Watching the sunset from the shores of a Hawaiian beach is a must for visitors to the islands. Memorable as that is, Hawaii after dark holds many more pleasures. You will soon discover that sunsets are only the beginning.
Oahu Fireworks
Glide your way around the streets of Waikiki on a two-wheeled personal transport vehicle called a Segway. After an orientation session at your starting point at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa, begin your tour by whizzing past the Ali Wai Yacht Harbor, over the Ali Wai Canal and finally into Ala Moana Beach Park. At the southern tip of the park is Magic Island. Find a place on the sand and watch the fireworks show put on by the Hilton Hawaiian Village.
Art Night Lahaina
Walk the streets of Lahaina on Maui on a Friday night and get an inside look at some of this former whaling town's art galleries. Watch artists as they create works in plain sight in this aptly nicknamed "Art Capital of the Pacific." Stop by the Lahaina Visitor's Center and pick up a free map that lists participating galleries. Combine your gallery visits with a walk along Lahaina's Historic Trail. Though some buildings are closed in the evening, the circa 1927 Episcopal Church usually keeps its doors open. Wander inside and see the mural of the Hawaiian Madonna at the back of the church.
Kilauea At Night
Join a Twilight Volcano Tour and explore the wonders of Volcanoes National Park. Climb the steps down to the Thurston Lava Tube and see the creatures that have evolved in this underground world. Hike through a rainforest with plant species that have outlived the dinosaurs. The highlight is getting as close as possible to the current lava flow at dusk. As the night falls, watch the contrast of red molten lava against the deepening indigo of the ocean and pitchblack lava fields.
Stargazing Mauna Kea
Take in a Hawaiian sunset from the top of Mauna Kea and then view the heavens from the eyepiece of a portable telescope. Watch as one of the world's largest observatories opens its doors and rotates its huge lenses to get in position for the night's work. See some of the native wildlife along your journey up the mountain including Hawaiian owls, Nene goose, hawks and bats. The journey up the mountain is on 4x4 vans. Gloves and warm parkas are provided.
Diving With Manta Rays
Diving in Hawaii's waters is a memorable experience. Add to that the intrigue of a night dive with the giant black and white manta rays. Sail out to known feeding sites and watch as tour operators shine bright lights on the ocean's surface. The light attracts the plankton that the rays feed on. The manta rays follow them to the surface and dive in great circles to swallow up their dinner. Touching of the animals is prohibited, but the rays are not very people shy. Watch as they come close to get a better look at you. Snorkelers are welcome on most of these tours.
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