Sunsets in Hawaii — what could be more magnificent? The Big Island has much to offer whether it’s fabulous beaches or eery volcanoes. After a jam-packed day of running around on the island, nothing could be more satisfying than watching the sun go down and seeing the light reflect upon the ocean. If you’re on the Big Island, there are some locations that cannot be missed when watching the sunset.
Here are 8 jaw-dropping sunset locations on the Big Island of Hawaii:
Anaeho’omalu Bay
Anaehoomalu Bay Beach is a crescent-shaped beach with palm trees along the coastline. Located in front of the Waikoloa Bech Marriott Resort, this location has plenty to do if you want to wait until the sun goes down. Head to Queen’s Marketplace or indulge in some local eats. After you’re done, head to the shoreline and watch those pink colors completely illuminate the sky.
Kailua-Kona Bay
Known as “Kona” by the locals, Kailua-Kona Bay is one of the top spots to catch a sunset as it reflects on a never-ending ocean view. This side of the island is consistently dry, causing the colors to truly pop as the sun goes down. There’s plenty to do in this area — plan a manta ray night dive after you catch the sunset, fill up on coffee at Kona Coffee, or simply relax on the beach until the night starts to take over.
Mauna Kea
The highest point on the Big Island, Mauna Kea sits at over 13,000 feet above sea level. Stare out above the clouds and watch as the sky transitions into an orange and pink paradise. You can drive to the summit, but there are some time restrictions so you may not be able to see as much of the sunset as you would like. Our suggestion is to go on a tour that facilitates sunset viewing at this location. If you’re interested in even more, Mauna Kea also provides stargazing opportunities that are unbelievable.
Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park
Bring a lawn chair and sit perfectly along the beach at Kaloko-Honokohau National Historical Park. Not only will you see an amazing sunset at this park, but you’ll also see quite a few turtles scuttling along the sand and waters. This Historical Park also offers opportunities to learn about Hawaiian culture and the natural history of Hawaii. Soak up on the history of the land as you admire the sky before it.
Kealakekua Bay
Kealakekua Bay is ideal for days when you want to snorkel and scuba dive, but it also hosts a spectacular viewing spot to catch a sunset. This bay is also where the first westerner landed on the Island of Hawaii. A beach full of water excursions, Hawaiian history, and magnificent color! Make a note, however, that there are no lifeguards at this beach if you do decide to enjoy the water for a night swim.
Hapuna Beach State Park
One of the top beaches among the islands, along the Kohala coasts resides Hapuna Beach State Park. Hapuna Beach is known to be the longest white sand beach on the island and is consistently known for its beauty. What people might not know, however, is that it is one of the best locations to catch the sun going down. This beach does have lifeguards patrolling the area, so feel free to swim and run about when the weather is permitting.
Kua Bay
Also known as Manini’owali Beach, Kua Bay offers sights of charcoal-colored lava rocks and white sand. This beach is extremely easy to get to, and has waters ideal for boogie boarding and swimming! Rest assured, there is plenty of parking and restrooms as well as showers and lifeguard stations at Kua Bay. Feel free to get in the water or simply sit on the sand and take in the awe-inspiring sky.
Don’t Forget the Sunset Cruises!
When the beaches just won’t do, there are other options and opportunities to catch the perfect view of the Hawaiian sunsets. Pick a sunset cruise to really soak in that orange color that fills the sky! Some sunset cruises include; Hawaii Sail Charters, Body Glove Hawaii, Paradise Sailing Hawaii, and more. Don’t miss the experience of getting closer to that perfect view of the sun upon the ocean water.
When it comes to catching a sunset on the Big Island, there is a significant amount of choice. When it comes to catching the best sunsets in Hawaii, these 8 spots are the ones you can always count on. Pack a chair or a blanket and head to any of these locations to get your sunset viewing goggles on!
