“Haleakalā” means “House of the Sun” and sunrise here feels like creation in slow motion.
According to Hawaiian legend, the demigod Māui once stood atop this volcano and lassoed the sun to slow it down, giving his mother more time in the day to dry her kapa cloth. Whether the story is true or not, when you watch the sky catch fire over Haleakalā’s massive crater, it feels believable.
But Haleakalā is more than just a sunrise spot. It’s a sacred summit, a rare ecosystem, and a volcano that stretches over 29,000 feet from its underwater base, taller than Everest if you count it that way. For Native Hawaiians, this place holds deep spiritual significance, and its slopes are woven with stories of gods, warriors, and the sky.
This self-guided audio tour takes you from sea level to summit, offering cultural insights, local lore, and must-see stops synced to your drive, even when cell service is unavailable. It’s the easy way to explore a place that’s anything but ordinary.
What’s along the way?
Pukalani and Makawao are small towns with rich paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) heritage.
The cool, misty trails of Makawao Forest Reserve.
Quirky roadside stops and a visit to Kula Botanical Garden, full of native blooms.
Steady switchbacks up Haleakalā Highway, each bend revealing more sky.
Scenic overlooks and hiking trails inside Haleakalā National Park.
And, of course, Red Hill, the summit where sunrise feels like a ritual.
Quick note: Bring layers, pack patience, and expect goosebumps. Haleakalā doesn’t do ordinary mornings.
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Map Of Maui
Where To Start?
Tour start address: 400 State Hwy 36
How Does It Work?
- Once you book a tour, you’ll get a text/email with instructions.
- Download the app (while in good wifi/signal) and use your unique password to access your tours. If multiple versions or entry points are available for your tour, be sure to download all the audio guides.
- Audio Setup: Connect your phone to the car stereo via Bluetooth, USB, or Aux, and bring headphones on walking tours. CarPlay and Android Auto are currently not supported; we’re working toward a solution with Apple.
- To begin touring, go to the starting point and launch the app.
- The audio starts automatically once you reach the starting point. Stick to the tour route and speed limit for the best experience.
- Please note that no one will meet you at the starting point.
Audio Story Highlights
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Welcome
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Aloha Spirit
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Pa’ia Town
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How Hawaiians Came To Be
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Ho'okipa Beach Park
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Jaws Beach
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The Demigod Maui
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A Long History of Surfing
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Kapu Systems
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Pi’ilani
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Mile Marker Zero of the Road to Hana
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The Many Kingdoms of Hawaii
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Twin Falls Maui Waterfall
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Hawaiian Music
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Captain James Cook
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Rainbow Eucalyptus
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Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
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Waikamoi Ridge Trail
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Garden of Eden Arboretum
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Tickets and Hours
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The End of Kapu
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Waikamoi Ridge Trail
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Garden of Eden Arboretum
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Kaumahina State Park
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Missionary Resistance
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Nua'ailua View Point / Bay
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Ke’anae
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Ke’anae Arboretum
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Ke’anae Peninsula
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Aunty Sandy's Banana Bread
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Ke’anae Lookout
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The 1946 Tsunami
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Kauikeaouli
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The Great Māhele
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Wailua Valley Lookout/Park
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Taro - Hawaii’s Purple Vegetable
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Sugar Plantations
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East Maui Irrigation Co
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Pua'a Ka'a State Park
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Luau
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Nahiku & George Harrison
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Kamehameha IV and V
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Hana Lava Tube
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Kahanu Garden
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The Overthrow of the Hawaiian Kingdom
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Waiʻānapanapa State Park
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Hana Tropicals
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Maui Flora
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Hāna Bay Beach Park
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The Last Monarch of Hawaii
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Koki Beach Park
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Hāmoa Beach
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What Makes the Waves So Big?
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Haleakalā National Park
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Tsunamis
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Volcanoes
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Pīpīwai Trail
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Kīpahulu Visitor Center
Preview The Tour
Tour FAQs
You can watch the sunrise at Haleakalā Summit in Maui’s Volcano National Park for a stunning and unforgettable experience.
It takes about 2-3 hours to drive to the summit of Haleakalā, depending on your starting point on Maui.
Yes, there is an entrance fee to enter Haleakalā National Park; it costs $30 per vehicle or $15 per pedestrian or cyclist.
In Haleakalā, you can hike, watch the sunrise, visit the visitor center, and explore the unique volcanic landscape. Read more here.
Baldwin Park is about 15 minutes away from Maui’s famous Baldwin Beach.
The most popular part of Maui is the resort area of Wailea, known for its luxurious hotels and stunning beaches.
You can find car rentals in Maui at the airport, in major towns, and through various rental agencies.
It takes around 4-5 hours to drive completely around Maui, covering approximately 120 miles.
The death road of Maui refers to the narrow, winding road to Hana, which requires cautious driving due to its challenging terrain.
Maui is generally safe at night, but it’s always wise to take basic precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially in more secluded areas.
Explore 200+ Tours
Inclusions and Exclusions
App on your phone: A link to download the Action Tour Guide App and Password for your tours.
Easy to use: Stories play automatically via GPS, hands‑free. Assistance available all day via call, chat, or email.
Flexible schedule: Use any day, any time. Valid for multiple visits up to 1 year after purchase.
Interactive audio stories: Experience local history and culture through clear, concise narratives from experienced narrators.
At your own pace: No group. Take breaks for photos, snacks, hikes. Go at your own pace.
Offline use: No cell signal or wifi required. Offline GPS Map & route. Stop-to-stop direction.
Don’t miss a thing: Enjoy a full itinerary, travel tips, narrated videos, text guides, and hidden gems.
Transportation, parking fees, food, and drinks.
Entry tickets or reservations for any attractions along the route.
Car Rental: Please arrange a rental car at the closest airport or train station.
