Big Island of Hawaii: Night Activites

Only have two nights on the island of Hawaii, a.k.a. The Big Island? Don’t worry! Spend your days sunning on the beach and your nights exploring the island for an unforgettable vacation.

1. Marvel at Manta Rays.

Several tour companies take scuba divers and snorkelers of all levels (you should be able to swim) on a boat ride to a favorite gathering spot of those beautiful winged creatures known as manta rays. If you scuba dive, you’ll be looking up at the manta rays as you hang out near the beach floor. If you snorkel you’ll be looking down on the manta rays and the divers as you stay on top of the water.

Tips:

-Be sure to eat at least an hour before your tour as the choppy sea waters can lead to nausea.

-Marina bathrooms are generally not the cleanest, its best to take care of any bladder needs at your hotel or a restaurant.

-If you want to take pictures be sure to bring an underwater camera with flash. They can be found at many convenience stores around the island.

Available for purchase from:

-Jack’s Diving Locker

http://www.jacksdivinglocker.com/charters2/mantanight.htm

-Big Island Divers

http://www.bigislanddivers.com/MantaDive.html

-Kona Honu Divers http://www.konahonudivers.com/manta-ray-night-scuba-dive.php

2. Witness an Active Volcano at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park.

Since the terrain you’ll be exploring is unfamiliar and all the more dangerous at night, its best to go with a licensed tour company. You can witness the volcano on foot, by air or sea. Experienced scuba divers even have the opportunity to witness the lava flow underwater. As with many activities in Hawaiisome of the best deals are found in the many pamphlets available at the Kailua-Kona airport.

Tips:

-Avoid the airplane tour if you are suffering from an inner ear infection or imbalance as the cabins on these tours are generally not pressurized.

-Be sure to pack your good walking shoes or hiking boots if you plan on taking the walking tour as the terrain created by lava flow can be difficult at times. It is also recommended that you bring a jacket, water bottle and flashlight on this trip.

All of these activities are available to purchase at:

http://www.ohanafun.net/

3. An Intimate Dinner at Merriman's Waimea

A special vacation deserves a special night out. A night out at Merriman's Waimea and your senses are sure to thank you. Your taste buds will revel in the delicious freshness of the Hawaiian style dishes and your eyes will enjoy the splendor of nature as you drive to the restaurant. It isn't cheap but if you're looking for a splurge look no further.

Tips:

-Be sure to make your reservation at least 24 hours in advance 72 hours if you're going with a group of people.

For more information: http://www.merrimanshawaii.com/merrimans-hawaii2.php

4. A Star Filled Night on Mauna Kea

Gaze at the stars from the summit of this million-year-old dormant volcano. Mauna Kea is home to the world’s largest telescope which is used by many great astrological scientists because the visibility provided by Mauna Kea is spectacular, making this visit a stargazing experience like no other.

Tips:

-Traveling with a tour group is advisable as they will provide a meal, snacks, drinks, winter gear and transportation.

-It should be noted that some car rental companies will not cover damage that occurs on Saddle Road (which leads to Mauna Kea) and they will expect you to cover those expenses. Be sure to check your rental agreement if you drive yourself.

Tours can be found on the through various tour groups on the internet and specifically at:

http://www.maunakea.com/index.html

5. A Beautiful Sunset Cruise

Sunset cruises are a magnificent ending to any day in Hawaii. Most serve dinners with a buffet of food and drink options. Depending on your preference you can find cruises that are centered around families, romance or partying. Body Glove tours offers a fantastic sunset cruise that takes you to Kealakekua Bay a gorgeous conservation district. In Kealakekua Bay you will see Captain Cook's monument, a small piece of land owned by the British located where the famous explorer James Cook was killed.

Body Glove Tours are available for purchase at:

http://www.bodyglovehawaii.com/historical.htm