Haleakala: Day Trips and Tours from Maui

Maui's highest peak, rising ominously at over 3,000 meters above the Pacific Ocean, the Haleakala volcano is both iconic and imposing. Taking up close to three quarters of Maui's surface, Haleakala is a force of nature that will leave an impression.

A quintessential Maui day trip, the hike to the summit may be the most popular destination within Haleakala National Park. However, many visitors don't realize there's much more to Haleakala than just the volcano itself. In fact, there are a number of different Haleakala day tours from Maui that you can take.

Here's all you need to know about Haleakala, one of the best destinations for day trips from Maui.

Where is Haleakala located in Maui?

When people talk about Haleakala, they are referring to one of two things: Haleakala National Park, home to endangered species, and the eponymous dormant volcano, its tallest peak.

Taking up nearly the entire eastern side of Maui and then some, Haleakala National Park extends from the Summit District of Haleakalā all the way down to the Kīpahulu District near Hāna. While the two districts aren't directly connected, they can both be reached from Kahalui, the island's main town.

The closest town to the shield volcano's summit is Kula in Upcountry Maui, which is about 30-minute drive to the Park Headquarters Visitor Center, and an extra over 20-minute drive to the Haleakala Visitor Center.

From Maui to Haleakala by car

If you're not joining one of the Haleakala guided tours, the easiest way to get to Haleakala is by car. The summit area is the more popular section and is situated about 60-90 minutes from Kahului.

Once you arrive at the car park, there are two main ways to reach the summit: via the Sliding Sands Trail or Crater Road. If you're planning on hiking to the top, it's best to start from the Sliding Sands Trailhead. However, if you're short on time or not feeling too energetic, you can drive all the way up to the Summit Visitor Center.

If you plan on visiting the Kipahula Coastal Area of Haleakala, on the other hand, expect a longer drive. This portion is accessed via the famous Hana Highway, a scenic drive that takes about 3 hours from Kahului.

From Maui to Haleakala by bus

While you cannot reach the Haleakala volcano by public transport directly, you do have the option of taking a bus to Kula, the closest town. If you're staying in Kahului the bus should take you about 45 minutes. Once you're in Kula, you can choose from several Haleakala tours that take you up the mountain.

Guided tour to Haleakala

Certainly, the most hassle-free option, guided Haleakala day trips pick you up from your hotel and whisk you straight to the national park. While this means you'll have less time to explore on your own, it does take a lot of the guesswork (and stress) out of planning your trip.

Your tour guide will not only be able to show you the best spots in the park, but they'll also be able to share interesting facts and stories about Haleakala's history, geology and culture.

With many other options available, including mountain biking, crater hikes, sunset viewing and land-and-sea combination tour — there's something for every budget and adventure preference.

How much is the entrance ticket?

Entrance tickets to Haleakala National Park are valid for three days. Despite the park being split into two sections, Summit and Kipahulu — where Oheo Gulch (Seven Pools) and Pipiwai Trail are found — the entrance ticket grants access to both.

• Adults: US$15
• Per vehicle: US$30
• Per motorcycle: US$25
• Hawaiʻi Tri-Park Annual Pass: US$55

The Hawaiʻi Tri-Park Annual Pass provides the best value for money. You get access to Haleakalā National Park in Maui, as well as Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park and Puʻuhonua ʻO Hōnaunau National Historical Park on the Big Island.

What is the typical itinerary of a Haleakala day tour in Maui?

A trip to the Haleakala volcano usually starts with convenient pickup from your hotel in the morning, regardless of where you're staying. From there, you're whisked away  to the national park, often with a few stops along the way to enjoy views of the island and learn more about its history and culture.

Once at the volcano, you'll witness the volcanic crater, hike through the otherworldly landscapes, and enjoy sweeping views of the region.

From there — after optional helicopter or bike rides — it's back to the vehicle to be dropped at your hotel.

What kinds of tours are available?

There are many different types of tours available to go to Haleakala in Maui. Some people prefer to take a guided tour, while others like to explore on their own.

Guided tours are a great option if you don't want to worry about planning your trip or if you want to learn more about the history and culture of the area.

Led by a local, you'll be escorted to the volcano, showing the key highlights like the crater and the sweeping views.

Haleakala bike tours

Designed for adventurers, bike tours in Haleakala allow you to experience the volcano off the beaten track, on two wheels.

Sunrise tours with breakfast

Sunrise tour is one of the most popular Haleakala tours, which — as the name suggests — leave very early in the morning and takes you to watch the sunrise from the summit.

Helicopter tours in Haleakala

Enjoy a bird's-eye view of the volcano on action-packed helicopter tours to see the crater up close, as well as the sweeping views of Maui beyond.

Private day tours to Haleakala from Maui

A private tour is a great option if you want to have a more personalized experience. You'll be able to control the itinerary, with your very own guide and driver at your disposal.

How much does a tour cost?

Prices of day trips to Haleakala vary depending on the type of tour you choose.

Haleakala bike tours start at around US$125 per person for self-guided adventures, up to US$270 per person for more comprehensive guided options.

Sunrise tours cost around US$200 per person with breakfast, Haleakala National Park admission fee, narration by a driver/guide and pickup and drop-off at specific hotels in Maui.

Most guided tours are between US$150 and US$300 per person, and expect to pay more for private tours.

Haleakala group tours can cost around US$1,000 per group of up to six persons. Combination tours will usually be between US$150 and US$300 per person as well.

A helicopter tour in Haleakala will set you back at least US$250 per person, increasing up to US$450 per person depending on the length of the flight.

What will you see and do on a Haleakala day tour from Maui?

Maui's tallest mountain draws visitors from all over the globe to its summit. From hiking through the crater to exploring the tropical trails, admiring the diverse wildlife, or setting up for a stargazing adventure, this national park has something for everyone.

On a day tour to Haleakala in Maui, you'll typically visit the summit of the volcano to watch the sunrise or sunset. You might also go on a hike through the crater, or take a bike ride down the slopes. Other popular activities include a drive through Kula District, a restaurant meal on the slopes of Haleakala, and taking a helicopter ride.

If you choose a combination tour or a comprehensive Maui tour, you might also visit organic farms, waterfalls and lush jungles. You'll have time for meals, and sometimes visit historic towns like Makawao.

What are the opening times?

The Park District is open 24 hours, all days of the year.

Headquarters Visitor Center is open all week from 9 AM to 4 PM.

Haleakalā Visitor Center is open all week from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM.

When is the best time to visit Haleakala in Maui?

Thanks to year-round warm weather, there's never a bad time to visit Haleakala. For hikers and cyclists, the cooler months outside of peak summer are ideal.

As for times, the best time to visit depends on what you want to do while you're there. If you want to witness the sunrise, plan your trip for the early morning. If you're interested in seeing the sunset, make sure to arrive in the late afternoon.

Travel tips

• Book in advance whether for a guided or a self-guided tour. You need to make a reservation for each vehicle entering the park from 3 AM to 7 AM for sunrise hikes.
• Wear sunscreen and a hat, as the sun is very strong at high altitudes, even on cloudy days.
• Bring a headlamp or flashlight, especially if you're planning on hiking at sunrise or sunset.
• Opt for a guided tour to take the hassle out of planning your Haleakala trip.