Mauna Kea Beach Drive

Mauna Kea Beach Drive promises an unforgettable journey through some of Hawaii’s most stunning scenery. This picturesque route not only takes you to the iconic Mauna Kea but also offers access to pristine beaches, cultural treasures, and remarkable natural attractions. Here’s your guide to making the most of this enriching experience.

• The drive leads you to one of the most beautiful white sand beaches on the Big Island. Enjoy calm, crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
• Though part of a resort area, Mauna Kea Beach often feels secluded, offering a quieter, more peaceful beach experience compared to busier tourist hotspots on the island.
• The waters off Mauna Kea Beach are ideal for snorkeling, with abundant marine life and coral reefs, especially near the rocky edges of the bay.
• For those looking for convenience, Mauna Kea Beach Resort offers on-site amenities like beach equipment rentals, restaurants, and restrooms, enhancing your beach day experience.
• Mauna Kea Beach is renowned for its stunning sunsets, and being so close to the famous Mauna Kea summit, it’s also a great spot for stargazing when the skies are clear.

Established in the 1960s by Laurance S. Rockefeller, the road’s history is intertwined with the resort’s development, which marked the island’s entry into luxury tourism.

• 1961: Rockefeller secured a 99-year lease on 500 acres of land on the Kohala Coast, which would become the Mauna Kea Resort.
• 1963: Construction began on the Mauna Kea Golf Course, designed by famed architect Robert Trent Jones.
• 1964: Mauna Kea Beach Drive was built to provide access to the growing resort.
• 1965: The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel opened, establishing itself as the first luxury resort on the Big Island.
• 1968: The hotel expanded with an additional 102 rooms.
• 1970s-1980s: The resort grew in popularity among tourists and locals.
• 1990s: The Mauna Kea Beach Hotel underwent renovations starting in 1994 and reopened in January 1996
• Today: Mauna Kea Beach Drive offers breathtaking views and serves as a gateway to the world-renowned Mauna Kea Observatories.

With a rich history and unmatched scenic beauty, Mauna Kea Beach Drive remains a must-visit for those exploring the Kohala Coast.

The Visitor Information Station is a key stop for those exploring Mauna Kea. Here, visitors can adjust to the altitude while learning about the mountain’s rare ecosystems. Rangers are available to share helpful safety tips and insights into the area’s natural and cultural significance.

Mauna Kea’s famously clear night skies make it one of the world’s top spots for stargazing. Stay after sunset to marvel at the stars, planets, and even the Milky Way, creating an awe-inspiring experience for astronomy enthusiasts.

Along Mauna Kea Beach Drive, several scenic overlooks provide breathtaking views of valleys, volcanic formations, and sweeping coastlines. These viewpoints offer perfect spots to pause, take in the scenery, and capture memorable photos.

Along Mauna Kea Beach Drive, you’ll find some of Hawaii’s most beautiful beaches, including Mauna Kea Beach and Hapuna Beach. These pristine stretches of sand offer ideal spots for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the clear blue waters.

Golf enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby championship courses, such as the Mauna Kea Golf Course, where you can play surrounded by stunning ocean views. These resorts offer luxury experiences for golfers of all skill levels.

The crystal-clear waters along the drive are perfect for snorkeling and other water sports. Discover vibrant coral reefs and marine life as you explore the underwater world, with rental equipment and guided tours readily available.

For those looking to stretch their legs, several hiking options near the drive offer diverse landscapes to explore, from coastal trails to paths that lead to dramatic volcanic formations. Enjoy the natural beauty of the area on foot.

Mauna Kea Beach Resort offers a world-class experience with its luxury accommodations, gourmet restaurants, and top-tier amenities. The scenic Mauna Kea Beach Drive provides easy access to this iconic resort, where guests can enjoy unforgettable activities like golfing on an oceanfront course and dining with breathtaking coastal views. It’s the perfect destination for relaxation and indulgence.

Altitude Acclimatization: Spend at least an hour at the Visitor Information Station to help your body adjust to the higher elevation before venturing to greater heights.

Stay Hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of water throughout your visit, especially if you’re hiking, as the high altitude can cause dehydration more quickly.

Vehicle Access: Only 4WD vehicles can navigate certain areas past the Visitor Station. If you’re not in a 4WD, joining a guided tour is a great alternative to explore these regions safely.

The best time to visit Mauna Kea Beach Drive is during the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler, and the lighting is perfect for capturing scenic views. To avoid crowds, weekdays are ideal, especially if you plan to visit the beaches or the Mauna Kea Visitor Information Station. For stargazing, staying after sunset offers the clearest skies and unforgettable celestial displays.

Just a short distance from Mauna Kea Beach Drive, you’ll find stunning beaches like Kaunaʻoa Bay and Hapuna Beach, perfect for a relaxing day by the water. For a touch of history and culture, visit Puukohola Heiau National Historic Site, a significant landmark in Hawaiian history. If you’re up for a day trip, explore nearby areas like the Kohala Coast or Waimea for more scenic views and local charm.

Driving to Mauna Kea Beach involves a scenic journey that’s easy to navigate. From Kailua-Kona, take the Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway (Highway 19) northbound for approximately 32 miles. As you approach the Mauna Kea Resort, keep a lookout for a sign indicating Spencer Beach Park, which is just before the entrance to the resort. Turn left into the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel entrance. Follow the signs to the beach access parking area, as you’ll need a pass from the gate attendant to park. Be sure to arrive early, as parking spots can fill up quickly due to limited space.

Reaching Mauna Kea Beach by bus is a convenient option for those who prefer public transport. From Kailua-Kona, take the Hele-On Bus Route from Kona Commons Shopping Center towards Waimea. Make sure to check the latest bus schedule for any changes in the route or timings. The ride offers beautiful views of the coastline and the journey typically takes around an hour and a half. Inform the bus driver that you wish to alight near Mauna Kea Beach, as the resort itself is a short walk from the closest stop on the highway. Always verify the return schedule to ensure you have return plans, as the bus service may not run frequently.

Embark on Mauna Kea Beach Drive for a journey that blends stunning natural beauty with luxury at every turn. From breathtaking ocean views and world-class beaches to the exclusive experiences at Mauna Kea Beach Resort, this scenic route promises an unforgettable adventure. To make the most of your trip, plan, stay hydrated, and don’t miss out on stargazing after sunset—the perfect finale to your road to paradise.