Maui, with its lush landscapes, volcanic peaks, and breathtaking coastlines, is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. If you’re traveling with your family and looking for an unforgettable early morning adventure, there’s one outing that truly stands out — watching the sunrise from the top of Haleakalā. Known as the House of the Sun, Haleakalā National Park offers not only one of the most dramatic sunrise views in the world but also an exquisite hiking experience through a dormant volcanic crater. This is Maui’s best sunrise hike, and here’s everything you need to know to plan your trip.
Hiking Haleakalā Summit at Sunrise
The star of Maui’s sunrise hikes is the summit hike at Haleakalā National Park. Standing at over 10,000 feet above sea level, you’re essentially above the clouds and directly in the path of those first golden rays. The sunrise here is deeply spiritual and visually stunning. The vivid colors transform the sky and volcanic landscape into a canvas of purples, pinks, oranges, and golds — memories your family will cherish forever.
How to Plan Your Sunrise Visit
Reservations Are Required
If you plan to watch the sunrise from the summit, you’ll need a reservation. The National Park Service requires all visitors to make a sunrise viewing reservation in advance since capacity is limited. You can reserve your spot at recreation.gov. It’s best to book as early as possible since sunrise slots often sell out weeks in advance.
What Time to Arrive
Arrival times vary throughout the year but generally fall between 3:00 AM and 5:00 AM. Check the exact sunrise time for your visit and arrive at least an hour early to find parking, settle in, and layer up — it gets cold at the summit.
What to Wear and Bring
- Warm clothing — layers are a must as temperatures can dip below freezing
- Headlamps or flashlights for pre-dawn navigation
- Hot beverages and snacks for comfort
- Binoculars or a camera for capturing incredible views
- Mineral-based sunscreen like Coco Botanicals – even in the early morning light, UV rays are strong at high elevations. Ours is reef-safe, all-natural, and safe for the whole family’s skin
Best Family-Friendly Sunrise Hike Route
After witnessing the sunrise, consider hiking the Sliding Sands Trail (Keoneheʻeheʻe Trail). You don’t need to do the full 11-mile round trip for a great experience — even a short 1- to 2-mile descent into the crater rewards you with panoramic volcanic vistas, scattered cinder cones, and colorful lava rock formations. It feels like you’ve landed on another planet.
Tips for Families Hiking with Kids
- Keep hikes short and bring plenty of water — the elevation can make hiking more strenuous
- Stay on the trail, as the volcanic terrain can be fragile and dangerous
- Use landmarks to keep track of your location in the vast landscape
- Remember to pack out all trash to help preserve this unique ecosystem
Additional Considerations
The summit sunrise and sunrise hike are suitable for families with school-age children, but infants or toddlers may struggle with the altitude. Make sure to consult your pediatrician if you’re considering taking younger children. Also, gas, food, and lodging on route to the summit are limited — it’s best to prepare and pack the night before.
Why This Hike Is Worth It
There’s something truly magical about starting your day by watching the world wake up from the roof of Maui. The beauty of the sunrise, the unique landscape, and the cultural and spiritual significance of Haleakalā will leave an indelible mark on your family’s Hawaiian journey. Best of all, this hike fosters a deep appreciation for nature, which aligns perfectly with our values at Coco Botanicals — protecting what we love while enjoying it.
Don’t forget to bring your camera, your curiosity, and your reef-safe Coco Botanicals sunscreen. After all, you’re closer to the sun up there than almost anywhere else in Hawaii, and we want you to enjoy every sunbeam safely, naturally, and sustainably.