Vacationing to Maui means a lot of sun, surf, and salt. Having fun during the day in the sun is always made better by Maui’s beautiful sunsets! You will see the sky explode into a collection of fiery oranges, yellows, and reds which pale in comparison to the rainbow effect of colors seen after the sun goes down. The moment the sun sets make sure to look for a green flash on the horizon! As the sky gets darker, the burning crimson hues bleed into soft lavender and navy blue before the sky goes dark and transforms into a star studded masterpiece. Now that you’re excited for Maui’s beautiful sunsets, you’re probably wondering where to see them. Here’s a quick guide to finding the best spots to watch the best sunsets!
The Hawaiian island chain lies about 20 degrees north of the equator placing it just within the tropics. Because of this, the sunset time varies only by about two hours yearround. In the winter, the sunset can be seen as early as 5:30 P.M. and around 7:30 P.M. in the summer. Make sure to look up the sunset time during your trip to Maui. Hawaii lies in the northern hemisphere so a summer sunset is best seen in the northern parts of Maui while a winter sunset is best seen further south. But no matter the time of year, a Maui sunset is unforgettable! Here are some great spots to watch a killer Maui Sunset!
Honolua Bay
One of the most sought after surf spots in the world also boasts some of the most vibrant sunsets on Maui. Located 20 minutes north of Lahaina, down a short gravel road is a spot to park your car and enjoy the vibrant sunset overlooking the beautiful waves. Pack a cooler, sit back and relax to the sounds of the ocean and the gorgeous scenery of west Maui.
Sunset Sail
No trip to Maui would be complete without taking a sail off its gorgeous coast lines. For the best sunsets and views of the islands, book a sunset sail with Sail Maui. The options for a sunset sail include the ‘Alihilani Sunset Sail, Paragon Sunset Sail, and Twilight Sail with the Whales. Each tour offers beautiful views of the Maui coast as well as a front row seat to the fierce sunsets of Hawaii. From December to April you can also enjoy whale watching during twilight while relaxing on a gorgeous catamaran. Click the links above to learn more and enjoy!
Haleakala
Towering above the beaches and jungles of Maui lies Haleakala, a gorgeous volcanic mountain 10,000 feet above sea level. On a clear day you can see into the crater, around the island, and over to the Mountains of West Maui. All of these beautiful views are even more extravagant during the sunset. Watching the sunrise from the mountain is a popular experience but you have to book it months in advance. The sunset is free for everyone with just the cost of entry into Haleakala National Park. The park pass also includes access to Wainapanapa and Iao Valley so it’s a worthwhile purchase! Dont forget to wear layers as the mountain can drop to freezing tmperatures after dark.
Lahaina Pali Trail
Towering over the west side of Maui lies many Windmills with a long trail leading up the mountain side. From here you can catch glimpses of north and west Maui, Haleakala, Kaho‘olawe and Molokini. While the elevation gain is intense, the sights are well worth it. From this spot the sunset looks like a glowing tangerine dipping gently into the Pacific Ocean. An added bonus is that there are many spots to view the sunset away from other hikers, allowing you to have a one of a kind Maui sunset all to yourself!
Lavender Farms, Kula
The Kula Lavender Farms are nestled in the clouds on the slopes of Haleakala. This Beautiful farm contains fields of lavender as well as a large botanical garden with many pathways to meander along and take in the views. While the farm closes at 4PM, you are able to drive up along the road where there are many spots to park and enjoy the crisp mountain air. In the winter months, when the sun sets further to the south, this location is perfect to watch the beautiful sunsets and catch glimpses of Molokini and Kaho‘olawe.