day illuminate a landscape of cinder cones, volcanic rock, and cloud formations that stretches to the Pacific. The experience requires an early start (leave your hotel by 3am for a 5:45am sunrise) and advance reservations for the summit visitor area (required between 3–7am, book at recreation.gov weeks ahead). Bring a heavy jacket — it is 30–40°F at the summit regardless of the season. The drive up on Haleakalā Highway is itself spectacular.
What Stands Out
- One of the great natural experiences in America — 10023-foot volcanic summit
- Watch sunrise above the cloud layer — the world below disappears
- Advance reservations required for 3–7am entry — book on recreation.gov weeks ahead
- Leave your hotel by 3am — it's a 1.5-hour drive from Wailea
- Bring a jacket — 30–40°F at the summit year-round