Carol47

I have been trying to find out how long it will take us to drive from the Sheraton Maui to the summit of Haleakala. And when will we have to get up to be there for sunrise? I am thinking 2 1/2 hours? So must leave around 3 - 3:30? We are from midwest and thought the first night would work best, since we will still be on Central time.

bonniebroad

Carol, The National Park Service says it's about 90 miles from Wailea or Kaanapali to Haleakala, and that you should allow 3 to 4 hours driving time, depending on conditions. And you should call the National Weather Service before you leave to make sure weather conditions are conducive to seeing the sunrise (the area can be fogged in totally), and to check sunrise time. Now, it didn't take us 3 hours from Wailea. The weather was perfect, and I have a husband who doesn't flinch at dark, winding roads. I think we got up at 3 a.m. to leave......... Once you get there, your concierge at the hotel can give you good advice about going up. That is a great idea about doing Haleakala while your body-clock is still on Central time.... you will be awake anyway!

Tasha440

Carol-It took us 2 1/2 hours from the Hyatt, which is just down the beach from the Sheraton. However, you may want to consider leaving by 3 as the parking lot was crowded by 5:30 when we arrived last July. Also, the viewing area on the observation deck gets crowded early.

We went to the sunrise the first morning in Maui, and it worked out well. We were awake by 2 am, didn't even use the alarm...

The problem is finding any place open that serves coffee on your way! It's a long (and cold) morning without caffeine...