Are you looking for a short getaway from your work? Haleakala National Park Maui offers you the serene retreat you need. It is popular for its towering summit reaching the clouds and magnificent sunrise & sunset views. On top of this Haleakala National Park is split into two portions i.e Summit & Kipahulu district. Both offer different spectacles. You will find towering landscapes in the summit district. On the contrary you will see the Pacific Ocean coast in the Kipahulu district. Now if you are looking for more Haleakalā National Park Travel Guide and Tips then we have got you covered.
About Haleakalā National Park
Haleakala National Park is sprawled over 30,000 acres of land and is located on one of the 8 major known Hawaiian islands, Maui Island. In addition to this it was also titled as an International Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1980. Furthermore Haleakala National Park is split in two parts: the Summit District and the Kipahulu district. Both these places are in contrast to each other. Hence you will find no similarity in their landscapes. For example, Summit is for mountains and landscapes while Kipahulu is for ocean retreat.
Origin
It got its name from the presence of a dormant volcano named Haleakala which is roughly around a million years old and covers 3/4th of the island. Moreover in the Hawaiian language, Haleakala also implies ‘the house of the sun.’ Previously it was named the Hawaii National Park by Congress in 1916. But after Hawaii became an independent US state, this National Park was given its own autonomous designation as Haleakala National Park in 1961.
Key Information: The 2 zones i.e the summit district and the Kipahulu district are not connected. Their entry points are far apart from each other by more than 3 hours by car. So the best suggestion is to plan the trip here for 2 separate days, one for each site.
We will explain in detail what the top Things to do in Haleakalā National Park are.
Things To Do in the Summit District
Haleakala Crater
The favourite part of this location is the Haleakala Crater. This Crater is a massive depression which reaches up to 10,000 ft above sea level. The depression of Haleakala Craters is considered the quietest place on the planet. Whereas the summit is recognized as a major location in the world to monitor space activities. Additionally it is quite famous for its Mars-like features, sand trails, sunrise, sunset views and for stargazing.
View the Sunrise
If you have come to the summit district, returning without viewing the sunrise feels like a crime. Haleakala National Park Sunrise is a popular experience to follow here. As the soaring summit reaches the clouds, the sky slowly changes from blue to orange and saffron colours. But to view this you have to make prior reservations with the National Park Service. In addition to this, you have to leave your hotel as early as 2:30 am. More details on their official page Haleakala National Park Sunrise Reservations.
Sliding Sand Trail
Otherwise called the Keonehe’ehe’e Trail, it is one of the legendary hikes on Maui Island. It starts with descending 2500 ft into the crater but you have to climb back to the top which is the hardest part. Hence this hiking spot is also considered the most difficult ones in Maui. While trailing downwards, you will see the rare Haleakalā silversword plant which is found only on this volcano. It survives as its silver coloured leaf reflects the sunlight. You can also track the Hawaii state bird, the Nēnē goose which is an endangered bird species.
Watch The Sunset and Stargaze
While sunrise attracts most attention from the visitors, if you want a calm atmosphere then Haleakala National Park sunset is a good alternative. You will see the warm golden sunlight falling on the clouds. Additionally you can also enjoy sunset from Leleiwi and kalahaku overlooks on Crater Road. Right after the sunset you will get the opportunity for stargazing. Due to its excessive elevation point and no pollution in the sky the stars will be strangely radiant and don’t forget to check out the Milky Way from here.
Camping in Hosmer Grove
If you are travelling with family or friends and plan to camp then Hosmer Grove is for you. This is the summit district only campground available in Haleakala National Park. You can locate the eucalyptus trees & pine trees planted by Hosmer in 1909 making it an ideal spot for an outing. But you have to pay for entry and make a prior reservation with the national park services for overnight camping. Additionally Crater Road is a 30-minute drive from this spot.
TIP– You can also book a helicopter for the Haleakala National Park tour. You will get to visit the inaccessible part of the Maui Island. The price varies from $250 to $500 excluding the fuel charges.
Things to Do in Kipahulu District
Road to Hana
To reach Kipahulu District, you have to drive alongside the famous road to Hana. This is one of the panoramic drive experiences on Maui Island. If you have visited the summit district the previous day, you will immediately feel the change in atmosphere once you reach Kipahulu. Further for parking the visitor centers open at 9 am and you have to pay $30 per vehicle for entry. Nevertheless the drive might take a long time.
NOTE: After reaching the parking area, head north from the Kipahulu visitor centre. After a brief trail, the path splits. The right goes to the Kulao Point Trail & Oheʻo Gulch while the left heads to the Pipiwai trail & Waimoku Falls.
Pipiwai Trail
This trail in the Kipahulu district will take you past the packed forest, reaching the bamboo trees in the middle and finally ending with the Waimoku Falls. After starting the Pipiwai Trail, the first highlight is the massive banyan trees covering the land. Halfway along the trail you will find bamboo groves standing tall and swaying, making soft tapping sounds from hitting each other. At the end, check out the 400 ft Waimoku Falls surrounded by greenery. Mind you swimming is not authorized in this waterfall. Additionally It will take around 3-5 hours to cover this trail.
Kuloa Point Trail
If you want to know about Hawaiian culture then the Kuloa Point Trail is for you. This trail in the Kipahulu district is also acknowledged as the seven sacred pools or Oheʻo Gulch. It resembles a small loop trail of approximately 1.1 km. Hence it is suitable for people regardless of their age. You will find several small pools and waterfalls that have become some of the most photographed locations in Haleakala National Park. But swimming is highly restricted due to many deaths from flash floods.
Whale Watching
Another spellbinding scene in the Kipahulu district are whale watching. Each year a large number of whales swim to the warm waters of the Maui pacific ocean. In addition after reaching the shore, keep a closer look at the ocean either from the coast cliffs or the ohe’o gulch pools. You can also book a guided boat tour to the Au’au channel which is a prime spot to view whales.
TIP- There are many other spots in this archipelago for whale watching. If you are planning to watch this creatures with family & friends, make sure to check out our Best Places For Whale Watching In Hawaii blog to get details information and a perfect travel guide.
Travel Guide
Time to Visit
Spring (April and May)- best period to hike around the Mighty Haleakala Craters. With dry and lower temperatures, descending the sliding sand trails becomes more easy.
Summer (June, July and August)- an excellent time for family vacations and outings. These are the optimal time to visit the beach in Maui for beach activities & boat tours. But the place will be packed during this season.
Fall ( September till November)- Crowd is less during this season suggesting a good time for road trips, sea turtles and less crowded hiking trails. If you want to enjoy a calm atmosphere, then visit in these months.
Winter (December to April)- Despite the comfortable and cooler weather during winters you might need to be aware of sudden rain showers and storms. Further this is the prime time to go whale watching and attend other local festivals.
How to Reach?
Firstly, if you are a foreigner take a global flight to the closest airport which is Kahului Airport (OGG) in the central Maui. Now you have no choice except to book a car from nearby rental offices. Because there is no public bus or other transport that will take you to the Park Entrance. In addition to this, it would take 1 hour to reach the park. But to access the Summit district, it will take 2 to 2.5 hours and for Kipahulu district, it is 4 hours.
Note: There aren’t any gas stations or EV charging stations within the park.
Stay and Dining Options
Inside Stay Options
- If you are looking for more local experience we would suggest you sleep under the dark clear sky in the park.
- You can also book your cabins in Kapalaoa or Holua in advance of your stay. But foot travel is the only way to reach here.
- If you are in a budget, Secure your place in Hosmer Grove or Kipahulu Camping Areas.
- For a more affordable stay option, you can go for the camping grounds available in Hosmer Grove or Kipahulu.
TIP– Mind you there are no food trucks inside.
External Stay Options
- Outside the park, the best options are hotels and resorts in Wailea or Kihei. They also provide ocean views and dining options.
- If you plan to stay near the Summit district, pre-arrange your stay in guesthouses of Kula or Makawao town in Upcountry.
- If you are looking to accommodate near Kipahulu District then reserve your stay in the hotels of Haiku. You get direct access to Road to Lana from here.
Travel Tips
Entry Tips
You will be charged $30 per vehicle as an entrance fee by Haleakala National Park and only credit cards are accepted. But the price may differ, for accurate information on the Haleakala National Park Entrance fee check their web page. Additionally, if you have an American Beautiful Annual Park Pass, you can use it here. Before 7 am, you will need prior reservations booked to enter the park but not after 7 am. Moreover the permits are released in two durations: the main batch opens 60 days earlier while the smaller batch is accessible two days before the visit date.
Packing Tips
If you thought that the summit would be warm due to the volcano, then the Haleakala National Park weather will be a shock for you. The weather is cold & Temperature is low at all times
- Durable, lightweight trekking pants instead of shorts
- Rain jackets as an outer layer in case of strong winds on the summit
- Wool clothes as a middle layer to keep you warm
- Synthetics as a base layer to keep you dry(in case of sweating)
- Must wear hiking boots for support during trails, climbing volcanic terrains etc.
Crucial Tips
- As there are no gas stations or EV charging stations inside. Make sure you re-fill your tank outside the park.
- There is no network or cell service inside the park. So keep a map in hand.
- You will not find any food stalls inside. So carry your own food, snacks and water bottles.
- High altitude means intense sun radiation. So bring sunlotion, uv glasses and a light hat.
- Always carry a First aid to handle any sudden injuries, fever etc
- Pack along binoculars to spot local birds and a camera to remember the moments
Precautionary Tips
- Before starting your trip, review the Haleakala National Park website. So that you can know if any warnings like road obstruction, bad weather alerts, rain, storms are issued.
- Do not go towards dangerous areas or try swimming in danger zones to avoid life hazards. Follow the designated path and trail areas.
- Do not harm the wildlife or the groves or throw garbage here and there.
- If you have any breathing problems like asthma or if you are a heart patient or have altitude sickness do not come to this park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your dog is welcomed only in the parking area and on roads but not in trails and camping grounds and they must wear a leash.
This national park is child- friendly. But in high altitudes and summits, younger kids might face some problems.
The distance between the entrances of 2 districts is more than 3 hours. Though it is possible to visit both in one day but you will have to drive a lot. Most of the time will be spent driving only. So plan it for two days.
Yes you will find restrooms in the Haleakala National Park Visitors Centers. The park headquarters, the Haleakalā Visitor Center and the Kīpahulu Visitor Center are the only visitor centers available.
Conclusion
This is perfect for people who want to get away for a little while and have some fun. Even though the two premium locations of this park are far apart from each other you can make the best out of it by following our guide. We have also suggested some essential things you need to take care of before starting your retreat. If you are travelling with family or friends, then book a Hawaii charter bus rental to make sure everyone enjoys it to the fullest and returns safely. At last please respect nature and enjoy your trip.