There are few places in the world where you can actually drive above the clouds and Haleakalā in Maui offers that exact experience. Reaching the summit before sunrise is like stepping into another world. It is a crazy feeling knowing that you can be freezing above the clouds for sunrise and be at the beach in a few hours.
MAKE RESERVATION: If you’re planning to see the sunrise from the summit, YOU'LL NEED A RESERVATION. This isn’t something you can just pull up to. The National Park Service requires a permit to enter the summit area between three and seven in the morning. You can book it on Recreation.gov and it usually costs just a couple of dollars. These permits open up sixty days in advance and sell out fast (my whole family on separate devices tried for a few days and we did not get accepted to reserve a spot... one day my whole family got declined again besides my brother... that is the only reason we go to go, so don’t wait. Make sure you also pay for your park entry fee or have a pass ahead of time. It saves a lot of stress when you’re driving up in total darkness.
PREPARE FOR TRAVEL: The drive itself is one of the most unforgettable parts of the experience. Depending on where you’re staying on Maui, you’ll need to plan ahead. From the central area near Kahului, it takes about two hours. From Kihei or Wailea, give yourself two and a half. If you’re staying in Lahaina or Kaanapali, consider leaving around two in the morning (I stayed in Kaanapali and left around 2:30 a.m.) That sounds extreme, but missing the sunrise because of traffic or slow driving on the switchbacks would be even worse.
PREPARE FOR THE COLD: Don’t underestimate the cold. This is not a tropical beach sunrise. You are heading up to an elevation of over 10,000 ft. Temperatures can be in the thirties or even colder with windchill. You need real layers. Think winter jacket, long pants, beanie, gloves. If you have a blanket, bring it. I’ve seen people show up in shorts and flip-flops and leave before the sun even rises because they couldn’t handle the cold. It’s better to be overprepared than to spend the entire morning shivering.
DIFFERENT PARKING AREAS: When you get there, park at the summit area or the visitor center just below it. The best views are from the upper lot, but both offer a wide open view of the crater and the sky. As the sun begins to rise, you’ll notice something incredible. The entire world seems to wake up slowly. First it’s the stars, then the sky turns deep blue, then pink and orange start to spread across the clouds below you. If the weather is clear, the sun will rise above a thick layer of clouds, lighting them from beneath like glowing waves. It’s one of the most peaceful and surreal moments I’ve ever experienced. (CLICK ON THE VIDEO AT THE TOP OF THIS BLOG THAT SHOWS THE ENTIRE SUNRISE AND MY EXPERIENCE)
After sunrise, you don’t need to rush down the mountain. If you’re looking for breakfast, stop at Grandma’s Coffee House in Keokea. It’s a local favorite with freshly baked banana bread and strong Maui coffee. Another good stop is Kula Lodge, where you can eat with panoramic views of the island. For those who want to stretch their legs, the Sliding Sands Trail begins near the summit and drops into the crater. It looks like a Mars landscape and gives you a different perspective of the volcano, but go only if you’re ready for a strenuous hike at high altitude. (EBOOK COMING SOON ON SECRET MAUI ITINERARY ONLY LOCALS KNOW ABOUT)
RESPECT HAWAII: One important reminder. Haleakalā is not just a national park. It’s a sacred place in Hawaiian culture. Show respect by staying on marked trails, packing out what you bring in, and treating the land with care. This isn’t just an Instagram moment. It’s a chance to experience something deeply powerful and meaningful.
Driving above the clouds and watching the sunrise from Haleakalā feels like something from a dream. It’s the kind of thing that changes your entire day and maybe even your outlook on life. If you’re heading to Maui, don’t miss it. Just plan ahead, dress warm, and allow yourself to fully be in the moment.
If this helped you prepare for your trip, I share even more Hawaii travel guides and personal tips at sidequestcoop.com and on Instagram @sidequestcoop. Thanks for reading and I hope you get to see it for yourself soon.
