We did the sunset on Haleakala and went there a few hours before, but if you get there around 5-5.30 you should be fine with finding a parking spot. As you approach the top, the temperature gets colder , it was 51 F compared with 87 F in Kihei. Take winter jackets with you , as well as a towel to sit on as you watch the sunset or the sunrise. There is no water or food, so make sure you pack some with you . There are restrooms at the Visitor Center and up on the top. Beautiful view to end up the day and staring at the stars after the sunset is another great thing you can do. The entrance to the park is $25 for the car, only credit cards accepted.

This place was awesome to visit. only ready I gave it a rating of 3 you will find out below. The views blew my expectations away. Would love to if had more time there to hike in the crater. Only disappointment was trying twice to get tickets to see the sunrise. Both times I was on the computer when they released the ticket and I was denied and somehow they were already sold out. Seen pictures fro. The day I tried to go and it looked like all tour companies. I question if anyone who tries to do it on their own is able to get the ticket. Upon arrival to the gate I asked questions the the guard who told me unfortunately if your not the governors kid or someone famous it is kind of hard to get a ticket. I was shocked. Even more shocked to find out she had a separate list of these “special people” as she thought I was asking to receive a ticket for the next day!

Nothing prepares you for Haleakala Crater.... you think that you are in the clouds, that you can touch the sky..... at the same time, you feel one with the earth, as if you can see a wound if the earth, a bleeding point.....