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Discover the healing power of sunset therapy and chase the sun to Maui! With Rent By Owner’s guide, you’ll find the most breathtaking views, from the summit of Haleakala to the shores of Kaanapali Beach. Go on foot, dip in the crystalline waters, or take to this island’s famous Road to Hana from Kihei drive!
Sunset Therapy: The Healing Powers of Nature’s Daily Finale
There’s something magical and cathartic about watching the sun go down. When the sky becomes a vibrant symphony of colors, it often feels as though our worries wash away with it.
“Sunset therapy” is an emerging practice. Several studies have confirmed that being connected with nature and taking time to appreciate its beauty has positive psychological effects. When we watch the day end, we can experience heightened satisfaction and empathy and lowered stress levels.
Now, we at Rent By Owner know what you’re thinking: “Not everyone lives in a city where sunsets are gorgeous and unblocked by towering buildings!” That’s where travel comes in.
More importantly, that’s where Maui comes to steal the show. Who knows, you might just find what you’re looking for when you take the Road to Hana from Kihei road!
Maui: A Panoramic Paradise
If you’re looking for the ultimate sunset therapy experience, look no further than Maui. This island in Hawaii boasts stunning beaches, natural parks, and long stretches of scenic drives at every turn.
In fact, it houses plenty of the top sundown destinations in the world. From the summit of Haleakala to the roads between Hana and Kihei, there’s no shortage of breathtaking views to enjoy.
In this guide, Rent By Owner urges you to chase the sun! We’re taking you to the best places to bask in the golden hour and revel in the colors of dusk!
Beyond Words: The Magical Sunsets of Maui’s Parks & Trails
Sunsets are most beautiful when framed by natural landscapes or witnessed with the sound of the great outdoors in the background.
Here are the best places in Maui that offer just that, and more:
HALEAKALA NATIONAL PARK
Haleakala Hwy, Kula, HI
Haleakala National Park is an unparalleled destination for witnessing stunning sunsets in Maui. The park, which spans over 33,000 acres, includes the dormant Haleakala Volcano, whose name means “House of the Sun.” With an elevation of over 10,000 feet, the summit provides an unobstructed view of the sky and the earth below.
TO GET THERE: take Haleakala Highway, which is accessible from Kahului. The drive to the summit takes approximately two hours, so it’s best to leave early in the day to avoid traffic and reach the summit before the light begins to fade.
Visitors can also take a guided ranger hike to learn more about the park’s flora and fauna or stargaze under the sky’s canopy at night. Camping is likewise available, but visitors must obtain a permit in advance.
Keep in mind that the temperature at the summit can drop to below freezing, so dressing in layers is essential. If you’re looking for a place to stay where you can enjoy a scenic mountain and sunset view, check out this property in Kihei, which also offers a bonus ocean view.
KEALIA POND NATIONAL WILDLIFE REFUGE
Mokulele Hwy, Kihei, HI
Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge is an ideal destination for bird enthusiasts to witness sunsets in a serene, picturesque environment. The refuge covers over 700 acres of wetlands, which are home to several species of endangered birds, including the Hawaiian coot and stilt.
TO GET THERE: take the Mokulele Highway and turn right onto North Kihei Road. Visitors can take the Kealia Coastal Boardwalk to get a closer look at the wetlands and observe the setting sun from the observation deck.
The refuge also offers guided bird walks on certain days, so it’s best to check the schedule before visiting. Visitors can participate in the Junior Ranger program or take a guided interpretive tour of the refuge.
MAUI NUI BOTANICAL GARDENS
150 Kanaloa Ave, Kahului, HI
Maui Nui Botanical Gardens is another unique destination within the island that showcases Maui’s rich cultural and natural heritage. The garden spans over six acres and features over 50 varieties of Native Hawaiian plants.
TO GET THERE: take the Hana Highway and turn left onto Kanaloa Avenue. The garden is open from Monday to Saturday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour of the garden, which includes a kahua (sacred platform) and a kalo (taro) patch. There’s also a Hawaiian hale (house) and a kīkī (gourd patch) that visitors can explore. The garden hosts several events throughout the year, including lei-making workshops and cultural festivals.
IAO VALLEY STATE PARK
54 S High St, Wailuku, HI
Iao Valley State Park is a verdant and scenic destination that’s perfect for those who want to experience the beauty of Maui’s rainforests at sunset. The park is home to the iconic Iao Needle, a 1,200-foot rock pinnacle that rises out of the valley floor.
TO GET THERE: take the Honoapiilani Highway and turn onto Iao Valley Road. The park is open from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Visitors can take the Iao Needle Lookout Trail, which provides a scenic view of the valley and the needle. The park also offers guided hikes, which allow visitors to learn more about the valley’s natural and cultural history.
LAHAINA-PALI TRAIL
The trail begins in Maalaea and ends in Lahaina; accessible from Honoapiilani Highway (Highway 30) at the end of the Ukumehame Valley
Get your cameras ready for panoramic views of the ocean and West Maui Mountains. The trailhead is located at the end of the Pali Highway, just a few miles past the town of Lahaina.
INSIDER TIP: The trail is a bit steep and rocky, so wear comfortable shoes and bring plenty of water. Be sure to arrive early enough to enjoy the views before the sun sets.
Shores at Sundown: The Stunning Beaches of Maui
Afternoon swims are a great way to make the most out of a tropical getaway. The heat is more forgiving, the winds are cooler, and the colors of the sky are more Insta-worthy.
Cap off your plunge by catching the end of the day at these locations:
KA’ANAPALI BEACH
Kaanapali Beach, Lahaina, HI
This three-mile beach on the west coast of Maui is one of the most popular beaches on the island. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset while sipping on a tropical cocktail. Visitors can also go snorkeling and parasailing.
INSIDER TIP: Take a sunset cruise from Ka’anapali Beach for a unique perspective of the sunset. If you’re staying in the area, make sure to catch the nightly cliff diving ceremony at Black Rock, which takes place at the end of each day.
MAKENA BEACH
Makena Beach State Park, 6600 Makena Rd, Kihei, HI
Also known as Big Beach, Makena Beach is one of the largest beaches on Maui. The white sand and turquoise water make it a perfect spot to end the day. Visitors can also surf, boogie board, or go for a hike in the nearby state park.
INSIDER TIP: Bring a blanket or beach chair to relax on, so you don’t miss the chance to stargaze when it’s fully dark.
WAILEA BEACH
Wailea Beach, Wailea, HI
This crescent-shaped beach is located in front of some of Maui’s most luxurious resorts. The beach is perfect for watching the sunset and offers great views of neighboring islands. Visitors can also enjoy a round of golf or indulge in a spa treatment.
INSIDER TIP: Bring a picnic and enjoy dinner on the beach as the sun sets. The beach can get crowded, so arrive early to secure a good spot.
NAPILI BAY BEACH
Napili Bay Beach, Lahaina, HI
Located on the west side of Maui, Napili Bay beach is popular among both tourists and locals. It offers great views of the sunset and is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, or simply lounging on the sand.
INSIDER TIP: Bring a snorkel and explore the coral reefs in the area before settling in for the sunset. There are also several restaurants and food trucks nearby, making it a great spot for dinner and drinks.
BALDWIN BEACH
Baldwin Beach Park, Hana Hwy, Paia, HI
This long, wide beach on the north shore of Maui is a great spot to watch the sunset. It’s also a popular spot for windsurfing, kiteboarding, and surfing, as well as family-friendly activities. If you’re coming from the neighboring town, you might also catch picturesque sights on the road to Hana from Kihei. Visitors can also go for a hike in the nearby state park.
INSIDER TIP: Don’t forget to bring a beach chair or blanket to sit on while watching the sunset. Some beaches have facilities like showers, restrooms, and parking, while others require a short hike to get to. Be sure to also check the conditions of the beach before swimming or participating in any water activities.
Coastal Cruising: Maui’s Scenic Sunset Drives and Road to Hana from Kihei
If you’re tuckered out from a full day of exploring, you can get off your feet, hit the road, and still catch a hearty view of the setting sun:
HANA HIGHWAY
This famous drive offers stunning views of the coastline and lush rainforest. To catch the sunset, head to the black sand beach of Waianapanapa State Park at the end of the drive. Travelers on the Road to Hana coming from Kihei are sure to get the most out of their itinerary.
INSIDER TIP: The Road to Hana is narrow and winding, so it’s best to take your time and start early in the day. Consider packing a picnic dinner to enjoy at the beach.
KIHEI COASTAL ROUTE
Get easy access to several beautiful beaches, as well as views of Molokini Crater and the West Maui Mountains. Take the Kihei Coastal Route and head to Keawakapu Beach or Kamaole Beach Park III.
INSIDER TIP: Consider packing a picnic dinner to enjoy at the beach. The beaches can be crowded, so arrive early to get yourself a good, cozy spot.
WEST MAUI LOOP
Wend your way through quaint towns, past the rugged coastline, and into the lush West Maui Mountains. Chase the sun by heading to D.T. Fleming Beach Park or Kapalua Beach.
INSIDER TIP: The road can be narrow and winding, so it’s best to take your time and start early in the day. Bring plenty of water and snacks for the drive, too! And if you’re looking to make the most out of your road to Hana from Kihei trip, it’s best if you can find a nearby place to stay. Just imagine waking up to such a scenic sunset view in Wailea!
Seize the Day with Rent By Owner
Trek through Haleakala National Park, splash on the waters on Kaanapali Beach, or feel the wind in your hair on the road from Kihei to Hana!
Most importantly, make the most out of your adventure without worrying about where to stay!
Book your Kihei trip in advance – or last minute – and hop from town to town on Maui. Trust us when we say our listings are as abundant as the colors of eventide!
TLDR
Rent By Owner’s travel guide highlights the most breathtaking nightfall views on the island of Maui, Hawaii, which can provide “sunset therapy” and improve psychological well-being.
Maui offers stunning beaches, natural parks, and long stretches of scenic drives that are ideal for basking in the golden hour and reveling in the colors of dusk. Some of the top sunset destinations in Maui include Haleakala National Park, Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge, Maui Nui Botanical Gardens, and Iao Valley State Park.
The guide also suggests some of the stunning beaches to experience sunset views, such as Kaanapali Beach, Napili Bay Beach, and Kapalua Bay Beach.
Featured Image Credit: Georgia de Lotz
