Totally go for the sunset or sunrise! It was amazing! Not sure how we haven't heard about it…read morebefore. Pictures don't do it justice. Make sure you go early or you want get a spot on the summit, pack some food and be prepared to wait. It's also cold! We had light jackets which weren't really enough with the wind.

In the Summit District, the 11.7 mile point-to-point Sliding Sands to Halemau'u Thru Hike is…read moreincredible--plan ahead to have someone pick you up on the other side. For the first 2/3, it's all downhill and makes for a great trail run. The way up is strenuous, but manageably short and most definitely worth it. Incredible views and you literally get to be above the clouds. Would highly recommend this hike when visiting this area of the park.

Dona is excellent on helping plan our vacation here on Maui! From a beautiful greeting of fresh…read morefruits, and champagne she planned our excursions with the best and most knowledgeable places on the island. A beautiful sunset dinner cruise, snorkeling, Luau for the family. She even arranged fresh produce delivered to our condo. The Hale Hui Kia is seconds out your door to the beat beach and sunset on the island. We highly recommend this business! Thank you Dona!

Dona was absolutely fantastic in helping us plan our trip to Maui, and even more importantly, her…read morerecommendations and scheduling of our unplanned events, hiking trips, and restaurants were invaluable! She can even assist with Maui weddings. Additionally, she shared all the insider tips about restaurants (best times to go, what's best on the menu) and places to go on the island. Due to our busy schedules, we don't get to vacation very often, so when we do, the quality of time while we are there is essential. Dona helped us have the perfect mix of scheduled, impromptu options and relaxing beach time to make our anniversary vacation perfect. Fourteen years ago, Dona also helped us have the most amazing Maui wedding. We highly recommend Dona Gengler and the services of Maui Information and Visitors Center!

It was a rainy and foggy day. We braved it up to 7000 foot visitor center. The center was taped…read moreoff so we saw actually very little. I gave it 5 stars due to it is supposed to be pretty spectacular. Some people drive up to the 9000 foot level for sunrise. Might try it again if I come back. There's a lot of twisties and not for the feint of heart. Suggest motion devices/wrist bands if that bothers you.

Small but very informative visitor center. A lot of people come through for the sunset so they put…read morethe timing and viewing info right there at the entrance. Good stuff in the gift shop, and they had one park ranger solely dedicated to answering park questions and such instead of focusing all rangers on gift shop check out. I thought that was a good idea. There seems to be a cool program for kids where the rangers will swear them in as "protectors of Haleakala" or something along those lines. I simply overheard it while buying some souvenirs so I'm unaware of the details.

The Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station, located at an elevation of 9,200 ft above sea level, is…read moremanaged and operated by the University of Hawai'i. Currently, the University of Hawai'i Institute for Astronomy also co-manages Mauna Kea Observatories. Mauna Kea Observatories is a group of ten independent astronomical research institutions. These non-profit institutions from various nations operate telescopes atop Mauna Kea on the Big Island of Hawai'i. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ASTRO DAY 2026 Presented by Mauna Kea Observatories 10am-4pm on Saturday, May 2, 2026 At Prince Kuhio Plaza I seriously became immersed with interest and curiosity for over 2+ hours, visiting nine of many participants spread throughout the plaza. I started at 9:40am and ended well past noon. Interacting, watching demonstrations, speaking to passionate and knowledgeable individuals. To actual professionals of the industry, with students and volunteers as well. In full awe and amazement, learning as an adult alongside kids who were with their parents. I couldn't have asked for a better Saturday. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ W.M. Keck Observatory explained how infrared astronomy allows their telescopes to see through cosmic dust and gas found in galaxies. I watched as infrared radiation or heat was shown on their tablet through a demonstration. I selected a galaxy print that was carved out from a calendar as it was quickly transformed into a button by members of the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station. Personalizing a bookmark from the International Gemini Observatory, the meaning of this educational material was shared to myself and others with astronomical and Hawai'i values combined. Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park had me view ash and Pele's hair through a magniscope, residue from an actual volcanic eruption on our island. I also saw a camera which got too close to the heat of magma and melted. Shared surface = shared energy by the University of Hawai'i Department of Physics & Astronomy. A cool and effective demonstration with metronomes. I was told Snoopy went onboard the NASA ARTEMIS I mission, and was given a NASA Solar System activity pack from the Onizuka Center for International Astronomy. I remember vividly the visit to my school by Hawai'i astronaut, Ellison Onizuka. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ I spoke to a Hilo High School student about their robotics team and how they build, code and operate robots for official competitions. I watched a robot controlled + in-action by those who built it. A student at the Hawai'i Science Tech Museum table explained to me the difference between VEX IQ, VRC and VEX V5 robotics material systems used for different age groups. Similar to BattleBots on TV, I cheered with the crowd as two grade school students went into robotics combat. From various sponsors including Imiloa Astronomy Center, I received a commemorative Mauna Kea coin featuring a winning design by a Pāhoa student. Before leaving, Thelma Parker Memorial Public Library from Kamuela offered me a NASA@My Library packet. It brought me joy to see our community in a purposeful gathering, united by a goal to build relationships and exchange knowledge. Connecting expertise of all levels, a diverse group of participants and attendees of all ages fostering a collaborative environment. ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ As a supporter of astronomy in Hawai'i, I have a deep appreciation for Mauna Kea Observatories. As a current resident who was born and raised on the Big Island, there's also respect for the rich culture of Hawai'i and for Mauna Kea. A dormant volcano and sacred mountain that has meaning to many, standing 13,796 ft above sea level. I believe balance is possible, a compromise moving forward. For the cultural significance of Mauna Kea connecting with science and technology. Respectfully, in harmony. To an industry that has a huge economic impact to this island, to our State. Positive and empowering. Giving back, inspiring and educating the community in more ways than ASTRO DAY 2026.

The staff is very friendly; they'll answer any questions you have. There are restrooms and free…read moreWiFi. One hour after sunset they offer free stargazing (weather permitting). There's room inside to hangout and stay warm while waiting for the stargazing to start - and there are several exhibits to educate you while you're there. The gift shop has a decent selection of warm clothing and other souvenirs.

There a lot to see at the Center, the history of Honokaa is so well organized and displayed that…read moreyou can learn a lot in 30 minutes, or spend the afternoon studying photos, and looking at all the interesting artifacts. The many ethnic groups that were so important to the plantations are well represented. You will always find an knowledgable docent to answer your questions. We have been there several times, its one of our favorite places to take visitors.

From the owner: Come learn the history and culture of Honokaʻa and the Hāmākua Coast. read more

I already reviewed this business but will again. Love, love, loved it! Our guide was amazing,…read moreknowledgeable & friendly cool guy who has actually lived In valley & build some homes there. He knew all about history, agriculture, you name it! Awesome! Thanks again for allowing me to review!

Where do I even begin, Kim was an absolute pleasure to work with. She was informative,…read moreprofessional, knowledgeable and went above and beyond in helping me and my wife navigate around the strict rules of Maui. Without Kim our trip would have truly been a disaster. She helped schedule our hotel room, rental car, hire a photographer, set us up with a florist and recommended amazing restaurants! Thank you so much for making us a priority and helping us celebrate our first baby moon as a married couple. You truly left an incredible impression on the both of us, we wish you many blessings and a healthy future Kim Jenkins!

Amazing beach vacation made easy with Kim!!! I can't imagine what trying to plan a destination…read morewedding and accommodations for 20 people would have been like without Kim's help and expertise!!! I highly recommend giving her a call! We had a beautiful condo with gorgeous views and the beach just steps away! I was a frazzled bride and she made sure my parents and grandparents where taken care of! Totally took all the work out of it for me! She is friendly and patient and knows the perfect locations for your island getaway!

Love having this as an option on Maui!…read more Easy to get your JR Rail Pass here, including the regional rail passes. Process was extremely quick and easy- just make sure to bring your passport (or a picture of it). Plus staff can help with showing you maps to help you find the right pass for your trip!

From the owner: We specialize in travel to Japan! You can purchase your…read moreJapan Rail Pass here at our location on Maui. The Japan Rail Pass is convenient and allows unlimited access to the bullet train (Shinkansen) during your trip in Japan. Come on by or give us all for any questions you may have. We also have pocket wi-fi hotspots for rent when you travel to Japan.