Mauna Kea, the tallest mountain in Hawaii, is world-renowned for its otherworldly sunsets. With its summit reaching nearly 14,000 feet above sea level, it offers unobstructed panoramic views above the clouds creating some of the most stunning sunsets you’ll ever witness. Whether you're an avid photographer or a casual traveler chasing beautiful skies, here are the best places to experience a Mauna Kea sunset.
SUNSET IN MAUNA KEA: A SKY-LOVER’S PARADISE
Watching the sunset from Mauna Kea Mountain isn’t just a scenic moment, it’s an experience of wonder and perspective. Whether you choose the summit, the visitor center, or a scenic trail like Pu’u Huluhulu, you'll be treated to a sky that shifts from gold to violet in minutes. Just remember to bring warm layers (it gets cold fast!), arrive early for a good spot, and stay for a bit because the stargazing that follows is just as spectacular as the sunset itself.
Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station (VIS) – 9,200 Feet: The Mauna Kea VIS is a favorite spot for those who want a breathtaking view without needing to ascend to the summit. Positioned above the cloud layer, it offers awe-inspiring views of the setting sun against the slopes of Mauna Loa and the Pacific Ocean. It’s also accessible by most vehicles and doesn’t require a 4WD. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky turns brilliant shades of orange, pink, and deep purple, a surreal contrast against the volcanic landscape.
Mauna Kea Summit – 13,796 Feet: For those able to venture higher, the summit of Mauna Kea is the ultimate sunset vantage point. From nearly 14,000 feet, you'll be treated to a commanding view over the Big Island, with other volcanoes poking above a sea of clouds. It’s important to note that you’ll need a 4WD vehicle to reach the summit, and altitude sickness is a concern, so proper acclimatization at the VIS is recommended. Sunset at the summit feels like watching the world from above; it's silent, sacred, and simply unforgettable.
Pu’u Huluhulu Nature Trail: Located near the Mauna Kea Access Road, Pu’u Huluhulu is a cinder cone that offers a moderate hike and a sweeping 360-degree view of the Big Island. From here, you can see both Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa while watching the sunset glow reflect across the lava plains. It’s a less crowded spot, ideal for hikers and nature lovers looking for a quiet yet rewarding place to unwind.
BEST SPOTS TO CATCH THE SUNSET NEAR MAUNA KEA BEACH, HAWAIʻI
When it comes to stunning Hawaiian sunsets, few places rival the golden hour magic near Mauna Kea Beach on the Big Island. Located on the Kohala Coast, this stretch of sand also known as Kaunaʻoa Bay is famous for its soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and idyllic west-facing views. Whether you’re staying at the luxurious Mauna Kea Beach Hotel or just visiting for the evening, here are the best nearby spots to catch an unforgettable sunset.
Mauna Kea Beach (Kaunaʻoa Bay): There’s no better place to start than the beach itself. With its gentle waves and palm-fringed shore, Mauna Kea Beach offers a classic, postcard-perfect setting for sunset. Grab a towel or beach chair and watch the sun slowly dip into the Pacific while the sky transforms into fiery shades of orange and pink. For a more elevated view, walk toward the southern end of the beach where lava rocks offer a slightly higher vantage point for sunset photos.
Hāpuna Beach State Recreation Area: Just south of Mauna Kea Beach, Hāpuna Beach is one of the largest white sand beaches on the Big Island. Its wide shoreline offers plenty of room to spread out and relax, and its location on the Kohala Coast makes it another excellent spot for watching the sun sink into the sea. If you're up for a scenic sunset walk, the Ala Kahakai Trail connects Mauna Kea Beach to Hāpuna Beach, offering beautiful views along the coastline.
Overlook at Mauna Kea Golf Course: For a more elevated and peaceful view, consider the overlooks along the Mauna Kea Golf Course. These grassy bluffs offer a sweeping panorama of the Pacific and the surrounding landscape, often without the beach crowds. It’s a serene place to reflect and take in the moment especially if you're looking for a quiet, romantic spot.
Whether you choose the beach or to hike the mountain, few places rival the golden hour magic of Hawaiian sunsets. Check out our Vacation Rentals in Hapuna Bay. Call us at 888.598.6353 or email reservations@eastwest.com for help planning your next trip.
