Beach Astrophotography in Kihei, Hawaii
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Minimal physical exertion required; participants should be able to walk short distances on uneven beach and rocky terrain.
Overview
Join a private 3-hour astrophotography tour in Kihei, Hawaii, capturing stunning starry skies and the Milky Way along beautiful beaches and mountain spots. Perfect for all levels!
Details
Experience an extraordinary evening with Maui Photography Tours' Beach Astrophotography adventure in Kihei, Hawaii. This private photography tour is perfect for anyone eager to capture the majestic night sky along with the luminous Milky Way. Over the course of three hours, you'll be guided through stunning coastal and mountain locations where the dark skies of Kihei provide ideal conditions for astrophotography. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, this hands-on expedition offers expert tips to help you master camera settings, composition, and long exposure techniques. Along the way, enjoy delicious snacks provided to keep your energy up during the night session. With Kihei's pristine environment and low light pollution, you'll have multiple opportunities to photograph the stars, constellations, and distant galaxies illuminating the Hawaiian night. Prepare your camera gear, dress warmly, and get ready for an unforgettable experience under the stars—one that will leave you with breathtaking images and lasting memories.
Adventure Tips
Bring a sturdy tripod
A tripod is essential for sharp, long-exposure night shots to capture stars and landscapes clearly.
Dress warmly for night temperatures
Even in Hawaii, nights on the coast can get chilly, so wear layers to stay comfortable during the shoot.
Avoid using flash photography
Flash can interfere with night vision and wash out star details, so keep it off during the tour.
Charge your camera batteries fully
Long exposure photography drains battery life quickly, so bring extras or fully charged batteries.
Local Insights
Hidden Gems
- Secret Cove Beach – a secluded spot ideal for minimal light pollution
- La Perouse Bay – volcanic coastline offering unique starry reflections
Wildlife
- Hawaiian green sea turtles
- Nocturnal seabirds such as wedge-tailed shearwaters
History
Kihei’s coastlines have been a significant location for ancient Hawaiian fishing communities, whose navigation was deeply connected to the stars.
Conservation
Visitors are encouraged to minimize light pollution by using red flashlights and respecting dark sky preservation efforts in Maui’s coastal areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Photography Tips
Best Times
Best Viewpoints
- Keawakapu Beach
- Makena Landing
- La Perouse Bay
What to Photograph
Recommended Gear
DSLR or mirrorless camera with manual mode
Allows full control over exposure settings critical for astrophotography.
Sturdy tripod
Keeps the camera stable for sharp long exposures of the night sky.
Warm layered clothing
Helps maintain comfort during cooler nights on the beach.
fall specific
Extra camera batteries
Night photography sessions can quickly drain battery life, so backups are vital.