7 Best Haleakala Sunset Tours That Couples Will Love
Are you looking for the best Haleakala sunset tours? We’ve got you covered! As a traveling couple, we’ve seen Hawaii as part of a US West Coast road trip and have loved every minute of it! We also know that sunsets make for amazing date ideas abroad.
Because sunsets over Maui are such an incredible experience, we understand you want to pick out the best tour, one that will fulfil your expectations. Even science has evidence that sunsets make us feel better! Just like the mesmerizing sunsets in Kauai and the stunning sunsets in Oahu, sunsets in Mauai are unforgettable and even more so from famous Haleakala!
To ensure you have the best time, we have hand picked the best 7 sunset tours Haleakala offers!
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Our Top 3 Picks: Haleakala sunset tours
#1 Pick
#2 Pick
#3 Pick
Haleakala sunset tours summary table
| Name of the best Haleakala tours | Rating | Length | What’s Included in those Maui sunset tours | Characteristics | Book |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Maui: Haleakalā National Park Sunset Tour | 4.3/5 | 7 hours | Live tour guide, sunset from atop Haleakalā dormant crater, see endemic Hawaiian Nene goose, Hawaiian legends | Small group, informative, scenic views, cheaper | ✅ Book here |
| Full Day Private Upcountry Maui Sunset Tour | 5/5 | 8-10 hours | Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks, hotel pickup and drop-off, customized tour | Private tour, personalized experience | ✅ Book here |
| VIP Private Road to Hana and Haleakala Sunset Tour | 5/5 | 6-10 hours | Breathtaking waterfalls, ancient lava tubes, black and red sand beaches, luxury SUVs, spectacular sunset view | Tailored tour, luxury experience | ✅ Book here |
| Private Sunset Picnic with Volcano Stargazing Tour | 5/5 | 4-5 hours | Sunset and stargazing with live guide, private group, picnic dinner, blankets, hot chocolate | Stargazing, romantic, tranquil setting, private experience | ✅ Book here |
| Maui: Private Upcountry Haleakala Sunset Tour with Dinner | 4.3/5 | 6.5 hours | live tour guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, dinner, soda, water, snacks, air-conditioned luxury SUV, town of Makawao and other stops | Private experience, dinner included | ✅ Book here |
| Haleakala Sunset Golden Hour Bike Tour | 5/5 | 5 hours | Bike tour with experienced guide, ride up the volcano, view sunset and ocean, safety equipment provided | Small group, adventurous, scenic bike ride | ✅ Book here |
| Sunset Tour to Haleakalā National Park from Paia | 5/5 | 4-5 hours | Rain clothing, drinks, snacks, stops at famous Kula lodge marketplace and Nene nests | Intimate group, scenic drive, local insights | ✅ Book here |
Cheaper Haleakala sunset tours
1. Haleakalā National Park Sunset Tour for a Haleakala crater sunset
⭐️ RATING: 4.3/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 7 hours | ✅ Book it!
Are you and your partner ready for a magical experience in Maui? We recommend embarking on this Haleakala Maui sunset tour. Rated 4.3/5, this 7-hour adventure is guided by a knowledgeable tour guide who will enrich your journey with fascinating insights. Witness the breathtaking sunset from atop Haleakalā dormant crater, standing at an impressive 9,740 feet.
As you ascend, you’ll encounter the endemic Hawaiian Nene goose and the majestic Silversword plant. Learn about Hawaiian legends and Maui’s history and culture during this unforgettable trip. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as an optional audio guide for even more in-depth information along the way. Don’t miss this opportunity to make memories together and capture the beauty of Maui’s Haleakalā at sunset.
Very relaxing not having to do the driving. Prompt pickup and personable bus driver. Accommodating to food / restroom needs. Beautiful sunset with beautiful scenery – Nancy, USA (Read more Haleakala sunset tour reviews here)
What’s included: pick-up and drop-off, seeing the endemic Nene Goose, audio guide, live tour guide, sunset from the top
Private tours to see the Haleakala sunset
2. Full Day Private Upcountry Maui Sunset Tour – Luxury Escalade, one of the best tours Maui offers
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8-10 hours | ✅ Book it!
Are you and your partner looking for an extraordinary adventure on Maui? We highly recommend the Full Day Private Upcountry Maui Sunset Tour in a luxurious Escalade. With a perfect 5/5 rating, this exclusive tour spans between 8 and 10 hours, offering a full day of exploration and wonder. Though you can’t drive to the Hawaiian Islands, you can definitely drive around them like with this tour. Prepare to delve into Maui’s rich history, culture, and ecosystems while enjoying delicious meals and snacks throughout the journey. Your hassle-free experience to Haleakala in Maui begins with hotel transfers, ensuring a smooth and personalized trip just for you.
Start your day driving along the iconic Road to Hana, a scenic route brimming with beauty and awe-inspiring sights. At Ho’okipa, keep an eye out for green sea turtles, adding to the excitement of your private tour. You can even customize the tour to suit your preferences, making it an unforgettable experience tailored to your interests.
As you continue your adventure, a highlight awaits at Polipoli State Park, where you’ll witness a stunning sunset at a breathtaking elevation of 6,200 feet (1,890 meters). The awe-inspiring view from this high vantage point will leave you speechless, creating cherished memories together.
The tour also includes stops at Wai’anapanapa State Park, where you’ll have an hour to explore its beauty, followed by a 15-minute break at Koki Beach. You’ll have 30 minutes to soak in the enchanting surroundings at Hana Tropicals and witness the majestic waterfall at Pua’a Ka’a State Park.
The best part about this tour is that you don’t have to plan anything, everything is already planned for you. This means lunch, dinner, snacks and drinks are included along with hotel transfers! Moreover, this tour is completely private so you can customize it to your own preferences and go at your group’s pace!
Your tour starts at 10 am, ensuring you have ample time to savor each moment of this once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to embark on a private and luxurious journey, immersing yourselves in the wonders of Maui while awaiting the breathtaking sunset on Haleakala.
Managed to get off the beach for the day and see the rest of Maui. Well worth the trip which included lunch and dinner and a beautifully unset from the mountains. Our guide, Scott was funny and knowledgeable. Would highly recommend. – Laura, USA (Read more reviews here)
What’s included: Lunch, dinner, snacks, bottled water, soda/pop, private transportation, all fees and taxes, customizable tour according to your preferences, hotel transfers, see sea turtles and more, only your group.
3. VIP Private Road to Hana and Haleakala Sunset Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6-10 hours | ✅ Book it!
You and your partner deserve the ultimate VIP experience on Maui, and we have just the tour for you – the VIP Private Road to Hana and Haleakala Sunset Tour. With a perfect 5/5 rating, this tour promises 6 to 10 hours of awe-inspiring beauty and adventure. Enjoy the convenience of door-to-door pickup service, starting your tailored journey in luxurious SUVs.
Throughout the tour, you’ll be treated to an array of breathtaking sights, including cascading waterfalls, ancient lava tubes, and unique black and red sand beaches. You’ll be strolling through lush bamboo forests and marvel at the striking rainbow eucalyptus trees.
As the day unfolds, you’ll head to the majestic Haleakala volcano to witness a truly spectacular sunset. Words can’t describe the beauty of the sunset from this vantage point, creating a magical moment you’ll treasure forever.
Along the way, you’ll be treated to a delightful dinner, snacks, and lunch, all provided for your comfort and enjoyment. Bottled water, soda/pop, and coffee and/or tea are also included in this tour. You’ll even have the opportunity to snorkel with the provided equipment, adding a touch of excitement to your adventure.
Relax in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle as your knowledgeable guide takes you to Twin Falls Maui, Ke’anae Arboretum, Ke’anae Point, Red Sand Beach, Hana Lava tubes, and Kula Country Farms, among other highlights. The options are endless!
This VIP Private Tour ensures you experience Maui’s wonders in an exclusive and personalized manner, creating unforgettable memories with your partner. It’s definitely considered the best sunset in Maui experience by many. Don’t miss the chance to witness the captivating beauty of Maui’s Road to Hana and the breathtaking sunset from the Haleakala volcano.
“This was one of the best experiences of my life. I’ve never seen so much beauty in one day! From epic waterfalls and oceans to a place that looks like Mars. I feel like we went to the real life garden of Eden and ended on another planet! The sunset atop Haleakala blew my mind and all day our guide was so present and knowledgeable. We learned about Hawaiian history, many local plants, and even ate a new fruit called soursop. 🙂 We felt so well taken care of and could have never found all these places on our own, much less do all that driving! This was truly the highlight of our Maui trip. The perfect adventure to really get out there and experience all the wild that this island has to offer! The only thing that would be better than doing this tour once is doing it again and again. 😉 Thanks Experience Maui for all your travel tips and amazing hospitality!!” (Read more reviews here)
What’s included: all meals, snacks and drinks, many stop options on the way, variety of activities/visits/stops such as waterfalls and bamboo forests, knowledgeable local guide, snorkeling equipment, door-to-door pickup
Haleakala stargazing tour
4. Private Sunset Picnic with Volcano Stargazing with Dinner
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4-5 hours | ✅ Book it!
Are you and your partner ready for a truly enchanting experience on Maui? We recommend the Private Sunset Picnic with Volcano Stargazing with Dinner tour – an unforgettable 5/5 rated adventure that promises 4 to 5 hours of pure magic. Your journey begins in the breathtaking Haleakala National Park, where you’ll enjoy a private sunset and stargazing session with a knowledgeable live guide.
Embrace the intimacy of a private group, ensuring that it’s just you and your partner, without any strangers. This exclusive setting creates the perfect ambiance for a romantic evening in the heart of nature’s wonders.
This Maui Haleakala sunset tour includes all the essentials for a delightful picnic under the stars, with dinner, picnic cooler, blanket, and flatware provided. Your guide will even bring a hot chocolate thermos, so you can snack on a delicious treat while watching the sunset together.
As the sun sets, prepare to be mesmerized by the stunning views of not only the Haleakala volcano but also the neighboring islands of Molokai, Lanai, and Kahoolawe. The beauty of the natural world and the night sky will leave you in awe of the universe’s wonders.
This private tour guarantees a personalized experience tailored to your preferences, offering an intimate and unforgettable evening with your partner. Prepare for an extraordinary adventure, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Haleakala National Park, as you watch the sun set and stargaze under a blanket of stars.
We had the most amazing time last night. Victoria provided a delicious assortment of foods for our picnic and was great at explaining and sharing things with us without sounding like a tour guide. We highly recommend going on this trip. It was well worth it! – Brad S., USA (Read more reviews here)
What’s included: hot chocolate, picnic cooler, picnic foods, blankets, private transportation, sunset + stargazing session
Haleakala sunset tours with dinner
5. Maui: Private Upcountry Haleakala Sunset Tour with Dinner
⭐️ RATING: 4.3/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
Are you and your partner ready for an extraordinary evening in Maui’s stunning upcountry? We recommend the Private Upcountry Haleakala Sunset Tour with Dinner – a highly-rated adventure with a 4.3/5 rating that promises 6.5 hours of pure enjoyment.
Your experience begins with a comfortable hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a hassle-free journey from start to finish. Throughout the tour, a knowledgeable live guide will be there to provide you with fascinating insights into the area’s history and culture.
You’ll embark on a scenic drive in a luxurious air-conditioned SUV, soaking in the breathtaking sights along the way. Spot giant sea turtles and watch professional surfers at Ho’okipa beach, immersing yourself in the beauty of Maui’s coastal wonders.
The tour includes several exciting stops, such as Harold W Rice Memorial Park and a short photo stop at Old Paia High School. Explore the charming town of Makawao, known for its vibrant arts scene and quaint shops.
As the day winds down, get ready for a serene sunset from a tranquil mountain location. With a private group setting, you and your partner can fully immerse yourselves in the natural beauty surrounding you. And that’s not all – the tour includes a delightful private dinner amidst stunning scenery and tranquil nature, just as the sun sets.
Indulge in a sumptuous meal, cherishing the moment with your partner in the most romantic setting. As the golden rays paint the sky, you’ll create unforgettable memories together, surrounded by the magic of Maui’s upcountry. A truly enchanting experience awaits you on this picturesque sunset tour.
What’s included: private tour, private dinner with incredible views, pick-up and drop-off, luxurious air-conditioned SUV, see turtles at Ho’okipa beach, and other stops such as Makawao
Haleakala sunset tour without dinner
6. Haleakala Sunset Golden Hour Bike Tour
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 hours | ✅ Book it!
Looking for an exciting and unique way to experience the Haleakala sunset with your partner? Look no further than the Golden Hour Bike Tour, a top-rated adventure that promises an unforgettable 5-hour journey.
This small group tour ensures an intimate experience, with a maximum of 6 participants. Your guide, with 19 years of experience giving bike tours on Maui, will take you up to 6500 feet of elevation on the majestic Haleakala volcano.
As the sun begins to set, you’ll start your ride up the volcano, offering you and your partner breathtaking views of the sunset and the vast ocean. Don’t worry about safety – the tour ensures you’ll be safe on the road.
This Haleakala summit sunset tour includes everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. From helmets, jackets, and pants to keep you protected, to bottled water, snacks, soda, and coffee/tea to keep you refreshed and energized throughout the journey.
For those who love shopping, the tour also offers optional shopping stops at Kula Marketplace, Paia, and Makawao. It’s a perfect opportunity to pick up souvenirs or mementos to remember this special experience.
The tour begins at 3 pm, and you’ll meet in the charming town of Paia. Get ready to embark on a thrilling and scenic bike ride, taking in the beauty of Haleakala’s golden hour sunset with your partner by your side. This tour promises a magical and enchanting way to end your day on the picturesque island of Maui.
The Sunset Bicycle Tour was really beautiful, neat, easy and fun!! Had a great time!! The tour guides took extra special care of us and catered to our every need. They also provided information and local history of the surrounding area. My husband and I would highly recommend this tour to others. – Bobbie P., USA (Read more reviews here)
What’s included: 19 years of experience live guide, all snacks and drinks, all equipment, small group of max 6 people
7. Sunset Tour to Haleakalā National Park from Paia, one of the best Hawaii volcano tours
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4-5 hours | ✅ Book it!
Looking for a remarkable sunset experience with your partner on Maui? The Sunset Tour to Haleakalā National Park from Paia is the perfect choice, boasting a stellar 5-star rating.
This small-group tour ensures an intimate atmosphere with only 2 to 6 people per group, allowing you and your partner to immerse yourselves fully in the beauty of the moment.
The tour takes around 4 to 5 hours, offering ample time to explore the stunning landscape of Haleakalā National Park. You won’t have to worry about the weather, as they provide rain clothing to keep you comfortable throughout the journey.
As you venture on your sunset adventure, you’ll make a delightful stop at the world-famous Kula Lodge. Here, you’ll have the chance to see the fascinating Jackson chameleons hanging out on the Avocado trees. And that’s not all – you might also spot Nene nests during your explorations.
To keep you refreshed and energized during the tour, the operators provide drinks and snacks. So you and your partner can focus on cherishing every moment of the magnificent sunset at Haleakalā National Park.
Prepare for an awe-inspiring journey filled with nature’s wonders and unforgettable sights. The Sunset Tour to Haleakalā National Park from Paia guarantees a memorable date night, leaving you both in awe of the sunset Haleakala offers.
Erik was a great tour guide. Very knowledgeable about Maui history. Nice, clean vehicle, plus beverages & snacks. We thought he was kidding about how cold it does get up on the top, but he was so right, and we’re really glad he brought warm jackets for us to use. Highly recommend this experience … – Sheila B., USA (Read more reviews here)
What’s included: rain clothing, drinks and snacks, spot chameleons and Nene nests, stop at Kula Lodge, small group of 6 people max
Haleakala sunset time
When planning your Haleakalā sunset tour, keep in mind that the sunset time typically occurs around 7:00 PM. Unlike some places, Hawaii does not observe daylight savings time, so you can expect consistent sunset times throughout the year. However, due to the island’s geographical location, the exact sunset time can vary slightly. On most days, you can catch the breathtaking sunset anywhere between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM. To make the most of your evening, it’s a good idea to check the sunset time for your specific visit date, ensuring you and your partner arrive in time to witness the magical golden hour atop atop beautiful Haleakalā.
Alternatives to Haleakala sunset tours
Haleakala sunset tours are sublime but there are alternatives to see the beautiful Maui sunsets without having to go to Haleakala.
Some of the alternatives include dinner cruises like this sunset cruise with dinner included in West Maui or sunset whale watching tours like this whale watching sunset tour for incredible memories.
Haleakala sunrise vs sunset
When it comes to experiencing the beauty of Haleakalā, both sunrise and sunset have their unique charms, but let’s explore the differences so you and your partner can decide which one suits you best.
Haleakala sunset vs sunrise: Temperatures
Hawaii isn’t know for being cold. However, at both sunrise and sunset, the high elevation of Haleakalā means it can get quite cold. This isn’t actually that surprising, considering Hawaii gets snow pretty much every year on high elevations in the winter! So, there’s no difference in temperatures between the two.
Brighter colors at sunset
If you’re looking for vibrant and striking colors, sunset usually takes the spotlight. The evening hues often create a more impressive spectacle in the sky.
Locals’ opinions
Locals tend to be in favor of sunset views, appreciating the vibrant colors and relaxed atmosphere as the day comes to a close.
Time on site
Sunset tours typically last around 4 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the views and soak in the experience. Sunrise tours, on the other hand, usually last around 2 hours, making them a shorter option.
Planning
Planning for a sunset tour is generally easier as you can assess the weather during the day. If inclement weather conditions are planned, you have the opportunity to reschedule. Sunrise, on the other hand, requires an early wake-up call, and the weather is more of a surprise with no other way to check than to go up the mountain.
Haleakala sunrise and sunset: Experience
Watching the sunset at Haleakalā can be paired with dinner and even stargazing afterward, making it a more complete and relaxed experience. After sunrise, there are no other activities planned.
Winner
While both options offer stunning views, the sunset experience at Haleakalā often takes the lead with its impressive colors and relaxed atmosphere. However, experiencing the sunrise at Haleakalā is also a unique and memorable adventure worth considering.
Haleakala sunrise tours
Haleakala Best Classic Sunrise Tour with Haleakala EcoTours
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 6 hours | ✅ Book it!
You and your partner are in for a breathtaking experience with the Haleakala Best Classic Sunrise Tour with Haleakala EcoTours. This highly-rated tour promises an unforgettable 6-hour adventure that starts early to witness the stunning sunrise from Haleakala Crater. As you embark on this journey in an air-conditioned vehicle, your knowledgeable guide will share fascinating insights into the culture, history, and geology of the area, making your sunrise excursion even more enriching.
The highlight of this best Haleakala sunrise tour is, of course, the awe-inspiring sunrise from the majestic Haleakala Crater. As you watch the sun slowly ascend from the horizon, painting the sky with brilliant hues of pink, orange, and gold, you and your partner will be filled with a sense of wonder and tranquility.
Apart from the magical sunrise experience, you will have the opportunity to explore the charming towns of Makawao and Pa’ia, each offering its unique charm and culture. Additionally, a delicious breakfast is included with the tour, ensuring you start your day on a high note with a satisfying meal.
With a 4.5/5 rating and a well-planned itinerary, this Haleakala National Park sunrise tour is a must-do for anyone visiting Maui. Be prepared to be amazed by the natural beauty and the sense of serenity that comes with witnessing the sunrise from the iconic Haleakala Crater. It’s a date idea that will create lasting memories and leave you in awe of the wonders of nature.
Great experience, the views are out of this world. You will never see anything like it, can’t say more. Great guide and breakfast. If I had to say anything negative about the experience it would be the cost. – Jessica M., USA (Read more reviews here)
What’s included: air-conditioned vehicle, sunrise from the crater, breakfast included
Final thoughts: Haleakala sunset tours
Haleakala sunset tours offer an enchanting experience atop the volcanic crater, providing breathtaking views of the setting sun over Maui’s landscape. With temperatures cooling down at the high elevation, both sunrise and sunset tours ensure a unique encounter with nature. The vibrant colors of the sunset make it a standout choice for many, while locals often favor this evening spectacle.
The VIP Private Road to Hana and Haleakala Sunset Tour and the Private Sunset Picnic with Volcano Stargazing with Dinner are two top choices. The first offers an immersive cultural and geological journey, followed by a mesmerizing sunrise, while the latter provides a private and romantic setting with a delicious dinner and stargazing opportunity.
Haleakala sunset tours FAQs
Yes, absolutely! There are not many places where you can witness a sunset from a real volcanic crater, making it a unique and unforgettable experience. You’ll get amazing crater views with beautiful sunset views.
It is recommended to go about 1 to 2 hours beforehand to secure a good viewing spot. Your tour operator will inform you about the specific timing for your sunset tour.
In our opinion, it’s even better! While the sunrise at Haleakala is undoubtedly spectacular, the sunset offers equally breathtaking views with vibrant colors painting the sky as the sun sets over the crater.
The best places to watch the sunset at Haleakala are the summit of Haleakalā,
Haleakala ranger station or the Haleakalā Visitor Center parking lot. These locations offer unobstructed views and provide an excellent vantage point to enjoy the beauty of the setting sun over the crater.
Any questions on Haleakala sunset tours ? Drop them in the comments or on insta @twolostexplorers and we will get back to you asap.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.