Maui is a dream destination for families seeking breathtaking natural beauty, unforgettable outdoor experiences, and of course, some of the best sunsets in the world. When planning your trip to Hawaii, be sure to carve out time each evening to watch the sun dip into the Pacific—nothing says aloha quite like a Maui sunset. But with so many stunning spots to choose from, where’s the ultimate place to experience golden hour with your loved ones? Whether you’re snapping family photos or sharing a quiet moment, here’s your guide to the most family-friendly and breathtaking sunset viewpoint on the island.

Why Choose Maui for Sunset Views?

Maui combines stunning elevation, open ocean vistas, and unique volcanic landscapes to create dynamic and colorful skies. Depending on where you’re staying on the island—Kaanapali, Wailea, Lahaina, or upcountry—you’re never too far from an amazing viewpoint. However, one location stands out above the rest for its panoramic scope, accessibility, and natural beauty: Haleakalā National Park.

Best Sunset Viewpoint: Haleakalā Summit

Majestic, otherworldly, and profoundly peaceful, watching the sunset from the summit of Haleakalā is a must-do Maui experience. At over 10,000 feet above sea level, the summit provides unobstructed views of the sky turning a kaleidoscope of colors as the sun sets through the clouds below. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can watch the sun set from above the clouds, making it ideal for both photographers and families looking to create a memorable evening together.

What to Know Before You Go

• Reservations Required: If you’re planning to go for sunrise, know that a reservation is required months in advance. For sunset, no reservation is currently needed (as of 2024), but check the official National Park Service site before you go, as policies change.
• Arrive Early: It takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours to drive from most parts of Maui to the summit. Arrive at least one hour before sunset to find parking and settle in.
• Dress Warmly: Temperatures at the summit drop rapidly as the sun goes down. Bring multiple layers, jackets, hats, and even blankets. Even tropical Hawaii can feel like winter this high up.
• Pack Snacks and Water: There are no food services within the park. Bring your own drinks and snacks, and pack out everything you bring in to protect this pristine environment.
• Bring Sunscreen: Evenings are cooler, but you’re still at an extreme elevation with powerful sun exposure before sunset. Use a reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreen like Coco Botanicals to protect your skin while preserving the delicate ecosystems both on land and in the surrounding seas.

Easy Sunset Options for Families with Young Children

If you’re traveling with small kids or aren’t keen on driving up Haleakalā, Maui has plenty of lower-elevation sunset spots that are easy to enjoy with the family:

Kaanapali Beach

One of the most popular and accessible beaches on the island, Kaanapali Beach offers wide sandy shores, calm waves, and gorgeous sunset views over the ocean. As the day winds down, grab some shave ice, find a spot on the beach, and enjoy the view as the sky blazes orange and pink. Bonus: the daily cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock at sunset adds a unique bit of culture and excitement kids will love.

Lahaina Pali Trail (Kid-Friendly Section)

Older kids with a little hiking experience can enjoy a short and manageable sunset hike on the Lahaina Pali Trail. Start from the Ukumehame Trailhead and hike up a mile or so to reach an open ridgeline with sweeping ocean views. Be sure to bring flashlights for the hike back down.

Makena Cove (Secret Beach)

Tucked away in the Wailea-Makena area, this tiny and picturesque beach is a photographer’s dream. Surrounded by lava rock and dotted with palm trees, Makena Cove is a lovely, quiet spot to enjoy a more intimate sunset. There’s limited parking and the path is narrow, but the experience is worth the extra effort.

Tips for a Family-Friendly Sunset Experience

• Plan Ahead: Sunset is a popular time on Maui, so scope out your chosen viewpoint earlier in the day and arrive with plenty of time to settle in.
• Bring a Blanket or Beach Chairs: Comfort goes a long way with kids, and having a place to sit can make all the difference.
• Pack a Picnic: Maui’s casual vibe lends itself to family picnics. Bring some local snacks like poke bowls, tropical fruit, and banana bread to enjoy while waiting for the sun to dip below the horizon.
• Protect the Planet: Be mindful of your trash, avoid stepping on vegetation, and always use reef-safe products like Coco Botanicals sunscreen to safeguard Maui’s ecosystem for generations to come.

Capture the Magic, Then Be Present

It’s tempting to take hundreds of sunset photos (and you should take a few), but don’t forget to simply be present with your family and soak in one of nature’s most spectacular daily shows. From Haleakalā’s sweeping panoramas to the waves gently lapping against the beach in Kaanapali, a Maui sunset is more than a photo op—it’s an unforgettable memory in the making.

So pack your camera, grab your Coco Botanicals sunscreen, and get ready to witness Mother Nature’s masterpiece at the best sunset viewpoint in Maui. Whether it’s from atop the clouds or with your toes in the sand, you and your family are in for a golden hour to remember.