Maui Upcountry Drive, Haleakala NP & Ocean Vodka Distillery Tour

Itinerary

1. 1
   Stop Pass by

   Experience one of Maui's most spectacular coastal drives along the southern flank of Haleakala, revealing dramatic landscapes and stunning bi-coastal vistas with numerous photo opportunities.

2. 2
   Manawainui Gulch 15 minutes

   Journey to the isolated community of Kaupo and stop at Manawainui Stream, experiencing authentic rural Maui where traditional Hawaiian life and ranching heritage remain strong.

3. 3
   Kula 30 minutes

   Maui Bees Honey Farm Experience: Visit this organic farm to discover Hawaiian beekeeping, learn about seasonal honey varieties, and sample raw, unfiltered honey while exploring their commitment to regenerative agriculture.

4. 4
   Haleakala National Park 30 minutes

   Visit the historic Haleakala Visitor Center, constructed in the 1930s and situated dramatically on the edge of the volcanic crater, then soak in panoramic views from the summit where you'll feel like you're on top of the world at 10,023 feet elevation.

5. 5
   Haleakala Crater 25 minutes

   The magnificent Haleakala Crater is an awe-inspiring geological wonder that stretches 11.25 miles across, 3.2 miles wide, and plunges nearly 2,600 feet deep, creating one of the world's most spectacular volcanic landscapes. The Pa Ka'oao Trail (also known as White Hill Trail) is a short 0.4-mile walk that starts at the visitor parking lot and leads to an elevated overlook offering breathtaking views of the crater floor. This mini hike is just half a mile and well worth the effort, providing visitors with an exceptional vantage point to truly appreciate the massive scale and otherworldly beauty of the crater. The views from atop this conical mound are significantly better than those from the visitor center, making it an ideal way for tour guests to experience the raw volcanic power and stark beauty that defines Haleakala's "house of the sun" landscape.

6. 6
   Haleakala Observatory 30 minutes · Admission included

   Dubbed "Science City," the Haleakalā High Altitude Observatory was erected in 1958 due to the optimal viewing conditions the shield volcano possesses, where a near-absence of light pollution, as well as the high-altitude air and height, render it one of the most superb and valuable planetariums in the world. The Haleakalā Observatory, also known as the Haleakalā High Altitude Observatory Site, is Hawaii's first astronomical research observatory and spans 18 acres at 10,000 feet above sea level, operated and managed by the University of Hawaii. While visitors can view the observatory complex from the Haleakala Summit and visitor center, the facility itself is dedicated to groundbreaking astronomical research that continues to advance our understanding of the universe from this pristine high-altitude location.

7. 7
   Ocean Vodka Organic Farm and Distillery 1 hour 30 minutes · Admission included

   Experience what many consider Maui's most breathtaking sunset from Ocean Vodka Organic Farm & Distillery. Perched at 1,000 feet on Haleakala's slopes with sweeping 180-degree bi-coastal views, this stunning location offers unobstructed panoramic vistas of both Maui's north and south shores simultaneously. Watch as golden hour illuminates the organic sugar cane fields, West Maui Mountains, and the sparkling Pacific Ocean. As the sun descends, witness a spectacular display of vibrant colors painting the sky—from brilliant golds and oranges to deep purples and pinks. The elevated position and open-air setting create the perfect atmosphere to enjoy this natural masterpiece. Guests can purchase from Ocean Vodka Organic Farm & Distillery's offerings, including farm-fresh cuisine such as pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and appetizers made with locally-sourced ingredients, handcrafted organic cocktails featuring their award-winning vodka and rum distilled on-site.

Good to know

• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Scuba Diving Restriction: Guests who have been scuba diving must wait the recommended time before participating in this high-altitude tour for safety reasons. For more info, please check e.g. Divers Alert Network
• Road Conditions: Our route includes winding mountain roads with steep grades and tide turns. This tour is not recommended for pregnant women or guests with severe back problems or other conditions that may be aggravated by mountain driving. Important Note: If you are prone to car sickness, take your medicine or natural remedies at least 1 hour before the tour due to the winding mountain roads.
• Weather Policy: Tours operate in all weather conditions. Visibility at Haleakala and sunset viewing cannot be guaranteed due to natural cloud cover and weather patterns. No refunds are provided if visibility is limited due to weather conditions.
• The summit temperature can drop as low as 20-30 degrees Fahrenheit - dress in warm layers.