Haleakala-Sunrise or Day?
 

First, is the trip worth it? I've heard mixed reviews. Second, should we choose sunrise or day trip? Sunrise leaves at 3am, but at least you still have some day when you return. The day trip takes up the whole day.

Lisa, <BR> <BR>No one can tell you if the trip is worth it since it's a matter of opinion! You don't know when you try something new if you'll like it or not, right? When the weather is right (check with your concierge before you leave the hotel at 3:30 a.m.!), most people say the sunrise trip was worth it but some others say they were so exhausted the rest of the day after getting up at 3 a.m., that it wasn't. How do you usually react to losing sleep? That might be an indicator for you, as to whether you should go for sunrise. I've done sunrise and sunset, loved both but preferred the sunrise, and plan to do it again. <BR> <BR>I'd drive up, and stop at Kula Lodge for breakfast on the way down. Wonderful views and food!

Unless you're staying in Hana, why do you think it takes the whole day. It's been a long time, but I think we did the whole thing from leeward resort are in less the 4 hours.

Hi Lisa <BR>You're on vacation right? Who cares if it takes all day? I've driven to the top of Haleakala twice,both times during the day(9AM and 3PM),and it's great.Check the weather and go for it whatever time of day that you decide.Have a nice trip!

Call me crazy, but I went to Haleakala and Hana in the same day, leaving from just south of Lahaina an hour or so after daybreak. Wish we had had more time for Hana though.

Lisa, <BR> <BR>Joe has a good idea, only you would know how your body reacts to getting up really early. <BR>Personally I do not handle this very well, so last time we were in Maui we went up to Haleakala during the day, and after visiting the volcano, spent the rest of the day touring upcountry Maui. This is a really pretty and often overlooked part of the island. Stop at the winery and try the pineapple wine. Stop at one of the protea farms and gardens. And definitely stop at Kula Lodge for lunch. And drive yourself, so you are not at the mercy of the tour and can stop and see what you want when you want. <BR> <BR>Enjoy your trip, <BR>Jamie <BR>