The Splendor Of A Haleakala Sunrise

This is certainly one of the most unique experiences on a Hawaiian vacation: waking in the middle of the night; battling frigid temperatures; driving 10,000 feet up winding mountain roads. But believe me when I say, the destination is well worth any slight inconveniences along the way.

Although there are restroom facilities and a visitor center, there is no food or gas sold within the park. This means fill up your tank and bring some food and drink for an early morning breakfast! Or, you could snack lightly before heading  down to Kula Lodge, famed for their breakfast which begins at 7 a.m.

If you want to beat the traffic and get a good spot, I suggest leaving no later than 3:30 am. It takes one hour to reach the summit leaving from Kahului, 1.5 hours from Kihei, and 2 hours from Lahaina.

Depending on the season, temperatures generally range from 20-40 degrees Fahrenheit at the summit of Haleakala, so dressing warmly is a must!

One of the most common mistakes visitors make (besides wearing shorts) is they decide to leave immediately after the sun rises and not stick around. Stay an extra twenty minutes later, and you’ll be treated to an incredible show as the colors illuminate the sky.

The “Crater” (Or Geologically Speaking, Depression)

Another uniquely Maui experience is to hike in the middle of the crater, an area that could fit Manhattan. It is a place of stunning views, trails of ranging difficulty levels, Hawaiian legends and rare endangered species. Looking around offers endless, awe-inspiring sights, and several hikes lead across the crater floor. Haleakala last erupted in 1790—but unlike some of the active sites on the Big Island—it lies dormant now, making it unlikely to blow its top again any time soon.

Kula Real Estate

Living in Kula is a unique experience like no other. Undoubtedly one of Maui’s most beautiful and serene. Properties can vary from sprawling acreage and breathtaking bi-coastal views, and range anywhere from small cottages to grand country estates. For those who prefer a quieter lifestyle, then Kula is a perfect fit to relax in the cool upcountry air.

For Sale: 75 Opalipali Street

A trophy home in the Kula Meadows Gated Community, situated on 5.4 Acres, and listed for $3,000,000. This is a brand new construction, never before occupied, in an amazing setting featuring hard-to-beat weather and views. The lavish 4 bedroom/4 bath executive home consists of 3,873 s.f. full of the finest in finishes, huge rooms, and quality of construction which include almost every conceivable upgrade.

For Sale: 14 Nunu Place

Situated on a cul-de-sac at the top of Kula Manu, you enter the property peering towards the edge of the wilderness, with unobstructed 270 degree views from the top of Haleakala down to the north shore. The home includes an oversized 300 s.f. custom office and den complete with flat screen and surround sound. Built with the finest materials, this exceptional home features:

• maple cabinetry by Dewils
• built-in bookcases
• window seating
• vaulted ceilings
• art lighting
• covered decks
• lap pool
• mature landscaping.

All listed for $1,250,000.

Contact a Maui Real Estate and Lifestyle Specialist

Please consider me your trusted Maui Real Estate and Lifestyle Advisor. I was born and raised on the island, and spend a considerable amount of time to inform my clients about the best deals currently on the market. Do not hesitate to call me for your Maui real estate needs. I am more than happy to assist you in your home search.

Aloha,