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Haleakalā Sunset Spectacle Private Tour: Maui Summit Sunset & Kula Lodge Dinner

Haleakalā Sunset Spectacle Private Tour: Maui Summit Sunset & Kula Lodge Dinner

Drive above the clouds for a private Haleakalā sunset, then descend to Kula Lodge for dinner with island views. This 7-hour private tour blends volcanic geology, native wildlife, and upcountry hospitality for a memorable Maui evening.

Kula, Hawaii
7 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Dress in layers

Temperatures can fall quickly after sunset—bring an insulated jacket and hat even if it is warm below.

Bring a headlamp

Roads and parking areas are dim after sunset; a headlamp or flashlight makes the return safer.

Stay on marked trails

The alpine soils and rare plants are fragile—keep to paths to avoid damaging endemic species like the silversword.

Hydrate and eat beforehand

Altitude and cold increase calorie burn; eat and hydrate before departure to avoid fatigue at high elevation.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Hosmer Grove picnic area with easy birdwatching and shaded trails
  • Alii Kula Lavender Farm and nearby upcountry nurseries for scenic strolls and local flavors

Wildlife

  • Nēnē (Hawaiian goose)
  • ʻŌpeʻapeʻa (Hawaiian hoary bat)

Conservation Note

Haleakalā's alpine ecosystems are fragile and home to many endemic species; practice leave-no-trace and respect park rules to help protect rare plants like the silversword.

Haleakalā holds deep cultural significance in Hawaiian legend as the place where Maui lassoed the sun; the summit's name reflects its role in island cosmology.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Sunset, Golden hour before sunset, Blue hour immediately after sunset
Key viewpoints:
  • Summit rim overlooking the crater floor
  • Puʻuʻulaʻula (Red Hill) lookout for wide-angle crater shots
  • Kula Lodge terrace for island and coastal panoramas
Subjects to capture:Crater silhouettes and ridgelines, Upcountry farmland and sunset-lit clouds, Native plants and birdlife at Hosmer Grove

What to Bring

Insulated jacketEssential

Warm layer for summit temperatures that can drop near freezing.

Sturdy walking shoesEssential

Support and traction for uneven volcanic rock at lookout spots.

Headlamp or flashlightEssential

Needed for the dark drive back after dinner at Kula Lodge.

Water bottle (1L+)Essential

Altitude and wind dry you out—carry more water than you think you'll need.

Common Questions

Is park entrance included?

The tour includes the Haleakalā National Park entrance fee of USD 15 per person as listed.

How cold does it get at the summit?

Temperatures can drop to near freezing after sunset; expect a 20–40°F difference from Maui's coast depending on season.

Is pickup provided from hotels?

Yes, hotel pickup across Maui is offered; confirm your pickup point when booking and expect to be ready 30 minutes before departure time.

Can I bring children?

Children can join but should be comfortable with vehicle travel and brief walks; check with the operator about age-specific policies since this is a private tour.

Are there restroom stops?

Restroom facilities are available at the visitor center and designated stops, but facilities are limited near some viewpoints—use them when available.

What if the weather is poor?

Tours run in most conditions; however volcanic summit weather can change quickly—contact the operator for updates and dress for wind and cold.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

7 hours

Location

Kula, Hawaii

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Participants should be comfortable with short stretches of uneven walking and exposure to cooler, high-altitude conditions.

Free cancellation available

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