Maui isn’t just about lounging on beaches or sipping mai tais. It’s a land of volcanic drama, lush landscapes, and sky-high adventures. For those who want to see the island’s stunning natural beauty up close, a national park tour is an absolute must. Our favorites range from early morning sunrises over Haleakalā to scenic drives through Upcountry Maui, each offering a different perspective of this volcanic island. We especially like tours that combine cultural insights with breathtaking scenery, like the Maui: Haleakala National Park Sunrise Tour, which pairs a spectacular dawn experience with a warm breakfast and eco-friendly storytelling.
Whether you’re after an early wake-up call, a leisurely sunset, or an in-depth exploration of Haleakalā’s geological features, Maui offers options suited for all tastes and energy levels. With this guide, you’ll find the perfect fit — and trust us, booking early is a good idea, especially for popular sunrise excursions.
Quick Overview
In this list, you’ll find a variety of guided tours that include sunrise, sunset, scenic drives, and even combined trips to Haleakalā and other Maui highlights. Some tours focus on the early morning magic like Haleakala: Sunrise & Breakfast, while others offer evening vistas like the Sunset & Dinner Tour. There are also more comprehensive options like the Road to Hana Halfway and Haleakalā, perfect for travelers who want a full day of exploring. Below, each tour is broken down with details to help you pick the right one.
1. Maui: Haleakala National Park Sunrise Tour
At number 1, this tour is all about catching the epic sunrise over Haleakalā, Maui’s highest peak. For just $220 per person, you get a 9-hour journey in Maui’s newest guided vehicles, complete with hotel pickup. The highlight is the view from 10,000 feet as the sun peeks over the crater, casting fiery hues across the sky. The guide discusses the cultural significance and history of Haleakalā, making the experience both beautiful and educational.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of comfort and storytelling. After the sunrise, you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast at Cafe O’Lei, a local favorite, giving you a taste of island hospitality. The eco-certified guide shares insights about Hawaii’s forests and conservation efforts, enhancing your understanding of this unique environment. With a 4.6-star rating based on 458 reviews, it’s clear many travelers find this a memorable and well-organized experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for early risers and those wanting a hassle-free, comprehensive Haleakalā sunrise experience with a tasty breakfast.
2. Haleakala National Park with Breakfast and South Side Pickup
Landing at number 2, this perfectly timed tour offers the chance to watch the sunrise from Maui’s highest point while enjoying a local breakfast at Cafe O’Lei. For $240.80, it’s a slightly more premium experience that includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics effortless.
This tour stands out because of its small group size and personalized service. Travelers love the detailed guidance from the guide, Trevor, who is praised for his engaging storytelling and knowledge. The highlight is the sunrise from 10,000 feet, where the amber glow illuminates the crater, creating perfect photos and awe-inspiring moments. Afterward, a stop at Maui Tropical Plantation for breakfast adds a relaxed vibe and the chance to explore the lush grounds.
Reviews emphasize the comfort of the transportation and the quality of the breakfast, with many guests mentioning how the jackets provided helped during the early cold morning. This tour suits travelers looking for a small-group, more intimate experience with excellent reviews and a focus on comfort.
Bottom line: Great for travelers prioritizing personalized service, comfort, and a top-notch sunrise experience with breakfast included.
3. Maui: Sunrise & Breakfast Tour to Haleakala National Park
At number 3, this tour combines a scenic drive through Kula with the chance to witness a breathtaking sunrise from Maui’s highest point. For around $236, you spend approximately 8 hours exploring and enjoying a local breakfast at a charming restaurant, along with complimentary coffee and treats.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on the Upcountry Maui scenery before reaching Haleakalā. The guide offers insights about the volcanic landscape and cultural background, helping you appreciate the geological and cultural significance of the area. Guests have praised the expert guidance and the chance to enjoy the sunrise “above the clouds,” which is a highlight of any Maui trip.
The included breakfast is served at a local spot, blending comfort with authenticity. The tour’s reviews reflect satisfaction with the timing and the view, making it a solid choice for those wanting a well-rounded morning adventure.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a scenic drive with a focus on the Upcountry landscape plus a stunning sunrise.
4. Maui: Sunset & Dinner Tour to Haleakala National Park
Number 4 on our list is the Sunset & Dinner Tour, costing $237 for 7 hours. It offers a different perspective — instead of sunrise — as you drive through the scenic Kula District to catch the Haleakalā sunset. Guests enjoy stunning views of the sky changing colors, perfect for photography.
This tour emphasizes the volcanic landscape and includes a delicious island-style “to go” dinner from a local restaurant. The experience is relaxed and perfect for those who prefer an evening outing, with complimentary hot cocoa to keep warm atop the mountain as the sun dips below the horizon. The guides share insights about Haleakalā’s geology and history, enriching your experience.
Rated 4.5 stars with a small number of reviews, this tour is best suited for travelers who love evening views and culinary experiences. It’s less about the early morning rush and more about unwinding with a sunset and a tasty meal.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a less crowded, sunset-focused experience with a cozy dinner at the summit.
5. Road to Hana Halfway and Haleakalā National Park
Coming in at number 5, this all-in-one day tour costs $259 and combines a drive along the scenic Road to Hana with a visit to Haleakalā. It’s one of the few tours with permitted access to Haleakalā, allowing for a more in-depth visit.
The itinerary includes a stop at Haleakala Crater, where you can marvel at the massive volcanic caldera. The guide shares fascinating stories about the geology and history of the volcano, making this a rich educational experience. You also visit the Haleakalā High Altitude Observatory, which offers insights into scientific research at Mauna Kea-level conditions.
Guests praise the comfortable van and knowledgeable guide Shelly, who offers cultural and natural insights throughout. The tour is long, but it packs in diverse landscapes — from lush rainforests to volcanic deserts — making it ideal for adventurers with a full day.
Bottom line: Great for those wanting to combine scenic drives, geological marvels, and Maui’s diverse landscapes in one trip.
6. Maui: Haleakalā National Park and Upcountry Sunset Tour
Rounding out the list at number 6, this 7-hour tour costs $230 and explores both Haleakalā and Maui’s charming Upcountry towns like Makawao and Pukalani. It’s a more relaxed option, with stops at Ho’okipa Beach to see turtles and the art studio in Makawao.
The highlight is the sunset at Haleakalā, offering a different vibe from the dawn tours. Travelers enjoy the cool breeze and ocean views, plus a delicious dinner at Tante’s afterward. This tour is perfect if you prefer evening vistas and want to explore Maui’s local art and culture in addition to the volcano.
Since reviews are limited, it’s best suited for those who want a mix of scenic beauty and cultural stops. The tour’s lesser rating suggests it might be more casual or less comprehensive than other options, but still offers a unique sunset experience.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers seeking a combination of Haleakalā sunset and local cultural exploration.
$230 per person
How to Choose the Right Maui National Park Tour
When deciding which tour fits you best, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If witnessing the early morning sunrise is your top priority, the Maui: Haleakala National Park Sunrise Tour offers a well-reviewed, comfortable experience. For travelers who love dining and small-group intimacy, the Haleakala with Breakfast is ideal.
If your schedule is flexible and you want to see both scenery and scientific sites, the Road to Hana and Haleakalā provides a full-day of diverse landscapes. For those who prefer evening views or want to combine cultural stops, the Sunset & Dinner Tour and the Upcountry Sunset offer different vibes.
Booking early is recommended for popular sunrise tours, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.
Final Thoughts
Maui offers a range of guided tours that showcase the island’s volcanic majesty, lush landscapes, and local culture. From the early morning glow of Haleakalā to leisurely sunsets and comprehensive scenic drives, there’s an adventure suited for every traveler. For those seeking breathtaking views combined with cultural insights, the top choices include the Maui: Haleakala National Park Sunrise Tour and the Road to Hana Halfway and Haleakalā.
Whether you’re an early riser or a sunset lover, booking your tour in advance will ensure you don’t miss out on Maui’s spectacular natural sights. With these options, your trip to Maui’s national parks will be both memorable and enriching.