If you’re vacationing in Maui, you won’t want to miss one of the most beautiful sights on the island – the sunrise over Mount Haleakala. This wonder of the natural world is a stunning visual display fit for the Gods, with amazing colors peeking over the horizon as the sun rises over Maui’s jaw-dropping landscapes. But where is the best place on Haleakala to view this gorgeous sunrise? The answer shouldn’t be too surprising…

See the Best Sunrise at Haleakala’s Summit

The summit of Mount Haleakala is by far the best place to view the awesome sunrise over this sacred land. At a staggering 10,000+ feet above sea level, Haleakala’s summit is the perfect spot to get a bird’s eye view of the sunrise unobstructed as the dazzling pinks, reds, and oranges mingle in with the clouds and sky.

If you want to see the sunrise at Haleakala’s summit, you’ll need to do a bit of planning ahead of time. Anyone who wants to visit the summit during sunrise hours of 3am to 7am HST must have a reservation at Haleakalā National Park. Reservations are released on a staggered schedule and can be made up to 60 days in advance. The cost is a mere $1 per vehicle, which along with a valid reservation and photo ID will get your party a spot for one of the most spectacular events on planet Earth.

How to Get to the Summit

Now that you know where to go to see Haleakala’s gorgeous sunrise, let’s talk about how to get there.

Private Vehicle

Many people opt to drive themselves to the summit on a private vehicle. While this gives the convenience of coming and going at your leisure, some rental cars (which you’ll need unless you have your personal vehicle shipped to the island) aren’t meant for Haleakala’s narrow, winding roads. Always check with the rental agency before heading up the mountain, as some agencies won’t cover damages if you go to restricted places.

Bike Tours

Another great option for scaling Haleakala for the sunrise show is a bike tour. Visitors to Maui love taking bike tours through Haleakala’s diverse scenery, from volcanic terrain to lush jungles to arid deserts and more. Take some time to stop at any of the quaint mountainside towns and immerse yourself in local culture as you navigate the steep, winding mountain roads.

Bus Tours

If you prefer for someone else to do the driving, a bus tour to Haleakala’s summit might be your best bet. Tours leave daily in the overnight hours to reach the summit before the wondrous sunrise begins, but demand is high. Plan ahead by reserving your seats on the bus line of your choice, and don’t forget to bring some snacks and drinks for the ride.

Hiking

For those who prefer a slow and steady ascent of Haleakala, a hike up the mountainside is a great way to relax, unwind, and really take in the sights without interruption. You’ll need some experience with challenging hikes, a good bit of planning to map out the best route, and possibly multiple days to reach the summit depending on where you start.

Haleakala Guided Bike Tours by Mountain Riders

Viewing the sunrise on Mount Haleakala is best achieved at the volcano’s summit, an astonishing 10,000+ feet above Maui’s glimmering seas. If you’re ready to take on the challenge, taking a guided sunrise bike tour by Mountain Riders is one of the best ways to reach the summit in time for sunrise while also getting to experience the jaw-dropping flora, fauna, and culture that this hallowed volcano has to offer. Book your bike tour online now or contact Mountain Riders at 808-877-4944 for more information, and experience one of the most revered sights on the Valley Isle.