View on Map
Discover Details:
Diamond Head
Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park
Check the weather before you go. I was caught in a surprise rainstorm, and it made some trails super muddy. A good rain jacket is worth packing!
Mauna Kea
You definitely want to watch the sunset from the visitor center at around 6 PM. It gets packed but it's worth it! I got some fantastic photos, plus it was a great way to acclimatize before the stargazing!
I highly recommend bundling your gear for the stargazing, like a warm blanket and hot chocolate. The weather can be super chilly at night, and you don't want to miss the stars because you’re freezing your butt off!
Volcano Steam Vents
Check the weather forecast before you go. Sometimes the steam gets lost in heavy fog, and you won’t get the views you came for. A sunny day makes all the difference!
Kilauea
If you have a chance, stop by the Kilauea Visitor Center. The rangers are super helpful and can give you insights to enhance your adventure.
Bring a refillable water bottle! The heat can get intense, and buying drinks on-site can add up quickly. Plus, you’ll stay hydrated.
Definitely try to catch the sunrise around 6 AM. The colors are just stunning and it’s way less crowded! You’ll thank me later.
Consider downloading an offline map before you go. Signal can be spotty, and you wouldn’t want to wander off track with no GPS!
Mauna Loa
Haleakala
Bring layers! The temperature can drop unexpectedly at the summit. I was freezing in just a t-shirt, so pack a warm jacket and a hat!
I highly recommend arriving at the summit around 4:30 AM to catch the sunrise. The views are breathtaking and worth the early wake-up call, plus it gets crowded later.
Look for the Haleakala National Park Pass online before your visit. Pre-purchasing saved me $10 and simplified entry – no waiting in line when I got there.