Hawaii has numerous volcanoes across its islands, including two on Maui. Named Haleakala and Mauna Kahalawai, these volcanoes are visible no matter where you are on this volcanic island. If you are interested in booking a beachfront hotel in Maui and want to learn more about its volcanoes, review the following guide. 

Frequently-Asked Questions About Maui’s Volcanoes

When was the last time these volcanoes erupted?

The Haleakala volcano, or East Maui volcano, is believed to have erupted last between 1480 and 1600. Its name translates to “House of the Sun.” Mauna Kahalawai is an eroded volcano, or the eroded remains of a once-active volcano, with its name meaning “House of the Moon.” 

Located in the western part of Maui, Mauna Kahalawai was last active some 320,000 years ago. And while Mauna Kahalawai is an extinct volcano, Haleakala is classified as dormant. However, it is not considered active and deemed “normal” by the USGS Volcano Warning Scheme for the United States, meaning it is non-eruptive. 

Are there legends about them? 

Myths and legends surround these behemoths, including the famous legend of Maui, the trickster demigod. The island was named for this demigod, with legends claiming he tried to harness the sun and slow its activity because the days were too short. 

Maui traveled to the peak of Haleakala to wait for the sun to rise, after which point he lassoed it. The demigod said he would free the sun only if it agreed to lengthen the days for half the year. Not wanting to be kept prisoner, the sun agreed to travel slowly for part of the year, resulting in longer days in summer and shorter days in winter. 

Is either volcano part of a national park? 

Haleakala is part of Haleakala National Park that boasts gorgeous sunrises. It sees over 1 million visitors per year and remains one of the Hawaiian islands’ most-loved attractions. Mauna Kahalawai is part of Iao Valley State Park. It is widely considered one of Maui’s most beautiful parks of its kind and even features the remains of an ancient Hawaiian village. 

What is the elevation for these volcanoes? 

Mauna Kahalewai has an elevation of 1,200 feet. It is 2,250 feet above sea level. Haleakala is the larger of the two and rises over 10,000 feet above sea level. This volcano was once believed to be about 15,000 feet tall before erosion took hold. Its weight also contributes to the shorter stance, as Haleakala is slowly sinking into the Earth’s crust.

Book a beachfront hotel at Napili Village Hotel to enjoy stunning volcano and other tropical island-related sights. Located on the West side of Maui in Lahaina, this beachfront hotel has served tourists and residents since 1967 and was recently renovated. Call (808) 669-6228 today to reserve your room or browse beachfront hotels online.