[2025 Hawaii island Attraction] Travel Guide for Mauna Kea (Updated Oct)

Prepare to wear layers after layers if you're not used to winter/the cold like I was! I totally should've worn more warming clothes! by the end of the 7 hours trip I was freezing!!!! especially the part where we got to see the stars and have an amazing experience watching the sun set - I couldn't enjoy it as much as our guides were sharing information with the laser cause I was too cold to get out of the car. might have even gotten some tiny frostbite! I highly recommend to wear very warm jackets, socks and even leg warmers. the shoes didn't need to be hiking ones as most people are only able to drive up with a jeep or join a tour. i recommend joining a tour since the corners can be dangerous/hard to turn if you're not living on the mountains already haha! it was truly a magickal experience and not to be missed. the one I went with was called the mauna kea tour experience by Hawaii Island Holidays on Viator! this is their contact number: +18083130368 Enjoy! #trip #instatravel #solotravel #solofemaletraveller #mountainview #hawaii #bigisland #coldweather #volcano #viator

Big Island Hawaii is the largest of the islands in the Hawaii archipelago. maunakea is the crowning jewel of this incredible island. On the big island you will find mountains so high they are often snow capped and the temperature goes well into freezing at night. Only a two hour drive will take you to the most stunning beaches right across from tropical rainforest boasting thousands of species of birds and other incredible wildlife unique to the Hawaiian islands. The diversity in landscape on the big island is truly legendary and remarkable. Nowhere else in the world can you go from the beach, the tropical rainforest and up to the mountains so high that it snows in the middle of summer! visit the big island soon and you’ll have the choice between hundreds of high-quality and professional touring company’s that will spoil you with luxury, amaze you with scenery and treat you with the aloha spirit of kindness and love.  #travel #wanderlust #travelling #traveller #travelphotography #instatravel #adventure #journey #travelgram #travelpassion #travellifestyle #myjourney #wonderlust #trip #ilovetravel #camping #traveling #traveladdicted #travelgoals #traveljournal #igtravel #traveladdict #travelpics #bestvacations #travelphotos #traveler #tourist #travelblog #tourism #hiking

The Big Island of Hawaii is the largest and most geologically diverse island in the Hawaiian archipelago, featuring a surreal mix of active volcanoes, black sand beaches, tropical rainforests, and snow-capped mountains. It's not just a vacation paradise but also an open-air museum of natural geography. In a single day, you can witness lava flowing into the ocean, stand above the clouds to stargaze, and swim beneath rainbow-adorned waterfalls, as if experiencing Earth's evolution firsthand. ⛺**Must-Visit Attractions** - **Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park**: Get up close to the steam vents of Kīlauea Volcano, hike along the crater rim, and, if you're lucky, catch a glimpse of flowing lava. - **Mauna Kea**: Ascend to the summit at sunset for unparalleled stargazing above the clouds, with the observatories creating a futuristic landscape. - **Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach**: The jet-black sand, formed from volcanic lava, often hosts sunbathing sea turtles and is a photographer's dream. - **Akaka Falls State Park**: A short trail through a tropical rainforest leads to a breathtaking 130-meter (over 400 feet) waterfall. - **Kailua-Kona Town**: A charming town with bohemian-style cafes and historic sites, perfect for an evening stroll and a taste of Kona coffee. 🛬**Travel Tips** ✅**5-Day Itinerary Recommendation**: - **Day 1**: Arrive at Kona Airport → Explore Kailua-Kona Town (visit Huliheʻe Palace) → Kona coffee farm tour - **Day 2**: Morning at Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach → Afternoon at Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park (hike Kīlauea Crater, explore Thurston Lava Tube) - **Day 3**: Deep dive into Volcanoes National Park (steam vents, coastal trails) → Evening drive to Hilo, visit local farmers' market - **Day 4**: Akaka Falls → Rainbow Falls → Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden → Return to Kona or Hilo - **Day 5**: Acclimate to high altitude at Mauna Kea Visitor Center → Evening stargazing tour (advance booking required) → Depart the next day 🏨**Accommodation Tips** - **Kona Area**: Ideal for those who enjoy convenience and nightlife, with plenty of hotels (e.g., Royal Kona Resort) and nearby dining and shopping options. - **Hilo Area**: Closer to nature and near the volcano park and waterfalls, with options like cozy B&Bs or rainforest eco-lodges (e.g., Hilo Bay Hostel). - **Volcano Village**: For an immersive volcano park experience, stay in nearby cabins (e.g., Volcano Village Lodge) to enjoy the tranquility in the early morning before the crowds arrive. 🧡**Tips** - Weather in the volcano park is unpredictable; bring a windproof jacket and hiking shoes. Stargazing tours can be chilly, with temperatures near 0°C (32°F), so dress warmly. - The island's west side is sunny and dry, while the east side is rainy. Be flexible with your itinerary. - For elderly or young travelers, note that high-altitude areas near the volcano may cause discomfort. Gradual acclimatization is recommended.

[Hawaii Big Island | A Symphony of Lava and Ocean] The Big Island, the largest of the Hawaiian Islands, is the place that best embodies the "Earth's birthing force." With snow-capped mountains, tropical rainforests, black-sand beaches, and active volcanoes, it feels like a condensed version of Earth. 🌋 Natural Wonders • Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Experience the power of lava and the Earth's crust up close. The glow of the lava at night feels like the Earth's core breathing. • Mauna Kea: Snow capped in winter, the summit observatory is one of the best stargazing spots in the world. • Black and Green Sand Beaches: Punaluʻu Black Sand Beach is home to sea turtles, while the green sand beach is so rare it feels like an alien landscape. 🌿 Culture and Lifestyle While the Big Island is known for its natural beauty, Hawaiian traditions remain strong. Hula dancing, luau, and the warm smiles of the locals add warmth to your trip. ✨ Travel Tips • Best Season: Year-round, especially during the dry season (November–April). • Transportation: Renting a car is recommended for the ultimate exploration of the volcanoes, beaches, and mountains. • Essentials: Hiking gear, sunscreen, and warm clothing for nighttime stargazing. Traveling on the Big Island, you'll experience the untamed power of nature: lava and ice coexist, sea turtles dance with the heat. This isn't just a resort island, but a dialogue with the heart of the Earth. ⸻ 🔖 Tags #HawaiiIsland #BigIsland #VolcanoWonder #MaunaKea #BlackSandBeach #TheBirthofTheEarth #NaturalTravel Would you like me to write about Mount Shotai in the same style?

Hey everyone! Here's your guide to an 8-day trip to the USA! We've got all the best spots covered, so you can explore the US without any missteps. Save this now! -------- The United States, a land rich in history and picturesque scenery🌄. From the Statue of Liberty🗽 on the East Coast to the Golden Gate Bridge🌉 on the West Coast, each region boasts its own unique charm. Embark on a spontaneous journey and experience the unique allure of this land! -------- 🌴Itinerary: Hawaiian Adventure🌺 D1: Depart✈️ for Hawaii. Upon arrival, enjoy airport pickup and check in to your comfortable hotel to rest and adjust to the time difference. D2: Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial and immerse yourself in history—wander through the Dole Pineapple Plantation and savor tropical fruits—head to Waikiki Beach in the evening to enjoy the sun and sand. D3: Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, discover natural wonders, and experience the awe-inspiring power of nature. D4: Set foot on Punalu'u Black Sand Beach and experience the unique black sand—revisit Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park and trace the roots of Hawaiian culture. D5: Journey through Waipio Valley and admire the valley scenery—gaze at Mauna Kea volcano and take in the magnificent volcanic landscape. D6: Enjoy Hanauma Bay and get up close and personal with marine life—climb Diamond Head and overlook the panoramic view of Hawaii. D7: Depending on your flight schedule, airport transfer will be arranged✈️, concluding your fantastic Hawaiian journey. D8: Arrive safely at your departure point, filled with memories. Your Hawaiian adventure comes to a perfect end!🎉 -------- Must-See Attractions: 🏖️ Waikiki Beach: Where the sky meets the sea, soft sand beneath your feet, and coconut palms swaying in the breeze, creating the perfect vacation atmosphere. 🏔️ Diamond Head: An iconic symbol of Hawaii, this majestic peak offers breathtaking views of Honolulu from its summit. 🌋 Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Home to two of the world's most active volcanoes, offering an up-close encounter with the raw power of nature. 🛳️ Pearl Harbor National Memorial: A poignant tribute to the battleship sunk during the Pearl Harbor attack, commemorating this significant historical event. 🐠 Hanauma Bay: Crystal-clear waters and stunning coral reefs make this a paradise for snorkeling and swimming, leaving you wanting more. -------- Tips: - March in the US offers pleasant weather, but with significant temperature differences between day and night, so remember to bring a warm jacket🧥. - The time difference between the US and China is approximately 12–13 hours. Adjust your sleep schedule in advance to avoid jet lag⏰. - Be sure to obtain a US visa before departure to ensure a smooth trip📖. - Don't miss out on American burgers🍔, pizza🍕, and hot dogs🌭! -------- 🎉Hope you have a wonderful and enjoyable trip to the USA!

Winter break is here! Check out our 8-day US travel guide! Explore the US and don't miss any of the beautiful sights. Save this guide now! . The US is a place where history and modernity meet. From the solemn Statue of Liberty 🗽 to the majestic Grand Canyon 🌄 to the legendary cowboys of the West, the US is a land of diverse customs and cultures, with each attraction telling a different story. . 🌴 Suggested itinerary: Hawaiian adventure 🌺 Day 1: Fly to Hawaii. Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. Get ready for an exciting Hawaiian adventure! Day 2: Visit the Pearl Harbor National Memorial to remember history -> Visit the Dole Plantation to experience the tropical atmosphere -> Stroll along Waikiki Beach and enjoy the sun and waves. Day 3: Explore Hawaii Volcanoes National Park and discover natural wonders and volcanic relics. Day 4: Visit Punalu'u Black Sand Beach and experience the unique charm of the black sand beach -> Visit Pu'uhonua o Hōnaunau National Historical Park to learn about Hawaiian history and culture. Day 5: Cross Waipi'o Valley and enjoy the magnificent valley views -> Climb Mauna Kea and enjoy panoramic views of the Hawaiian Islands. Day 6: Visit Hanauma Bay and get up close and personal with marine life -> Climb Diamond Head and enjoy beautiful views of Waikiki Beach and downtown Honolulu. Day 7: Transfer to the airport according to your flight time. Say goodbye to Hawaii and head home. Day 8: Arrive safely at your departure point and end your unforgettable Hawaiian adventure! . Must-see attractions: Waikiki Beach 🌟🌟🌟🌟 - Address: Honolulu, Hawaii, USA, 96815 - Opening hours: Open 24/7 - Recommended visit time: 1 day - A famous Hawaiian beach with soft sand and swaying palm trees. A great place to enjoy the sun and waves. Diamond Head 🌟🌟🌟 - Address: Diamond Head Road, Honolulu, Oahu, HI - Opening hours: Jan 2–5, 6am–6pm - Recommended visit time: 1 hour - A symbol of Hawaii. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Honolulu. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park 🌟🌟🌟 - Address: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96718, USA - Opening hours: Open 24/7 - Recommended visit time: 1–2 days - Home to two of the world's most active volcanoes. Experience the grandeur and awe of nature. Hanauma Bay 🌟🌟🌟 - Address: Hawaii Kai, Honolulu, HI - Opening hours: Wed–Sun, 6:45am–4pm; closed Mon–Tue - Recommended visit time: 1–2 hours - Clear waters and picturesque coral reefs. A great place for snorkeling and swimming. . **Notes**: * Airport transportation: Check transportation options from the airport to your hotel in advance. Taxis 🚕 and public transportation 🚇 are both convenient. * January weather: January is cold 🌀 in many parts of the US. Remember to bring a warm coat and snow boots 🧣. * Visa information: Don't forget to apply for a US visa 📖 in advance to ensure a smooth trip. * Safety: Safety first 🔒 when traveling. Take care of your personal belongings. * Local customs: Respect local culture and customs 🎭 to better integrate into local life. . Don't forget to leave enough time for your US trip to slowly savor the diversity and charm of this country. Let's go!

Winter travel guide to the US is here! Spend 9 days in the US, enjoy the snowy landscapes and delicious food, and experience the winter charm of the US. Save this guide now! . The US is located in the heart of North America🗺️, a country where history and modernity intertwine. From the Statue of Liberty🗽 to the Golden Gate Bridge, every place exudes a unique charm. Here, people call it the land of dreams and the city of opportunities. . 🎈Itinerary: DAY 1: Arrive in Hawaii, Honolulu, and start your wonderful journey🛫. DAY 2–DAY 3: Explore Hawaii🏄‍♂️. Visit Pearl Harbor, take a city tour, experience the Polynesian Cultural Center, and watch the Ha: Breath of Life show. DAY 4–DAY 7: Enjoy free time in Hawaii🏖. You can choose to join a one-day tour to the Big Island, climb Mauna Kea, and stargaze at night✨. DAY 8: End your trip in Hawaii and head to the airport for your return flight✈. DAY 9: Return safely and end your unforgettable vacation in Hawaii🎉. . Must-visit attractions: - 📍Pearl Harbor: The echo of history and a WWII memorial site. Surrounded by the sea🌊 on one side and mountains⛰️ on three sides, feel the weight of history. - 🏖️Waikiki Beach: The sea and sky blend into one. Feel the soft touch of the fine sand under your feet, the swaying coconut trees🌴, and enjoy a leisurely time. - 🌋Hawaii Volcanoes National Park: Explore the mysteries of nature. The world's two most active volcanoes🔥 are hidden here, which is truly amazing. . 🧳 Travel checklist: Essential items for a trip to the US 📞 Prepare a SIM card to stay connected. 🔌 Bring a plug adapter as the voltage in the US is different. 🪪 Bring all necessary documents, including your passport and visa. 👚👖 Check the weather in December and bring warm clothes. 🔋 Bring a charger and power bank to keep your phone charged. 💊 Bring regular medicine for peace of mind. 💰 Bring a credit card and some cash for shopping and dining. . A trip to the US is full of endless adventures and unforgettable memories. See you next time!

An 8-day tour of the United States, visiting must-visit places such as Times Square and Yellowstone Park in New York! Super detailed guide to help you get started easily without stepping on any surprises~ / The United States has a rich history. From the 🗽Statue of Liberty to the 🏞Grand Canyon, the scenery is unique. The customs of various places are colorful, the stars of 🎇Hollywood and the prosperity of 🍎New York form a harmonious movement, and there are surprises everywhere during the journey! / 🌴Route Overview: Hawaii Vacation Guide🌴 DAY1: Depart ✈️ Arrive in Hawaii, check in at the hotel and rest. Arrange your accommodation and get ready for your Hawaiian adventure! DAY2: Pearl Harbor National Memorial – Dole Pineapple Plantation – Waikiki Beach A full day of itinerary, feeling the weight of history, tasting sweet pineapples, and finally enjoying the comfort of the beach. DAY3: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Go deep into Volcanoes National Park and explore the mysteries and splendor of nature. DAY4: Punaluu Black Sand Beach – Honawoo National Historical Park Stroll along the black sand beach to feel the unique style, and then visit the historical park to savor the rich culture. DAY5: Waipio Valley-Mauna Kea Volcano Travel through beautiful valleys, look up at majestic volcanoes, and experience the shock of nature. DAY6: Hanauma Bay-Diamond Head Enjoy the tranquility of the seaside at Hanauma Bay, then climb Diamond Head to overlook the beautiful scenery of Hawaii. DAY7: According to the flight time, arrange drop-off and leave Hawaii✈️ End your wonderful trip to Hawaii and return with full of memories. DAY8: Arrive at the departure point and end the journey. Return home safely and look forward to your next wonderful trip! / Must-see attractions: Waikiki Beach ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 📍Address: Honolulu, Hawaii, USA Postal Code: 96815 ⏰Opening hours: Open all day 🕰️Duration of play: 1 day The sea and sky are the same color, with soft sand and swaying coconut palms. It is a famous beach in Hawaii, where you can enjoy the sun and waves. Hawaii Volcanoes National Park ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 📍Address: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, HI 96718, USA ⏰Opening hours: Open all day 🕰️Duration of play: 1-2 days Two of the most active volcanoes in the world are located in this park, so you can experience the splendor and mystery of nature. Diamond Head ⭐⭐⭐ 📍Address: Diamond Head Road, Honolulu Oahu, HI ⏰Opening hours: January 2nd - December 31st 06:00-18:00 🕰️Play time: 1 hour The symbol of Hawaii, the mountain is majestic. From the top, you can overlook the entire city of Honolulu and have a panoramic view. Hanauma Bay ⭐⭐⭐ 📍Address: Hawaii Kai, Honolulu, HI ⏰Opening hours: Wednesday-Sunday 06:45-16:00; closed Monday-Tuesday 🕰️Play time: 1-2 hours The water is clear and the coral reefs are picturesque. It is a good place for snorkeling and swimming, making people unforgettable. / Some tips: 🛫 After arriving at the airport, you can take the bus or subway to the city, which is convenient and fast. 📇 Traveling to the United States requires you to apply for a visa in advance to ensure a smooth trip. 🍔 You must try the American burgers and pancakes, they taste great! ⏰ Pay attention to the time difference. There is a big time difference between the United States and China, so you need to adjust your work and rest timely. / Come to the United States and experience a different culture and customs. Your travel story starts here!

#alohaspirit 1. Made up of 137 Islands Hawaii is an archipelago consisting of 137 islands, though only 8 are major islands. These include well-known ones like Oahu, Maui, and the Big Island. 2. Home to Active Volcanoes Hawaii is the only U.S. state with active volcanoes. Kilauea, on the Big Island, is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. 3. The Birthplace of Surfing Surfing was first practiced in Hawaii over 1,000 years ago by Polynesians. Today, it’s a central part of Hawaiian culture and an iconic sport worldwide. 4. A State of Superlatives Hawaii boasts the world’s tallest sea mountain, Mauna Kea, which rises more than 33,500 feet when measured from the ocean floor, taller than Mount Everest! 5. No Snakes Hawaii is one of the few places on earth where you won’t find any native snake species, thanks to strict regulations to prevent them from entering. 6. The Aloha Spirit The concept of “Aloha” extends beyond a simple greeting. It’s a way of life, symbolizing love, compassion, and mutual respect. 7. Home to Unique Wildlife Hawaii is home to some of the rarest species in the world, including the Hawaiian monk seal and the Hawaiian hoary bat. 8. The Only U.S. State Made Up Entirely of Islands Unlike other states that are part of a landmass, Hawaii is the only U.S. state composed solely of islands in the Pacific Ocean. 9. Different Climates in One State Hawaii features an incredibly diverse range of climates, from tropical rainforests to arid deserts, all within a few hours’ drive. 10. Hawaiian Language and English Though Hawaiian was once the primary language, today both Hawaiian and English are official languages, with English being more commonly spoken.

8-Day USA Tour: Amazing Travel Guide! Explore American style and feel the freedom of travel. Don't miss it! -- 🌴 Itinerary: Day 1: Depart ✈️ Hawaii, transfer to hotel upon arrival Start your Hawaii trip. Rest and adjust after arrival. Day 2: Pearl Harbor National Memorial -> Dole Plantation -> Waikiki Beach Explore history, taste sweet pineapples, and enjoy the beach. Day 3: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park Experience the magnificence of nature and explore the mystery of the volcano park. Day 4: Punalu'u Black Sand Beach -> Pu'uhonua o Honaunau National Historical Park Walk on the black sand and explore history. Day 5: Waipi'o Valley -> Mauna Kea Travel through the beautiful valley and admire the majestic volcano. Day 6: Hanauma Bay -> Diamond Head Enjoy the tranquility of the bay and climb the mountain. Day 7: Transfer to airport according to flight time, Hawaii ✈️ Return End your Hawaii trip and return home with memories. Day 8: Arrive at your departure city, end of trip! Arrive safely and look forward to your next trip! 🎉 -- 🧳 Travel Checklist: Must-have items for your USA trip! 📞 Prepare a SIM card to stay connected. 🔌 Bring a plug adapter as the US uses a different voltage. 🪪 Bring your passport and visa for a smooth entry and exit. 👕 November is a bit cool in the US, so bring a thick coat and long pants. 🔋 Bring a charger and power bank to keep your phone and camera charged. 💳 Bring a credit card and some cash for convenient shopping and dining. -- More USA travel tips are waiting for you! Don't forget to follow me, like, and save! 🚀

How to enjoy the sunset of a lifetime on the Big Island of Hawaii During my few days on the Big Island, I never had the chance to formally see the sunset. Either because I misremembered the sunset time and was rushing in the mountains, or because the clouds were so dense that I was panting to catch up. Until the last evening, at Mauna Kae, I finally witnessed a beautiful sunset that I will remember for half a lifetime😭 Before departure, I was indecisive. The guide described the difficult road up the mountain, and although I rented a four-wheel drive, the fear of the unknown made me start looking for a guided tour up the mountain. However, I was scared off by the high price of $750 for a chartered car🙂 Strictly speaking, it was money that drove me to face the fear of the unknown🙂 The road to Mauna Kae is divided into two sections: the first is to navigate to the Mauna Kae Visitor Information Station; the second is from the visitor information station to the observatory (no navigation required, there is only one road). The first section of the road leads to the visitor center, which is a normal mountain road without much difficulty. On the way, you will pass through the clouds, visibility is low, and it may rain lightly (see picture 14). Drive slowly, this road is very beautiful, with quiet rain and fog, strange plants, and a sudden drop in temperature, full of mystery and emotion. At the visitor center at an altitude of about 2000 meters, you can stop for a while to adapt to the high-altitude environment and use the restroom (the restroom is very clean, and if you continue to go up, there are basically mobile restrooms). But if it's close to sunset time, if your body allows, it's best not to stop and queue up the mountain as soon as possible. The queue will be checked one by one by the ranger, who will teach you how to shift gears when going up and down the mountain, and will also chat a few words. If the queue is long, it is likely to miss the sunset. The second section of the road is described as a terrifying mountain road in various guides, but if you have driven on more primitive mountain roads in China, this road is nothing! The first three-quarters are dirt roads covered with small stones (but it feels like they have been leveled), and the last quarter is a well-paved asphalt road. Proceed slowly in the correct gear throughout the journey, and when there are no other vehicles, try to drive close to the center of the road, and there will be no big problems! About manual shifting, we checked various materials a few days in advance, memorized various fancy skills, and found that even if you don't know anything, when you face the ranger, they will patiently teach you how to shift gears and which gear to use when going up and down the mountain. This is not complicated! You will understand it as soon as you hear it! It even seems that the same gear is used for going up and down the mountain, and the ranger teaches the safest way. In fact, we still shifted to other gears at a slower speed on some sections of the road. If you are not an old driver, you should follow the instructions! Safety first! Drive all the way to the end, and you will reach the observatory at the top of the mountain. The altitude here exceeds 4000 meters. If you are worried about altitude sickness, you can refer to my experience. Generally speaking, when the altitude exceeds 2000 meters, I will feel dizzy, and if I stay for a long time, I will have symptoms of headache and nausea; when the altitude exceeds 4000 meters, I will stay in bed and not get up🙂 We stayed at the observatory for forty minutes, and only in the last five minutes did I clearly feel dizzy, my eyes were spinning, and my ears were ringing, so as long as the time is not too long, you don't need to worry too much about altitude sickness.

You can admire the sea of clouds and sunset in Mauna Kea by nightfall. It would be freezing in the mountain, but cotton-padded overcoats are available. You can have a lunch and some ice-cold beers in brewery. UCC coffee garden is on the slope of volcano. You can enjoy sunshine and wonderful coastline here. If you like bake, do remember reservation in advance!