Places To See On the Big Island

Welcome to a World of Adventure in Hawaii!

Imagine starting your day with a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters, then, by afternoon, finding yourself amidst the majesty of snow-capped mountains. That's the magic of Hawaii! Our island is a unique treasure, home to over 13 diverse climatic zones, each offering its own distinct adventure. Whether you're a beach lover, a mountain enthusiast, or an explorer at heart, Hawaii is the place where your wildest dreams come to life. Get ready to experience a day like no other, in a place like no other.

Our Favorite Place To Visit on the Big Island

Maunakea Observatory

At 13,796 feet above sea level (asl), Maunakea ( formerly Mauna Kea) means white mountain and is the highest mountain on earth. At this altitude the clarity, stability and darkness makes this a world premier location for astronomical research and is home to 14 of the world’s most powerful telescopes.

Stargazing at the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy provides a unique opportunity to view the worlds outside our blue planet.  The visitor center (9,300 feet asl) has smaller telescopes available for visitors where you can  view sunspots and celestial objects while getting acclimated  before heading up to the mountain peak. Be sure to bring a very warm jacket since the temperatures can get very chilly.

Commercial tour are available for early morning or late night to see the sun rise or amazing star gazing. From the Waikoloa beach are, you can be picked up. You may want to try Hawaii Tours that has an excellent rating.

Opening Hours

8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Address

55-541 Naniloa Loop, Laie, HI 96762

Booking

(808) 379-3701

Getting There

1. Start from Waikaloa Village:

   • Begin on Waikoloa Road and head east towards the junction with Hawaii Belt Road (Highway 19).

2. Join Hawaii Belt Road (Highway 19):

   • Turn left onto Hawaii Belt Road and continue for about 65 miles.

3. Head towards Saddle Road (Daniel K. Inouye Highway):

   • Turn left onto Saddle Road (Daniel K. Inouye Highway/Route 200) and follow it for approximately 52 miles.

4. Take the Hilo Exit to join Highway 19 again:

   • At Hilo, continue onto Highway 19, which will take you along the coast.

5. Drive towards Hamakua Coast and Honoka'a:

   • Stay on Highway 19, passing through the scenic Hamakua Coast and the town of Honoka'a.

6. Continue on Highway 19 to Waimea:

   • Follow the road as it winds through Waimea and towards the northern part of the island.

7. Head to the Northeast Coast:

   • Stay on Highway 19, which will lead you to the northeastern side of the island, passing through towns like Kawaihae and Hawi.

8. Arrive at Laie:

   • Eventually, Highway 19 will lead you into Laie. Once in Laie, navigate to Naniloa Loop.

9. Reach 55-541 Naniloa Loop:

   • Follow local roads to reach 55-541 Naniloa Loop, the location of the observatory.