How to See the Stars
It’s a bird, it’s a plane, it’s… Elon Musk’s space junk? This past Tuesday, stargazers witnessed a bizarre celestial event in the skies above Hawaii. A camera on the summit of Mauna Kea captured images of what appeared to be a whirlpool swirled through the night.
Researchers later linked the event to SpaceX. Even so, this unusual spectacle was a good reminder to look up once in a while. And on the Big Island, we have some of the best opportunities to do so.
Looking for an out-of-this-world experience? Here’s how to see the stars in Hawaii.
Make the Most of Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea is a dormant volcano located about an hour and a half northeast of Kona. At 4,207.3 meters above sea level, its peak marks the highest point in the state of Hawaii. Technically, if you measure it from its base, Mauna Kea is the largest mountain in the world.
Sitting atop this volcano is the Mauna Kea Observatory, one of the largest astronomical observatories in the world.
Unfortunately, the observatory is not open to the public. But that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy some astronomically good views of outer space.
The high elevations of Mauna Kea provide skies unclouded by air or light pollution. If you prefer to explore on your own, find safety and viewing information at the Maunakea Visitor Information Station.
Want the memories to last forever? Book a Mauna Kea Stargazing Experience + Photos led by a pro Astro-Photographer. The photos alone are unbelievable. Seriously. Next year’s Christmas cards could feature you hanging out with the Milky Way.
Where the Stars Call Home
Don’t just gaze at the stars, live among them! Many celebrities reside on the Big Island. Why not add yourself to Hawaii’s list of rich and famous?
Matthew McConaughey joined the ranks in 2021, buying a house in the Kukio Golf and Beach Club community. Yes, the property cost a reported $7.845 million. But can you really argue with six bedrooms, two firepits, two pools, and 5,238 square feet? Alright, alright, alright.
Jimmy Stewart owned a working ranch in 1958. Upon his death in 1999, the ranch became open to the public. You can now tour Ho’omau Ranch on horseback or ATV. It’s a wonderful life indeed. At least on the Big Island!
Roseanne Barr, comedy queen of controversy, made waves in Hamakua where she purchased a macadamia nut farm. She then used the location to film a reality show called Roseanne’s Nuts. The show only lasted a few months, but Barr still owns the farm.
And it’s not just Hollywood. The Island of Hawaii has attracted major movers and shakers like the founders of Salesforce and Dell. (The latter of whom has nested in the exclusive Kukio Golf and Beach Club.)
Moonage Daydream
If you want to make your dreams come true, you don’t have to wait to see a shooting star. Give me a call. I’ll help you find the perfect luxury home.
Aloha, and welcome to Hawaii.