Top 10 Sunset Spots on Maui

Unlike the beachside horizon where the sun dips into the ocean, here you’re above it all. It’s colder, quieter, and profoundly humbling. No reservation is needed for sunset viewing, but parking is limited. Be sure to bring warm layers, the summit can be 30 degrees cooler than sea level.

Getting there: From Kahului, take Route 37 (Haleakalā Highway) to Route 378 (Crater Road). The drive takes 1.5–2 hours from most resort areas.

Note: The park closes at 7:00 PM, and the shore break can be dangerous. Sunset viewing is best enjoyed from the sand, not in the water.

Getting there: From Kihei, take South Kihei Road to Makena Alanui Road. The entrance is clearly marked with a large parking lot about 5 minutes south of Wailea.

If you’re staying in the Kāʻanapali or Napili area, this is an easy choice. The bay is calm enough for a sunset snorkel or a quiet dip before dusk.

Getting there: Drive north on Honoapiʻilani Highway (Route 30), turn into the Kapalua Resort area near Napili Kai Beach Resort, and use the public beach access.

Despite its nickname “Secret Beach,” it’s not really a secret, but it does feel hidden.

Getting there: Just past Big Beach on Makena Road, look for a low stone wall between private homes. Park on the roadside, spaces are limited and fill fast near sunset.

The beach faces southwest, offering clear views of Molokini Crater and Kahoʻolawe as the sun drops into the Pacific. Palm trees and black lava rocks frame the view, making it a favorite for sunset photography. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a quieter experience without losing the beauty of a classic Maui sunset.

Getting there: From Wailea, head south on Makena Alanui Road. Just past the Fairmont Kea Lani and Makena Surf Resort, look for a gravel parking lot on the ocean side of the road. There’s no formal sign for Poʻolenalena, but it may appear as Chang’s Beach on some maps.

It’s one of the easiest and most rewarding stops along the Hāna Highway if you’re heading that way in the afternoon.

Getting there: Located off Hana Highway (Route 36), just 2 minutes past the town of Pāʻia. The upper parking lot is perfect for sunset viewing without needing to walk down to the beach.

You’ll catch views of Kaho‘olawe and Lāna‘i across the channel, especially vibrant in the winter months.

Getting there: Park at Ulua or Polo Beach public lots, then follow the paved path running parallel to the shoreline.

From here, sunsets are dramatic, often with boats anchored offshore and the sun dropping behind Lāna‘i.

Getting there: Public beach access and parking are available near Whalers Village or behind the Sheraton Maui.

You might see paddleboarders heading in for the evening or locals finishing their day on the water.

Getting there: Off Route 30, take Napili Place and look for signs to the public beach access. A small parking lot and street parking are available, but limited.

It closes early, so this is more of a late-afternoon golden hour experience than a true post-sunset view.

Getting there: Take Main Street in Wailuku to ʻĪao Valley Road (Route 320). The park entrance is at the end of the road. Gates close by 5 PM, so plan accordingly.