Haleakalā means “house of the sun” in Hawaiian, and the dormant volcano crater offers breathtaking, multicolor sunrises across its landscapes and skyscapes. When the day breaks, you will see hues of red, pink, and orange like you’ve never seen. These red streaks at dawn, in the Hawaiian language, are kaheʻā. On a clear day, you may see six of the eight Hawaiian Islands. For a seamless and comfortable experience, book an online reservation up to 60 days in advance, specifically as early as 60 days and as late as 2 days in advance, and bring a copy of your reservation. Prepare for cold and wet weather, pack a snack and have a full tank of gas.

Indulge in hearty local favorites, like loco moco and Portuguese sausage with eggs and rice, or grab a light homemade pastry from a bakery to fuel yourself through the rest of the morning.
Check out:

-> Kula Bistro (808-871-2960) | This charming eatery is renowned for its diverse breakfast menu featuring inventive twists on classics like eggs benedict, complemented by local favorites and homemade pastries. Open for breakfast 7:30-10:15 AM Thur-Sun. 4566 Lower Kula Rd., Kula, HI 96790
-> La Provence (808-878-1313)  | Quaint French-inspired bistro known for its delightful fusion of Provencal flavors with locally sourced ingredients, offering a cozy dining experience amidst Upcountry’s picturesque surroundings. 3158 Lower Kula Rd., Kula, HI 96790
-> Kula Lodge Restaurant (808-878-1535) | A serene dining experience nestled in the lush Maui landscape, featuring a diverse menu of locally inspired dishes with stunning views of the island’s countryside. 15200 Haleakalā Hwy., Kula, HI 96790

While lavender isn’t a native plant of Hawaiʻi, the Ali‘i Kula Lavender farm is a beloved attraction on Maui where you can explore gardens at your leisure. The farm features about 20 varieties of lavender, and due to the ideal soil and weather of Kula, there are usually several varieties in bloom year-round. Stop by the gift shop to pick up unique souvenirs, like lavender-flavored coffee and a lavender eye pillow. $3 general admission Friday through Monday; keiki (children) 12 and under enter free.
1100 Waipoli Rd., Kula HI 96790

Located in the South Maui Gardens, the Kīhei Food Oasis  features 13 diverse food trucks, serving an array of cuisines from beloved local dishes to international flavors. The venue also offers live local music on select days, so check their calendar when planning.
35 Auhana Rd, Kīhei, HI 96753

-> Sweet Hula | Best known for their smoothies and create-your-own açai bowls made with fresh fruit. Open Tue. - Sun., 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM.
-> Blue Door Bread & Pizza Company (808-446-3411) | Organic bakery serving nutritious artisan European-style, naturally leavened bread. Open Mon. - Sat., 8:00 AM - 2:30 PM.
-> Kitoko (808-214-7582) | Offers an array of tasty bentos and focaccia sandwiches, as well as local desserts, like macadamia caramel tiramisu and homemade cacao sorbet. Open Mon. - Sat., 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM.

The beach park is made of three beaches: Kamaʻole 1, 2 and 3. Stronger winds will kick up the morning's glasslike waters into more choppy waters. As always, swim where lifeguards are on duty. They know these waters as they would the nuances of a close friend or family member.
S. Kīhei Rd., Kīhei, HI 96753

-> Kamaʻole 1 is a picturesque white sand crescent beach that stretches 1/3 of a mile. Considered one of the best spots on Maui for swimming, this beach regularly offers calm, serene waters.
-> Kamaʻole 2 is a wide sandy beach marked by the Maui Banyan condos on one end. It also offers calm, serene waters.
-> Kamaʻole 3 is a popular spot for bodyboarding. While it’s the smallest of the three, it offers regular shorebreaks and the most amenities, including a large grassy park.

Made of finely shaved ice topped with flavored syrups, “shave ice” is a favorite sweet treat in Hawaiʻi. To get the best flavor, Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice (808-638-6229) uses 100% pure cane sugar, ultra-purified water, and natural fruit purees in their signature recipes. Try one of their popular preset combos, or choose your own creation from their variety of flavored syrups and toppings. This is the perfect after-beach snack. There’s just something about the lingering salt of the ocean mixed with sweet shaved ice that makes a perfect beach day complete.
61 S. Kīhei Rd., Kīhei, HI 96753

Meaning “finished work” in Hawaiian, pau hana is the late hours of the afternoon–a time when kamaʻāina (residents) relax after the day and socialize with good food and drink. Here are a few places to try for your pau hana or early dinner:

-> Café O’Lei (808-891-1368) | Family-owned and operated by husband and wife team, Michael and Dana Pastula, serving contemporary Hawaiian cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. 2439 S. Kīhei Rd., Kīhei, HI 96753
-> Gather on Maui(808-698-0555) | Known for its farm-to-table concept, offering locally sourced ingredients in a cozy and welcoming setting. Happy hour 3-5 PM, dinner 5 PM to close. 100 Wailea Golf Club Dr., Kīhei, HI 96753
-> Tikehau Lounge (808-214-6500) | Sophisticated cocktail bar renowned for its elegant ambiance and creative drink offerings inspired by Polynesian flavors. Happy hour daily from 3-5 PM. 116 Wailea Ike Dr. #2104, Kīhei, HI 96753