I've read in the postings that sunset at Haleakala in Maui is just as beautiful as the sunrise...I've been reading around and in the Haleakala website it states that the hours of operation for the visitor center is from 6:00am to 3:00pm...Is this correct? If so how can we see the sunset then...

The visitors's center is before the summit, so you would not want to view the sunset from the visitor center anyway. There are exhibits at the visitor center bit they are not that great so if you miss the visitor center you have not missed much. Or you can go to the center before 3 o'clock, then explore the summit, and by then it will be sunset.

I am sure the sunset is beautiful.

But standing above the clouds and watching the sun rise is absolutely incredible.

Been up there for both sunset and sunrise. Sunrise was very crowded, rainy and foggy, so don't go if the forecast isn't for fair weather. Sunset was spectacular and much less crowded.

Plummie,

From where did you watch the sunset...Is the area located inside the Park or just outside??? I'm concerned that the park might be close by the time we get up there since the hours of operation suppose to be until 3pm. Any information is greatly appreciated. Thanks!!

The park does not close when the visitor center closes. I have driven up to the summit at 5 am for sunrise and the entrance to the park is open and manned (cost $10 per car) even though the visitor center is closed. You can drive right to the summit for the best view.

Maria-
Ken is right - it's the visitor center that closes. And I guess I really prefer not getting up at a really ungodly hour regardless of the view.