10 Questions About Haleakala National Park’s Sunrise
Q: What does the word Haleakala mean?
Q: What time does the sunrise on Haleakala?
A: The earliest sunrise occurs in June at 5:38 a.m. The latest sunrise occurs in January at 6:58 a.m. The sunrise time depends on the Earth’s axis tilt throughout the year.
Q: What happens if it is cloudy or raining?
A: There is always a risk of it being cloudy or rainy at the top of Haleakala, but rain and clouds pass over Maui very quickly so there is a chance that it could be raining when you arrive and clear up just in time to see the sunrise. On mornings like this, there is an added element to the beauty of the sunrise since the additional moisture in the air adds more color to the sky as the sun’s rays grow.
Q: What should I wear so I am comfortable during the sunrise?
A: You should plan to dress in layers. We would definitely recommend wearing a jacket. When you choose to see the sunrise with Skyline Hawaii, we provide a jacket for you to use so you stay toasty warm. This means that you don’t have to worry about using up valuable space in your suitcase by bringing a jacket on your tropical vacation.
Q: Where is the best spot to view the sunrise on Haleakala?
Q: How limited are visitor passes to see the sunrise?
A: You can make a reservation to see the sunrise up to 60 days before your visit for $1.50 per car. It is important to order your pass online as early as possible. If you choose to take yourself to view the famous sunrise, it is important to remember to get in line at the park gate early so you have enough time to get to the summit. It is also important to fill up with gas and eat breakfast ahead of time because there are no services like this available in the National Park.
Q: If I buy a visitor pass does that mean I am guaranteed to have a parking spot at the summit?
A: No, reservations do not ensure a parking space at any particular parking lot in the Summit District of Haleakala National Park. Depending on how busy the park is on the morning you want to see the sunrise, you might be directed by park staff to available parking spaces even if the parking space is not where you ideally want to be.
Q: How do I have a relaxing and enjoyable trip to see the sunrise?
A: The best way to view the sunrise is by choosing to take a sunrise tour with Skyline Hawaii. We pick you up, feed you, guide you through the park, and return you to your hotel or accommodation at the end of the tour. This means that you don’t have to worry about anything at all! No lines, no driving on narrow roads, no searching for a parking spot, and no risk of being late.
Q: How do I get the best picture of the sunrise?
A: It can be challenging to take a perfect photo of the sun. To keep the landscape from becoming underexposed, frame and focus on the area to the left or right of the sun to lock in the correct exposure and then quickly reframe on the rising sun and snap the shot. You can use this tactic with a camera and also a smartphone to make sure you are capturing the full beauty of the sunrise.
Q: Why is Haleakala’s Summit the best place to view the sunrise on the island?
About the Author: Skyline Hawaii offers guided tours of the #1 attraction on Maui, Haleakala National Park. The park is one of the most unique and protected places in all of the United States. It is home to one of the most beautiful sunrises in the world on the summit of Haleakala, the highest point on the island of Maui. For more information or to make your reservation today, visit: www.skylinehawaii.com.