Visiting Haleakalā National Park: what to know
- Tickets
- The park charges an entry fee per vehicle, covered by the America the Beautiful pass. Check nps.gov for current rates. A separate sunrise reservation on Recreation.gov is required to drive up between 3 and 7 a.m.
- Time needed
- Half a day for sunrise and the summit; a full day to add a crater hike. Kīpahulu is a separate day via the Hāna road.
- Best time
- All year. Sunrise and sunset are the highlights; clear skies are more likely in the dry season, April to October.
- Getting there
- The summit is about 1 hour from Kula and 2 hours from Kahului. Nearest major airport is Kahului on Maui, about 2 hours' drive to the summit.
Maui itineraries with Haleakalā National Park
Haleakalā National Park is on day 3
Day 3 of Maui in 5 Days
Haleakalā summit
How Haleakalā National Park fits into a day.- 3:30Haleakalā National ParkUpcountry
- 9:30Breakfast in MakawaoMakawao
- 11:00MakawaoUpcountry
- 15:00Wailea Beach PathWailea
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Haleakalā National Park FAQs
Do I need a reservation for sunrise at Haleakalā?
Yes. Book a vehicle sunrise reservation on Recreation.gov, released 60 days ahead and again 2 days ahead. Without one you can still drive up after 7 a.m.
What is the best hike in Haleakalā?
Sliding Sands (Keoneheʻeheʻe) Trail drops into the crater for moonscape views. On the Hāna side, the Pīpīwai Trail leads through a bamboo forest to Waimoku Falls.
Where should I stay to visit Haleakalā?
Kula and Upcountry Maui are closest to the summit. Many visitors stay in Kahului, Paia or Kihei and drive up.
